The University of Bologna (Italian: Alma Mater Studiorum – Università di Bologna) is where history meets modernity. Founded in 1088, it is considered the world’s oldest continuously operating university, and its centuries-old academic tradition has profoundly influenced the shape of European higher education. Below, we present a comprehensive guide to studying at this prestigious institution for the 2025/2026 academic year – from its historical overview and rankings, through the admission process and educational offerings, to student life, living costs, and graduate career prospects. If you’re considering studying in Italy, Bologna – La Dotta (the Learned One) – might be the perfect choice. And if you’re just starting to plan your studies abroad, this article will help you assess whether Alma Mater Studiorum is the right university for you.
History of the University
Europe’s Oldest University
The University of Bologna was formally founded in 1088 (the date appearing in the university’s motto: Alma Mater Studiorum – “Nourishing Mother of Studies”) and is recognized as the oldest university operating continuously to this day. Initially, it functioned as a collection of independent schools of law and liberal arts, which eventually transformed into an organized universitas scholarium – a guild of students and teachers. It was in Bologna that the concept of universitas as a community of scholars and students was born, becoming a model for other medieval academic centers in Europe. The university quickly became renowned for its legal studies – it was here that Irnerius and subsequent glossators laid the foundations for European Roman law.
Influence on the European Education System
For centuries, the University of Bologna remained an important point of reference for higher education. In 1988, on its 900th anniversary, rectors of European universities signed the Magna Charta Universitatum here – a document outlining common values and the autonomy of universities. A year later, the so-called Bologna Process was initiated: in 1999, in Bologna, education ministers from 29 countries signed the Bologna Declaration, beginning a reform aimed at standardizing the system of studies in Europe (introducing a three-cycle system of Bachelor’s, Master’s, and doctoral studies, and a comparable ECTS credit system). Thanks to this, the city’s name has become synonymous with the pan-European process of higher education harmonization.
Famous Alumni and Historical Figures
For nearly a thousand years, the halls of the University of Bologna have been home to eminent personalities who shaped the history of science and culture. Among those who studied or lectured here were medieval poets and humanists Dante Alighieri and Petrarch, astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus (a student of canon law from 1496–1500), philosopher and writer Umberto Eco, radio inventor Guglielmo Marconi, and many popes and statesmen. Notably, as early as the 13th century, the first woman, Bettisia Gozzadini (1246), earned a degree at the University of Bologna, and in the 18th century, Laura Bassi became the first woman professor of exact sciences here. Such an impressive list of alumni testifies to the historical significance of Alma Mater and its influence on successive generations of intellectuals.
Prestige and Rankings
International Reputation
Today, the University of Bologna enjoys not only historical prestige but also a high position in global academic rankings. In leading world rankings, the university consistently places among the top 200 universities globally. For example, in the QS World University Rankings 2025, it holds the 133rd position worldwide, making it the third highest-ranked university in Italy. In the Times Higher Education 2025 ranking, UniBo was placed 155th globally, and in the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU), it falls within the 201–300 range worldwide. Such results place Bologna’s Alma Mater at the forefront nationally and high among Europe’s best universities.
Comparison with Other Universities
Compared to other European universities, the University of Bologna performs very favorably – especially considering its comprehensive scientific profile. In many disciplines, it ranks among the world’s top: according to QS by Subject 2025, UniBo is among the top 100 universities worldwide in as many as 28 fields of study, and in 18 disciplines, it is the highest-ranked university in Italy. This includes fields such as law, classical humanities, medicine, and engineering. Furthermore, the University of Bologna boasts an excellent academic reputation – in the assessment of international employers and academic circles, it is considered one of the most recognized educational brands (1st place in Italy for academic reputation in QS). The university is also a leader in national Italian rankings – for over a decade, it has held the highest position among large public universities in Italy. All of this makes Alma Mater Studiorum a synonym for quality education and scientific research. Among other prestigious Italian universities, it is worth mentioning Bocconi University (a leader in economics and business) and Politecnico di Milano (a leading technical university), with which UniBo is often compared in rankings of European universities accepting SAT scores.
