Milan, Italy
Established in 1902, Bocconi was the first university in Italy to offer a degree in economics. The University strives to meet the demands of scientific research and training in the Italian economic system. As a result, much attention is given to both economic and civic life in order to support innovation and development in businesses nationwide. As part of its mission, Bocconi has established a center of international culture based on the cultivation of relations with the leading players in world economics. Bocconi has had a long-standing tradition of hospitality toward international guests since 1974. The program continues to grow and now welcomes more than 500 exchange students from over 100 partner institutions. The cultural enrichment and diversity among students enliven the courses and allow individuals to become acquainted with different aspects of academic and social traditions.
Please note: students are not accepted into the program until they submit their application and deposit to the UF International Center. You can start your online application today!
The City
Rich in history and beauty, Milan is a modern city and is regarded as the economic and financial capital of Italy. Milan is home to a variety of historical monuments, museums and churches as well as fashion arenas, bookshops, theatres, and a world famous opera house (La Scala). The city center may prove most interesting from a tourist’s point of view, as there are many interesting sites and activities such as elegant residential quarters, shops, artist studios, and restaurants nearby. The nightlife in Milan is known to be first-rate as well.
Student Life
BU offers many services to its exchange students each term. There is a “Student Exchange Network” made up of former exchange students who offer tutoring and organize events each semester. Additionally, the International Relations office coordinates many extra-curricular activities and students can take advantage of special tickets for performances at La Scala, weekend trips to the mountains, conferences with world-class speakers, and much more.
Students enjoy the cultural learning experience not only in the classroom but in the city as well. In addition to enjoying museums, theatres, shops, and cinemas, students can go dancing, listen to live music, and take advantage of numerous travel options. As one would expect, most social activities take place on Friday and Saturday nights, whereas Sunday and Monday are very subdued and many places are closed. On Wednesday evenings, young people flock to the cinema for discount ticket night.
Term Dates
Fall Semester: Mid-September to late December
Spring Semester: Mid-January to late June
Courses Available
BU offers a wide variety of business courses for students to choose from. Use our course equivalency database to find out which courses at BU can apply to your UF degree. Please see an academic advisor for information pertaining to requesting additional equivalencies.
Language of Instruction
Courses are taught in English or Italian. UF students are able to take a full load of business courses in English. Italian language courses are available for credit.
Examinations
Fall examinations in Bocconi are usually held in January and early February. However, for who need to return to their home institutions by early January, all the exams will be scheduled before Christmas. This special exam schedule only applies to Fall term. Spring examinations will be held in June and July.
Students who decide to take classes in Italian may be permitted to take their exams in English but it will be subject to the Professor’s approval. Some courses may require written work during the semester (paper or mid-term). This also may be presented in Italian or English, subject to the Professor’s approval.
Grade Conversion
| Bocconi points from | Bocconi points to | UF grade |
|---|---|---|
| 27 | 30 | A |
| 24 | 26 | B |
| 19 | 23 | C |
| 18 | 18 | D |
| 0 | 17 | E |
Credit Conversion
| Bocconi Credit | UF Credit |
|---|---|
| 6 | 3 UF credits |
Estimated Expenses
| Rough Expense Comparison | Semester at UF | Semester at BU |
|---|---|---|
| UF Tuition | $3,190 | $3,190 |
| UFIC Admin. Fee | - | $425 |
| Health Insurance | - | $192 |
| Airfare | - | $1,600 |
| Housing / Utilities | $2,995 | $4,300 |
| Computer / Cell Phone | $585 | Included |
| Food | $2,300 | $2,500 |
| Books | $445 | $300 |
| Transportation | $560 | $250 |
| Visa | - | $320 |
| Total | $10,075 | $13,077 |
- UF Cost of Attendance determined by Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships
- BU Cost of Attendance determined by UF International Center
- BU Cost of Attendance determined by BU
Accommodation
Bocconi offers housing in five private student residences, and two other residences. The housing facilities are associated with the University but are not owned by it. Space is limited in these residences, and rooms are allocated in the order in which applications are received. As a result, students are encouraged to apply for housing as soon as possible after they have been accepted to the program. Housing options vary from right next door to the school to a 20-minute tram ride away. There are both single and double rooms, some with a private bath. There are a variety of housing options available to choose from and complete information about each of them can be found by visiting the Bocconi housing website. Prices will vary depending on the type of room you select as these facilities are privately managed.
Travel Opportunities
The Italian city of Milan is positioned just under Switzerland and closely bordered by Austria and France. The train and bus system in Italy makes day trips around the country easy and affordable. Adventure-seekers might choose to hike between the towns of Cinque Terre and Portofino, take a boat tour around Como or take the funicular to the top of the mountain in Como for amazing views. Students shouldn’t forget to make a wish in the Trevi Fountain of Rome and snap a photo with the Gladiators at the colosseum. Exploring outside of Italy is easy with trains providing a quick way to neighboring countries. Central State Railway Station connects Milan to all the main Italian and European cities, making travel opportunities unlimited. A few recommended destinations include biking through the French Riviera, sightseeing or skiing in Zurich, and participating in the Sound of Music tour in Salzburg. Milan is connected to the rest of the world through three airports: Linate, Malpensa, and Orio al Serio.