You can use Italian effectively, taking part in extended conversations, writing and understanding most texts. You can easily watch the Italian TV or an Italian movie and you can express opinion fluently and spontaneously without searching for expressions.

Program Structure

Register to a avanzato sub-levels:
Avanzato 1
PICK A DATE AND REGISTER

You will work on chapters 1, 2 and 3 of Nuovo Espresso 5 and will read an Italian novel chosen by your teacher, discussing its content and improving your reading skills. 

AVAILABLE CLASSES
Dates
Day/time
Teacher
Price
April 2 to June 4 (10 WKS)
W 6:30 - 8:30 pm PST
Teacher: Mattia (ONLINE)
$390/term
TEXTBOOK
Book (mandatory)
Nuovo Espresso 5 - Chapters 1-2-3
Reading book
"Caleidoscopio italiano", Silvia Bertoni
Mattia - W 6:30 - 8:30 pm PST
Avanzato 2
PICK A DATE AND REGISTER

You will work on chapters 4, 5 and 6 of Nuovo Espresso 5 and will read an Italian novel chosen by your teacher, discussing its content and improving your reading skills. 

AVAILABLE CLASSES
Unfortunately we don't have available classes for this program. If you need more information, please contact us.
CONTACT US
TEXTBOOK
Book (mandatory)
Nuovo Espresso 5 - Chapters 4-5-6
Avanzato 3
PICK A DATE AND REGISTER

You will work on chapters 7, 8 and 9 of Nuovo Espresso 5 and will read an Italian novel chosen by your teacher, discussing its content and improving your reading skills. 

AVAILABLE CLASSES
Dates
Day/time
Teacher
Price
March 31 to June 9 (10 WKS)
M 6:30 - 8:30 pm PST
Teacher: Elena (ONLINE)
$390/term
TEXTBOOK
Book (mandatory)
Nuovo Espresso 5 - Chapters 7-8-9
Reading book
"Il treno dei bambini", Viola Ardone 
Elena - M 6:30 - 8:30 pm PST
Avanzato 4
PICK A DATE AND REGISTER

You will work on chapter 10 of Nuovo Espresso 5 and will review the entire book as a strengthening exercise. You will also read an Italian novel chosen by your teacher, discussing its content and improving your reading skills. 

AVAILABLE CLASSES
Unfortunately we don't have available classes for this program. If you need more information, please contact us.
CONTACT US
TEXTBOOK
Book (mandatory)
Nuovo Espresso 5 Chapter 10 + General review
Avanzato
PICK A DATE AND REGISTER

You will review your grammar knowledges and will read an Italian novel chosen by your teacher, discussing its content and improving your reading skills.

AVAILABLE CLASSES
Dates
Day/time
Teacher
Price
Apr 1 to May 27 (9 WKS)
T 6:00 - 8:30 pm PST
Teacher: Valentina (ONLINE)
$440/term
TEXTBOOK
Book 1 (mandatory)
Nuovo Espresso 5
Reading book
"Il cane di terracotta", Andrea Camilleri (first half, until page 145)
Valentina - T 6:00 - 8:30 pm PST
Italiano Avanzato: Espressioni e Strutture
PICK A DATE AND REGISTER

This in-person class is for learners who have accomplished an intermediate level and wish to continue exploring newer aspects of the Italian grammar, strengthening their oral and phonetic skills, and going deeper into the current language and culture of Italy.

AVAILABLE CLASSES
Dates
Day/time
Teacher
Price
March 31 to June 9 (10 WKS)
M 6:30 - 8:30 pm PST
Teacher: Mattia (IN PERSON)
$400/term
TEXTBOOK
Book 1 (mandatory)
Nuovo Magari B2
Storia della Letteratura Italiana
PICK A DATE AND REGISTER

You’ll explore the most significant works from the origins of Italian literature to the present day, discovering prominent authors and gaining valuable insights into the historical and cultural contexts that shaped Italy’s literary movements and genres.

