ACA @ British Institute of Florence

Florence

Join ACA for the Summer-of-a-Lifetime!

Welcome to ACA @ Florence, Italy!

Benvenuto a Firenze!

Fabulous Florence – A City Like No Other! With hundreds of famous museums, galleries, cathedrals and more, Florence remains the spiritual capital of the Renaissance. But don’t think Florence is stuck in the past. Today, its quaint squares buzz with Vespas, shoppers stroll the piazzas in search of the latest styles, and countless trattorias are alive with conversation and amazing cuisine. This has made Florence the living heart of the Tuscan lifestyle. 

Florence is the ultimate setting for an incredible summer. Surrounded by panoramic hillsides and charming medieval towns like Siena, it is only a bus ride away from such cosmopolitan Italian cities as Rome and Venice – all destination cities for our weekend adventures in Italy! Overall, Florence is the perfect place for you to discover the wonders of medieval and Renaissance history, build lifelong friendships and savor an ideal Italian and European experience.

*Supplemental Fee

Weekday Schedule

Classes run Monday through Friday of each week.

Safety

At ACA, we believe safety comes first. That’s why we maintain an eight-to-one student-to-staff ratio – one of the lowest in the industry! This lets us offer unmatched attention and unique personalized programs.

As part of our commitment to student safety, ACA staff members live on every student-occupied floor and accompany students on all activities and excursions. ACA also uses chartered coach and taxi services to get around town, never public transportation. All ACA staff members are always equipped with cellphones.

The hotel adds an additional element of security, as well. The front desk is staffed 24 hours a day with trained personnel for your comfort and convenience.

Parents will be reassured to know that Florence is a friendly city with all the modern medical and safety resources one would expect of a popular European tourist destination.

Travel to Florence*

Students traveling to Florence will fly on ACA-staffed group flights from the New York area to Rome. From there, they will be escorted directly to connecting private motorcoach service for the trip to Florence. 

We are also happy to make arrangements for students connecting to our ACA overseas group flight. Please contact the ACA office for additional information.

Students enrolled in the Greek Isles or Croatia Extension will also fly on ACA group flights, accompanied by ACA staff. 

Of course, parents are also welcome to bring students to the programs directly.

Please note: For your safety and convenience, we strongly encourage students traveling to our international programs to fly on ACA group flights. 

*Transportation is not included in tuition.

Our Electives

British Institute of Florence

For a truly unique academic and cultural immersion experience, ACA’s Florence program combines college-level language study with exciting opportunities to examine subjects from classical Italian art to the dynamics of contemporary international business. And when it comes to experiencing and examining Renaissance culture, you’re where it all began. The city of Florence literally becomes your classroom.

Electives are held at the British Institute of Florence, a renowned school. The British Institute is known throughout Europe for its dedication to working with international students.  Courses are offered only to ACA students and meet five days a week.

Students can earn up to 6 hours of applicable college credit upon successful completion of their coursework. In addition, high schools often grant credit for ACA courses as well. We’ll be happy to work with your school ahead of time to determine whether your ACA coursework qualifies for such credit.

College credits are conferred through Marist College (for an additional fee) and are transferable to most universities, according to their individual standards. Official university transcripts, including course credit and grades, are available to each ACA student. As an added benefit, ACA’s professors are always happy to write recommendation letters for college.

Course Options: 

You will choose two of the following options:

  • Italian Language (3 College Credits)
  • Business (3 College Credits)
  • Arts & Culture (3 College Credits)
  • Culinary Arts
  • Sports & Wellness

*Please Note: There is a fee for the credit options.

Choose 2 Electives:

Whether you are hoping to enhance your already strong language skills or you are just beginning your studies, you’ll say “Parlo Italiano” and really mean it after you get back from Florence! ACA’s Italian language program is fun and fulfilling, combining classroom study with authentic Italian practice. You’ll enjoy the benefits of real immersion into this remarkable language and culture!

But most of all, you have the entire city of Florence as your classroom! Whether you’re a total beginner or practically fluent, you’ll be amazed at how much better your Italian becomes and just how much fun learning a language can be when you immerse yourself in the culture.

