Italian Ministry launches 30,000 teacher‑support training spots and upgrades arts diplomas to university degrees

The Ministry of Universities and Research signed Decree 926 on 26 June 2026, opening 30 241 places for the XI cycle of teacher‑support specialisation (TFA sostegno) for the 2025/26 academic year. The decree details the distribution of places across preschool (4 553), primary (11 698), lower secondary (4 842) and upper secondary (9 148) schools, and sets the pre‑selection test dates for 14‑17 July 2026. Universities will publish their own calls, and courses must be completed by 30 June 2027.

In a separate announcement, Minister Anna Maria Bernini declared that diplomas issued by institutions of higher artistic, musical and choreographic training (AFAM) will now be recognised as university degrees. She described the change as “a historic step” that aligns AFAM qualifications with university standards, improves international recognition and strengthens Italy’s cultural sector. The reform is part of a broader investment programme that includes additional funding for infrastructure, research and staff, and follows a positive assessment by the Court of Auditors on AFAM governance.

Both measures aim to address long‑standing shortages in specialised teaching staff and to enhance the professional status of artistic education in Italy.