Study Abroad Programs in Bologna, Italy

Prepare to Study Abroad in Bologna

Set goals

Before diving into your exciting journey in Italy, take a moment to clearly understand what you hope to achieve.

• Define your purpose. Knowing your "why" will help narrow your Bologna program options.
• Brush up on Italian. Many locals don’t speak English, so your language skills will be challenged. Most programs promote full Italian immersion from day one.
• Explore your academic interests. Bologna offers diverse fields, so choose a subject where the city itself becomes your classroom.
• Budget with purpose. Bologna is affordable compared to Rome or Milan, but student life still costs. Plan for meals, travel, and that occasional gelato.

Understand the benefits

Studying in Bologna offers a deep cultural and academic experience like no other city in Italy.

• Access Italy’s oldest university. The Università di Bologna is a global academic landmark and still ranks among Italy’s top universities.
• Master the Italian language. The city’s low tourist count means full immersion is not just encouraged—it’s necessary.
• Experience Italian student culture. Aperitivi, osterie, and buzzing piazzas are part of the daily rhythm of student life here.
• Travel with ease. Located in northern Italy with its own airport and great rail connections, Bologna is a perfect launchpad for European adventures.

Things to know

Here are a few insights to help you hit the ground running in Bologna.

• The university system is old-school. Expect more lectures and independent study, with oral final exams at semester’s end.
• It’s not touristy. This is the real Italy, filled with locals, students, and authentic culture.
• Porticoes are life. Rain or shine, Bologna’s 30+ miles of covered walkways are where life happens.
• You’ll need a visa. For more extended stays, obtain the appropriate long-term visa through your nearest Italian consulate.

Choose a Subject

Bologna brings academic excellence to life across many fields. Here are some standouts:

Art History

Surrounded by centuries of artistic brilliance, Bologna is a dream destination for art history students. Study medieval frescoes, Renaissance masterpieces, and contemporary works in museums, churches, and galleries that feel more like open-air classrooms.

Food Science

As the food capital of Italy, Bologna is unmatched for studying food science and nutrition. Dive into courses on food sustainability, gastronomy, and culinary innovation — all while tasting your way through a city known for tortellini, ragù, and Parmigiano Reggiano.

Italian

What better way to master Italian than by living in a city where you’ll use it every single day? From classroom instruction to chatting with locals at markets and piazzas, studying Italian in Bologna means full immersion in language, culture, and daily life.

Tips & Advice

Getting ready to study abroad in Bologna? Let’s break it down step-by-step.

1. Get matched

Use the Online Advisor to find Bologna programs tailored to your academic goals and preferences.

2. Choose a program

Use MyGoAbroad to explore, compare, and save programs in Bologna that match your subject and study style.

3. Decide when to go

Bologna has something to offer in every season. Pick the vibe that fits your goals.

• Summer: Packed with music, food festivals, and warm evenings perfect for exploring the city.
• Fall: Kicks off the academic year with major events and a flood of student energy.
• Winter: Cozy city streets and fewer tourists make it ideal for quieter cultural exploration.
• Spring: Sunshine and blooming piazzas make Bologna feel more alive than ever.

4. Funding & scholarships

Complete our scholarship and deals application to discover funding opportunities for studying abroad in Bologna!

5. Apply

Visit the page of your chosen study abroad program and click “Inquire Here” or “Apply Now.” A program coordinator will reach out with the next steps.

6. Get your essentials

Secure your student visa, renew your passport, book flights early, secure travel insurance, and sort out your accommodations.