CILS, CELI and PLIDA: are they really the same thing?
The most common question is also the simplest: is one certification more valuable than the others? The answer is no. CILS, CELI and PLIDA all follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), the international standard that defines language proficiency levels from A1 to C2. This means that a B2 level obtained through any of these three certifications corresponds to the same level of Italian language competence. What changes, instead, is the institution that organises the exam and the way language skills are assessed.

CILS: the certification from the University for Foreigners of Siena
The CILS (Certification of Italian as a Foreign Language) is issued by the University for Foreigners of Siena and is one of the best-known Italian language certifications, both in Italy and abroad. The exam assesses listening and reading comprehension, written and oral production, and also includes a section dedicated to language structures, namely grammar and vocabulary. One aspect particularly appreciated by candidates is the possibility, available for many levels, of retaking only the sections that were not passed, without having to repeat the entire exam.

CELI: the certification from the University for Foreigners of Perugia
The CELI (Certificate of Knowledge of the Italian Language), issued by the University for Foreigners of Perugia, is also an internationally recognised certification. The skills assessed are the same: listening, reading, writing and speaking. However, grammar is not generally presented as a separate section. Language knowledge is evaluated through the different activities, which aim to assess the ability to use Italian in real-life situations.

PLIDA: the certification from the Dante Alighieri Society
The PLIDA (Progetto Lingua Italiana Dante Alighieri) is issued by the Dante Alighieri Society, a historic institution dedicated to promoting Italian language and culture around the world. This exam also assesses the four fundamental language skills and follows the CEFR levels. One of its strengths is its extensive international network of exam centres, which allows many students to take the certification in their own country.

What is the difference between CILS, CELI and PLIDA?
At this point, it is natural to wonder whether one of these exams is more difficult than the others. In reality, there is no objective answer. Since all certifications are based on the same European standards, the level required is essentially equivalent. The main differences concern the format of the tests, the types of exercises, the time available and the assessment criteria adopted by each certification body. For this reason, preparing for the CILS exam is not exactly the same as preparing for the CELI or PLIDA. Becoming familiar with the structure of the chosen exam allows students to approach the test with greater confidence, manage their time more effectively and avoid surprises on exam day.

Which certification should you choose?
Many students choose a certification because it is required by the university they wish to attend or by the institution where they need to submit their citizenship application. In other cases, the choice simply depends on the availability of an exam centre in their city or on the available exam dates. Rather than asking which certification is “the best”, it is more useful to ask which one is the most suitable for your personal goals. All three represent an official recognition of Italian language skills and can open new opportunities for study, work and integration.

Preparing for the exam: a key step towards success
Whatever certification you decide to take, arriving well prepared for the exam is essential. Knowing Italian well is not enough: it is also important to become familiar with the structure of the tests, learn how to manage your time and understand the specific assessment criteria of CILS, CELI or PLIDA. For this reason, taking an individual exam preparation course can be a valuable advantage. A personalised learning path allows you to focus on the skills you need to improve, practise with exam simulations and receive targeted feedback from experienced teachers.

If you have an exam coming up and want to give yourself the best possible chance of passing, the best choice is to enroll in an exam preparation course!