Admission Process and Requirements for Polish Students
Who Can Study in Bologna?
The University of Bologna is open to candidates from all over the world, including Poland. European Union citizens (and thus Poles) apply under the same rules as Italians – this means they are not subject to quotas for non-EU citizens or additional visa procedures. However, specific academic and formal requirements must be met to be admitted to studies.
Admission Requirements
The basis for applying for admission is possession of an appropriate certificate or diploma entitling one to pursue higher education. For first-cycle (Bachelor’s) studies, a Polish candidate must possess a high school diploma (in Poland, the świadectwo dojrzałości or Matura exam certificate) – translated into Italian or English and bearing an apostille. For second-cycle (Master’s) studies, a Bachelor’s degree is required (also translated and legalized). It is also necessary to complete the application form on the university platform and submit the required documents (copies of passport/ID, photos, etc.). A very important criterion is proficiency in the language of instruction – candidates must document proficiency in the language in which the chosen program is taught. In practice, this means a requirement for Italian or English proficiency at a minimum B2 level. The university accepts language certificates such as IELTS (with a minimum score of 6.0) or TOEFL (at least 80 points) to confirm this proficiency. If the program is taught in Italian, an additional Italian language test for foreigners is often organized (unless the candidate holds a CILS, CELI, etc., certificate). Some programs may also require a motivation letter or letters of recommendation – especially for Master’s and doctoral studies.
Admission Exams
It is worth noting that some programs have a limited number of places (known as numero chiuso). This applies, for example, to medicine, dentistry, architecture, and some engineering programs. For such studies, additional admission exams are required. For example, candidates for medical programs must take the IMAT exam (for English-taught programs) or a national test in Italian. Some programs at UniBo also accept SAT scores – it’s worth checking the SAT requirements for specific universities in Italy and what SAT score is required in Europe. Art programs may require the submission of a portfolio of works. These exams take place on specified dates (usually in spring or summer), and a positive result is a condition for admission to studies. For most other programs, admission is based primarily on the evaluation of submitted documents (certificates, grades, diplomas) and does not involve a separate exam – exceptions may include, for example, aptitude tests or interviews in some second-cycle programs.
Application Steps – A Step-by-Step Guide
The admission process at the University of Bologna begins well in advance, so it’s advisable to plan your application a year ahead. A typical timeline is as follows:
- January – March: Online registration in the university system (creating an account on the Studenti Online portal, choosing a program, filling out the application form).
- February – April: Submission of required documents via the platform (scans of certificates/diplomas with translations, language certificates, CV, motivation letter, etc.).
- May – June: Taking any admission exams or interviews (if required for the chosen program).
- June – July: Announcement of admission results. Candidates are informed of their acceptance and confirm their intention to enroll (often by paying a registration fee).
- July – September: Completion of enrollment formalities – submitting original documents to the dean’s office, paying the first installment of tuition fees, obtaining a matricola number (student ID).
Exact deadlines may vary depending on the department and program, so it is essential to monitor information on the chosen program’s website. Programs with limited enrollment sometimes conduct admissions earlier or in separate rounds, so candidates should pay particular attention to this. After successfully completing the admission process, all that remains is to arrive in Bologna and begin the new academic year (classes in Italy usually start in October).
Tips for Polish Applicants
To increase their chances, Polish candidates should arrange for the translation and conversion of their Matura exam results by a sworn translator and obtain an apostille from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs well in advance. It is also advisable to take a recognized language certificate (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL or CILS for Italian) at the level required by the university – this will facilitate and speed up the admission procedure. It is good to start preparing for admission exams in advance (materials from previous years, forums, and groups for candidates are available). The University of Bologna conducts online information sessions for international students and offers assistance from the International Students Office – do not hesitate to use this to clarify any doubts regarding your application. Remember that competition for prestigious programs (e.g., medicine) is high, but also a high percentage of applicants are accepted – the overall acceptance rate at UniBo is approximately 73%, which reflects the university’s friendly, inclusive approach. The key is thorough preparation and timely completion of all formalities.