The program offers three levels of classes to choose from, with placement dependent upon previous Italian language experience as well as your own comfort level. A self assessment form will be provided to establish your language skills and identify the right class for you. 

Elementary Italian – The beginning class, covering basic pronunciation, sentence structure, numbers, present-tense verb conjugation and the introduction of past tense.

Intermediate Italian – This class picks up where the elementary class ends, covering more in-depth use of the past tense, along with the imperfect, future and conditional tenses as well as subjunctives.

Advanced Italian – The ideal class for students desiring greater proficiency in Italian conversation as well as composition. The course employs readings and discussions on contemporary subjects.

History lives, thanks to ACA’s excursions into Italian history! With the city and countryside as your primary text, you’ll immerse yourself in one of history’s most remarkable periods. This course offers a combination of short lectures to develop a deep understanding of Florentine art and culture and exciting visits to famous galleries and architectural landmarks that represent the finest examples of Roman and Renaissance achievement. It’s an ideal interactive experience. 

This inspiring look at Italian art and architecture will introduce you to world-renowned galleries and take you on tours of legendary buildings. Focusing on the awesome accomplishments of the Renaissance, you’ll enhance your understanding of the Italian influence on painting, sculpture and construction, which still resonates with architects and engineers worldwide. Marvel at the ornate Italian Gothic influence still seen in buildings today and examine the works of legendary masters who defined the beauty and inspiration of great painting.

Florence is the birthplace of opera and one of Italy’s most important cultural centers as the capital of the region of Tuscany. Learn about influential composers and the evolution of music from the Renaissance to modern times, with a focus on iconic figures like Vivaldi and Puccini. Experience Florence’s unique musical traditions through interactive discussions and activities, including opera, folk music, jazz, and contemporary styles. Visit historic venues, such as the Teatro della Pergola and the Basilica of Santa Croce, to understand the city’s musical heritage in context.

This fascinating course presents an overview of postwar Italian cinema in its relationship with visual arts. Learn about contemporary Italy and Italian culture. You’ll explore the work of major directors in Italian cinema such as Vittorio De Sica, Roberto Rossellini, Michelangelo Antonioni, and more! You’ll analyze the most interesting films of the Italian cinema and different topics will be examined as social problems of the current Italian society. Explore how cinema intertwines with painting, architecture, photography, and drawing.

Can there be a better place to play soccer than the home country of the World Soccer Champions? The Italians will insist that it’s impossible! Here’s your chance to kick it – literally – with Tuscan players who know how to go for the goal. Practices will push your game to new levels physically and mentally. An awesome course for the new and experienced player alike!

For you, being a writer means more than putting pen to paper. It means refining your skills for creative storytelling, true-to-life narratives, fact-based essays, and even journalistic reports. This course will cover your bases while it teaches character development and smart dialogue plus the fundamentals of grammar and punctuation. Whether you’re about to start a best-selling novel or hoping to ace your next big report, this is the “write” course for you!

Think you can measure up to the incredible kitchen accomplishments of great Italian chefs? Here’s where you find out! Partnered with Cordon Bleu, learn from excellent professional Italian chefs who know how to satisfy big Florence appetites. You’ll be learning from some of the world’s best. And don’t worry, you get to eat what you’ve cooked up after the bell rings!

Please note: This course provides unique opportunities to train with renowned culinary instructors preparing truly gourmet meals.

Supplemental fee: $695

Get a close look at the way the world really works! Learn how world markets interact and how investors learn to profit as a result. The euro has changed the way the European Union, and therefore the world, does business! Examine the interaction of currencies, which play a huge role in the health and wealth of the world’s economy. You’ll learn about the distinct challenges of running a successful company in the dynamic international arena.

Improve your picture-taking ability in a city that demands to be photographed. The city of Florence provides you with centuries of artistic and architectural beauty – remarkable subject matter that will give you plenty of inspiration! This course will help you develop an understanding of how to create unforgettable photos using proper f-stops, lighting and composition.

