Bologna is affordable by Western European standards — but it is not cheap by Pakistani standards. A PhD student on a MAECI scholarship (€900/month) can live comfortably with careful budgeting. A student with no scholarship support would struggle.
Realistic monthly budget breakdown
- Rent — €350–550 for a room in a shared apartment. University dormitory (ERGo borse) is cheaper at €200–300 but competitive. Studio apartments: €600–800.
- Food and groceries — €150–250/month cooking at home. Bologna has excellent local markets (Mercato delle Erbe) for affordable fresh produce.
- Transport — Bologna is extremely walkable. City bus pass: €35/month. University zones are mostly reachable on foot or by bike (€50–100 second-hand).
- Utilities — Usually included in rent for shared apartments. If separate: €40–80/month for electricity/internet/gas.
- Mobile phone — Italian SIM with data: €10–15/month (ILIAD or PosteMobile).
- Health insurance — If on a scholarship: covered. Otherwise: enrol in SSN (Italian public health system) for approximately €150/year.
Total realistic monthly cost
Minimum (shared room, cooking at home): €700–800/month.
Comfortable: €900–1,100/month.
The MAECI scholarship at €900/month covers a minimum budget. The PhD salary of €1,200–1,500/month covers a comfortable lifestyle.
Written by
Dr. Wajid Ali
Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Bologna. Independent education consultant specialising in European admissions, scholarships, and visa guidance for Pakistani students.
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