About the City – Why You Should Study in Bologna
If you’re looking to study in Bologna, prepare for a one-of-a-kind experience. This ancient yet vibrant city in northern Italy is where old meets new, think medieval towers paired with buzzing student nights, handwritten lecture notes over espresso, and Vespas flying past centuries-old porticoes.
Bologna is the home of the oldest university in the Western world, Università di Bologna, founded in 1088. It oozes academic legacy yet never feels stuck in the past. The city is alive with nearly 90,000 students, of which a massive portion come from across the globe.
Walkable, scenic, and pulsing with youthful energy, Bologna welcomes students with open arms. It’s also a city of food (hello, original Bolognese sauce!), history, jazz bars, libraries, and great weather year-round.
The best part? It’s affordable, accessible, and absolutely unforgettable. Whether you’re here for one semester or a full degree, studying in Bologna means you’ll earn more than a diploma, you’ll collect memories.
Why Bologna Is a Top Choice for International Students
1. A City Built Around Students
There’s a reason Bologna is called “La Dotta” (The Learned One). The city’s rhythm is shaped by its students. From public piazzas turned into group study zones to late-night food trucks rolling out right after final exams, Bologna breathes academia.
International students don’t just study here, they become part of a centuries-old tradition of knowledge and dialogue.
2. World-Class, Diverse Academics
The University of Bologna offers over 100 English-taught degree programs, more than any other Italian university. From law and AI to economics, classical studies, medicine, and international affairs, it’s all here, supported by globally recognized faculty and research centers.
There are also several collaborative programs with European and American universities, making Bologna a hub for cross-cultural education.
3. Easy on the Budget
Compared to cities like Milan or Rome, Bologna is more affordable, both for rent and daily life. Many students get help from ER.GO (the regional scholarship and housing body), making tuition and living expenses even more manageable.
4. Location, Location, Location
Stuck between Florence, Milan, and Venice, you’re an hour or two away from some of Italy’s best getaway spots. Prefer the coast? Rimini is your weekend escape.
So, whether you’re chasing academic excellence, cultural depth, or social connection, study in Bologna for a student experience that truly has it all.
Top 10 Universities and Colleges in Bologna
Bologna punches way above its weight when it comes to higher education. Here’s your academic hit list:
1. University of Bologna (UNIBO)
The oldest university in the Western world. Italy’s largest public university with global prestige. Known for STEM, humanities, economics, and law. Offers extensive English-taught programs for bachelors and masters.
2. Bologna Business School (BBS)
Attached to UNIBO, this school offers MBA and executive education programs. Ranked among Europe’s best for leadership, marketing, and innovation.
3. Alma Mater Studiorum – School of Engineering and Architecture
One of UNIBO’s most respected schools, with cutting-edge labs and dual degrees in civil, mechanical, space, and building technology.
4. Johns Hopkins University SAIS – Bologna Center
An elite American graduate program specializing in international relations and economics. Think diplomacy meets Ivy League.
5. Accademia di Belle Arti di Bologna
A public academy of fine arts, dating back to 1710. Ideal for students in painting, sculpture, and visual design.
6. Conservatorio Giovanni Battista Martini
A top music conservatory in Italy, offering classical training for aspiring musicians and vocalists.
7. Collegio Superiore UNIBO
An honors college within UNIBO for academically gifted students. Offers fully-funded, interdisciplinary education.
8. Bologna Institute of Design
Focuses on multimedia, product design, and fashion management. Great for students looking to blend creativity with entrepreneurship.
9. CEUB – University Residential Center of Bertinoro
Ideal for intensive summer schools, short courses, and international academic retreats. A great resource for postgrads.
10. E-Campus University Bologna Learning Center
Part of the telematic education system, offers flexible online degrees with physical study support in Bologna.
Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties in Bologna
Finding your cozy corner in Bologna? These are student-favorite housing options:
- Camplus College Alma Mater
- Residence Hall San Vitale
- Erasmusland Bologna Apartments
- WE_Bologna
- Camplus Bononia
- Il Nosadillo – Student Guesthouse
- Uniplaces Bologna Flats (Private Rentals)
- Dopa Hostel Residence
- YouHost – Via Irnerio Studios
- Maison Temporel – Student Apartments
These properties suit all budgets, and most come with Wi-Fi, furnished rooms, study spaces, and access to public transport.
Top 10 Student Areas in Bologna (With Nearby Universities & Housing)
Here’s where students live, party, and procrastinate, all in perfect harmony.
1. University District (Zona Universitaria)
- Nearby: UNIBO faculties, student canteens
- Housing: Camplus, San Vitale
Packed with bars, libraries, bookstores, and student services. The epicenter of city life for students.
