Education Across Boarders: Comparing the Italian and American School Systems
With insight from a student from Reggio Emilia University
by Alessandra Iarriccio
Education plays a crucial role in shaping young individuals and societies. While every country has its own approach to education, Italy and the United States have distinct systems that reflect their unique histories, values, and culture. By examining the structure in both Italy and the United States by speaking with a student from the university in Reggio Emilia, Italy, we can gain insight into the strengths and challenges of each system.
Structure and Levels of Education
One of the most notable differences between the Italian and American school systems is their structure. In Italy, education begins with “Scuola dell’Infanzia” or what we know as preschool. This lasts from ages six months to six years. This is then followed by “Scuola Primaria” or elementary school which lasts for five years (ages six to eleven). After elementary school, students attend “Scuola Secondaria di Primo Grado” (middle school) from ages eleven to fourteen. Upon completion, students choose a specific type of high school, known as “Scuola Secondaria Superiore”, which lasts five years and prepares them for either university or vocational training.
On the other hand, the American education system follows a more generalized structure. Children typically begin with kindergarten around age five, followed by elementary school, which lasts until approximately age eleven or twelve. This is followed by middle school, also known as junior high school, covering grades six through eight and then high school which goes from grades nine through twelve. Unlike Italy, where students must specialize early on, American high school students follow a broader curriculum with elective courses that allow them to explore different subjects before choosing a career path.
Curriculum and Specialization
Another significant difference between the two countries is how the students are expected to specialize in their studies. In Italy, students must choose their high school type at age thirteen or fourteen. Options for specialization include Liceo Classico (focused on Latin and Greek literature), Liceo Scientifico (science and math focused), Liceo Linguistico (foreign languages) and other specialized schools such as technical institutes and professional schools.The first two years of high school cover general subjects, while the final three years focus on the student’s specialization. This system allows students to develop expertise in a particular field before entering university or the workforce. However, it also places significant pressure on young teenagers to make career-defining choices at an early age.
In contrast, American students follow a more flexible high school curriculum. While they must complete core subjects such as English, math, science, and history, they also have the opportunity to take elective courses in areas such as music, art, business, and technology. This flexibility allows students to explore their interests before committing to a specific field in college or the workforce. However, critics argue that the American system does not provide the same depth of knowledge as the Italian system, particularly in subjects like philosophy, classical languages, and rigorous mathematics.
Assessments and Graduation Requirements
Examinations and grading differ greatly also between the two countries. In Italy, students must pass an extensive Esame di Maturità at the end of high school in order to graduate. This exam includes written and oral components and is graded on a scale of 0-100 with a minimum passing score of 60. This exam is known for its rigor and can significantly impact a student’s university prospects. Oral exams are a common part of the Italian education system, even at the elementary level, which encourages students to develop strong verbal communication skills.
In the United States, students are assessed through a combination of assignments, quizzes, standardized tests, and final exams throughout high school. To graduate, students must earn a certain number of credits rather than passing a single national exam. While some states require students to pass standardized tests, such as the SATs or state-specific assessments, high school graduation is generally based on coursework performance. This system provides more opportunities for students to succeed, but it also means that educational standards can vary widely depending on the state or school district.
Higher Education and University System
University education in Italy and the United States also differs. In Italy. Universities are primarily public, and tuition costs are relatively low compared to American universities. A three-year Laurea Triennale or a bachelor’s degree is followed by a two-year Laurea Magistrale or master’s degree, with the option to pursue a Dottorato di Ricerca (PhD) afterward. Italian universities emphasize self-study, and there is generally little to no homework; instead, students prepare for oral and written exams that determine their final grades.
In contrast, American universities offer a wide range of private and public institutions, with tuition costs that can be prohibitively high. The American college experience is characterized by continuous assessment through assignments, essays, and group projects, along with a focus on extracurricular activities and internships. Unlike Italy, where lectures are the primary mode of instruction, American universities place a strong emphasis on interactive learning and participation.
Conclusion
While both the Italian and American school systems aim to educate and prepare students for success, their methods reflect differing cultural values and educational philosophies. The Italian system emphasizes early specialization, academic rigor, and oral assessments, fostering deep expertise but placing pressure on students at a young age. In contrast, the American system prioritizes flexibility, continuous assessment, and broad exploration, which can support diverse interests but sometimes lacks depth in certain disciplines. Understanding these differences not only highlights the strengths and weaknesses of each approach but also reflection on how educational systems can evolve to better serve their students in a globalized world.