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The Complete A2 Integrazione Exam
Guide for English Speakers

Everything English speakers need to know about the A2 Integrazione exam - in one place.

What is the CILS A2 Integrazione Exam?

The A2 Integrazione is an Italian language exam administered by the University for Foreigners of Siena. It is required for two purposes: to upgrade to a long-term EU residency permit (permesso di soggiorno UE), and to satisfy the language requirement for non-EU residents on a residency permit with an integration agreement (accordo di integrazione). It tests Italian at the A2 level - basic everyday communication - and is only offered within Italy.

Who needs the CILS A2 Integrazione Exam?

You need the A2 Integrazione if you fall into one of these two categories:

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Long-term EU residency permit: Non-EU residents in Italy who want to upgrade from a standard residency permit to a permanent long-term EU permit must demonstrate A2 Italian language proficiency by passing this exam.

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Integration agreement: Non-EU residents who entered Italy on a residency permit with an integration agreement (accordo di integrazione) must earn credits by passing this exam to fulfill their language requirement.

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If you are applying for Italian citizenship, you do not need the A2 - you need the B1 Cittadinanza. If you need admission to a university, you do not need the A2 - you need the B1 Standard.

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Not sure which exam you need? Take our free quiz to find out what exam is best for you.

What does the CILS A2 Integrazione Exam Test?

The A2 Integrazione covers 4 sections:

  • Listening - understanding spoken Italian in basic everyday situations

  • Reading comprehension - understanding simple written Italian texts

  • Writing - producing short basic written texts in Italian

  • Speaking - demonstrating basic oral communication in everyday contexts

How is the CILS A2 Integrazione scored?

Each section is scored independently and you must pass every section to pass the overall exam.

  • 4 sections, 12 points each, 48 points maximum

When are the CILS A2 Integrazione Exam dates?

A2 Integrazione is offered at approved test centers worldwide six times per year. 2026 exam dates:

  • February 19

  • April 14

  • June 16

  • July 22

  • October 21

  • December 3

 

Registration typically opens approximately two months before each exam date - check your local test center for their specific deadline.

Where can you take the CILS A2 Integrazione Exam?

The A2 Integrazione is only offered within Italy. There are no international testing sites. You must take it at an authorized test center in Italy. Use the University of Siena's official test center locator to find the closest location to you.

How much does the A2 Integrazione Exam cost?

The A2 Integrazione exam costs approximately €40, but exam sites can add on facility fees.

How to prepare for the A2 Integrazione Exam as an English speaker

The A2 Integrazione tests basic Italian communication - but "basic" does not mean easy if you are preparing in a language you do not fully understand yet.

 

Here is what works:

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1. Study with English explanations. Understanding why an answer is correct builds real confidence for test day.

 

2. Practice with real past exams. The A2 Integrazione has consistent patterns - past exams are the most reliable predictor of what you will see.

 

3. Focus on all 4 sections equally. You must pass every section independently - one weak section means failing the entire exam.

 

4. Start at least 4-6 months before your exam date. Even at A2 level, consistent preparation beats last-minute cramming.

Ready Set Italia - CILS A2 Integrazione Prep for English Speakers

Ready Set Italia is the only CILS B1 exam prep program built specifically for English speakers. Our instructors passed these exact exams themselves and designed structured preparation programs around real past exam questions, English-language instruction, and the exact scoring criteria examiners use.

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