University of Bergamo
Bergamo, Italy
University of Bergamo
Bergamo, Italy
Founded
1968
Institution Type
Public
Total Students
21,000+
Departments
7
University of Bergamo: Overview and History
University of Bergamo: Overview and History
The University of Bergamo (Università degli Studi di Bergamo) is a public university established in 1968 in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. Originally founded as the Institute of Foreign Languages and Literature, it has grown into a comprehensive institution offering programs across economics, engineering, law, humanities, and social sciences.
The university is spread across three main campuses integrated into the city of Bergamo: the Campus of Economics and Law in central Bergamo, the Campus of Humanities in the medieval Upper City (Città Alta), and the Campus of Engineering in the industrial area of Dalmine, about 8 kilometres southwest. This urban campus model allows students to study within historic and culturally rich surroundings.
Today, the University of Bergamo is home to about 21,000 students, including over 300 PhD candidates, and more than 800 academic and administrative staff across its departments and research centers. The university offers around 50 bachelor's and master's degree programs, with 13 master's programs taught entirely in English, attracting a growing international student body.
Key Milestones
- 1968: Founded on 11 December as the Institute of Foreign Languages and Literature in Bergamo's historic Upper Town.
- 1974: Degree course in Economics and Business Administration introduced under Rector Serio Galeotti, responding to local industry demand.
- 1990: Faculty of Engineering opened in Dalmine, and the institution began its transition to a state university.
- 1992: Officially became a state university under Rector Pietro Enrico Ferri, renamed University of Bergamo.
Academic Structure and Departments
Academic Structure and Departments
The University of Bergamo is organized into seven departments spread across three campuses, offering a multidisciplinary educational experience. Programs span from bachelor's and master's degrees to doctoral research, with several English-taught options available for international students.
Department of Engineering and Applied Sciences
Located at the Dalmine campus, this department offers programs in mechanical, management, and computer engineering, with strong ties to the local industrial sector and research facilities at the Kilometro Rosso innovation park.
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Management Engineering
Department of Management, Economics and Quantitative Methods
Based at the Economics and Law campus in central Bergamo, this department is known for its programs in business administration, finance, and economics, with a strong focus on applied research and collaboration with local enterprises.
- Business Administration
- Finance
- Economics and Management
Department of Foreign Languages, Literatures and Communication
The founding department of the university, housed in the historic Salvecchio campus in the Upper City. It offers programs in modern languages, intercultural communication, and translation studies.
- Modern Languages and Cultures
- Intercultural Communication
- Translation and Communication Technologies
Department of Law
Offering bachelor's and master's programs in legal studies, this department covers civil law, criminal law, international law, and business law, preparing students for careers in the legal profession and public administration.
- Legal Studies (Giurisprudenza)
- Business Law
- International Law
Department of Human and Social Sciences
Located in the former Augustinian monastery at the Sant'Agostino campus, this department offers programs in education, psychology, sociology, and anthropology, with a focus on social research and community engagement.
- Education Sciences
- Clinical Psychology
- Sociology
Department of Letters, Philosophy and Communication
This department provides programs in the humanities, including philosophy, history, literature, and the arts. It emphasizes critical thinking, cultural analysis, and interdisciplinary approaches to knowledge.
- Philosophy
- History and Cultural Heritage
- Communication Studies
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Secondary School DiplomaEquivalent to the Italian Diploma di Maturità (minimum 12 years of schooling)
- Language ProficiencyItalian or English depending on program; IELTS minimum 4.5 or TOEFL 57+ for English-taught programs
- Entrance ExamTOLC-OFA or TVI test required depending on the program
- Pre-enrollment FeeEUR 30 application fee
- Document ValidationForeign qualifications must be verified and recognized by the university
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeRelevant bachelor's degree from a recognized institution
- Language ProficiencyB2 level in English or Italian depending on program; IELTS, TOEFL, or CEFR accepted
- Application DocumentsAcademic transcripts, CV, motivation letter, and recommendation letters
- Online InterviewAdmission interviews conducted online in March and April
- GRE Test (Optional)Special scholarships available for top international students who submit GRE scores
Application window for international students applying to master's programs (January 1 - January 31).
Shortlisted candidates are invited for online interviews during this period.
Admission decisions communicated to candidates by the end of April.
Primary intake for most programs. Students complete enrollment and begin classes.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
The University of Bergamo offers highly affordable tuition fees compared to many European institutions. Fees are income-based and calculated according to the student's family income (ISEE indicator), ranging from EUR 150 to EUR 3,500 per year. All students pay a fixed stamp duty and regional tax of EUR 156 upon enrollment.
| Cost Category | EU Students (per year) | Non-EU Students (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (income-based) | EUR 150 - EUR 3,500 | EUR 150 - EUR 3,500 |
| Stamp Duty & Regional Tax | EUR 156 | EUR 156 |
| University Housing | EUR 250 - EUR 600/month | EUR 250 - EUR 600/month |
| Application Fee (Master's) | EUR 30 | EUR 30 |
| Total | Contact the university for current data | Contact the university for current data |
University Merit Scholarships
The University of Bergamo offers merit-based scholarships and tuition fee waivers for high-achieving international students. Regional scholarships from Lombardy are also available based on academic merit and financial need.
