University of Bologna
Bologna, 🇮🇹 Italy Public
#1 National #138 QS World
#1 National #138 QS World #130 THE #201 ARWU
96,945 students 10% international Multiple Campuses €2.5k - €4.5k/yr
About University of Bologna
The University of Bologna, established in 1088, holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating university in the world. Located in Bologna, Italy, it is a public research university renowned for its rich history, academic excellence, and significant influence on European culture and science. With over 90,000 students across its campuses, it is one of Europe's largest universities.
The University of Bologna offers a vast array of over 260 degree programs across 31 departments, demonstrating a commitment to meeting contemporary societal needs. Its academic strengths are internationally recognized in fields such as law, humanities, engineering, natural sciences, economics, and medicine. The university champions interdisciplinary approaches and innovative curricula, including modular degree programs and joint international degrees. It consistently ranks among the top universities globally and leads in Italy for various subjects, including Law, Arts & Humanities, Business & Economics, Medical & Health, Education Studies, Life Sciences, and Social Sciences.
The University of Bologna is a diverse and welcoming institution, attracting students from over 140 countries, with international students making up 16% of its student body. The university provides a range of support services for international students, including an International Desk for guidance on enrollment, immigration procedures, and study grants. Many programs are taught entirely in English, with 91 English-taught degree programs available. The university also offers welcome and guidance tutors, psychological support, and an LGBTQIA+ anti-discrimination desk to foster cultural integration and student well-being.
The main campus in Bologna features a vibrant "university citadel" in the heart of the city, serving as a central hub for academic and social life. Bologna itself is a bustling, cosmopolitan city known for its historical significance and cultural richness, earning it the nickname "La Dotta" (the learned one). Beyond Bologna, the university has additional campuses in Cesena, Forlì, Ravenna, and Rimini, each offering unique academic focuses and local experiences. The city's extensive porticoes and medieval architecture provide a unique backdrop for student life.
The University of Bologna demonstrates strong graduate employability, ranking among the top 100 universities worldwide for its ability to provide students with employment and successful careers. The employment rate for graduates is 78.9% one year after graduation, exceeding the national average. The university's Job Placement service provides comprehensive career guidance, including CV workshops, interview preparation, and a job offers notice board, connecting students with various industries. Graduates find employment across diverse sectors, with 63.6% in the private sector, 32% in the public sector, and 4.3% in the non-profit sector. The university also fosters an entrepreneurial spirit, encouraging students with innovative ideas to develop startups.
Academics
The University of Bologna offers a vast array of over 260 degree programs across 31 departments, demonstrating a commitment to meeting contemporary societal needs. Its academic strengths are internationally recognized in fields such as law, humanities, engineering, natural sciences, economics, and medicine. The university champions interdisciplinary approaches and innovative curricula, including modular degree programs and joint international degrees. It consistently ranks among the top universities globally and leads in Italy for various subjects, including Law, Arts & Humanities, Business & Economics, Medical & Health, Education Studies, Life Sciences, and Social Sciences.
International Students
The University of Bologna is a diverse and welcoming institution, attracting students from over 140 countries, with international students making up 16% of its student body. The university provides a range of support services for international students, including an International Desk for guidance on enrollment, immigration procedures, and study grants. Many programs are taught entirely in English, with 91 English-taught degree programs available. The university also offers welcome and guidance tutors, psychological support, and an LGBTQIA+ anti-discrimination desk to foster cultural integration and student well-being.
Campus & Location
The main campus in Bologna features a vibrant "university citadel" in the heart of the city, serving as a central hub for academic and social life. Bologna itself is a bustling, cosmopolitan city known for its historical significance and cultural richness, earning it the nickname "La Dotta" (the learned one). Beyond Bologna, the university has additional campuses in Cesena, Forlì, Ravenna, and Rimini, each offering unique academic focuses and local experiences. The city's extensive porticoes and medieval architecture provide a unique backdrop for student life.
