Skip to content
How to create a 12-week CILS study plan visualisation

How to create a 12-week CILS study plan

Conquer the Italian Language: Complete Guide to Proficiency Tests: How to create a 12-week CILS study plan
Learn with Comprenders App About Comprenders

To create a 12-week study plan for the CILS (Certificazione di Italiano come Lingua Straniera) exam preparation, it is important to balance study time across the five key exam components: Listening, Reading, Grammar/Structures, Writing, and Speaking, tailored to the target CILS level (A1 to C2).

Here is a suggested framework for a 12-week CILS study plan:

Initial Preparation (Week 1)

  • Familiarize with CILS exam format and components for your target level.
  • Set specific goals for each skill area (listening, reading, writing, speaking, grammar).
  • Gather study materials: official CILS sample exams, textbooks, audio, and online resources.
  • Establish a study schedule with daily time slots and weekly targets.

Skill-focused Study (Weeks 2–10)

  • Dedicate around 1.5 to 2 hours daily, alternating focus on each skill:

    • Listening: Practice with audio clips, dialogues, announcements consistent with exam level.
    • Reading: Work on understanding short texts, ads, articles, depending on level complexity.
    • Grammar & Vocabulary: Drill grammar exercises, sentence structures, and relevant lexicon.
    • Writing: Practice writing short compositions, formal/informal letters, and essays as per level.
    • Speaking: Engage in role-plays, personal presentations, and speaking drills with a partner or tutor.

  • Weekly mock exercises for each skill to monitor progress and identify weak areas.

Mock Exams and Intensive Practice (Weeks 11–12)

  • Complete full-length practice exams under timed conditions at least twice a week.
  • Record and review speaking tasks to improve pronunciation, fluency, and coherence.
  • Focus on common mistakes and fine-tune grammar and vocabulary usage.
  • Review feedback thoroughly and revisit challenging areas.
  • Rest and relaxation one day before the exam.

Tips for Success

  • Use official CILS practice materials and past exam papers.
  • If possible, join a CILS preparation course or work with a tutor for personalized guidance.
  • Regularly assess progress with mock tests and adapt the plan according to strengths and weaknesses.
  • Balance study with conversation practice to build confidence in speaking.

This structured plan maximizes readiness for the CILS exam within 12 weeks by covering all exam sections and progressively building skills with practice and review. 1, 2

References

Open the App About Comprenders