From Dante Alighieri and Boccaccio to modern voices like Dacia Maraini and Elena Ferrante, you’ll be introduced to Italy’s major literary figures.

 

Lessons are organized into 4-hour blocks (equivalent to two classes), each focusing on a specific historical period in Italian history. You can choose to enroll in the full 24-lesson program or select individual blocks to focus on the periods that interest you most.

If you opt for the comprehensive package of 24 lessons or choose a more tailored option with a package of 12 lessons that align with your preferences. For personalized 12 or 24-class packages at a discounted rate, kindly reach out to us at italianschool@sfiis.org.

Alternatively, you can enroll in individual regions from the list provided below.

AVAILABLE CLASSES
Dates
Day/time
Teacher
Price
January 8 & 15 (2 WKS)
W 12:30pm - 2:30pm PST
Teacher: Barbara (ONLINE) - Dalle origini al Duecento
$90/term
January 22 & 29 (2 WKS)
W 12:30pm - 2:30pm PST
Teacher: Barbara (ONLINE) - Il Trecento
$90/term
February 5 & 12 (2 WKS)
W 12:30pm - 2:30pm PST
Teacher: Barbara (ONLINE) - Il Quattrocento
$90/term
February 19 & 26 (2 WKS)
W 12:30pm - 2:30pm PST
Teacher: Barbara (ONLINE) - Il Cinquecento
$90/term
March 5 & 12 (2 WKS)
W 12:30pm - 2:30pm PST
Teacher: Barbara (ONLINE) - Il Seicento
$90/term
March 19 & 26 (2 WKS)
W 12:30pm - 2:30pm PST
Teacher: Barbara (ONLINE) - Il Settecento
$90/term
April 2 & 9 (2 WKS)
W 12:30pm - 2:30pm PST
Teacher: Barbara (ONLINE) - Il Primo Ottocento
$90/term
April 16 & 23 (2 WKS)
W 12:30pm - 2:30pm PST
Teacher: Barbara (ONLINE) - Il Secondo Ottocento
$89/term
April 30 & May 7 (2 WKS)
W 12:30pm - 2:30pm PST
Teacher: Barbara (ONLINE) - Tra Ottocento e Novecento
$90/term
May 14 & 21 (2 WKS)
W 12:30pm - 2:30pm PST
Teacher: Barbara (ONLINE) - Il Novecento delle due guerre
$90/term
May 28 & June 4 (2 WKS)
W 12:30pm - 2:30pm PST
Teacher: Barbara (ONLINE) - Il Secondo Novecento
$90/term
June 11 & 18 (2 WKS)
W 12:30pm - 2:30pm PST
Teacher: Barbara (ONLINE) - Il Nuovo Millennio
$90/term
TEXTBOOK
Book (mandatory)
"Guida per stranieri alla letteratura italiana"
Leggiamo Insieme
PICK A DATE AND REGISTER

Join us for an exclusive 9-week advanced reading group starting February 27, where we will delve into Suburra by Carlo Bonini and Giancarlo De Cataldo.

Guided by our experienced instructor, Martina, you’ll engage in in-depth discussions to explore the novel’s complex characters and themes, enhancing your understanding of Italian literature and culture.

 

This gripping political thriller exposes the intricate web of crime and corruption in contemporary Rome, weaving together the lives of mobsters, politicians, and law enforcement in a high stakes battle for power.

The novel masterfully portrays the blurred lines between the criminal underworld and political elites, revealing how their interactions shape the destiny of the city and its citizens.

AVAILABLE CLASSES
Dates
Day/time
Teacher
Price
Feb 27 to Apr 24 (9 WKS)
TH 11:00 am - 12:00 pm PST
Teacher: Martina (ONLINE)
$220/term
TEXTBOOK
Reading book
"Suburra", Carlo Bonini and Giancarlo De Cataldo
Caffe Corretto
PICK A DATE AND REGISTER

2 hours of reading, speaking and conversation at an advanced level, to enjoy speaking Italian as if you were having a cup of coffee with your Italian friends.

