The University of Bologna (Università di Bologna – UniBo) is widely recognized as the oldest university in the Western world, founded in 1088. It is one of the most prestigious academic institutions in Europe, known for its long-standing academic excellence, strong research programs, and extensive international partnerships. With campuses in Bologna, Cesena, Forlì, Ravenna, and Rimini, UniBo offers a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in nearly all fields of study. Its reputation, history, and innovation make it a top destination for students seeking a world-class education in Italy.
University Overview
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Location: Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
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Established: 1088
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Student Population: 90,000+
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International Students: 7,000+
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Global Rankings: Top 200 globally (QS, THE), Top 100 in Law, Humanities, Agriculture, and Classical Studies
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Affiliations: Coimbra Group, EUA, UNIMED, Guild of European Research-Intensive Universities
Faculties & Schools
The University of Bologna is structured into several schools and departments, offering interdisciplinary education and research.
Schools and Main Faculties:
- School of Engineering and Architecture
- School of Medicine
- School of Economics and Management
- School of Law
- School of Arts, Humanities, and Cultural Heritage
- School of Sciences
- School of Political Sciences
- School of Pharmacy, Biotechnology, and Sport Sciences
- School of Foreign Languages and Literature, Interpreting, and Translation
Intakes
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Main Intake: September/October
Application Deadlines: March – May (varies by program) -
Secondary Intake: February (only for limited master’s programs)
Application Deadlines: September – October
Note: Non-EU students requiring a visa should apply early. Deadlines vary across departments.
Admission Requirements
| Program Level | Academic Requirements | IELTS | TOEFL iBT | PTE Academic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | High school diploma with relevant coursework and good academic standing | 6.0 (no band below 5.5) | 80 (min. 20 per section) | 58 (no skill below 50) |
| Postgraduate | Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field | 6.5 (no band below 6.0) | 90 (min. 21 per section) | 62 (no skill below 58) |
Note: Some programs may require additional documents such as a motivation letter, recommendation letters, portfolios (for design/arts), or entrance exams.
Top Programs at the University of Bologna
Undergraduate Programs
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BSc in Mechanical Engineering
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BSc in Business and Economics (English-taught)
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BSc in Computer Science
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BSc in Political and Social Sciences
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BSc in Agricultural Technology
Postgraduate Programs
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MSc in Data Science
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MSc in International Relations
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MSc in Bioinformatics
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MSc in Management and Marketing
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MSc in Artificial Intelligence
Tuition Fees
| Program Level | Tuition Fee (EUR/year) | Approx. in USD/year |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | €1,000 – €3,000 | $1,080 – $3,250 |
| Postgraduate | €1,000 – €3,500 | $1,080 – $3,800 |
Note: Tuition depends on the student’s country of origin and income declaration (ISEE). Students can apply for fee waivers or reductions based on income.
Scholarships for International Students
1. Unibo Action 1 & 2 Scholarships
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Eligibility: International students applying for bachelor’s or master’s degrees
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Amount: Full tuition waiver + €11,000 grant
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Renewable: No, but available for new applicants each year
2. ER.GO Regional Grants
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Eligibility: Based on financial need and merit
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Amount: Tuition reduction + up to €6,000 annual allowance + accommodation support
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Renewable: Yes, annually based on income and academic progress
3. Italian Government Scholarships
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Eligibility: For students from selected countries
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Amount: Tuition waiver + monthly stipend of €900
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Renewable: Depending on the program duration
Why Choose the University of Bologna?
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The oldest university in Europe with over 900 years of academic legacy
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Located in Bologna, a vibrant student city with rich cultural and academic life
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Extensive range of English-taught programs and global partnerships
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Strong research output and industry collaboration
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Highly affordable tuition and living costs with generous scholarships
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Campuses across multiple Italian cities providing flexible study options