Study Structure and Available Programs
The Bologna System in Practice
As the birthplace of the Bologna Process, the University of Bologna applies a three-cycle division of studies: first-cycle studies (Laurea) lasting 3 years and leading to a Bachelor’s/Engineer’s degree, second-cycle studies (Laurea Magistrale) – a 2-year Master’s degree, and doctoral studies (Dottorato di Ricerca) usually lasting 3-4 years. The university also offers a wide range of postgraduate studies and MBAs. UniBo’s organizational structure is based on departments that group related fields. Currently, Alma Mater Studiorum has 31 departments (Dipartimenti) responsible for education and research in their respective fields. Several specialized schools also operate within the university (e.g., the School of Medicine and Surgery, the School of Economics and Management), and outstanding students can join the elite Collegio Superiore, which offers an additional academic program. Multicampus – Study in Bologna and Beyond. Although the main campus is in Bologna, the university operates on a multicampus model. It has 5 campuses spread across the Emilia-Romagna region: besides Bologna, these are the cities of Cesena, Forlì, Ravenna, and Rimini. Each of these centers offers a portion of the study programs, often specialized (e.g., in Rimini – tourism and fashion, in Cesena – computer science and engineering). Additionally, the University of Bologna operates international branches – a center in Buenos Aires and representative offices in Brussels, Shanghai, and New York. This structure gives students the opportunity to study in various locations while providing access to the resources of the entire university. Bologna is home to the historical heart of the university – the historic Palazzo Poggi, which houses important institutions, university museums, and a library with invaluable manuscripts.
Extensive Educational Offerings
The University of Bologna is one of the largest in Europe – currently educating over 90,000 students at various levels. There are over 200 Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs and several dozen doctoral programs to choose from. The university’s profile is comprehensive – covering humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, exact sciences, technical sciences, and medical sciences. The most popular and prestigious programs reflect both UniBo’s historical traditions and current labor market demands. Flagship programs include:
- Law and Political Science – a program with over 900 years of tradition, dating back to the 11th century, considered one of the best law programs in Europe. The Bologna School of Law set standards in this field since the Middle Ages, and even today, law graduates enjoy an excellent reputation.
- Medicine and Medical Sciences – prestigious medical and related studies (pharmacy, veterinary medicine) conducted in cooperation with leading hospitals in the region. The university has its own Polyclinic of Sant’Orsola and engages students in world-class biomedical research.
- Exact and Natural Sciences – e.g., mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology – programs combining solid theoretical foundations with practical experience in modern research laboratories. Bologna has been famous for scientific discoveries since the time of Galvani and Malpighi, a tradition that continues today.
- Engineering and Information Technology – a wide range of programs from civil engineering and mechanics to computer science, automation, and artificial intelligence. These programs are constantly updated to meet current technical challenges – emphasizing the latest technologies (e.g., AI, data science) and collaboration with industry.
- Humanities and Social Sciences – including philology (especially classical philology, for which Bologna is famous), art history, philosophy, sociology, economics. The University of Bologna offers unique programs such as cultural anthropology and musicology, building on the city’s rich cultural heritage (great Renaissance humanists worked here).
English-Taught Programs
For international students (and others), a major advantage is the growing number of programs taught entirely in English. The University of Bologna offers over 90 such programs at various levels – from economics and business, through political science, to engineering and life sciences. Examples of English-taught programs include: Business and Economics (3-year Bachelor’s degree), International Relations and Diplomatic Affairs, Genomics (an innovative program at the intersection of biology and computer science). English-taught Master’s degrees in computer science, environmental engineering, management, and even medicine (a 6-year Medicine and Surgery program in English) are also available. These programs attract students from all over the world and prepare them for careers in an international environment. Importantly, many of them are carried out in cooperation with foreign universities – offering double degrees or exchanges, allowing students to complete part of their courses, for example, in France, Spain, or even outside Europe.
