For Master’s degree programs, Bocconi University remains one of the most coveted names. The Milan-based school offers a diverse set of 13 Master of Science (MSc) programs, including high ranking master’s in management and master of finance programs.
But what is Bocconi looking for in prospective master’s candidates?
Here’s what you need to know about applying for a Bocconi Master's, and how you can make your application stand out.
What does the Bocconi Master’s admissions process involve?
For its Master’s offerings, Bocconi holds separate application rounds for internal applicants, Italian applicants, and international applicants. For international students, there are five application rounds, between mid September and the end of May.
Admissions are conducted on a rolling basis, meaning that each application is considered as it comes in. Given that there are 13 degree programs on offer, applicants are allowed to apply to a maximum of five masters degrees.
You can reapply once over the course of the academic year, meaning those rejected earlier on will get a second chance. “The sooner you apply, the more chances you have, and the better your chances will be,” explains Paolo Cancelli, director of student affairs at Bocconi.
The school identifies three main elements when looking at candidates.
First, the school looks at GMAT or GRE score, as an objective, quantitative way to compare applications. Applicants only need to supply their overall score, rather than individual section scores. This is then compared alongside your academic background, namely through grade point average (GPA) of your bachelor’s degree.
It's a combination of these two aspects which give program directors a rounded, holistic view of how candidates will be able to perform academically.
The third part is the resume and personal statement which candidates must submit. This gives program directors a good insight into your experience and suitability for the programs which you’ve applied for.
Certain programs will ask applicants either for a video presentation or an interview. This gives you the chance to talk more openly and candidly about yourself, and to deepen your profile. You’re given certain questions to answer, with a set amount of time to respond.
Interested in finding out more about getting into Bocconi? Sign up for our webinar, with a chance to ask your questions directly to Paolo, and current master’s students.
What are Bocconi program directors looking for in applicants?
Through the different aspects of the application, Bocconi’s program directors will be looking for certain things in their applicants.
Suitability, for one. Candidates should take time to demonstrate why they are a good fit not just for the school, but for the specific MSc program which they are applying for.
“We look for coherence in terms of previous professional or academic experience in the field that they are enrolling in, that would help us see why they’d be a good fit,” Paolo says.
Paolo recommends that candidates should put time into understanding what they’ll get out of the two year program. “Look at the prerequisites given, the core courses and electives, to make sure you have the requirements to cope with the program if admitted.”
Motivation is linked to this, as it is important for candidates to demonstrate to the school the reasons why you are applying to their particular program.
Paolo believes this is even more important at the master’s level compared to bachelor’s degrees. Applicants have to be sure that they have the right motivations for continuing their studies—otherwise this could hurt their prospects of employability.
Given you can apply for up to five programs at Bocconi at once, Paolo recommends not to choose wildly different programs, as this may give the impression of a lack of intentionality.
Motivation is strongly linked to ambition. The decision to study a master’s should be part of a coherent, ambitious career plan, and candidates should make this clear in their application. Bocconi isn’t looking for candidates who are doing a master’s for the sake of it.
“We convey the message that it isn’t the next two years you lose. By taking a MSc program at Bocconi, you’ll have a safer landing into the job market,” Paolo says.
Diversity is of great importance to Bocconi, in terms of gender, nationality, and industry background. Through different financial grants and awards, Bocconi aims to attract more exceptional candidates who fall into underrepresented groups, such as female applicants or candidates from a STEM background.
How can you make your Bocconi master's application stand out?
As one of the most renowned business schools in Europe, Bocconi has a large quantity of applications for its masters programs. Paolo stresses, however, that there are a few things that candidates can do to stand out.
Doing research can stand you in really good stead as an applicant, as it will show your enthusiasm for that particular program.
“We provide plenty of opportunities to interact with current students and course directors. You need a clear understanding of the contents of the programs, and career opportunities for once you’ve left the programs,” Paolo says.
It’s important that candidates tailor their responses specifically to Bocconi. Conversely, they tend not to like candidates who give generic responses, which have often been copied and pasted from applications for other business schools.
“You should take your time. Even just one word could be read in the wrong way. We are somehow receiving applications for top students, from Europe and around the world, so we have quality applicants to choose among.”
But beyond grades, GMAT scores, and job experience, Bocconi are looking for something a little bit different in candidates—experiences that show they are unique and haven’t just taken the conventional route in life.
“What we’re really looking for is someone who has somehow challenged themself in their life, by taking particular hard roads (not shortcuts), or by gaining some particular experiences in their life.”