Please note: A darkroom is not featured in this course, and students must supply their own digital cameras.

If you need to indulge your artistic side, this course is ideal. Select either the drawing or the painting concentration, then view legendary works of Italian art and use them to inspire your own skills. Pursue painting and try your hand at Italian-inspired drawing and sketching. Either way, your inner da Vinci will be awakened!

Florence is famous for its rich history in fine arts and is a place for inspiration, innovation, and immersion. Whether you want to make compelling documentaries or blockbuster feature films, you need to understand the basics before anyone yells, “Action!” This high-altitude introduction lets students actually make a film while learning every aspect: direction, cinematography, editing — even special effects and soundtracks. Learn the details of screenwriting from initial story idea to final draft. Experience how directing, paired with cinematography and smart lighting, bring a script to life. Ground yourself in the important technical essentials, from the best equipment to the right way to select film stock or digital video gear. Who knows, you might be on your way to becoming the next Spielberg!

These days everything — and everyone — is online! Get a close look at digital marketing, explaining its importance, strategies, and role in the modern business landscape. This course explores the fundamental concepts, strategies, and tools needed to navigate the digital landscape and effectively promote products, services, and brands in today’s interconnected online environment. Gain expertise in the development of marketing strategies and learn how to leverage social media networks to push business growth.

This is the city where culture and clothing come together! What better place to see how today’s fashion ideas become tomorrow’s “must-have” trends? You’ll get to peek behind the curtain and the catwalk to learn that the realm of modeling and fashion is not just glitz and glamour. Learn how to draw different garments and suggest bold styles. Examine how fabric, texture and color interact on the page, on the runway, and in the real world. This is big business, and you’ll see the many facets of the Italian fashion industry firsthand on plenty of field trips to fashion hot spots throughout Florence!. Plus, you’ll get the chance to design and develop a fashion idea of your very own!

Enjoy access to the local gym. Plan a workout regimen to help meet your fitness goals.


Activities include:

Circuit Training
Body Sculpt
Hight Intensity
Interval Training
Total Body
Body Tone
Postural

* A supplemental supply or lab fee will apply.

Florence Life

Your stay in Florence puts you in the heart of a legendary landscape, where you’ll explore a history-rich region that is the very cornerstone of Italian culture. Your Italian home will be one of the most popular cities in all of Europe – Florence! Set on the banks of the Arno River, its charming cobblestone streets lead to quaint cafes, open-air markets and trattorias serving delicious food, as well as internationally renowned art galleries, museums and world-class shopping!

You can count on outstanding accommodations – this is ACA!

Unlike ordinary international pre-college programs, ACA’s experience in Florence is not a homestay! Instead, it’s a residence program, accommodating students at a spectacular 4 star hotel in the city center. This 14th-century building is located off the Ponte Vecchio and adjacent to the renowned Piazza Republica.  It’s an ideal location for exploring this incredible city, and it’s also a great place to relax after you’ve had a day in the Italian sun. Our hotel in Florence features a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views and a beautiful updated lobby and guest rooms complete with air conditioning. The building is secure and supervised at all times, and the clean, comfortable rooms have televisions, daily housekeeping service, and air conditioning. Of course, ACA staff live on-site, ensuring a safe, comfortable stay. For safety reasons, please contact ACA for specific hotel information.

Mangia, Mangia, Mangia!

Get ready for a true taste of Italy – and we don’t mean just spaghetti and meatballs! ACA serves up amazing meals that will make Italian eating an unforgettable part of your summer.

You’ll enjoy breakfasts in the classic continental style, with plenty of fresh juices, rich Italian coffee, cereal, pastries, yogurt, and fresh fruit. It’s perfect fuel for a fun-filled day.

For dinner Monday through Friday, you’ll enjoy our exclusive Dining-on-the-Town-Plan, which lets you choose from a variety of ACA-selected restaurants – and it’s included in your tuition! Try the local specialties or enjoy an American-style eatery if you’re craving the flavors of home. You’ll always find a restaurant that suits your taste and even get to enjoy pizza in its original Florentine form! Just make sure you save room for gelato and tiramisu, two truly decadent homemade Italian desserts. 

