Hi all,

I was wondering whether I'm required to obtain a student visa for when I study abroad in Italy during the fall semester. I'm a U.S. citizen.

I know that as a U.S. citizen, I don't need a student visa if I'm studying in Italy for under 90 days. Unfortunately, my program will last 82 days, and I'm going to be going to Italy in August for a family vacation for 14 days, which would put my total days in Italy within the 6 month window at 96 days, thus technically requiring me to get a student Visa.

My question is: I plan on taking weekend trips (at least 3-4 for 3-4 days at a time) to places like Scotland, England, and Ireland, where I will not be within the Schengen zone, thus lowering the "total" number of days I'll be in Italy within a 6 month window below the 90 total days.

In this type of situation, would I need to apply for a student Visa?

Thanks!