I really enjoyed this experience because I built a really strong relationship with other students and professors. This fact has permitted me to grow as a person and also to improve my academic background by confronting myself with other people. I would encourage Bocconi to create a new method of exams for online courses (I have experienced it during the covid-19 period) because they could not manage to control and to avoid shameless situations such as software breakdowns just before the exams.
Student
Verified
8/11/2021
On Campus
Amazing course
The workload is really heavy, but that’s the only way to prepare students for the job market. Bocconi offers also many services to help students kick off their careers. Overall, Bocconi University Masters Degree is the best option for ambitious students and the best choice among Italian and maybe European universities.
Student
Verified
24/07/2020
A great experience
A fundamental experience to understand what I want to do in life. In the three years I attended Bocconi University, I laid the foundations for my business education. I will always be grateful to it. I absolutely recommend it.
Alessandra
Verified
26/06/2020
Bocconi: Italian Quality
The great thing about this University is that it is one of the few Italian universities offering such international programs. My course is unique and doesn't exist anywhere else, so if you like arts and economics, Bocconi is the best place. The course provides both subjects concerning arts/philosophy, and ones more related to economics. Personally, I have decided to follow a different path because I am not so interested in working in this specific field, but this course is totally worth it if you want to work in a creative industry. Indeed, it gives people with a passion for luxury, arts and so on with a complete knowledge concerning management.
The best part has been the great support offered by the University in every aspect, going from on-campus facilities to monthly job fairs to better understand the kind of career we want to pursue. This is often taken for granted in Italian universities.
Student
Verified
25/05/2020
Professional and amazing
Very well organized university.
I have studied Financial management and I graduated with 108/110. The teachers are really good and professional. The university has all the facilities and the services are professional. I really enjoyed studying in a professional and international environment. Bocconi has played an important role in finding my actual job!
Student
Verified
28/10/2019
Great university which gives wonderful placement opportunities.
I really like Bocconi. What I appreciated the most was the high level of teaching and the opportunities given in terms of placement and networking connections.
I strongly recommend this university if you want to pursue a great working career.
Student
Verified
27/10/2019
Beautiful environment
Beautiful community of students with lots of opportunities for in-campus activities. The university offers 8 residences near the campus, perfect for freshmen at the first year in Milan. Professors are very prepared and always ready to help students
Student
Verified
24/03/2018
An outstanding university
The great efficiency and organization, the high quality of teaching, and the possibility to take part in many interesting and useful experiences make Bocconi University stand out. It distinguishes itself from the Italian academic background. Many people say Bocconi is too stressful, but to me, it’s worth it.
Student
Verified
20/03/2018
Excellent
Bocconi is outstanding university. Among the best in Italy. The international franework helps students to get involved in projects/associations that enrich the campus. I study law and i’ m happy about my 4 years and experiences that i had the opportunity to
Edoardo
Verified
25/01/2022
Blended
Everything was great ( apart from the covid part)
I really enjoyed this experience because I built a really strong relationship with other students and professors. This fact has permitted me to grow as a person and also to improve my academic background by confronting myself with other people. I would encourage Bocconi to create a new method of exams for online courses (I have experienced it during the covid-19 period) because they could not manage to control and to avoid shameless situations such as software breakdowns just before the exams.
Student
Verified
8/11/2021
On Campus
Amazing course
The workload is really heavy, but that’s the only way to prepare students for the job market. Bocconi offers also many services to help students kick off their careers. Overall, Bocconi University Masters Degree is the best option for ambitious students and the best choice among Italian and maybe European universities.
Student
Verified
24/07/2020
A great experience
A fundamental experience to understand what I want to do in life. In the three years I attended Bocconi University, I laid the foundations for my business education. I will always be grateful to it. I absolutely recommend it.
Alessandra
Verified
26/06/2020
Bocconi: Italian Quality
The great thing about this University is that it is one of the few Italian universities offering such international programs. My course is unique and doesn't exist anywhere else, so if you like arts and economics, Bocconi is the best place. The course provides both subjects concerning arts/philosophy, and ones more related to economics. Personally, I have decided to follow a different path because I am not so interested in working in this specific field, but this course is totally worth it if you want to work in a creative industry. Indeed, it gives people with a passion for luxury, arts and so on with a complete knowledge concerning management.
The best part has been the great support offered by the University in every aspect, going from on-campus facilities to monthly job fairs to better understand the kind of career we want to pursue. This is often taken for granted in Italian universities.
Student
Verified
25/05/2020
Professional and amazing
Very well organized university.
I have studied Financial management and I graduated with 108/110. The teachers are really good and professional. The university has all the facilities and the services are professional. I really enjoyed studying in a professional and international environment. Bocconi has played an important role in finding my actual job!
Student
Verified
28/10/2019
Great university which gives wonderful placement opportunities.