Career Outcomes
The University of Bologna demonstrates strong graduate employability, ranking among the top 100 universities worldwide for its ability to provide students with employment and successful careers. The employment rate for graduates is 78.9% one year after graduation, exceeding the national average. The university's Job Placement service provides comprehensive career guidance, including CV workshops, interview preparation, and a job offers notice board, connecting students with various industries. Graduates find employment across diverse sectors, with 63.6% in the private sector, 32% in the public sector, and 4.3% in the non-profit sector. The university also fosters an entrepreneurial spirit, encouraging students with innovative ideas to develop startups.
Highlights
- Oldest university in the Western world
- Founding place of modern legal studies
- Distinguished alumni like Dante and Copernicus
- Historic seat at the Archiginnasio Palace
- Leading institution for European student exchange
- Member of the prestigious Coimbra Group
Subject Areas
LawMedicineEngineeringArtsHumanities
Student Life & Support
Visa Support Campus Housing Work Placements Sports Facilities Disability Support Scholarships Available
Photos
Programs Offered at University of Bologna (6)
Offers programs in:
PhD Programs (6)
PhD in Biological, Geological and Agricultural Sciences
STEM
Biological, Geological and Agricultural Sciences
Natural Sciences
PhDagriculturalbiologicaldoctoraldoctorate
36 months English Full-time
PhD in Engineering Sciences
STEM
Engineering Sciences
Engineering Sciences
bolognaengineeringengineering sciencesitalyphd
36 months English Full-time
PhD in Humanities
Humanities
Humanities
bolognahumanitiesitalyphduniversity
36 months English Full-time
PhD in Legal, Political, Economic, and Statistical Sciences
PhD in Legal, Politological, Economic, Statistical Sciences
Legal, Politological, Economic, Statistical Sciences
Legal
doctordoctoraldoctorateeconomicitaly
36 months English Full-time
PhD in Mathematical Physical, Chemical and Astronomical Sciences
STEM
Mathematical Physical, Chemical and Astronomical Sciences
Mathematical Physical, Chemical and Astronomical Sciences
phd in mathematical physical, chemical and astronomical sciencesphd mathematical physical, chemical and astronomical sciencesstudy mathematical physical, chemical and astronomical sciences in italyphd in mathematical physical, chemical and astronomical sciences in italymathematical physical, chemical and astronomical sciences phd bologna
36 months English Full-time
PhD in Medical, Pharmaceutical and Veterinary Medical Sciences
STEM
Medical, Pharmaceutical and Veterinary Medical Sciences
Medical
MedicalPhD in medicalPhD medicalPhD of medicalPhD program
36 months English Full-time
University of Bologna Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate
5.5+ IELTS
70+ TOEFL
2.3+ GPA
Required GRE
Required GMAT
Acceptance Rate Moderate (40-60%)
Intakes Fall, Spring
Application Deadline May 31, 2025
Tuition (per year) €2.5k - €4.5k/yr
Application Fee $50
Teaching Language Italian, English
Student : Faculty 17:1
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Frequently Asked Questions About University of Bologna
Common questions from international students considering University of Bologna.
What is the acceptance rate at University of Bologna?
University of Bologna is classified as "Moderate (40-60%)" by admissions selectivity. Acceptance rates vary by program — competitive programs and graduate degrees typically have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs.
How much does University of Bologna cost for international students?
Tuition at University of Bologna ranges from €2.5k - €4.5k/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing, books, and living expenses.
What is University of Bologna ranked globally?
University of Bologna holds the following rankings: QS World #138, Times Higher Education #130, ARWU #201, #1 in Italy. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.
What English language requirements does University of Bologna have?
University of Bologna typically requires IELTS 5.5+ or TOEFL 70+ for international students. Specific programs may set higher minimums — verify requirements for your target program directly. Some applicants may qualify for an English requirement waiver if their previous education was English-medium.
Are scholarships available at University of Bologna?
Yes, University of Bologna offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.
When does University of Bologna start its semesters?
University of Bologna has intakes starting in Fall, Spring. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.
How many English-taught programs does University of Bologna offer?
University of Bologna offers 6+ programs taught in English, accessible to international students without local language proficiency. These span Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across multiple disciplines.
Where is University of Bologna located?
University of Bologna is located in Bologna, Italy 🇮🇹. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.
How do I apply to University of Bologna?
For specific details about University of Bologna, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
What programs does University of Bologna offer?
For specific details about University of Bologna, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
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