Study at the world's oldest university (founded 1088) in one of Italy's most student-friendly cities. This English-taught programme covers micro and macroeconomics, business management, and quantitative methods.
The University of Bologna, founded in 1088, is the world's oldest university. Its English-taught BA in Economics & Business covers micro and macroeconomics, business management, accounting, and quantitative methods — in a vibrant, affordable student city with strong regional DSU support and an EU-recognised degree.
See how this programme compares with business & economics degrees at other universities we work with.
| University | Country | Level | Duration | Tuition/year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Bologna ★ This programme | 🇮🇹 Italy | Bachelor's | 3 years | €2,800 |
| LMU Munich QS #54 | 🇩🇪 Germany | Bachelor's | 3 years | €0 |
| University of Glasgow QS #78 | 🇬🇧 UK | Bachelor's | 4 years | £22,800 |
| Monash University QS #37 | 🇦🇺 Australia | Bachelor's | 3 years | A$48,800 |
| Caucasus University English-taught | 🇬🇪 Georgia | Bachelor's | 4 years | $3,500 |
Your counsellor helps you compare and apply to multiple programmes simultaneously — at no cost.
| Academic | High school diploma | |
| English | IELTS 5.5 or equivalent | |
| Italian | Not required — programme taught in English | |
| Documents | High school transcripts, motivation letter, passport | |
Not sure you meet these? We offer foundation and pathway routes — your counsellor will find the right one.
Average graduate starting salary in Italy
Post-study job-seeking residence permit
Degree recognised across Europe
Italian government scholarships available
| Tuition (international) | Per annum | €2,800 (income-scaled) |
| Application fee | One-time | ~€50 |
| Deposit | Before enrolment | First instalment of tuition |
Indicative figures for September 2026 entry. Italian public-university tuition is scaled to family income (ISEE), and DSU scholarships can waive it entirely. Your counsellor confirms exact fees and matches every scholarship you qualify for — at no cost.
Italy backs international students with national and regional funding — including DSU agencies that cover tuition, accommodation, and meals based on income. Your counsellor will match you with every award you qualify for.
Not sure which scholarships you qualify for? Your counsellor reviews every option and handles the applications — at no cost to you.
Public-university tuition in Italy is low and often scaled to family income. If scholarships don't fully cover your costs, these options help.
Student visa holders may work up to 20 hours per week (1,040 hours/year). Average student wage is €8–12/hour in hospitality, tutoring, and retail.
No collateral or cosigner required for eligible postgraduate students at top-ranked universities. Covers tuition and living expenses, with rates based on future earning potential.
Beyond cash scholarships, DSU agencies (ER.GO in Emilia-Romagna, DSU Lombardia in Milan) offer subsidised accommodation and meal cards to eligible students, cutting living costs significantly.
Bologna is one of Italy's most student-friendly cities — home to the world's oldest university, with a lively, affordable, food-loving culture and excellent regional DSU support.
ER.GO regional scholarships available.
| Visa type | Student Visa (Type D) | |
| Fee | €50 | |
| Financial proof | €6,300/year minimum (€5,900 for scholarship holders) | |
| Health insurance | Italian NHS (SSN) enrolment or private insurance | |
| Residence permit | Apply for the Permesso di Soggiorno within 8 days of arrival | |
| Post-graduation | 12-month job-seeking residence permit (attesa occupazione) | |
Your counsellor guides you through the full visa process — from document preparation to embassy appointment booking.
"Studying economics in English at the world's oldest university, for under €3,000 a year, still amazes me. My counsellor helped me apply for DSU support, which covered my tuition and meals. Bologna is the perfect student city."
"SAG handled the Universitaly pre-enrolment and my visa, which looked complicated on my own. The income-scaled tuition meant I paid very little, and the EU degree opens doors across Europe."
Start your free application with a counsellor who knows this programme inside out.