I really like Bocconi. What I appreciated the most was the high level of teaching and the opportunities given in terms of placement and networking connections.
I strongly recommend this university if you want to pursue a great working career.
Student
Verified
27/10/2019
Beautiful environment
Beautiful community of students with lots of opportunities for in-campus activities. The university offers 8 residences near the campus, perfect for freshmen at the first year in Milan. Professors are very prepared and always ready to help students
Student
Verified
24/03/2018
An outstanding university
The great efficiency and organization, the high quality of teaching, and the possibility to take part in many interesting and useful experiences make Bocconi University stand out. It distinguishes itself from the Italian academic background. Many people say Bocconi is too stressful, but to me, it’s worth it.
Student
Verified
20/03/2018
Excellent
Bocconi is outstanding university. Among the best in Italy. The international franework helps students to get involved in projects/associations that enrich the campus. I study law and i’ m happy about my 4 years and experiences that i had the opportunity to
Yangxin
Verified
27/03/2024
On Campus
Excellent university full of opportunities
I had almost zero experience in business before coming to Bocconi. However, this did not hinder my career prospects here. I was fortunate to receive valuable opportunities such as in-company training and internships. Through these experiences, I gained invaluable practical insights into various business scenarios, becoming more acquainted with the real business world.
Before arriving here, I had not learned Italian, which initially made me concerned about possible cultural or language barriers. Bocconi offers Italian language courses that proved indispensable in helping me adapt to Milan during my days here. Additionally, my Italian classmates have been incredibly welcoming, assisting me with cultural adjustments and willingly serving as language partners to help with my Italian language learning journey. My two-year life here has become both manageable and enjoyable.
In conclusion, I would recommend this university to those people who are eager to embrace a future brimming with opportunities.
Alex
Verified
28/03/2024
On Campus
So many opportunities
Bocconi has been an amazing journey for me, filled with growth and opportunities, both on a professional and personal level. The professors teaching the International Management Master's are of really high quality and they were able to transfer some much "knowledge that matters", thanks also to the many teamworking experiences during the course. Bocconi also allowed me to experience a double degree program with ESADE, which taught me a lot both in terms of professional development, as well as allowing me to expand my network of international students even further. Overall, Bocconi unleashed plenty of opportunities I could not foresee before joining the university and that I'm really grateful for and excited to dive into.
Marina
Verified
30/03/2024
On Campus
Invest in your knowledge
Bocconi offers plenty of opportunities to grow as a person and as a professional. I was able to both broaden my interests and deepen existent knowledge during my Master's degree in Finance. It's very challenging, but the result is totally worth it. Bocconi has a very impressive reputation across the world, which allowed me to have an internship at my dream company.
Tara
Verified
1/04/2024
On Campus
A University Ripe with Opportunity
As a first year Masters in International Management student, the global perspective, abundant learning opportunities and networking opportunities were the main aspects that drew me towards pursing my studies at Bocconi. And Bocconi has delivered in full on these promises.
In my classes I have really valued the more application based approach which centres around collaboration with peers from around the world. There are also so many opportunities for learning outside the classroom through supplementary activities, societies, guest lectures and other events hosted by the university!
The networking opportunities and career services are world class. The university regularly hosts events like Bocconi
Martina
Verified
1/04/2024
On Campus
Environment and experiences
Entering Bocconi, I was shy and uncertain. I was surprised to discover a supportive community that not only challenged me academically but also encouraged me to come out of my shell. I found myself surrounded by lifelong friends who turned out to be an invaluable support for me.
Despite my initial indecision, my chosen course (Economics and Management for Arts and Culture) proved to be the perfect fit, seamlessly blending rigorous economic principles with insights into the cultural landscape. I found myself immersed in a dynamic environment that fostered healthy competition, pushing me to excel while simultaneously supporting my personal growth.
Reflecting on my period at Bocconi, I can confidently say it was the best time of my life. Through unforgettable experiences in students associations, internships and study-abroad periods, Bocconi accompanied me from adolescence into adulthood. It provided me with the confidence and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the real world, offering me an environment where I could flourish both academically and personally.
Erik
Verified
2/04/2024
On Campus
Great programme in MSc Finance
I have done the MSc in Finance, and I am extremely happy with it.
The quality of the education is really good, and has more than prepared me for my job in Asset Management after my studies. There are also a lot of group projects and labs in the classes which lets you try things in practice.
In addition to this, there are a lot of good student associations for finance which allows you to connect with a lot of really brilliant people.
Student
Verified
2/04/2024
On Campus
My Experience at Bocconi University
Bocconi University offers a great deal of programs. The small classes make it easy for students to interact with professors, all very experienced in their field, and not only care for the students' life inside the classroom but also for their lives outside, providing many amazing extracurricular activities, from sports, and associations to theater and singing. Overall, a great experience!
