A study pathway for international students toward university-level Mathematics

The project proposes a structured bridging pathway for international students based on the MOOC platform BOOK of the University of Bologna, integrated with PLS tutoring and consolidation activities. The aim is to facilitate the transition from secondary-school mathematics knowledge to PLS laboratory activities and ultimately to the Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics.

Target group: International students who have recently completed upper secondary education, including students holding non-standard secondary qualifications (e.g. UNRWA professional certificates). The programme is intended for students wishing to strengthen their mathematical and language skills in preparation for university studies, as well as for those interested in exploring the role of mathematics in interdisciplinary contexts such as the arts, neuroscience, and related fields.

Duration and structure: The course lasts 10 months, from October 2026 to July 2027. 

Location In-person activities at the Department of Mathematics, University of Bologna.

Maximum number of participants: 2 students

The first phase focuses on guided study and academic orientation. The PLS provides a structured learning path, focused on Italian language and academic skills acquisition. International students are encouraged to follow selected BOOK courses available at https://book.unibo.it/ (with basic mathematics, Italian language, soft skills) with the support of PLS tutors. 

Once students have acquired the necessary foundational skills and Italian proficiency, they progressively access PLS in-person courses and activities. These aim to support the understanding of university-level mathematics and introduce students to further study opportunities and related career paths.

Phase 3 (March – July) | Interdisciplinary project
The final phase is centred on an individual or small-group project exploring the interaction between mathematics and other fields, with particular emphasis on mathematics and the arts, mathematics and neuroscience, and mathematics in society. Students are encouraged to combine their previous educational background with newly acquired mathematical knowledge, by developing an interdisciplinary project under faculty supervision or, where appropriate, by undertaking an internship in a company or other external organisation, jointly supervised by the host institution and a university tutor.

Language Requirements
The course is designed for international students who need to learn Italian and gain an understanding of the Italian higher education system. Applicants must be native speakers of English, French, or Arabic, or demonstrate proficiency in one of these languages at CEFR level B2 or above (or hold an equivalent qualification).