1) Students’ background and preparation will be verified through an oral examination. An ad hoc committee composed of three degree course lecturers will evaluate the students’ preparation and the congruity of their background with the objectives of the degree course. 2) The test will be considered as passed if the student demonstrates understanding and appreciation of the relevant issues related to the history of the subject areas; the student also has to discuss a research proposal with the Committee concerning topics of interest for the student and the degree course. 3) The test can take place more than once; in case of an initial failure, the applicant can apply for a further test. 4) All applicants who possess the necessary prerequisites are admitted to the test. 5) Those first cycle degree students who have not yet completed a degree, but will do so shortly, are admitted with reserve and may enrol only by submitting the first level degree certificate by the application deadline.

Direct enrolment 1) The following applicants are acknowledged to possess the necessary prerequisites and do not need to undertake a test: a) Those who have at least 20 credits in Italian university subject areas M-DEA-01, L-ART/ 04-08, M-STO/04-07, SPS/07-08, M-FIL/05, with an average of 27/30; b) Those who have been awarded a first cycle degree with an average of 100/110; or, conversely, those who have obtained lesser grades in the final dissertation and discussion, but have an average mark of 27/30 in the following Italian university subject areas: M-DEA-01, L-ART/ 04-08, M-STO/04-07, SPS/07-08, M-FIL/05. No test is required for students who have a second cycle degree in a relevant area. c) Those students who will soon complete their first cycle degree and have passed all the exams in the Italian university subject areas M-DEA-01, L-ART/ 04-08, M-STO/04-07, SPS/07-08, M-FIL/05, with an average of 27/30 are likewise exonerated. Other first cycle students may decide whether to take the exam or not; they are admitted in any case if they complete their first cycle degree by the application deadline with a final result of 100/110 or more.