Obtain a U.S. passport through the Department of State. If you already have a passport, make sure that it does not expire within three months of your planned final day abroad.
Obtain a visa application online or through your local consulate. The visa application requires an additional passport-style photo, although it does not have to be identical to the one on your passport.
Request a letter from a representative of your academic program stating the nature and purpose of your study in Italy. The representative can be a faculty member of your home university or an academic sponsor in Italy. The letter should include information about your planned number of daily hours of study and how long the program will last.
Order official copies of your academic record. This should include transcripts of all universities you have attended for credit.
Write a letter describing your plans for lodging while in Italy and your ability to travel back to the United states.
Make a copy of your health insurance information and obtain copies of any pertinent medical documents that should be reviewed in case you have an emergency.
Submit all of the documents to your local Italian consulate. The consulate will review your application and may discuss with you whether you will be eligible for Italian health care or will need additional coverage.