A Straight-Talk Guide for International Students
Thinking about Bocconi? Here’s the no-fluff version—how admission works, what scores are competitive, which rounds to target, and where scholarships fit in. Always double-check the official site before you apply.
Why Bocconi keeps popping up on your radar
- International vibe: A large share of the student body (62%) is international students
- Three-year degrees: Most bachelor’s programs are 3 years, many taught in English.
- Rising selectivity: Roughly 35% admit rate overall, with program popularity making a difference.
- Timing matters: Of the three application cycles, round 1–2 capture ~95% of seats.
How the decision is made
1) Selection Test (about 50–55% of the decision)
Accepted tests: SAT, ACT, or Bocconi Test
- SAT: 1500+ is very strong (applications with 1400+ may be considered).
- Bocconi Test: Aim for 35+/50.
- If you are not sure which of the two options to submit, contact us for advice
- Law Program: LSAT for law; always verify current requirements on the official pages.
2) School Transcripts (about 45% of the decision)
- Focus on the last 3 years (10–11th).
- 12th grade ie. IB predicted grades are generally not included in this evaluation.
- Bocconi looks beyond GPA to course rigor and quant strength (IB Math HL is ideal).
- APs: 3 APs recommended (Italian context: first attempt). Briefing notes said all admitted students have at least 3 APs—check the official AP list for your case.
- A lower GPA can be offset by distinctive strengths (rigor, testing, achievements).
Application strategy (the part most applicants underestimate)
- Apply early: There are 3 rounds but target Round 1 or 2—that’s where most spots are allocated.
- No essays/CV -used to be a requirement but is no longer
- Decisions are posted on the portal-only: Results post in your applicant portal (don’t wait for an email).
- Ou can reapply if needed in later rounds.
- Transfer option: Around 24 university credits in year one may qualify you for transfer assessment.
Programs & what’s hot right now
- Most popular: BBA is a unique 4-year program, developed with two prestigious partner universities: USC University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business in Los Angeles and HKUST the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
- In demand: Finance and AI.
- Double degrees: Available (e.g., MGM HEC noted as popular).
- Math pre-course: All admitted students take a math pre-course at the start.
Scholarships & financial aid
- Need-based awards from 100% to 20% coverage.
- Some options prioritize women (e.g., in finance).
- Students need to apply for need-based aid after admission.
SAT vs. Bocconi Test: which should you pick?
Choose SAT/ACT if:
- You already test well on standardized exams.
- Your timeline aligns with score reporting.
- You want scores that travel across multiple universities.
Choose the Bocconi Test if:
- You prefer a focused, institution-specific exam.
- Prep tip: Use the university’s guidance. Many academies offer prep, but there aren’t official full mock tests.
If you’re applying from Turkey (or similar curricula)
- Turkish students at Bocconi averaged 95/100 and do very well
- Applicants should not rely on GPA alone—highlight quant coursework and testing.
- If GPA is lighter, lean into IB Math HL, AP Calculus/Stats.
- Compare your profile both within Turkey and globally.
Sample profiles (illustrative, not prescriptive)
- Quant-Forward
- SAT 1480, IB Math HL 6/7 or 3+ APs (Calc, Micro, CS), strong math/science transcript → Competitive for Finance/AI tracks.
- Rigor > Raw GPA
- SAT 1400, demanding course mix→ Solid shot when rigor/testing shine.
- Bocconi-Test Route
- Moderate SAT but strong Bocconi prep to 35+/50, last-3-years transcript shows upward trend → Viable path with targeted prep.