University of Bologna (Alma Mater Studiorum)

Overview

The University of Bologna uses 1088 as the conventional founding date of its Studium, and the city grew up around it; lecture halls, libraries and departments are spread through the arcaded streets of the historic centre. It is a public university organized as a multicampus system, with teaching in Bologna and in four cities of the Romagna region: Cesena, Forlì, Ravenna and Rimini. Some programs exist only on one campus, for example certain international programs in Forlì or Rimini, so check the location before you apply.

Programs and teaching languages

The university offers a wide range of first cycle (bachelor) and single cycle degree programs. Most are taught in Italian. The program search has a language filter and an "international programmes" filter, which shows degrees taught entirely in English, double and joint degrees, and programs with an international curriculum. For a student who does not speak Italian, that filter is the starting point.

How admission works

Italian first-cycle admission is decided at program level. Some programs are open with a non-selective assessment, others have a fixed number of places and an admission call that sets the test or assessment. English-taught programs often run their own selection for international applicants based on transcripts and, in some cases, tests such as the SAT or a TOLC. Each program page lists the call for applications, the requirements and the deadlines for the year.

For a Canadian or US student, the minimum is a diploma that gives access to university in your own country after at least twelve years of schooling. English-taught programs state the English level they require on the program page.

Pre-application and visa

1. Apply to the program through its call on the University of Bologna site.
2. If you are a non-EU student living abroad, complete the pre-application on the Universitaly portal.
3. Apply for an Italian study visa at the consulate, then for a residence permit after arrival.
4. Enrol online once the university confirms your eligibility.

These steps run in sequence and each takes time, so start in the autumn before you hope to enrol. The Italian consulate in your country sets its own appointment schedule for visa applications.

Fees

Fees at Italian public universities are based on family income through an equivalence indicator. International students may be assessed under specific rules. The University of Bologna explains this on its enrolment, fees and procedures pages.

Preparing with StudyBrix

Many Bologna programs taught in English are in economics, business, sciences and humanities. Use our macroeconomics deck, microeconomics or critical reading depending on your field, and read the Italy guide for the national process.