Mattia will help students to achieve the goal of reading, speaking and having a conversation about an Italian book.

In the Spring Term, we will be reading “Alma” by Federica Manzon, a compelling novel that explores themes of identity, youth, and the search for belonging. Set between Italy and Eastern Europe, Alma delves into the complexities of personal growth and cultural contrasts, offering rich material for discussion and language practice.

AVAILABLE CLASSES
Dates
Day/time
Teacher
Price
March 17 to May 5 (8 WKS)
M 11:00 am – 1:00 pm PST
Teacher: Mattia (IN PERSON)
$320/term
TEXTBOOK
Book 1 (mandatory)
Caccia ai Tesori, Antonella Filippone and Sandra Radicchio
Reading Book
"Alma", Federica Manzon
Classics Book Club
PICK A DATE AND REGISTER

A series of 10 classes, 2 hours each, dedicated to studying, reading, and discussing one of the most significant works of Italian literature.

In the Spring Term, the group will focus on “La lunga vita di Marianna Ucrìa” by Dacia Maraini, a powerful historical novel that transports readers to 18th-century Sicily.

The story follows Marianna, a noblewoman who is deaf and mute, yet possesses an extraordinary inner voice and intellectual depth. Through her perspective, the novel explores themes of resilience, female empowerment, and the constraints of societal norms.

Under Mattia’s guidance, you will discover this captivating literary masterpiece, engaging in discussions that bring its themes, language, and historical context to life.

AVAILABLE CLASSES
Dates
Day/time
Teacher
Price
March 21 to May 23 (10 WKS)
F 11:00 am - 1:00 pm PST
Teacher: Mattia (ONLINE)
$480/term
TEXTBOOK
Reading book
"La lunga vita di Marianna Ucrìa", Dacia Maraini
A spasso per l'Italia
PICK A DATE AND REGISTER

Gianna will guide you on a journey of discovery through Italy, with each Term focusing on a different region or area of the country.

Through the pages of a carefully selected novel, along with short videos and discussions, you’ll explore Italy’s culture, traditions, and contemporary issues, all while improving your Italian language skills. The course encourages conversation and analysis, offering a dynamic and immersive learning experience.

In addition to reading and discussion, you’ll also review key grammar topics, using the book and videos as a springboard for natural, engaging conversation.

Join us for this unique exploration of Italy—one region, one story at a time!

AVAILABLE CLASSES
Dates
Day/time
Teacher
Price
Apr 4 to June 6 (10 WKS)
F 10:30 am - 1:00 pm PST
Teacher: Gianna (ONLINE)
$490/term
TEXTBOOK
Book 1 (mandatory)
Nuovo Espresso 6
Italian Phonetics
PICK A DATE AND REGISTER

Mastering Italian phonetics is the key to achieving a truly authentic accent and boosting your confidence in spoken Italian. Barbara will guide you through the nuances of Italian sounds, pronunciation, and intonation patterns that make the language so musical and distinctive.

In this course, you’ll not only learn how to pronounce words correctly, but also gain a deeper understanding of the rhythm, stress, and melody unique to Italian. Through engaging lessons, practical exercises, and personalized feedback, you’ll develop a keen ear for Italian phonetics, equipping you to understand native speakers more easily and express yourself with precision and clarity.

There will 2 different classes, divided by level:

  • Level 1 – Friday 12:00pm – 1:00pm PST: for students who are starting now to approach the Italian phonetics.
  • Level 2 – Friday 1:00pm – 2:00pm PST:  for students who already attended the Italian phonetics Level 1 classes in the Winter Term.
AVAILABLE CLASSES
Dates
Day/time
Teacher
Price
Apr 11 to May 9 (5 WKS)
F 12:00pm - 1:00pm PST
Teacher: Barbara (ONLINE)
$120/term
Apr 11 to May 9 (5 WKS)
F 1:00pm - 2:00pm PST
Teacher: Barbara (ONLINE)
$120/term
TEXTBOOK
Book (mandatory)
"Fonetica pratica della lingua italiana", C. Pegoraro
PRICE
Prices are listed next to each group.

