Admissions at Accademia XXI
The first step towards an extraordinary journey
Inspired by Plato’s Academy, Accademia XXI offers a transformative educational experience in Genoa, Italy, through a gap year program designed to cultivate intellectual curiosity, artistic exploration, critical thinking, and physical well-being.
Admission is based on a careful selection process, which reviews each application through a personalized participation proposal. We provide a structured gap year program designed to nurture intellectual curiosity, artistic exploration, critical thinking, and physical well-being. We seek motivated individuals ready to embark on a journey that emphasizes beauty, personal growth, and a sense of purpose.
Admissions framework
Candidate profiles and desired attributes
We are looking for candidates who embody the
following qualities:
Intellectually curious
Passionate about engaging with subjects such as philosophy, architecture, art, critical reading and music.
Holistically minded
Committed to balancing intellectual development, physical well-being, and creative pursuits.
Etiquette and cultural awareness
Open to learning professional and social manners, respectful of cultural sensitivities.
Collaborative and community-oriented
Eager to join and contribute to a vibrant community of thinkers and creatives.
Adventure-driven
Willing to explore outdoor physical activities to foster self-awareness and resilience.
Accademia XXI
A process designed to enhance your potential and prepare you for a truly transformative year.
Admissions criteria
A. Core admission requirements
Educational background
Completion of secondary education or equivalent.
Language proficiency
Evidence of proficiency in English for non-native speakers.
Cultural and artistic interest
Demonstrated interest in critical thinking, cultural appreciation and a regard to develop a deeper appreciation for cultural expression.
B. Supplementary criteria
Motivation statement
An essay discussing the candidate’s reasons for choosing Accademia XXI, their aspirations, and how they align with the academy’s values.
Creative Portfolio
Submission of artwork, design projects, or other creative works where they feel they have accomplished something meaningful.
Recommendation letters
At least one letter from a mentor, teacher, or professional familiar with the candidate’s abilities and character.
Interview
An assessment to evaluate alignment with Accademia XXI values, interpersonal skills, and intellectual engagement.
Detailed
application form
Section 1: personal information
Name, date of birth, nationality, and contact details.
Section 2: educational background
List of previously attended schools, studied subjects, and academic achievements.
Section 3: motivation statement
Essay prompt: “What inspires you about the philosophy of Accademia XXI, and how do you see yourself contributing to and growing within this environment?”
Word limit: 500-700 words.
Section 4: creative portfolio
Students are invited to submit a portfolio of any type of work that they feel describes them and which they are proud of. This could include artwork, design projects, written essays, or any other endeavor that represents their unique journey and accomplishments.
Section 5: recommendation letter(s)
Add contact information for referees.
Section 6: physical well-being & interests
Candidates will have to share information about their interests and experiences related to physical well-being in a personal statement. This section is meant to gain a better understanding of the candidates’ overall lifestyle and how they prioritize their physical and mental health.
Section 7: agreement & declaration
Consent for data processing and confirmation of the accuracy of provided information.