Gap Year program - Rome City Institute
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Rome City Institute Gap Year student-athletes
Academics · Gap Year Program

A Life-Changing Gap Year

Combine top-tier athletic training with academic growth in one of the most iconic cities in the world. Whether you choose a full year or a semester in Italy, you’ll develop your athletic potential while earning college credits — without committing to a full-time degree just yet.

12
American-accredited credits available
6
Max credit hours per semester
US Accredited College Credits — School of Record: Jacksonville University — Up to 12 Credits
Program Structure
A Part-Time, Degree-Seeking Program

The Gap Year program is intentionally structured as a part-time, degree-seeking program. Students take just two college-level courses per semester — up to six credit hours — so athletic training and competition can remain the primary focus, while still making real academic progress toward a future degree.

Gap Year

Part-Time Course Load

  • Two college-level courses per semester
  • Up to 6 credit hours per semester
  • Students compete in their sport as the primary focus
  • Up to 12 American-accredited credits over the program
Undergraduate Programs

Full-Time Course Load

  • Full-time, degree-seeking bachelor’s program
  • Standard full course load each semester
  • Students balance athletics with a complete academic schedule
  • Path to a full US-accredited bachelor’s degree
Explore Undergraduate Programs →
Overview
Athletic Development, Academic Progress

Our Gap Year program offers an unparalleled opportunity to combine top-tier athletic training with academic growth in one of the most iconic cities in the world. This program is designed to provide a transformative experience that goes beyond the classroom or the field — train under expert coaches, learn from accomplished faculty, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Rome. It’s the perfect stepping stone for student-athletes seeking personal growth, athletic development, and an unforgettable international adventure, all while laying the foundation for future academic and athletic success.

Why Choose Our Gap Year
One Year, Built Around You

A one-of-a-kind opportunity for student-athletes seeking to elevate their athletic performance while making meaningful, manageable academic progress.

1-Year Program
American Accredited College Courses
International Perspective on Global Topics
College Placement Opportunities
International Network
Diverse Environment
Career Service
Experience Rome, a Dynamic International City
Benefits & Opportunities
What This Partnership Brings You

Through our partnership with Jacksonville University, Gap Year students gain access to opportunities that extend well beyond the field.

Financial Aid

American students can apply for financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), making the program more accessible and affordable.

Credit Transfer

Accreditation ensures your courses and programs are recognized and valued, facilitating the transfer of credits to and from other accredited institutions.

Exchange Programs

Study at Jacksonville University in Florida for one or more semesters while remaining on track with your degree at Rome City Institute.

Compete at a Semi-Professional Level

Train and compete under expert coaching, with access to elite facilities that mirror a professional environment.

College Placement

Personalized college counseling helps you discover your strengths, interests, and long-term academic goals.

Resources
Support Built for Student-Athletes

We understand the unique demands placed on student-athletes, which is why we’ve created a tailor-made experience to keep you on track academically. Within the campus, you will have access to:

Cultural Immersion Programs

Language classes, local excursions, and cultural workshops help you fully experience Italian life while enhancing your global perspective.

College Counseling

Personalized guidance through a variety of academic and athletic opportunities, with advisors who collaborate closely with each student on their long-term goals.

Tutoring

One-on-one or group tutoring sessions to reinforce learning and keep up with your two-course academic load.

Campus Gym

An on-site gym and staff dedicated to our student-athletes only, maximizing time and balancing your academic and athletic schedule.

Elle Mount, Gap Year Student Ambassador
Meet Your Student Ambassador

“Being at Rome City has truly been an amazing and life changing experience. I have learnt so much from my coaches, teammates, teachers and friends. I love the many opportunities to explore a new culture while being surrounded by such a diverse and supportive community.”

Elle Mount
Gap Year · Hometown: Trumansburg, NY, USA
Testimonials
Alumni Voices

“The training provided by the professional coaching staff at Rome City was definitely the most elite and creative that I have ever taken part of in my playing career and truly made me feel as if I were training like a real professional every single day.”

Marco Di Teodoro
Rome City Gap Year Alumni ’21 · Soccer

“Playing abroad at Rome City was an amazing experience that helped me prepare for playing and competing at a University level.”

Pia Beaulieu
Princeton ’26 · Rome City Gap Year Alumni ’22 · Soccer
Admissions
Admission Process & Scholarship

We welcome student-athletes who are eager to excel both academically and athletically. Here are the steps you’ll need to take:

Your Path to Admission

  1. 1Apply Apply online at romecityinstitute.com/apply.
  2. 2Schedule a Call Book an introductory meeting with our admission counselor.
  3. 3Send Documentation Complete your application and apply for scholarships.
  4. 4Receive Your Offer Get your official offer if admitted.
  5. 5Commit Verbally commit and start the admission process.

Final Steps

  1. 6Pay Deposit Pay your initial deposit to confirm your spot in the program.
  2. 7Paperwork & Visa Get your paperwork and visa ready.
  3. 8Fly to Italy Your Gap Year in Rome begins.
Every applicant who meets the eligibility criteria is automatically considered for athletic and academic scholarships, awarded based on merit to support talented individuals as they pursue both their educational and athletic goals. Questions about your application? Reach out to admission@romecityinstitute.com.
Rome City Institute Gap Year students together on campus

Dare to go beyond the known.

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