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Bocconi University Exchange

A student stands on a balcony in a stone building, which has stone arches, balconies, and pillars with intricately carved details that repeat about every six feet.

You are responsible for obtaining the visa prior to departure. WSB will provide guidance regarding this process. The visa application process requires a lot of paperwork and multiple steps. A valid passport is required in order to begin the visa application process.  If you need to apply for a new passport or renew your current passport, please do so. You will begin the visa application process shortly after being accepted to the program.

Italy, Milan

Limited Capacity: This program can accept a limited number of students each year, and in the past there have been more qualified applicants than available spots. Because you may have only one application open per term, you should list up to three alternative WSB programs in your application in case you are not accepted to this program. Click here and scroll down to "Review" to learn about how Global Programs evaluates applications. 

In 1902, Bocconi was the first Italian university to offer a degree in economics and business administration; today, it is one of the most respected universities in Europe for studies in business. Located in the heart of commerce, finance, and arts in northern Italy, Bocconi University also offers modern facilities, a diverse student body, and numerous student associations and clubs.

The Bocconi exchange program offers access to world-class academics in economics and international politics. Bocconi's modern urban campus lies in the heart of Milan. It is a private university with a student population of 14,000. Courses are taught in English and include subjects such as management, statistics, business law, economics, and international politics and government. Your courses will offer up-to-date, quality content and are enriched with seminars and workshops involving members of the Italian and international business community.

Founded in 400 B.C., Milan today effortlessly blends hundreds of years of history and tradition with a thriving modern economy and businesses (especially in the fashion industry). Though Rome is the political capital of Italy, Milan is the country’s financial center, housing three Fortune 500 companies and 8% of all businesses in Italy. Alongside the prestigious companies and firms who choose to make Milan home are hundreds of cultural sites that are recognized and respected throughout the world. Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, La Scala opera house, and the Royal Villa of Milan all attract thousands of tourists each year to the beautiful city.

Learning Objectives

We have overall Goals and Expectations for Study Abroad Participants, covering the personal, academic and professional aspects of study abroad. Additionally on this program, you can:

  • Integrate into the academic and social environment of Bocconi University
  • Take advantage of Bocconi's academic strengths in: Economics; Finance; and Management
  • Study the structure of economic, financial, and political systems from a European and international perspective
  • Develop a literacy in day-to-day life in Milan
  • Achieve personal development and the ability to adapt to a new culture

Diversity & Inclusion

We are committed to providing quality study abroad and domestic study away programs for every UW-Madison student. We work strategically to identify, address, and remove barriers that may prevent participation and to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for students. Our staff actively engages with students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds and prioritizes the continuous development of our knowledge and cultural competence. We also recognize the importance of increasing access to study abroad for historically underrepresented student populations. We are committed to diversity and inclusion so that every student can engage with and understand their identity through a new lens and continue to develop and make progress on their personal, professional, and academic goals.

Sustainability

We recognize that the future of study abroad, domestic study away, and international internship programming requires a Commitment to Sustainability. We are devoted to examining, developing, and improving sustainability in all our endeavors, aligning with campus priorities and following through with UW-Madison's climate action and Resilience Commitment. Join our efforts and learn more about how to study abroad sustainably.

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Eligibility

  • Preference is given to admitted Business students and declared Economics majors

  • 3.0 cumulative GPA
  • Junior, Senior
  • Open to UW-Madison degree-seeking students only
  • Good academic and disciplinary standing
  • At the time of application and the semester prior to participation, UW-Madison students must be currently enrolled. Transfer Students to UW-Madison need to be currently enrolled at their home institution

Advising Location

WSB icon

Program Structure

Exchange & Direct Enroll

Subjects

Business, Social Sciences

Classroom Language

English, Italian

Housing

Residence Hall, Responsible for arranging your own housing

Program Duration

Fall semester: late August to late December
Spring semester: mid-January to late May

Application Deadline(s)

Fall 2026-27 2/27/2026 Cost Details
Spring 2026-27 2/27/2026 Cost Details

Future durations will be posted at a later date.

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Academics at Bocconi university are highly regarded, and the university has received international standing for its strong programs and courses. A number of courses designed for international students are taught in English. The month before each semester begins, Bocconi offers a 3-4 week, non-credit, intensive Italian language courses at several levels. Participation is strongly recommended. If you have Italian proficiency, you may choose from any of the regular university courses.

You are required to take a minimum of 3 courses (and no more than 6) each semester. Classes are mainly in lecture format.

Affiliate Institution(s)

Bocconi University

Program Web Pages

Bocconi University International Student Desk

Foreign Courses

Bocconi University Educational Offer

Course Equivalents

Use the links below to see a list of courses that past students have taken on this program and the UW equivalents. Note: This list only includes pre-approved courses for your program and may not be an exhaustive list of courses, departments or equivalents. Courses may not be available the semester you are abroad. You will receive instructions on the course equivalent process after acceptance. View Course Equivalents