CEnT-S Exam: The Complete Guide for International Students

Studying in Italy is becoming increasingly competitive—especially for English-taught degrees in Engineering, Economics, Biotechnology, and Science.

Until recently, students had to choose between three different entrance exams (TOLC-I, TOLC-E, TOLC-F). Those days are over. Starting late 2025, the Italian university system introduced a single, unified standardized test called the CEnT-S (CISIA English Test-Sciences).

This guide is your complete roadmap: how the exam works, scoring, timing, where to take it, and how to avoid disqualification.

1. What Exactly Is the CEnT-S?

The CEnT-S is the national entrance exam for English-taught bachelor’s degrees in science, technology, engineering, economics, and healthcare.

Engineering Civil, Computer, Mechanical, Aerospace, etc.

Economics Management, Finance, Banking, Marketing.

Science Biotechnology, Biology, Chemistry, Physics.

Health Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Chemistry (CTF).

Psychology Specifically for scientific or clinical tracks (check your specific university, as some use TOLC-PSI).

Important Note

Even though the exam is unified, universities weigh sections differently. An Engineering school heavily values Math + Physics, while an Economics school typically only evaluates Math + Reasoning.

2. Structure & Syllabus

The exam consists of 55 questions in 110 minutes. Time is divided by section—and once a section ends, you can’t go back.

Mathematics

15 Qs • 30 min

Reasoning

15 Qs • 30 min

Biology

10 Qs • 20 min

Chemistry

10 Qs • 20 min

Physics

5 Qs • 10 min

Syllabus Deep Dive

Mathematics expand_more

Numbers: Primes, decomposition, GCD/LCM, powers, roots, percentages, and estimation.
Algebra: Polynomial factorization, linear & quadratic equations/inequalities, systems of equations.
Geometry: Euclidean (polygons, circles, solids), Cartesian coordinates (distance, lines, slope, intersection), equation of a circle.
Functions: Domain/range, inverse functions, composite functions, graph transformations (f(x)+a, f(ax), etc.), exponential & logarithmic functions.
Exponential & Logarithms: Properties of logs, exponential equations/inequalities.
Combinatorics & Probability: Permutations, combinations, probability of union/intersection of events.
Statistics: Reading histograms/pie charts, mean, median, mode, relative frequency.

Reasoning on Texts & Data expand_more

Logic & Deductive Reasoning: Understanding logical connectives (negation, conjunction, disjunction, implication), quantifiers (every, all, none, at least), necessary vs. sufficient conditions, set operations (union, intersection, complement), and negation of propositions.
Interpretation & Manipulation of Data: Extracting numerical info from graphs, tables, and charts; moving between different representations; drawing data-driven conclusions; and sorting data criteria.
Problem Solving & Mathematical Language: Using schemas/diagrams to represent problems, estimating calculations, understanding percentages/ratios/proportions, and algebraic modelling (translating words into equations).

Biology expand_more

Biological Molecules: Water properties, carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids.
Cell Biology: Prokaryotic vs. eukaryotic cells; organelles (mitochondria, nucleus, ribosomes); plant vs. animal cells.
Cell Cycle & Genetics: DNA/RNA coding, replication, transcription, translation; Mitosis & Meiosis; Mendelian inheritance.
Plant Biology & Ecology: Roots, stems, photosynthesis, energy flows, food chains, biotic interactions (parasitism, mutualism).
Animal Physiology: Tissues (epithelial, muscular, nervous); systems (digestive, respiratory, circulatory, excretory, nervous).

Chemistry expand_more

Matter & Composition: States of matter, mixtures, atomic structure, Lewis structures, chemical bonds (ionic/covalent), molecular geometry (VSEPR).
Periodic Table: Electronic configuration, periodic trends (radius, ionization energy, electronegativity).
Reactions & Stoichiometry: Balancing equations, moles, Avogadro’s constant, concentration calculations.
Thermodynamics & Kinetics: Ideal gases, enthalpy/entropy, exothermic/endothermic, equilibrium constants, catalysis.
Acids & Bases: pH, neutralization, buffer solutions.
Organic Chemistry: Hydrocarbons, functional groups, isomerism, nomenclature.

Physics expand_more

Quantities: SI units, vectors, scalars, scientific notation.
Kinematics: Velocity, acceleration, linear & circular motion, graphs of motion.
Dynamics & Energy: Newtons laws, force, kinetic/potential energy, work-energy principle.
Fluid Mechanics & Thermodynamics: Density, pressure, Archimedes' principle, ideal gas laws, heat transfer, 1st & 2nd laws of thermodynamics.
Electromagnetism: Coulombs law, electric fields, Ohms law, circuits, magnetic fields, waves (frequency, wavelength).