Once a week, if you want, you can also venture beyond the Dining-on-the-Town-Plan and visit additional restaurants of your choice. It’s a real opportunity to expand your culinary horizons and try the most authentic Italian food. Need help translating the menu? Don’t worry, ACA staff are always at the restaurant ready to recommend a few favorites.

Around Town & Beyond

When you’re ready to explore Europe at its best, you’ll find Florence incredible! Visit the Piazza Michelangelo to hear the haunting beauty of Gregorian chants coming from the Church of San Miniata. Shop for the latest in Italian fashion from the most famous designers. See the sights from the Boboli Gardens at Fort Belvedere for a truly commanding view of the city. Sip a cappuccino and enjoy a snack in the Piazza della Signoria, alive with restaurants, tavernas and ice cream shops. Just make sure you save room for a taste of real Italian pizza! 

Italy is the fashion capital of the world (just ask any Italian), and Florence is known as a supreme shopping destination. Unique boutiques abound throughout the city, including the famed shops on the Ponte Vecchio full of stunning gold jewelry. For a real high-fashion fix, check out Via Tornabuoni; it’s Fifth Avenue and Rodeo Drive rolled into one!

Florence is itself a living museum. Majestic churches tower high over the city from almost every perspective. The Duomo and the churches of San Lorenzo, Santa Maria Novella and Santa Croce are essential visits. Next, explore the Uffizi, a legendary museum that houses works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Titian and Rubens.

At night, you will have the opportunity to socialize and build friendships while you enjoy the fun and excitement of Florentine nightlife. Many popular hangouts are located in the historic city center, and the welcoming crowd of lively locals and international visitors creates an unforgettable energy! If you’re ready to feel a little European rhythm, step onto the floor at a hip discotheque like Space. If you want to watch the world go by, sit down at a trendy café in a bustling square to people watch and enjoy the strolling musicians and street performers.

Burn Those Carbs - First Class Fitness

Don’t worry about too much pasta putting the hurt on your exercise efforts. You’ll be able to stay in shape, enjoying the many parks and recreational options. Workout junkies will be able to enjoy aerobics and weight training at our local gym, and there are even opportunities to play tennis, go biking or enjoy an afternoon hike. Of course, you and a few friends could always just lace up your running shoes for an organized jog through the cobblestone streets or along the picturesque Arno River. And you can always take a stroll through the beautiful countryside. We’ve also lined up other options for anyone who likes to stay active, so bring your workout gear along, unless you’re interested in treating yourself to a whole new wardrobe of designer Italian activewear!

WEEKEND ADVENTURES​

Complete your ACA Florence experience with exciting weekend adventures.

Forte dei Marmi (3 week program)

This is our destination to view some of Italy’s most spectacular coastline, and the upscale shops are equally exciting for serious shoppers! You will love spending time enjoying the amazing location, boutiques and cafés.

Viareggio (3 week program)

What good is time under the Tuscan sun if you can’t find a beautiful stretch of beach? The seaside resort of Viareggio is our destination for all sun-worshippers and beach fans. There’s a pristine expanse of white sandy beach available for catching a few rays or simply taking a picturesque walk. In the evening, we will complete this glorious day in Viareggio with a very special Italian dining experience.

CINQUE TERRE (3 WEEK PROGRAM)

Marvel at the stunning coastal views of the “five lands” made up of colorful, picturesque village built into the clifftops overlooking the sea. Soak up the sun on the stunning beaches, try the local flavor at the local restaurants or hike in the UNESCO National Park that connects one village to another.

The Enchanting Amalfi Coast & Capri Excursion (3 Days) (2 & 3 Week ProgramS)

Enjoy three days and two nights touring some of world’s most scenic towns when you visit the Amalfi Coast – Ancient Rome’s version of the Hamptons – where emperors built villas into the cliffs of Italy’s spectacular coastline. Marvel at the picturesque cliffs of Sorrento and explore the Blue Grotto, Capri’s underwater sea cave. You’ll also visit the celebrity beach playground of Positano and stroll the whitewashed streets of Amalfi. You’ll reside in an upscale hotel in the center of Sorrento.

