How to apply: a step-by-step guide
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Thank you for your interest in the SITE Program. Please refer to the steps below to understand how out selection process works.
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Step 1: Contact your alma mater's Italian department:
Candidates should get in touch with their college/university to see if it has signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Students from institutions outside of the SITE network (non MoU) are welcome to apply but priority will be given to partner institutions. If the number of fellowships exceeds the number of applicants from participating institutions, non-MOU applications will be considered. You can find out if your university is part of our network by visiting our U.S. Partners section.
Step 2: Internal Selection (February)
MoU institutions conducts an internal selection and nominates 1-3 candidates. Each institutions is free to organize the internal selection as they wish, keeping in mind that the program is an intercultural experience and can be challenging. Candidates must be flexible, independent, have self-training and self-study skills, be willing to step out of their comfort zone, as well as have an excellent level of Italian. SITE recommends that the internal selection process include a sample class on a topic of the candidates' choice, as it would provide valuable insight on performance as teaching assistants. After the internal selection is completed, candidates can apply online.
Step 3: Online Application (March)
Selected candidates post their complete online applications. The link will be made available in mid February.
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Step 4: Site Ranking and Placement (late March - early April)
SITE ranks all nominated candidates and begin pairing potential interns to schools taking all needs and preferences into account. Candidates can expect an email by the end of April.
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Step 5: Acceptance and Contract (late March - late April)
Once accepted, candidates are asked to sign a Declaration of Intent and are bound to the program.
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Resignation:
In case of resignation at any time during the selection process, candidates must notify SITE and their college or university professors immediately. Late resignation is allowed only in exceptional circumstances.
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Copy of the Degree
In order to proceed with the Progetto Formativo (needed for visa purposes), candidates need to email a pdf scanned copy of their diploma to site@gentileschi.it.
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Step 6: Applying for an entry visa
Refer to the Visa and Permesso di Soggiorno section.
Application materials
Before starting the application process, it is important that you check our Requirements. If minimum qualifications are not met, candidates will not be taken into consideration and/or will placed on a waiting list. Candidates will need to submit the following documents electronically for consideration:
Personal and Travel Information
Once you start the online application process, you will be asked personal and educational background information. You will also be asked to upload your passport information. Please note that the SITE application process is confidential and personal information collected will not be shared.
Motivation Letter
The letter should be stating: motivation, interest in the program, and a self-introduction. As wonderful as living and working abroad can be, it also comes with its challenges and is definitely a step outside one's comfort zone. Be sure to provide examples or motivation on how you would demonstrate resiliency and professionalism if selected. Your letter should be roughly 400-500 words and you may write it in English or in Italian.
Curriculum Vitae or Resume
You will also be asked to send us your most up-to-date CV/Resume in English.
Unofficial Transcript
Including all coursework and grades up to the most recent semester.
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Recommendation Letter
From a university or college professor that know you well. Ideally from a faculty member of the Italian department.
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In the case that the number of candidates presented by the universities is higher than the fellowships offered by the SITE Network of Schools of Lombardy, the remaining candidates will be placed on a waiting list. The candidates of this list can then be nominated if additional positions are made available later on in the semester, or in case an intern resigns.
Copy of the Degree
In order to proceed with the Progetto formativo (the Contract with the school), immediately after graduation, candidates will have to email a pdf scanned copy of their diploma to site@gentileschi.it. The SITE Program must have proof of graduation and a copy of the degree by no later than June 10.