Exchange and Study Abroad
UniBo students have ample opportunities to gain international experience. The university participates in the Erasmus+ program, having signed agreements with over 500 partner universities worldwide. Every year, hundreds of Bologna students go abroad for a semester or two to other European countries, and Bologna hosts an equally large number of Erasmus students (it is one of the most popular Erasmus program destinations in Europe). Furthermore, the university offers joint studies and double degree programs (e.g., with the University of Valencia, the University of Edinburgh, or Politecnico di Milano). International summer schools, workshops, and research projects involving students of various nationalities are regularly organized. This allows students to establish global contacts and gain experience in a multicultural environment while still studying.
Student Life
City and Campus Atmosphere
Bologna is a true student city – with approximately 400,000 inhabitants, the city hosts tens of thousands of students every year, who give it a unique atmosphere. Bologna’s two nicknames say a lot about student life: “La Dotta” (the Learned One) emphasizes the academic atmosphere, and “La Grassa” (the Fat One) refers to the famous Bolognese cuisine and feasts, in which students gladly participate. The historic city center is full of medieval arcades, under which bookstores, cafes, and bars are hidden – favorite meeting places for young people. The university does not have a single enclosed campus; instead, departments and dormitories are scattered throughout Bologna, making the city itself a “campus.” Walking through the streets, you constantly encounter students with notes, hear discussions in various languages, and in the evenings, the squares fill with the buzz of social gatherings.
Student Organizations and Culture
At the University of Bologna, there are dozens of student organizations and scientific clubs that ensure plenty happens outside of academic classes. There is a student government and numerous associations with various profiles – from international (like Erasmus Student Network, AEGEE) to local interest clubs (e.g., student theater, Collegium Musicum choir, film club, volunteer organizations). Throughout the year, academic and cultural events are organized: scientific conferences and symposia, lectures and debates, as well as film nights, concerts, exhibitions, and sports competitions. Themed aperitivi are very popular – social evenings often combined with presentations of cultures from different countries (the multinational student community eagerly shares its music, cuisine, and customs). Bologna is also famous for film and music festivals that attract students (e.g., Cinema Ritrovato or Bologna Jazz Festival). There is also no shortage of traditional student parties – clubs and pubs in the university district are bustling, especially on Thursday and Friday evenings.
Sports and Recreation
The university supports physical activity through the Centro Universitario Sportivo (CUS Bologna) – a sports club with a rich offer of sections (including football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, martial arts, climbing). Students can use sports facilities on preferential terms, and UniBo teams compete in the Italian academic championships. Every year, inter-faculty games and recreational events are also organized, such as cycling rallies in the area or mountain trips to the nearby Apennines. A popular leisure spot among students is Giardini Margherita – a large city park where open-air film screenings and picnics take place in summer.
Accommodation: Dorms or Private Housing?
Most international students face the choice: live in a dormitory or rent a room in the city. University dormitories (managed by the ER.GO organization) offer the most economical accommodation options – prices start from approximately €250 per month for a place in a double room. The standard of dormitories varies; some are located in modern complexes, others in historic buildings in the center. The number of places is limited, so it is worth applying for a dormitory immediately after being admitted to studies. An alternative is private rental – in Bologna, sharing an apartment with roommates is very popular. The average cost of renting a room in a student apartment is €350–500 per month (depending on standard and location). You can also find a place in a double room for ~€300. Most student apartment offers appear in summer, before the start of the academic year – at which point prices are also highest. Tip: it’s a good idea to join Facebook groups dedicated to finding roommates in Bologna and follow announcements on university bulletin boards. The university also runs a service called Housing Bo, which helps new students find accommodation.
