What It's Like to Study at Bocconi University
Bocconi University is located in the heart of Milan. Have questions about the campus, student life, or accommodation? Keep reading!
Studying at Bocconi University is an amazing opportunity for EU Erasmus students, as the university offers undergraduate, graduate (Laurea Magistrale), and post-graduate programs for Italian and international students alike. It is considered one of the best universities in Italy and in the world, and specializes in economics, law/legal theory (giurisprudenza), and public administration.
Step 1: Applications to Bocconi
Many paths are available to students who wish to study at Bocconi. Some choose to take a placement test in their third year of secondary school and apply for early admission. Others may write an entrance exam during the winter before they plan to attend the university. In lieu of this exam, applicants may submit their SAT results. Many choose the latter if they are applying to schools in Europe and in the United States.
For Nergis, an International Economics and Management student at Bocconi who applied to many schools abroad, writing the SAT was the obvious choice.
International students are additionally asked to submit a resume via the school’s online application portal, as well as a high school diploma translated into Italian or English (where applicable).
Life on campus:
SDA Bocconi School of Management building, constructed in 2019. Includes a residence, an olympic-sized pool, and more, and was specifically built with sustainability principles in mind.
The transition from American-style university campuses to the Bocconi campus may shock many incoming students. Instead of a dedicated area for all academic buildings, classes are located throughout the neighborhood, central to the city of Milan. Want to check it out for yourself? The university offers a virtual reality tour of their campus buildings and residences!
Students apply for residence through the Bocconi University website. Make sure to apply as soon as possible, as spaces fill up quickly. If you demonstrate financial need and academic merit, you may even be considered for reduced rate housing!
One thing that stands out to students is the social life on campus. Whether in classrooms or on group chats, everyone is extremely personable.
“It’s impossible not to be social, even as a first year! You have all of these events; it’s like every day there is something to do. Everyone is so adapted to being social. ”
Of course, it is difficult to forge relationships with professors during the pandemic when learning shifts to an online delivery. However, as the situation improves and some aspects of normalcy return, professors are generally welcoming of 1-to-1 conversations.
Last, but definitely not least, academics:
Most Bocconi courses are available in both English and the country’s official language, Italian.
Interestingly enough, there are no strict dates to write final exams. Students have the option of writing their fall semester finals during whichever session fits their needs best; they can choose from December, January, or February. Spring semester exams run from May to July.
Students who fail an exam can re-sit the test if they so choose.
Funding one’s education is often difficult for students. Fortunately, Bocconi University offers scholarship opportunities based on academic merit, disability, athletic ability, and more! Check out more information about funding here.
If you are a high school student interested in getting acquainted with the education style at Bocconi, consider registering for an open class. These are online lectures hosted by faculty members, specifically meant to give prospective students a taste of the Bocconi experience.
Milan is an extraordinarily beautiful city, and people who have had the opportunity to study there recall amazing experiences. From the hospitable Italian culture to immersing one’s self in the historic architecture, studying at Bocconi is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Sources:
https://www.viasarfatti25.unibocconi.eu/notizia.php?idArt=21376
Written by Veronica Aharon, 2nd year BSc Student at York University.
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