University of Bologna Scholarship 2026/27: Full Tuition for International Students

The University of Bologna, renowned as the world’s oldest university and a beacon of academic excellence, is set to offer an exceptional opportunity for international students through its prestigious University of Bologna Scholarship 2026/27 program. The International Talents @Unibo initiative represents one of Europe’s most competitive and rewarding scholarship programs, designed to attract brilliant minds from around the globe to pursue their master’s degree in Italy.

For the academic year 2026/27, the University of Bologna will award 30 scholarships to outstanding international students enrolling in second cycle (Master’s) degree programs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this life-changing opportunity, from eligibility requirements to application procedures.

Scholarship Benefits

The University of Bologna Scholarship 2026/27 offers substantial financial support that makes studying in Italy both accessible and attractive for international students. Here’s what successful applicants can expect:

Financial Package

• Monthly stipend: €6,500 gross annually
• Full tuition fee exemption: Complete waiver of all academic fees
• Duration: Two full academic years
• Renewal conditions: Merit-based performance evaluation

This generous package ensures that scholarship recipients can focus entirely on their academic pursuits without the burden of financial stress. The combination of living allowance and tuition exemption makes this one of the most comprehensive study in Italy scholarships available to international students.

Additional Benefits

Beyond the financial support, scholarship holders gain access to:

• World-class education at Europe’s oldest university
• Rich cultural immersion in historic Bologna
• Networking opportunities with international peers
• Access to cutting-edge research facilities
• Career development support through university services

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the International Talents @Unibo scholarship, applicants must meet several specific requirements. Understanding these criteria is crucial for determining your eligibility and preparing a successful application.

Academic Qualifications

Applicants must hold or be about to obtain a qualification from a non-Italian education system that is valid for access to a second cycle (Master’s) program. This includes:

• Bachelor’s degree from recognized international institutions
• Equivalent undergraduate qualifications
• Academic transcripts demonstrating strong performance

GRE Test Requirement

One of the most critical requirements for this GRE scholarships Italy program is the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Here are the essential details:

• Test language: Must be taken in English
• Test locations: Available at affiliated centers worldwide or online (when available)
• Registration: Through official GRE providers
• University code: 7850 (University of Bologna)
• Deadline: GRE must be completed by the application deadline

The GRE requirement sets this scholarship apart from many other master’s scholarships in Europe, emphasizing the university’s commitment to academic excellence and standardized assessment.

Financial Status Documentation

Applicants must demonstrate their financial situation through:

• ISEE (Equivalent Economic Situation Indicator): Between €16,000 and €35,000 for Italian residents
• Equivalent documentation: For families with income outside Italy
• Income verification: Proper documentation of family financial status

Age Limitation

Candidates must not be older than 30 years on the application deadline date, ensuring the program targets early-career professionals and recent graduates.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for the University of Bologna Scholarship 2026/27 requires careful planning and attention to detail. Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure your application is complete and competitive.

Step 1: Prepare for the GRE

• Register for the GRE test well in advance
• Schedule your test date allowing time for score delivery
• Ensure you use University of Bologna code 7850
• Plan for potential retakes if needed

Step 2: Gather Financial Documentation

• Obtain ISEE certification (for Italian residents)
• Prepare equivalent income documentation (for international applicants)
• Ensure all documents are properly translated and certified

Step 3: Access the Application Portal

• Visit the Studenti Online platform
• Create your account if you don’t have one
• Familiarize yourself with the interface and requirements

Step 4: Complete the Application

• Fill out all required sections thoroughly
• Upload supporting documents in the specified formats
• Review your application multiple times before submission

Step 5: Submit GRE Scores

• Request official GRE score reports to be sent to University of Bologna
• Verify that scores will arrive before the deadline
• Keep confirmation of score submission

Step 6: Apply for Degree Programs Separately

Remember that the scholarship application is separate from your degree program application. You must also apply for admission to your chosen Master’s program through the appropriate channels.

Key Dates for 2026/27

Mark these crucial dates in your calendar to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines for the University of Bologna Scholarship 2026/27:

• Publication of call: 17 January
• Application deadline: 30 May, 12:00 CEST
• GRE and documentation deadline: 30 May, 12:00 CEST
• Results announcement: July

The timeline provides approximately four months from publication to deadline, emphasizing the importance of early preparation, particularly for GRE test scheduling and financial documentation gathering.

Tips for GRE Preparation

Since the GRE is a crucial component of your International Talents @Unibo application, proper preparation is essential for success.