Social Life and Integration
Polish students usually quickly find their feet in the Bolognese community – this is facilitated by both the openness of Italians and the international character of the university. At the beginning of the year, orientation and integration meetings are organized for new students, often with mentors from older years. A buddy program operates – local students help foreigners settle in (from picking them up at the station to jointly handling initial formalities). To make the most of your time studying in Bologna, it’s worth actively participating in university life: join a student organization, take part in volunteering or workshops. A great idea is also to take advantage of the free Italian language courses offered by the university’s Language Center (CLA) – these classes not only teach the language but also allow you to meet people from all over the world. Thanks to them, it’s easier to make friends with Italian students and feel part of the local community.
Cost of Living and Funding
Tuition Fees and Study Costs
In Italy, public universities charge tuition, but the amount at the University of Bologna is moderate and depends on the student’s financial situation. Annual tuition ranges from approximately €150 to €3,500, depending on the program and the student’s family income. For most programs, fees are in the range of 1,000–2,000 euros per year – averaging around €2,100 per year of study. The university employs a social assistance system: students can submit an income statement (the ISEE index, a specific Italian financial indicator used to assess eligibility for reduced tuition fees or social benefits) and, based on this, receive a tuition reduction or exemption. The most talented and less affluent students may even be completely exempt from tuition fees. The annual fee is usually divided into two installments – the first (registration) payable in autumn, the second in spring.
Cost of Living – Accommodation and Food
Compared to other academic cities in Western Europe, the cost of living in Bologna is relatively affordable. The average monthly student budget is approximately €800–1,200, although much depends on lifestyle. The biggest expense is accommodation: as mentioned, a place in a dormitory starts from €250 per month, and a private room is €350–500. Additionally, there are utility bills (when sharing an apartment, about €50-70 per person per month). Food: when shopping at a supermarket, you’ll spend about €60 per week. Prices for eating out vary – pizza with beer is about €15, coffee with a croissant for breakfast is ~€2.50. Fortunately, students have access to subsidized canteens (mensa): a full meal at the university canteen costs €4.50–6, and a portion of pasta or salad even less. During the day, student bars serving sandwiches and paninis for about €5 are also popular. Transport: Bologna is not huge, so many students get around on foot or by bike (a popular mode of transport, the city has a developed network of paths). A monthly public transport ticket (buses) for a student costs €27 (a single ticket is €1.50). A one-off larger expense is buying textbooks – a set of new books for a semester can cost €50–100, but many students use libraries or buy used materials. In summary, living in Bologna can be adapted to your budget: living frugally, you can manage on ~€700 per month, while a more comfortable lifestyle might require around €1,000+ per month.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
The University of Bologna strives to ensure that talented students can pursue their studies regardless of their financial situation. There is an extensive scholarship system at the university and regional levels. The most well-known are the Unibo Action 1 and 2 scholarships – financial support programs for the best international candidates. Unibo Action 1 offers tuition fee exemption for outstanding students starting Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees, while Unibo Action 2 additionally provides a monthly scholarship to cover living costs (often around €700 per month). The awarding of these scholarships is primarily based on academic performance (grades from high school diploma or degree) and the candidate’s achievements. In addition, there are Italian government scholarships for international students, as well as regional ER.GO support for low-income individuals (which may include discounts on dormitories, food, etc.). A detailed overview of scholarship options in various countries can be found in our guide to scholarships for studying in Europe. It is also worth checking the possibility of obtaining an Erasmus+ scholarship (if you plan to study part-time in another country) or private foundation scholarships. Polish students may also benefit from the FULBRIGHT program, NAWA, or other national grants if they meet the criteria.