Please Note: The excursion to the Amalfi Coast replaces the day trip to Siena and San Gimignano for students who select this excursion. (Supplemental fee of $895)

Rome (3 Days - Program ends in rome)
(2 & 3 WEEK PROGRAMS)

As the old saying goes, “All roads lead to Rome.” A legendary capital, and one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, it truly is the “Eternal City.” The streets are alive with shops, restaurants, art and entertainment. IN ROME YOU’LL SEE…

  • Monument to Vittorio Emanuelle II
    Known by the Romans as the “wedding cake” or “typewriter,” it is also home to the tomb of the unknown soldier, guarded around the clock by loyal carabinieri.
  • The Colosseum
    Where gladiators did battle to thrill the cheering Roman crowds. The word arena comes from the Latin word for sand, which was spread on the Colosseum floor.
  • Spanish Steps
    Built in 1725, and long a gathering place for foreigners, it is today a renowned destination for those favorite Italian activities – designer shopping and people watching!
  • The Forum
    Here’s where Romans found out who had the real gift of gab. A site for festivals and ceremonies, the Forum also surrounds the most ancient part of the city.
  • The Pantheon
    Final resting place for Italy’s most famous kings, it has architectural innovations not found even in contemporary designs!
  • Vatican City and the Sistine Chapel
    The smallest country in the world, the center of Catholicism and home to priceless art, it is protected by the magnificently costumed Swiss Guard.
  • St. Peter’s Basilica
    Marvel at the architecture, especially the magnificent dome designed by Michelangelo.
  • Trevi Fountain One of the city’s most splendid and cinematic landmarks. Make sure you throw in some coins to ensure your return to the Eternal City!

San Gimignano (2 & 3 WEEK PROGRAMS)

As you explore the streets of this 14th-century town, you’ll be transported back to the heyday of the Florentine republic. Fifteen splendid medieval towers command the city, including the only one left on the famous Pentagonal Fortress. A careful climb rewards with a breathtaking view. The Piazza della Cisterna sits at the heart of San Gimignano. Surrounding it is a host of museums, galleries and cathedrals, each home to splendid works of art.

Siena (2 & 3 WEEK PROGRAMS)

Founded by Roman emperor Augustus Caesar, Siena has preserved its medieval feel. For a classic example, head to Il Campo Square and race to the top of the Torre del Mangia, a 13th-century tower that has an incredible view. Catch your breath in the Piazza, the location of the famed Palio horse race, a colorful yet intensely competitive event among the city’s neighborhoods.

ACA Europe Extensions

Add 5 days to your European Adventure on our Greek Isles Extension or our Croatian Coastal Extension

You’ll remain in the secure company of trusted ACA staff members, as well as many of the friends you’ve made on your ACA program. Of course, you’ll also enjoy the comfortable accommodations and superior guidance you’ve come to expect from ACA.

The best part? ACA students from all of our European adventures that select our extensions will be together for our time in Greece or Croatia and will develop even more new friendships at ACA! 

(Supplemental tuition required.)

Please note: transportation is not included in tuition. 

Greek Isles Extension

Add to your European experience and explore the wonders of Greece, from Athens to Santorini to Mykonos!

Catch some rays on the black sands of Santorini, check out the scene at the party resorts of Mykonos, and soak in the rich historic legacy. It’s all possible in the fabulous Greek Isles. You’ll visit . . . 

Santorini

Beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, ancient cities and remarkable restaurants abound on one of the world’s favorite islands, which also has an active volcano. Marvel over the signature view of the white painted houses of Fira set high on the cliffs, with the Aegean Sea as the backdrop. Explore the archaeological site of Akrotiri, and perfect your tan on the fascinating black, white and red beaches. Feel the sand between your toes while relaxing at some of the world’s greatest beach scenes.

Mykonos

Enjoy all Mykonos has to offer: natural beauty, rich history and cosmopolitan lifestyle. Laze on the beautiful golden sandy beaches beside clear blue waters, immerse yourself in the plentiful history, and dance the night away with beautifully lit windmills as the backdrop! The island is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece.

