When you have one of the world’s leading universities right at your doorstep, it is logical that this university will attract great interest among potential students. Citizens of Croatia have precisely such a university within their reach, so to speak. Milan’s Università Luigi Bocconi is a university that has been at the top of the world rankings for decades, and last year it was rated as the 6th best university in the world.
1. History of Bocconi University
Bocconi has a long and proud tradition. The university was founded in 1902 and was the first higher education institution in Italy with a program and degree in economics. Over the years, the programs have evolved, but Bocconi has remained true to economics, which is still the core of its programs.
2. Cost and Accessibility
One of the reasons why Bocconi is so popular, both in Croatia and beyond, is its affordable price. Tuition for a year at Bocconi is just over 13,000 euros for undergraduate studies and around 14,500 euros for a master’s degree. While this amount is substantial for most Croatians, it is very reasonable for countries with a higher standard of living. Bocconi is three times cheaper than top British universities and five times cheaper than top American universities. That’s something!
In addition, under certain conditions, such as medical reasons, you can receive a generous tuition reduction. This university is also socially sensitive.
The application fee is 100 euros.
3. Programs and Number of Students
Bocconi University offers eight undergraduate programs and 13 master’s programs. Additionally, it offers specialized master’s degrees, doctoral studies, and summer school.
Most programs are related to economics, but at Bocconi, you can also study political science and law. Classes are taught in Italian and English in equal group ratios. They admit around 2,800 students annually, and about 50% of undergraduate students in English-taught groups are foreigners, i.e., non-Italian citizens. Therefore, only 700-800 of Bocconi’s total students are international students, making the competition among international students very strong.
4. Applications Assessment
The elements of assessing applicants are very straightforward. When applying to Bocconi, you need to submit transcripts from the second and third years of high school, and the average grades of these two years carry 45% of the points. The remaining 55% is based on the exam result. There are two choices: take the entrance exam or pass the SAT. A good SAT score is considered to be 1350+/1600 points. The entrance exam is conceptually similar to the SAT, but you can only take it once. On the other hand, you can take the SAT multiple times, making it a safer option.
In addition to the average grades from the second and third years of high school and the entrance or SAT exam results, you need to submit a resume and a motivation letter.
English language certificates are not scored, but they must be submitted to qualify for admission.
Before applying, be sure to check if your high school program is compatible with Bocconi University’s requirements here, and you can also find the recognized language certificates here.
You must submit your exam results by the application deadline, which means you must take the SAT or the entrance exam before the chosen application round’s deadline. Once you submit your application, you cannot change the chosen exam or submit results later.
5. Application Deadlines
Bocconi University has specific deadlines for applications, which you need to adhere to strictly. It is essential to check the official university website for the most up-to-date information on these deadlines as they can vary each academic year. Typically, there are multiple application rounds, and it is advisable to apply early to increase your chances of admission and access to scholarships.
- Early Application Round: Usually opens in the fall of the preceding year and closes in late fall or early winter. This round is ideal for students who have completed their standardized tests early and want to secure their spot at Bocconi.
- Regular Application Round: Generally opens in the winter and closes in the early spring. This is the most common application period.
- Late Application Round: Often opens in the spring and closes in early summer. This round is for students who needed more time to complete their application materials.
Important Notes:
- Ensure all required documents, including transcripts, test scores, resumes, and motivation letters, are submitted before the deadline of your chosen application round.
- It is critical to take the SAT or Bocconi entrance exam before the application deadline for your selected round. Plan your test dates accordingly.
- Once you submit your application, you cannot change the selected exam or submit additional results later.
- It is certainly advisable to apply as early as possible because by the end of the second round, 90-95% of the spots are typically filled, leaving only 5-10% of the total available spots reserved for the third application round.
6. Advantages of a Bocconi Degree
A degree from Bocconi University offers numerous advantages that can significantly impact your career and personal development. Besides the university’s name, which is a brand in itself and opens doors, a degree from Bocconi also signifies a broad knowledge base and an excellent springboard for further career development. Bocconi offers excellent specialized programs, providing its students with depth and prerequisites for further growth. Each year, around 4,000 Bocconi students go abroad for internships, and the university also offers opportunities for study in other countries and assists in arranging internships.
Additionally, Bocconi boasts a network of over 100,000 alumni who significantly support each other in business.
As with all top universities, the demands at Bocconi are understandably high. The motivation letter is the only part of the application that isn’t a result or a number, and it is extremely important to write it well and present yourself in the best possible light. Of course, it is also necessary to create a carefully crafted CV. However, the most important thing is to inform yourself in advance and prepare thoroughly for the SAT or entrance exam.
It would be wonderful to study at such a prestigious, world-renowned university and still be so close to home. It’s definitely worth the effort!