Opportunities for Part-Time Work During Studies
Many students take on small jobs to supplement their budget. As an EU citizen, you have the right to work legally in Italy without additional permits. Popular jobs among young people are in gastronomy (waiter, barista, kitchen assistant) – wages are around €7–10 per hour. Retail stores offer slightly lower wages – about €6–9 per hour. Many students offer tutoring (e.g., teaching English or other languages – rates can be attractive) or babysitting (au pair) for local families. The university also helps students gain professional experience – there is an opportunity to undertake paid internships, which often offer a monthly salary of €500–800. Moreover, UniBo runs a program called “150 hours” – students can work for the university for a maximum of 150 hours per year (e.g., in the library, administration, as computer lab assistants) and receive remuneration for it. This is a great way to earn some money while integrating into university life and improving Italian language skills. Job and internship offers are published on UniBo’s Job Placement portal, which connects students and graduates with employers. The key is to skillfully balance work with studies – with good time management, many students successfully combine university classes with part-time work, gaining valuable experience and funds for living.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Career Prospects for Graduates
A diploma from the University of Bologna is recognized and respected worldwide, which translates into good employment prospects for its graduates. The university actively ensures that students completing their studies are prepared to enter the job market – both through practical elements of education and a comprehensive career services office. In rankings assessing graduate employability, UniBo consistently achieves very high positions – according to the QS Graduate Employability Rankings, it is among the top 100 universities worldwide for the careers of its graduates. Employers value Bologna graduates for their solid substantive preparation and well-developed soft skills, which the university consciously fosters (e.g., teamwork ability, interdepartmental projects). As many as 90% of Master’s graduates find employment within a year of completing their studies – a rate exceeding the European average.
Collaboration with Employers
The University of Bologna stands out for its close relationships with the economic environment. According to QS, it ranks 18th globally in the indicator measuring partnerships with employers. The university collaborates with many companies and institutions, offering students internships, industry research projects, and study visits. In the Emilia-Romagna region, many companies operate in high-tech, automotive, food, and financial sectors, which eagerly recruit young talents from UniBo. For example, computer science or engineering graduates find employment in companies such as Lamborghini or Ducati (automotive), and economists and lawyers in corporations like UniCredit or Ferrari. Many graduates of Bologna’s international studies go on to work for organizations such as the UN or EU institutions in Brussels. Among the employers hiring UniBo alumni are global consulting firms (e.g., Accenture, PwC, Ernst & Young), pharmaceutical companies (Bayer, Merck), international organizations (FAO UN), and innovative startups. Such a broad spectrum of industries shows that regardless of the field of study, an Alma Mater diploma opens doors to various career paths.
Support for Entering the Job Market
The university provides a comprehensive Career Services (Job Placement Office), which helps students and recent graduates launch their careers. Career fairs and recruitment meetings are regularly organized, where students can meet potential employers. An online platform is available, publishing job and internship offers specifically for UniBo students and profiles of companies collaborating with the university. The Career Services also offers CV writing workshops, mock interviews, and career counseling – students can discuss their career plans with an advisor who can suggest what skills to further develop. Furthermore, a strong asset is the alumni network. Many former students remain in contact with Alma Mater through alumni associations – thanks to this, current students can count on mentoring or guidance from individuals who have already built careers in a given industry. Such a community and the tradition of an “old university” often translate into preferences during recruitment – a University of Bologna graduate can expect a certain degree of trust from a recruiter who is also an alumnus of the university.
Alumni Experiences
Many Polish graduates of the University of Bologna emphasize that their diploma from this university gave them a boost in the job market. Upon returning to Poland, graduates are valued for their experience gained abroad and their language skills. Those who remained in Italy or moved further afield often continue their academic careers (UniBo is an excellent springboard for doctoral studies at other renowned universities) or pursue international careers in corporations. For example, an economics graduate from Bologna might work at Citi in London, and an engineer from UniBo – at Airbus in Munich. A huge advantage of a Bologna diploma is the wide network of contacts – friends from studies scattered around the world become valuable business contacts. As one study indicates, UniBo graduates particularly excel in terms of reputation among employers and professional achievements. In other words, studying in Bologna is an investment that pays off in the future.
