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Studying at the University of Bologna (Unibo) is more than just an academic pursuit; it is a journey into the heart of history. As the oldest university in the Western world, founded in 1088, Unibo combines centuries of tradition with cutting-edge research and innovation. For ambitious international students, the university offers a golden ticket: highly competitive, merit-based financial support that transforms the dream of studying in Italy into a reality.
Whether you are looking to enroll in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program for the 2026 or 2027 intake, understanding the landscape of these awards is critical for your success.
Understanding the International Talents @Unibo Scheme
The University of Bologna has evolved its financial support structure to better serve international talent. While you may have seen the terms “Unibo Action 1 & 2” in older guides, the university now utilizes the International Talents @Unibo scholarship as its flagship merit award for students enrolling in second-cycle (Master’s) degree programs. This scheme is designed to attract top-tier talent from across the globe by providing a comprehensive financial package.
- Tuition Fee Waivers: Recipients are granted a near-total exemption from university tuition fees. After this waiver, students are responsible only for a minor regional tax fee, which typically amounts to approximately €157.04, covering insurance and stamp duty.
- Study Grants: The scholarship includes a significant cash grant, generally valued at €6,500 gross per academic year. This stipend is provided for the duration of the standard two-year Master’s program, offering vital support for living expenses, provided the student meets renewal conditions specified in the annual call.
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Eligibility and Selection Criteria for 2026
To compete for these prestigious scholarships, you must demonstrate exceptional academic merit and meet specific eligibility requirements. Because the university receives a high volume of applications, the selection process is rigorous and highly meritocratic.
Key Requirements to Keep in Mind
- Academic Qualification: Applicants must hold a valid qualification—or be on track to obtain one before enrollment—issued by an educational institution outside of the Italian system that grants access to your chosen second-cycle degree program.
- Age Limit: Candidates must generally be under 30 years old by the deadline specified in the call for applications.
- Aptitude Testing: Standardized testing is a cornerstone of the selection process. For Master’s programs, the GRE General Test is mandatory. The university sets specific thresholds, typically requiring a combined Verbal and Quantitative score of at least 290 and an Analytical Writing score of at least 3.0.
- Financial Documentation: The scholarship targets students with a specific economic profile. Your family’s economic situation must fall within a range equivalent to an ISEE (Indicator of Equivalent Economic Situation) of €16,000 to €35,000. You will need to provide certified documentation of your family’s income and assets if held outside of Italy.
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The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Securing a scholarship at the University of Bologna requires precision and timely administrative execution. Follow this structured roadmap to ensure your application remains competitive for the 2026 cycle.
1. Select Your Degree Program
Visit the university’s official course catalogue to identify a second-cycle degree program that aligns with your academic background. Ensure that your chosen program is participating in the international scholarship scheme.
2. Register for the GRE General Test
Since the GRE is a primary selection criterion, register for the test well in advance of the deadline. When taking the exam, ensure you request that your official scores be sent to the University of Bologna using the institutional code 7850. ETS delivery can take time, so aim to complete the test several weeks before the application closing date.
3. Prepare Financial and Academic Documentation
Begin early to gather all required documents. This includes your academic transcripts, English language proficiency certificates, and the necessary financial documents to prove your ISEE-equivalent band. If your documents are not in English or Italian, you may need official translations.
4. Apply via Studenti Online
All applications must be submitted exclusively through the Studenti Online portal. Be sure to upload all documents in the requested PDF format and verify that your application is submitted before the deadline, which typically falls in late May.
5. Visa and Pre-enrolment
If you are successful and admitted, you will need to proceed with pre-enrolment on the Universitaly portal. This step is essential for your visa application at your local Italian Embassy or Consulate. Ensure you have proof of economic resources as required for your study visa.
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Language Proficiency Requirements
While the scholarship focuses on GRE merit, your chosen degree program will have its own language requirements. Most English-taught programs require at least a B2 level of proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent certification). Always check the specific requirements for your program on its official webpage to avoid disqualification during the admission review.
Official Scholarship Links and Resources
To stay updated on official calls for applications and submission deadlines, always refer to the primary University of Bologna channels:
- Official International Scholarship Portal: https://www.unibo.it/en/study/international-students
- Studenti Online (Submission Portal): https://studenti.unibo.it/
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for this scholarship if I am currently finishing my Bachelor’s degree?
Yes, you are eligible to apply if you are on track to complete your Bachelor’s degree in time for enrollment in the Master’s program. You will typically be required to provide proof of your graduation and your final degree certificate during the matriculation process.
Does the university provide support for housing or additional living costs?
While the International Talents @Unibo grant provides a cash stipend to help with living expenses, students are encouraged to also explore regional support options. In Italy, “Diritto allo studio” (Right to study) programs often offer additional benefits such as canteen discounts and housing assistance through regional bodies like ER.GO, provided you meet the financial and merit requirements.
How competitive is the selection for the International Talents @Unibo scholarship?
The scholarship is highly competitive, as it attracts applicants from around the world. Selection is primarily merit-based, with significant weight placed on your GRE General Test results. Meeting the minimum score requirements does not guarantee an award, so aiming for higher scores is strongly recommended to increase your chances in the ranking.
Final thoughts and advice from scholarshipshive
Success in securing a scholarship at the University of Bologna relies on early preparation and a deep understanding of the university’s specific requirements. Because the process involves standardized testing and financial documentation that can be time-consuming to arrange, we recommend starting your application roadmap at least four to six months before the application window closes. Focus on achieving a competitive GRE score, as this is often the deciding factor in the ranking process, and ensure your financial documents are perfectly aligned with the university’s criteria to avoid administrative delays. By systematically following the steps outlined in the annual call for applications and utilizing the official Studenti Online portal, you position yourself as a strong candidate for one of the most prestigious academic opportunities in Italy.
