Italian Phrase
Ho finito l'università.
Meaning
This phrase is used to announce the completion of one's degree or higher education studies. It implies that the student has passed all exams and successfully defended their thesis.
When to use
Use this in casual or semi-formal settings when sharing your educational milestones with friends, family, or potential employers.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Hofinitol'università
Passato Prossimo
The combination of 'Ho' (avere) and 'finito' (past participle) creates the past tense used for completed actions.
Elision
The article 'la' becomes 'l’' before 'università' to avoid the clash of two 'a' sounds.
🗨In Conversation
Finalmente hai tempo per uscire!
Finally you have time to go out!
Sì, ho finito l'università la settimana scorsa!
Yes, I finished university last week!
✕Common Mistakes
Sono finito l'università.
The verb 'finire' requires the auxiliary 'avere' (ho) when it is followed by a direct object.
Ho laureato l'anno scorso.
To say 'I graduated', you must use the reflexive form 'Mi sono laureato' or use the verb 'finire'.
↔Alternatives
Mi sono laureato.
I graduated.
Ho preso la laurea.
I got my degree.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, graduating makes you a 'Dottore' or 'Dottoressa'. It is a tradition for the graduate to wear a laurel wreath (corona d'alloro) and celebrate with a loud party where friends might sing traditional humorous songs.