Athens

Believed to be one of the oldest cities in Europe, Athens is known as the cradle of Western civilization due to its cultural and political impact on the rest of Europe. The capital city of Greece, Athens showcases the astonishing ancient architectural achievement of the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Stroll through the streets of Plaka to find authentic shops, markets and museums.​

Croatian Coastal Extension

Add to your European experience and explore the wonders of Croatia from Split and the Islands of the breathtaking Adriatic to the beauty and history of Dubrovnik!

Dubrovnik

Our first stop is Croatia’s ancient city, Dubrovnik, one of Europe’s most picturesque port cities. We will explore Banje Beach, shop the trendy boutiques in Stradun, and experience the laid-back Dalmatian culture. Take the ferry out to nearby Lokrum Island where you can soak up the sun on the beach, visit the botanical gardens, explore the fortress, and visit the Game of Thrones museum. Our final farewell will be a photo of the breathtaking sunset from atop Mt. Srd overlooking the old fortress walls and exploring the winding streets and fortresses that give Dubrovnik its special character and beauty.

Split

Our next stop is Split, one of Croatia’s largest cities, famous for its ancient Diocletian’s Palace! Explore the ancient ramparts for breathtaking views of the city, stroll along the seaside promenade, and shop at the trendy boutiques lining the charming cobblestone streets at Marmontova Ulica. Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Cetina River, and relax at the lively Bacvice Beach, home to the local beach game of picigin.

Island Hopping to Seaside Paradise

Brac – Our journey to Brac aboard the local ferry will offer breathtaking views of the Adriatic coast and the mountains. Soak up the sun on Golden Horn Beach, hike the Vidova Gora Trail Head then enjoy lunch in old towns charming cobblestone streets and boutiques as you revel in the seaside paradise of Brac, 

Swim in the Blue Lagoon – We kick off the day at the breathtaking Blue Lagoon in Krknjaši Bay, near Trogir. Swim in the crystal-clear, warm waters that boast a stunning blue hue. The Blue Lagoon is ideal for snorkeling or capturing incredible underwater photos. 

Explore Hvar – Live a real life fairy-tale visiting the 13th century fortress walls and town square featuring the renaissance era cathedral of Hvar. Don’t skip the view from the fortress above Hvar – it will leave you breathless! Explore the city and enjoy  lunch at one of the popular terraces, taking in the island’s amazing atmosphere.

Program Specifics

Program start: Fly to Rome, Italy

Students attending the 3 week program will fly on our ACA-staffed group flight from the New York area to Rome in evening on June 28 nonstop arriving in Rome the morning of June 29.  From there, they will be escorted directly to connecting private motorcoach service for the trip to Florence.  

Students attending our 2 week program will fly on our ACA-staffed group flight from the New York area to Rome in evening on July 5 nonstop arriving in Rome the morning of July 6.  From there, they will be escorted directly to connecting private motorcoach service for the trip to Florence. 

Our staff meet you at the airport and are with you the entire way starting with check-in. For students outside of the New York area, we are happy to help make arrangements for students connecting to our ACA group flight. Of course, parents are also welcome to bring students to the programs directly. For your safety and convenience, we strongly encourage students traveling to our international programs to fly on ACA group flights.

Return Flight from Rome (On the 2 & 3 Week Programs)

Students attending the 2 and 3 week programs will return home on ACA-staffed group flights from Rome to the New York area on July 18.  For students outside of the New York area, we are happy to help make arrangements at suitable times from the New York area after the group has cleared customs and immigration in the US. ACA staff will help you with check-in and stay at the airport until your flight takes off. 

Return Flight Home from Athens, Greece (On the Greece Ext)

Students attending the Greek Isles Extension will return home on ACA-staffed group flights from Athens to the New York area on July 23. For students outside of the New York area, we are happy to help make arrangements at suitable times from the New York area after the group has cleared customs and immigration in the US. ACA staff will help you with check-in and stay at the airport until your flight takes off. 

