CILS and CELI preparation. How long does it take?

The CILS (Certificazione di Italiano come Lingua Straniera) and CELI (Certificato di Conoscenza della Lingua Italiana) are two of the most recognized Italian language certifications. If you are preparing for an intermediate level (B1 or B2) or an advanced level (C1 or C2), you might be wondering how long CILS and CELI preparation takes, the challenges you may face, and the best preparation strategies. In this guide, I’ll answer these questions and provide a practical weekly study plan to help you succeed. 

How Long Does It Take to Prepare for CILS and CELI?

The time for CILS and CELI preparation depends on your current Italian level. Here’s a rough estimate of the hours needed to reach each level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR):

• B1 (Intermediate): 350-400 hours of study
• B2 (Upper Intermediate): 500-600 hours of study
• C1 (Advanced): 700-800 hours of study
• C2 (Mastery): 1,000+ hours of study

If you are already at a B1 level, you will need at least 2-3 months of focused study to prepare for the B2 exam. If you are at B2, you may need 4-6 months to reach C1, and at least 6-12 months to reach C2.

Should You Reach a Certain Level First or Prepare Directly for the Exam?

Many students wonder if they should reach a level before starting exam preparation or jump straight into practicing CILS or CELI exam tasks. The best approach is a combination of both:

• If you are below the required level (e.g., A2 and want to take B1, or B1 and want to take B2), focus first on improving your general Italian skills before starting exam-specific preparation.
• If you are already close to the level, start preparing with past exam papers, specific exercises, and time management strategies.

For C1 and C2 levels, reaching a strong B2+ foundation before focusing on the exam format is crucial, as the advanced exams require complex grammar, academic writing, and fluency in argumentation.

Common Challenges and Why Students Fail the CILS and CELI Exams

Many students underestimate these exams and fail due to a few common mistakes:

1. Lack of time management: The exam has strict time limits. Many students struggle to complete all sections, especially the writing tasks.
2. Not practicing listening comprehension enough: The audio recordings in the exam are fast and involve different situations. Students who only practice textbook listening exercises may struggle.
3. Weak grammar foundation: Especially in B2, C1, and C2, knowing advanced verb tenses, complex sentence structures, and formal writing is essential.
4. Speaking anxiety: The oral exam requires clear and structured responses. Many students panic or give answers that are too short.
5. Ignoring exam-specific strategies: The exam is not just about knowing Italian but also about understanding how to answer efficiently within the time limit.

CILS and CELI Preparation: A Weekly Study Plan

Here’s an example of how you can structure your study time for optimal preparation:

Week 1-4: General Language Improvement (If Needed)

• Monday: Grammar review (subjunctive, conditional, complex sentences)
• Tuesday: Listening practice (news, podcasts, exam audio samples)
• Wednesday: Reading comprehension (articles, essays, formal letters)
• Thursday: Writing practice (short essays, letters, summaries)
• Friday: Speaking practice (language exchange, tutors, self-recording)
• Saturday: Mock test (one section of the exam)
• Sunday: Rest or light revision (watch Italian movies, read blogs)

Week 5-8: Exam-Specific Training

• Monday: Simulated writing tasks under time constraints
• Tuesday: Listening to exam-style audio and answering comprehension questions
• Wednesday: Speaking practice (answering typical oral exam questions)
• Thursday: Grammar drills focused on errors from mock tests
• Friday: Full past exam simulation (one skill per week)
• Saturday: Review mistakes and refine weak areas
• Sunday: Light Italian exposure (music, social media, books)

Week 9+: Intensive Practice and Final Adjustments

• Do at least 2 full mock exams per week.
• Focus on weak points (e.g., if you struggle with listening, increase practice time).
• Practice oral responses with a tutor.
• Review common phrases for the written and oral exams to ensure fluid expression.

Final Tips for Success

• Stick to a routine: Consistency is more important than intensity.
• Simulate exam conditions: Take practice tests with a timer.
• Get feedback: Work with a tutor or teacher to identify mistakes.
• Speak daily: Even if it’s just to yourself, practice forming complex sentences.
• Don’t underestimate the exam! It is structured to test not only your knowledge but also your ability to use the language in real situations.

Conclusion

CILS and CELI preparation requires time, strategy, and dedication. If you’re at a lower level, focus on building a strong foundation first. If you’re close to your target level, start practicing with real exam tasks. Avoid common pitfalls like neglecting listening skills or poor time management, and create a solid study plan to maximize your chances of success.

With the right time, focus and approach, you can pass these exams and prove your Italian proficiency. Buona fortuna!

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