The Italian school system is similar to most of the European ones.
1- Primary school (scuola elementare): from 6 to 112- Secondary school (scuola media): from 11 to 14
Both are mandatory.
3- High school (liceo) with a section classic and a section science (classico and scientifico) or a technique teaching (Istituto tecnico), both during 5 years usually until 19.4- University with a short section for 3 years and a normal one for 5 years that depend on subject. Afterwards you can follow with a phD.