Student
Verified
4/04/2024
On Campus
Excellent university providing a great preparation
I have chosen Bocconi University for both my bachelor's and master's degree and I am extremely satisfied with my experience and the preparation the institution has given me, both academically and to be equipped to enter the job market. The programs are very international, which has allowed me to make friends from all over the world, and the university offers a wide range of interesting courses, both in Italian and in English, which often combine a theoretical strong preparation together with practical applied projects. Bocconi also has a great and efficient career service that organizes useful events to get ready for the job market, meet employers and network with companies. I have also appreciated the presence of over a hundred student associations, which has allowed me to pursue some interests of mine while meeting students from several different courses and gainining more practical experience through additional projects.
Anna
Verified
8/06/2024
On Campus
Friends for life!
As I come to the end of my time here at Bocconi university, I have come to understand how lucky I was to end up at this school. I was lucky because I had the freedom to explore my academic possibilities, and discover how great I can be. I'll forever hold the friends I've made dear to my heart.
Maria
Verified
28/06/2024
On Campus
More than a degree
I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at Bocconi University. The professors were exceptional, showing great passion for their subjects. I had numerous chances for professional growth and preparation. In addition to earning a degree, I acquired priceless practical knowledge and a strong professional network. I highly recommend it!
Pritish
Verified
2/10/2024
On Campus
A place for learning through collaboration
The 2 years of my Master of Science program have been the experience I sought after my Bachelor's in India. Bocconi emphasized theoretical and practical ways of learning, which involved collaboration among my course peers and those in other universities and organizations. I feel more prepared to enter the workforce having realised the areas of my interest and following the pursuit of skills that will enhance my career trajectory.
Tara
Verified
2/10/2024
On Campus
Opportunities ripe for the taking
Bocconi University offers an exceptional educational experience, one that I can attest to as a student studying in their Master of Science in International Management programme. The program provides a strong academic foundation in global business practices, while also putting into practice the theory learnt. One of Bocconi's standout features is its robust networking opportunities, with frequent events, guest lectures, and corporate partnerships that connect students with industry leaders worldwide. The university's career services and global alumni network open doors to internships and job opportunities at top international firms, making it a great launching pad for a global career in management.
Student
Verified
29/09/2024
On Campus
An amazing experience!
I love the quality of education I received at Bocconi. Having previously studied Management back in Turkey, coming here to do my masters in Marketing Management allowed me to get much more specialisation regarding my field. I got to know more about the data side of marketing, which brought me a whole other perspective. The school itself has many opportunities to make your university life the best possible experience. I enjoyed the seminars held, the extracurricular activities carried out, the opportunities to join an association, and have also been staying in one of the residences of Bocconi, which has made my life so much easier. Overall, I can say that both in terms of the education I got and the campus life Bocconi provided me, I am very satisfied with everything.
Student
Verified
27/09/2024
On Campus
Quality of the education
Having studied in Spain, US, and UK, I can attest to the quality of education at Bocconi when compared with universities from other countries. The professors are of an extremely high quality, and they are always available for students to answer any doubts or provide any guidance. Bocconi has a competitive environment that demands a high degree of commitment from students. Yet the rewards for this high level of dedication are clear, an excellent education and an amazing student experience filled with deep friendships forged over studying.
Student
Verified
27/09/2024
On Campus
Program with life-long benefits
I am a Chinese student enrolled in the DSBA program at Bocconi. The course structure and content are thoughtfully designed and highly beneficial for aspiring data scientists or business analysts. The curriculum covers nearly all the techniques that employers seek and commonly inquire about during interviews.
Additionally, there are numerous extracurricular opportunities, including music concerts, research seminars, and sports activities. For instance, the campus regularly hosts seminars led by prominent researchers, international company executives, and politicians. I was particularly inspired by one of these seminars, which helped me discover my true passion for research.
I really recommend Bocconi to prospective applicants. Here, you can find your career goal and receive excellent preparation through the dedicated courses and enriching activities.
Student
Verified
10/09/2024
On Campus
Building lifelong connections at Bocconi
The Bachelor in International Economics and Management at Bocconi not only offers academic excellence but also fosters lasting friendships. The diverse student body and collaborative environment create strong personal and professional bonds that endure. These relationships extend beyond the classroom, enriching both your personal growth and global network.
Student
Verified
4/09/2024
On Campus
A first step into the real world.
The strength of Bocconi University lies in its teaching method. Whenever possible, classes and topics discussed refer to real-life case studies, helping students understand the practical applications of the subjects they are studying.