Key Characteristics & Rules

Questions are multiple-choice.
No calculators allowed (math by hand).
No formula sheets allowed.
Periodic Table provided on-screen for Chemistry.
Scratch paper is allowed.

3. Scoring System & Normalization: How It Really Works

The CEnT-S uses a sophisticated scoring model to ensure fairness. It doesn't matter if your friend took an "easy" test yesterday and you take a "hard" test today—the system adjusts for it.

Step 1: The Raw Score

First, your raw points are calculated based on your answers:

+1.00

Correct Answer

No Answer

-0.25

Wrong Answer

Step 2: The Normalization Coefficient

Your final official result is NOT just the raw score. It is calculated using this formula:

Official Score = Raw Score + Normalization Coefficient

How is the coefficient calculated? At the end of every testing window (macro-period), CISIA analyzes the performance of all students on every specific question.

If the data shows your test questions were more difficult than average, you receive a higher normalization coefficient (bonus points added to your score).
If your test questions were standard or easier, the coefficient is lower.

Why does this matter?

It removes the "luck" factor. A difficult exam is compensated by a higher coefficient, meaning a lower Raw Score on a hard test can result in the same Official Score as a high Raw Score on an easy test.

4. Exam Dates (2025/2026 Macro-Periods)

You may only take one exam per macro-period.

Period 1 (Winter)

Nov 27, Dec 16, Jan 15

Results: Jan 30

Period 2 (Early Spring)

Feb 19, Feb 26, Mar 12

Results: Mar 31

Period 3 (Late Spring)

Apr 23, May 21, Jun 9

Results: Jun 30

Period 4 (Fall)

Sep 17, Oct 15

Results: Oct 30

Critical Strategy for Non-EU Visa Applicants: Many universities close international applications before June. Period 3 results (released June 30) may be too late. The safest options are Period 1 or Period 2. If you want an Italian visa, testing early is not optional—it’s necessary.

5. Alternatives & Exemptions (Pro Tips)

The SAT Alternative

Many top Italian universities (including Politecnico di Milano and University of Bologna) accept the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) as a complete substitute for the CEnT-S. If you already have a strong SAT score (typically 1200+ or 500+ in Math depending on the university), check the admission call. You might be able to skip the CEnT-S entirely.

English Proficiency Warning

Unlike some older exams, the CEnT-S does NOT have an English language section. Passing the CEnT-S proves your scientific knowledge, not your language skills. You will almost certainly still need to provide a valid language certificate (IELTS 5.5/6.0, TOEFL, or Cambridge) to enroll.

Support for Students with Disabilities

CISIA provides accommodations for candidates with certified Specific Learning Disorders (SLD) or disabilities. You can request extra time (usually 30% or 50% more) or the use of a non-scientific calculator. You must upload your medical certification to the CISIA area before booking your test slot.

6. Where to Take It: Home vs. University

apartment

Option A: CEnT@UNI

Conducted in person at university computer labs in Italy. The university provides the hardware and internet connection.

check_circle Best for students already in Italy

home_work

Option B: CEnT@HOME

The standard for international students. To avoid disqualification, you must meet strict requirements:

Laptop

Stable internet, webcam, plugged in.

Second Device

Phone/tablet placed behind you at a 45° angle.

Environment

Clear desk, no headphones, no notes.

7. How to Register

Create Account

Select Exam

Choose "CEnT-S" from the dashboard list.

Book Date & Mode

Pick your preferred date from the calendar and select @UNI or @HOME.

Upload ID & Pay

Mandatory ID upload for @HOME exams. Pay the €55 fee.

open_in_new Go to CISIA Portal

Mandatory Rule: Registration closes 5–7 days before exam at 14:00 CET.

8. Preparation Strategy

Because CEnT-S is new, traditional resources are often outdated.

Focus on Section Weighting

If applying for Engineering, prioritize Math & Physics.

Master Reasoning

This is the most unpredictable part. Weak reasoning often leads to a poor final score.

Use Simulations

The real exam feels fast and unforgiving. You must simulate the exact timing.

9. Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the CEnT-S result valid? expand_more

Your CEnT-S scores are valid for one full academic year, regardless of when you take the exam. This allows students to plan their applications easily and apply to their desired universities with their best scores.

Which universities accept the CEnT-S exam? expand_more

Many public and private universities in Italy, especially those with English-taught programs, accept the CEnT-S as an entry requirement. Always check the specific requirements of your chosen university and program for the most accurate information.

How many times can you take the exam? expand_more

Students can take the exam once per session, meaning multiple times a year. You have the chance to improve your score by retaking the test, and universities generally consider the highest score you’ve achieved during the application process.

Can I use a calculator? expand_more

No. Calculators are strictly forbidden. You must be comfortable doing basic arithmetic by hand.

Is the exam in English? expand_more

Yes. All questions, instructions, and passages are in English.

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