Practical Tips
Preparations Before Departure
The decision to study in Bologna is the beginning of an exciting adventure, but before you pack your bags, take care of a few practical matters. Documents: Make sure you have all documents confirming admission to studies (letter of acceptance), as well as copies of your application – they may be useful when dealing with matters on site. Prepare several sets of your educational documents (certificates, diplomas) – in Italy, additional copies or translations are sometimes required when enrolling. European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): Obtaining an EHIC from the NFZ (National Health Fund in Poland) is necessary – it entitles you to basic medical care in Italy. Upon arrival in Bologna, you can also register with the Italian health service (SSN) as a temporary resident, which will give you full access to care (often free or for a symbolic annual fee for EU students). Finances: Open a bank account with a card that allows for favorable euro withdrawals in Italy – this will help you avoid high fees. It’s a good idea to bring some cash to start (e.g., €500), as initial expenses like a housing deposit, first purchases, etc., await you. Accommodation: If you don’t have a dormitory secured, consider arriving 1-2 weeks before the start of the academic year and staying temporarily, for example, in a hostel – so you can calmly look for a room on site (viewing it in person). Online offers do not always correspond to reality, so caution is advised.
Initial Formalities Upon Arrival
As an EU citizen, you do not need a visa or residence permit – a valid ID card or passport is sufficient for legal residence in Italy. However, for stays longer than 90 days, it is mandatory to register (registrazione) with the Italian municipal office. In Bologna, you should go to the Ufficio Anagrafe and register your stay – you will need an identity document, confirmation from the university of admission to studies, and your address of residence. After registration, you will receive a certificate of the right of residence for an EU citizen. It is also advisable to obtain a codice fiscale – the Italian tax identification number (similar to a social security number), which is often required when signing rental agreements, setting up a phone card, or using medical services. The fiscal code can be obtained at the local tax office (Agenzia delle Entrate) – the procedure is free. The next step is your student ID – at UniBo, an electronic smart card functions as your student ID, which you will pick up at the dean’s office after enrollment. It also serves as a library card and canteen card, and entitles you to discounts (e.g., in museums, cinemas).
Integration with the Local Community
Living in a foreign country can initially be a challenge, but Bologna is a city exceptionally friendly to foreigners. Language: Although many people at the university speak English, try to learn basic Italian – even simple phrases will make daily life easier (shopping, asking for directions) and will be warmly received by locals. Take advantage of the free Italian courses at the university, as well as daily opportunities to learn – talk to neighbors, market vendors, and classmates. Bologna also has a language tandem program – a language exchange program where you can teach someone English/Polish in exchange for Italian. Culture and customs: Italians have a different daily rhythm – for example, meals are eaten later than in Poland (lunch around 1-2 PM, dinner often not until 8 PM). Most shops are closed on Sundays, and August holidays are ferie – the city empties out somewhat. It’s worth getting to know these customs and adapting (e.g., stocking up on food before Sunday). People: Bolognese are known for their hospitality and openness. Don’t be surprised if a stranger on the train strikes up a conversation – it’s normal. Attend student events, get involved – the more relationships you build, the faster you’ll feel at home. It’s also a good idea to make friends with other Poles in Bologna (even for support in your native language) – look for groups of Poles in the Emilia-Romagna region on Facebook. Remember, however, not to close yourself off in a “bubble” – take advantage of opportunities to meet people from different countries.
Everyday Tips
A few practical tips from older students: transport – get a bike (you can buy a used one for ~€50), it will be useful, but always secure it with a sturdy lock (bike theft is a student bane). Food – try the local cuisine! Taste tagliatelle al ragù (the original “spaghetti bolognese”), tortellini, mortadella, and of course, gelato. Meals in the canteen are cheap, but sometimes it’s worth going out with friends to a traditional trattoria – a culinary experience is guaranteed. Travel – take advantage of Bologna’s central location in Italy: by train, you can reach Florence in an hour, and Milan or Rome in two (if booked in advance, tickets can be found for as little as €20). The Emilia-Romagna region also offers many attractions – a weekend on the Adriatic in Rimini or a trip to the mountains are within easy reach. Safety – Bologna is safe, but as everywhere, keep an eye on your documents and wallet in crowded places. In case of problems, the university has an information point for international students where you can get help. Finally, the most important thing: make the most of student life in Bologna. This city can steal your heart – it offers education at the highest level, and at the same time, plenty of joy, culture, and human connections. A diploma from the University of Bologna will be a valuable asset on your CV, but equally valuable will be the memories and experiences you gain spending a few years in this magical place. Good luck!