Study Strategy

• Start early: Begin preparation at least 3-4 months before your test date
• Take practice tests: Familiarize yourself with the format and timing
• Focus on weak areas: Identify and improve your challenging sections
• Use official materials: ETS provides the most accurate practice resources

Test Day Preparation

• Schedule strategically: Allow time for potential retakes
• Choose your format: Decide between in-person or online testing
• Technical requirements: Ensure your setup meets online testing standards
• Backup plans: Have alternative test dates in mind

Score Submission

• University code: Always use 7850 for University of Bologna
• Timing: Ensure scores arrive well before the deadline
• Verification: Confirm receipt with the university if possible

Required Documents

Prepare these essential documents for your University of Bologna Scholarship 2026/27 application:

Academic Documents

• Official transcripts from all previous institutions
• Degree certificates or proof of expected graduation
• Academic references or recommendation letters
• Curriculum vitae highlighting academic achievements

Financial Documents

• ISEE certification (for Italian residents)
• Family income documentation (for international applicants)
• Bank statements or financial guarantees
• Tax returns or equivalent income proof

Personal Documents

• Valid passport or identification
• Passport-sized photographs
• Language proficiency certificates (if required)
• Statement of purpose or motivation letter

Test Scores

• Official GRE score report
• Any additional standardized test scores
• Language proficiency test results (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)

Selection Process

Understanding the selection process for study in Italy scholarships helps you prepare a competitive application.

Evaluation Criteria

The selection committee considers:

• GRE performance: Strong scores across all sections
• Academic merit: Undergraduate GPA and achievements
• Financial need: Demonstrated through ISEE or equivalent
• Application quality: Completeness and presentation

Timeline

• Initial review: Applications screened for completeness
• Academic assessment: GRE scores and transcripts evaluated
• Financial verification: Income documentation reviewed
• Final selection: Top candidates chosen based on combined criteria

Notification Process

• Results announcement: July 2026
• Acceptance procedures: Instructions provided to successful candidates
• Enrollment requirements: Specific steps for scholarship activation

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply without taking the GRE?

No, the GRE test is a mandatory requirement for the University of Bologna Scholarship 2026/27. All applicants must complete the GRE in English and submit official scores by the application deadline. There are no exceptions to this requirement.

How competitive is this scholarship?

With only 30 scholarships available for international students worldwide, the International Talents @Unibo program is highly competitive. Successful applicants typically demonstrate exceptional academic performance, strong GRE scores, and compelling personal statements. The acceptance rate is estimated to be less than 5%.

What does the ISEE mean for international students?

The ISEE (Equivalent Economic Situation Indicator) is Italy’s standard measure of family economic status. For international students, you’ll need to provide equivalent documentation from your home country, such as:

• Tax returns
• Income certificates
• Bank statements
• Family financial declarations

The required range of €16,000-€35,000 refers to annual family income levels.

Can I apply for multiple master’s programs?

Yes, you can apply for admission to multiple master’s programs at the University of Bologna. However, you can only submit one scholarship application through the International Talents @Unibo program.

What happens if I don’t maintain the required academic performance?

The scholarship is renewable for the second year based on merit conditions. If you fail to meet the academic requirements, your scholarship may not be renewed for the second year of your master’s program.

Are there any restrictions on the master’s programs I can choose?

The scholarship is available for most second cycle (Master’s) degree programs at the University of Bologna. However, some specialized programs may have additional requirements or restrictions. Check with the International Desk for specific program eligibility.

When should I start preparing my application?

Given the GRE requirement and document preparation time, start your application process at least 6 months before the deadline. This allows adequate time for test preparation, score submission, and document gathering.

Contact Information and Support

For questions about the University of Bologna Scholarship 2026/27, contact:

ASES – Area Servizi Studenti – International Desk

• Address: Via Marsala 49/A – 40126 Bologna, Italy
• On-site hours: Tuesday 14:30–16:00
• Virtual desk hours: Monday & Wednesday 10:00–12:00, Thursday 14:30–16:00
• Email: internationaldesk@unibo.it

The International Desk provides comprehensive support for scholarship applicants, including guidance on documentation requirements, application procedures, and general inquiries about studying at the University of Bologna.

Conclusion

The University of Bologna Scholarship 2026/27 represents an extraordinary opportunity to pursue graduate education at one of the world’s most prestigious institutions. With its generous financial package, comprehensive support, and access to centuries of academic tradition, this scholarship can transform your academic and professional trajectory.

Success in this competitive program requires early preparation, particularly for the GRE requirement and financial documentation. The combination of academic excellence, financial need demonstration, and compelling personal presentation will set successful candidates apart.

The University of Bologna’s commitment to international education and cultural exchange makes it an ideal destination for ambitious students seeking to expand their horizons while receiving world-class education. The International Talents @Unibo program not only provides financial support but also opens doors to a global network of scholars, researchers, and professionals.

Start your preparation today by registering for the GRE, gathering required documents, and researching your preferred master’s programs. With careful planning and dedicated effort, you could be among the 30 international students who will call the University of Bologna home in 2026/27.

Important Disclaimer:

The dates and information provided in this article are projected for the 2026/27 academic year and are subject to change. Official confirmation of dates, requirements, and procedures is pending the university’s official announcement. Prospective applicants should regularly check the University of Bologna’s official website and contact the International Desk for the most current and accurate information regarding the scholarship program.