- Eligibility: Outstanding academic results and demonstrated financial need
- Coverage: Tuition fee reduction or full waiver, plus accommodation support
- Application Period: Call published in July each year
Top International Students GRE Scholarship
A special scholarship is available for top international students who take the GRE test before enrollment, providing additional financial support to exceptional candidates.
- Eligibility: International students with a valid GRE score
- Benefit: Special tuition fee waiver for top-performing applicants
- How to Apply: Submit GRE scores during the online application process
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The University of Bergamo is uniquely integrated into the city across three campuses, each set in a distinctive urban environment. The university has played an important role in restoring historic buildings in Bergamo's Upper City, blending centuries of heritage with modern academic facilities.
Set in the medieval Upper City, this campus occupies beautifully restored historic buildings including the former Augustinian monastery and Palazzo Terzi.
Located in central Bergamo's lower city, this campus houses departments of economics, management, and law with modern teaching and conference facilities.
Situated in the Dalmine industrial area near the Kilometro Rosso innovation park, this campus features modern laboratories and research facilities for engineering programs.
Housing and Student Services
University Housing
The university offers residence halls in the historic center of Bergamo, with options ranging from shared rooms to studio apartments. Applications open each July.
- Single and double rooms available
- Monthly costs range from EUR 250 to EUR 600
- Assistance with private accommodation also provided
Libraries and Research
The university library system provides access to a large collection of academic publications, journals, and digital resources across all three campuses.
- Digitalized library with extensive online resources
- 8 specialized research centers and laboratories
- Study spaces and reading rooms on each campus
Student Life at the University of Bergamo
Student Life at the University of Bergamo
Student life at the University of Bergamo combines the charm of a historic Italian city with a vibrant and multicultural academic community. With around 7% international students, the university fosters cross-cultural exchange through events, clubs, and social activities throughout the year.
Location: Bergamo, Italy
Location: Bergamo, Italy
Discover Bergamo
Bergamo is a charming city in Lombardy, northern Italy, with a history older than Rome itself. Divided into the medieval Città Alta (Upper City) enclosed by UNESCO-listed Venetian Walls and the modern Città Bassa (Lower City), it offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and contemporary living. Located just 50 km northeast of Milan, Bergamo provides easy access to Italy's economic capital while maintaining a quieter, more affordable lifestyle.
Proximity to Milan
Just 50 minutes by train from Milan, giving students access to Italy's business and cultural capital for internships, events, and weekend trips.
Gateway to the Alps and Italian Lakes
Bergamo's location at the foothills of the Alps offers easy access to skiing, hiking, and the famous Italian lakes including Lake Como, Lake Iseo, and Lake Garda.
International Airport Hub
Milan Bergamo Airport (Orio al Serio) is a major low-cost airline hub in Southern Europe, providing affordable connections to destinations across Europe and beyond.
Rich Cultural Heritage
The city boasts medieval architecture, the iconic Venetian Walls, museums, the Teatro Donizetti, and year-round festivals including the Bergamo Jazz Festival.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Industry Connections and Regional Employers
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
Non-EU students must apply for a student visa at the Italian embassy in their home country using the university acceptance letter. Upon arrival in Italy, a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) must be applied for within 8 days.
The university's Centre for Italian for Foreigners offers Italian language and culture courses at various levels, helping international students integrate into academic and daily life in Italy.
The Financial Aid and Scholarship Service publishes housing calls each July. University residences in Bergamo's historic center range from EUR 250 to EUR 600 per month, and staff assist with finding private accommodation.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Bergamo: Worldwide Rankings
University of Bergamo: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Bergamo is recognized in several major international ranking systems. While a relatively young institution founded in 1968, it has steadily gained visibility for its research output and educational quality, particularly in business, economics, and engineering.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Business | EduRank | #39 in Italy, #953 globally |
| Economics | EduRank | #36 in Italy, #855 globally |
| Engineering | EduRank | #53 in Italy, #1577 globally |
| Liberal Arts & Social Sciences | EduRank | #43 in Italy, #1296 globally |
Features
The University of Bergamo is a dynamic public university founded in 1968, known for combining strong academic programs with close ties to local culture, economy, and innovation sectors. It offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including several English‑taught programs. Located in Lombardy, it operates on multiple campuses (in Bergamo city and nearby Dalmine), enabling students to benefit from both urban cultural life and specialized facilities (e.g. engineering campus in the “Kilometro Rosso” innovation district). The university emphasizes employability: over 80 % of graduates find work within one year, and more than 90 % within five years. Internationalization is also growing, with several foreign students, joint degrees, and English language instruction.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - June
Location
Via Salvecchio 19,\n24129 Bergamo, BG,\nLombardy, Italy
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