2. San Donato
- Nearby: Engineering, Medicine
- Housing: Camplus Bononia, Uniplaces lofts
Affordable, modern housing. Popular with international and Erasmus+ students.
3. Bolognina
- Nearby: Johns Hopkins SAIS
- Housing: WE_Bologna, private studios
Vibrant, multicultural, and minutes from the train station. Best for commuters.
4. Santo Stefano
- Nearby: Humanities faculties, historic buildings
- Housing: Shared lofts
Classy and quiet. Ideal for students who love mornings, markets, and Mozart.
5. Navile
- Nearby: Economics and Business
- Housing: Long-term shared housing
Budget-conscious and well-connected by bus. Known for diverse community vibes.
6. Saragozza
- Nearby: Sports Science and Hills
- Housing: Private rooms, mid-budget flats
Green parks, quieter nights. Great for athletes or nature lovers.
7. Porta Lame
- Nearby: Business School, downtown sites
- Housing: Mid-range apartments
Industrial-chic, up-and-coming. A walkable mix of vintage and modern.
8. Cirenaica
- Nearby: Life sciences, University Hospital
- Housing: Residences for med students
Residential, calm, just off the tram line. Everything you need is within walking distance.
9. Mazzini
- Nearby: Short bike ride to Campus
- Housing: Spacious flats, quieter zones
Friendly for upper-year students and research fellows.
10. Borgo Panigale
- Nearby: Outskirts, business school branches
- Housing: Budget studios
Close to Ducati factory and airports. Best for short-term stints or mature students.
Cost of Living in Bologna – What You’ll Really Spend
Living the Italian student dream doesn’t mean overspending. Bologna offers a sweet middle ground between cheap and chic.
Here’s what a typical monthly budget for students looks like:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared/studio) | €350 – €650 |
| Utilities & Wi-Fi | €50 – €100 |
| Groceries | €150 – €200 |
| Transportation | €25 (public pass) |
| Eating out & extras | €80 – €150 |
| Books & campus fees | €30 – €50 |
➡️ Total Range: €700 – €1,100/month
Tips to save:
- Apply for ER.GO scholarships or grants
- Use Mensa Universitaria (student canteen) – meals for under €5
- Look for CAF housing support if long-term
Local Transport – Getting Around Bologna
Bologna’s got you covered when it comes to getting from A to Uni (and Aperitivo).
1. Buses (TPER Network)
Extensive and reliable citywide bus lines. Students under 27 can get a discounted monthly pass (~€25).
2. Trains
Bologna is a rail hub. Reaching Florence, Venice, Milan or Rome is easy, and fast. Major win for travel-hungry students.
3. Bikes & Scooter Rentals
Flat streets = prime biking territory. Shared electric scooters and e-bikes are everywhere.
4. Walking
Most campuses are 15–20 minutes apart by foot. Plus, those portico-lined sidewalks make daily walks feel magical.
5. Bologna Airport (BLQ)
Just 20 minutes from the city. Direct flights to major European hubs, perfect for weekend getaways.
Summary – Why You Should Study in Bologna
To study in Bologna is to immerse yourself in a city built on ideas and driven by passion. There’s a reason students have gathered here for more than 900 years. It’s not just the food (though, no complaints there). It’s the sense of freedom, belonging, and big thinking packed into one walkable, warm-hearted city.
You’ll find world-class academics, genuine friendships, affordable living, and gelato on every block. It may just be Italy’s best-kept academic secret. But now, you’re in on it.
Top 10 FAQs About Studying in Bologna
1. Is Bologna good for international students?
Absolutely! It’s one of Italy’s most internationalized university towns, with plenty of English programs and student services.
2. Can I study in English in Bologna?
Yes. Over 100 courses at the University of Bologna are fully taught in English.
3. What’s the average student budget?
Between €700–€1,100/month, including rent, food, and transport.
4. How do I find student housing?
Use platforms like ER.GO, local Facebook groups, or private residences like Camplus and WE_Bologna.
5. Does Bologna offer scholarships?
Yes. Both EU and non-EU students can apply for regional scholarships and tuition exemptions via ER.GO.
6. Is it easy to travel outside Bologna?
Very! Trains to Florence, Milan, and Rome are fast and frequent.
7. Do I need to speak Italian to live in Bologna?
No, but it helps. Most locals speak basic English, and many programs are bilingual.
8. When should I apply for housing?
As early as possible, ideally 4–6 months in advance, especially if you’re eyeing ER.GO housing.
9. Are part-time jobs available for students?
Yes. Cafes, tutoring, university support gigs, all popular with students. EU students can work freely, non-EU have hourly limits.
10. What makes Bologna different from Milan or Rome?
It’s more student-oriented, affordable, compact, and deeply academic at its core. Think heart and soul, not just hustle.