Return Flight Home from Split, Croatia (On the Croatia Ext)

Students attending the Croatian Coast Extension will return home on ACA-staffed group flights from Split to the New York area on July 23. For students outside of the New York area, we are happy to help make arrangements at suitable times from the New York area after the group has cleared customs and immigration in the US. ACA staff will help you with check-in and stay at the airport until your flight takes off. 

Meals

ACA serves up amazing meals that will make European eating an unforgettable part of your summer. Each morning, you’ll enjoy breakfast in our amazing hotel in the classic continental style, with plenty of fresh juices, eggs, meats, cereal, pastries, yogurt, and fresh fruit. It’s perfect fuel for a fun-filled day. For dinners, you’ll enjoy our exclusive Dining-on-the-Town-Plan, which lets you choose from a variety of ACA-selected restaurants – and it’s included in your tuition! Try the local specialties or enjoy an American-style eatery if you’re craving the flavors of home. You’ll always find a restaurant that suits your taste! For lunch, you will choose from local cafés, bistros, and other restaurants. 

With many options each day, we  are able to accommodate most special dietary requests along with picky eaters. We welcome discussing your individual requirements with you prior to program departure.

Roommates & Accommodations

You will stay in upscale hotels in safe locations in the city centers complete with private bathrooms and air conditioning. Our hotels are carefully selected based on safety, security, location, amenities and comfort. For safety reasons, we do not publish the names of the hotels we use.  After enrolling, students and parents are given the names of all of the accommodations for the program. The standard are double rooms. Limited triples and singles are available upon request. Each student will have their own bed. All students fill out a detailed roommate questionnaire. Roommates are matched based on age and common interests. Of course, if you are traveling with a friend, you are able to room with each other. 

Laundry

Each week, you will have the option to do self-service laundry at a local laundromat or to drop off your laundry at a local laundromat and pick it up clean and folded. Staff will assist students. 

What's Included

Your program tuition is all inclusive of lodging, breakfast and dinner daily, 2 electives, and activities as listed. Not included is lunches, snacks, personal spending money for souvenirs, laundry, airport transfers, and transportation to and from the program. Transportation on the Greek Isles and Croatian Coastal Extensions are not included in tuition.

We also offer travel insurance that is not included, but highly recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

All of ACA’s study abroad programs accept students completing 9th through 12th grades.

We allow students to bring their cell phones. Please contact your cell carrier to set up an international plan which will enable calling and data plans when not on WiFi. The use of cellphones and other messaging devices are not allowed during classes.

ACA uses chartered coach and taxi services to get around town when needed, never public transportation. 

Students will choose their electives as part of their pre-program kit in the spring.

ACA students are always within minutes of world-class medical services should an emergency occur. In the case of any accident or illness, ACA staff members accompany students to appropriate medical facilities and immediately notify parents or guardians. For non-emergencies, local doctors make house-calls to the hotels we stay at. The program director has each student’s medical history on file. We will contact parents when a doctor’s visit is necessary. Staff collect all prescription medication and will administer it to the students as prescribed.

All of our directors and counselors are at least 21 years of age. Having worked extensively with high school and middle school students in the past, they genuinely look forward to their summers with ACA. All staff go through in-depth training on ACA’s philosophy, policies, safety protocols, and procedures. 

Each member of our team works tirelessly throughout the program, serving as a mentor, advisor and friend to all of our students. We work hard to create a warm, supportive family atmosphere, one in which ACA students are treated as young adults whose opinions and concerns truly matter.

Highlights

Photos

TestimonialS

What Alumni are Saying

"My summer on ACA-Florence was truly an amazing experience. There was never a dull moment as each day was jammed packed with exciting daily and evening activities. ACA Florence was truly the best summer of my life!"

Henry
New Jersey

" ACA provided me with the best summer I could have imagined! This trip was life changing! I was able to see so much of Italy and to meet so many fantastic people! I am forever grateful that I did this program!"

Liv
New Jersey
"Claire had a fantastic time on her ACA program in Florence. Thank you!"



Emily
California

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