| ATM (Bancomat) Banks in Italy will not exchange cash unless you have an account with them. Commercial exchange booths and centers are happy to exchange your currency for euros, but they will charge very high (hidden) fees to do so. The best way to get local currency in Italy and throughout Europe is at an ATM machine (Bancomat) with your personal credit or debit card. Credit cards such as Visa or MasterCard provide an international PIN (personal identification number). Prior to coming to Italy, contact your credit card provider to make sure your card can be used in foreign countries and that you have a 4-digit PIN. With a debit card linked to an international Visa or MasterCard network, you will get the best exchange rate and will not be charged a local fee. (Check with your home bank to find out if they will charge a fee.) Convert Euro to dollars with XE.com. Be aware that exchange rates fluctuate daily. |
| Emergency Money In emergency situations students can borrow up to €300 from the school. You must sign a promissory note stating that you agree to pay the loan back before you leave the program. Emergency money can be picked up Mon-Thurs. 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. in Villa Rossa Business Office, Room 25. You also have the option of getting money wired to Italy in about 1-2 business days through Western Union. Find Western Union locations. |