A 10$ nonrefundable registration fee will be automatically added at checkout.

Books are not included in the enrollment price.


DISCOUNTS

BRING A FRIEND: If you enroll with a friend (new to IIS), you both get a 10% discount

ENROLL IN 2 GROUPS: if you enroll in 2 groups in the same Term, you will get a 15% discount on the second group's enrollment (the less expensive)

PRIVATE CLASSES: if you are enrolled in a group, you can purchase private classes with a 10% discount

BULK REGISTRATION: if you enroll in 2 or more Terms at the same time, you will not pay the $10 registration fee and will get an additional 10% discount

To get these discounts, send an email to italianschool@sfiis.org
DURATION
Group Classes
10 weeks groups, classes meet once a week
Term 1
January 6th to March 16th 2025
Term 2
March 31st to June 8th 2025
Term 3
July 21st to September 28th 2025
Term 4
October 6th to December 14th 2025

Let our students speak for us!

Truly a gem of a school
Erin Yu
"SFIIS runs a fantastic org and program - truly a gem of a school. The staff are warm and wonderfully efficient. I've done both in-person and online classes, and plan to continue for as long as I can. They cover all levels of Italian proficiency, with an engaging mix of private lessons, themed classes (e.g. Italian for Travelers), and regular Term classes. If you can, I highly recommend going in person for at least some lessons - they have a wonderful office in sunny North Beach."
Cannot recommend this online foreign language program for toddlers enough!
Andrea DiSandro
"First and foremost, let me sing praises for the incredible teacher, Francesca. She possesses a remarkable talent for not only teaching but captivating young minds. Her ability to blend learning and play seamlessly is nothing short of amazing. [...] What's truly heartwarming is witnessing my daughter's enthusiasm for her weekly class. [...] As a family that values multilingualism, I can confidently say that this virtual program stands head and shoulders above the rest. [...] I am beyond impressed and immensely grateful for the positive impact this program has had on our family. If you're seeking a top-tier virtual language learning experience for your little one, look no further. This program is truly amazing, and I wholeheartedly endorse it to any parent seeking to enrich their child's linguistic abilities.
Beginners 1 experience
Jeffrey Jordan
"I just completed my first course with Istituto Italiano Scuola and was quite impressed. It was both rigorous and fun in balance, inspiring me to learn and take my Italian further than ever before. I'll be back for the next level course."
IL MIO POSTO FELICE!!!!
Leslie Hughes
“What I like most about participating in a literature class with the Istituto is having classmates with whom to discuss our books. I like hearing their opinions and responding to them. Reading is a great pleasure of mine, but sharing a book makes reading an adventure. With a teacher guiding us we improve our language skills and become more self-confident expressing ourselves. I’m grateful for the opportunity!”
The best way to maintain and improve my language skills
Dennis Abbe
“I have been taking classes at the SFIIS for years because, short of a long stay in Italy, it is the best way to maintain and improve my language skills. But more than that, I enjoy being with the other students and my instructor(s), many of whom are now good friends. In my class we read classic and contemporary Italian literature, and our instructor keeps us up to date on Italian culture and even politics. The experience on Zoom is almost as good as the in-person classes; Barbara is amazing in her use of the tools to run a lively, efficient, and fun class.”
I've made life-long friends through SFIIS classes
Dede Heitman
“The SFIIS school offers the best, well rounded Italian languages classes in the Bay Area. With native speakers as teachers, the classes provide a comprehensive, natural and fun way of learning. Everyone feels welcome, no matter the level. The teachers are encouraging, entertaining and enthusiastic about their language and culture. As a bonus, I've made life-long friends through SFIIS classes. Please join our Italian language learning community!”
An authentic learning experience
SPEAK
ITALIAN
AND
LIVE
NEW
EXPERIENCES