Planning to study at the University of Bologna or another prestigious European university? The College Council team will help you navigate the entire application process – from choosing a program and preparing documents, through preparing for admission exams (SAT, IELTS, IMAT), to writing a motivation letter. Prepare for the SAT exam with Prepclass.io – a platform created specifically for Polish students applying to foreign universities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the University of Bologna difficult to get into?
The overall acceptance rate at UniBo is approximately 73%, which is a relatively high value. However, it’s important to remember that programs with limited enrollment (e.g., medicine, architecture) have significantly higher competition and require additional admission exams, such as IMAT. The key is thorough document preparation and timely completion of formalities.
How much does it cost to study at the University of Bologna?
Annual tuition ranges from approximately €150 to €3,500, depending on the program and the student’s financial situation (averaging around €2,100 per year). The university uses the ISEE system, which allows students with lower incomes to receive reduced tuition or full exemption from fees. Additionally, Unibo Action 1 and 2 scholarships are available for top international candidates.
Can I study in English at the University of Bologna?
Yes – UniBo offers over 90 programs taught entirely in English at various study levels (Bachelor’s, Master’s, doctoral). These include economics, international relations, engineering, computer science, and even a 6-year Medicine and Surgery medical program.
What documents does a Polish applicant need to prepare?
A Polish applicant needs a high school diploma (or a Bachelor’s degree for Master’s studies) translated into Italian or English and bearing an apostille, a language certificate (e.g., IELTS min. 6.0 or TOEFL min. 80 points), an application form completed in the Studenti Online system, and for some programs – a motivation letter and letters of recommendation.
How much does student life cost in Bologna?
The average monthly student budget is approximately €800–1,200. The largest expense is accommodation: a place in a dormitory from €250, a private room €350–500 per month. A meal at the university canteen costs €4.50–6, and a monthly public transport ticket costs €27.
Can a Polish student work while studying in Bologna?
Yes – as an EU citizen, you have the right to work legally in Italy without additional permits. Popular options include work in gastronomy (€7–10/h), tutoring, and the university’s “150 hours” program, where students work for the university and receive remuneration.
What career prospects does a University of Bologna diploma offer?
UniBo is among the top 100 universities worldwide for graduate employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings). As many as 90% of Master’s graduates find employment within a year of completing their studies. Graduates work for companies such as Lamborghini, Ducati, Ferrari, UniCredit, Accenture, PwC, and international organizations.
How does the University of Bologna differ from other Italian universities like Bocconi or Politecnico di Milano?
UniBo is a comprehensive public university with the broadest range of programs in Italy (over 200 programs), whereas Bocconi specializes in economics and business, and Politecnico di Milano in technical sciences and engineering. UniBo stands out for its history (the world’s oldest university, founded 1088), its multicampus model (5 cities), and its highest academic reputation among Italian public universities.
Read also:
- Study in Italy with SAT scores – Sapienza, Bologna, Polimi 2026 – a guide to Italian universities accepting SAT.
- Universities in Europe accepting the SAT exam – complete list 2026 – a comparison of all European universities with SAT requirements.
- Bocconi University – prestigious economic studies in Milan – a guide to admissions and programs at Bocconi.
- Politecnico di Milano – Bachelor’s studies in Milan – everything about studying at Italy’s leading polytechnic.
- Architecture at Politecnico di Milano – admissions for architecture at Polimi.
- Study Abroad – a comprehensive guide – from planning to departure.
- Scholarships for studying in Europe – a guide – an overview of study funding options.
- The SAT Exam – everything you need to know in 2026 – a complete guide to the SAT exam.
- The IELTS Exam – a complete guide – how to prepare for IELTS.
- Polish Matura and studying abroad – conversion of Matura exam results.
