Bocconi Online Test vs SAT: Which Should You Take?

To satisfy Bocconi's selection-test requirement you can use the Online Bocconi Test, the SAT, or the ACT. They're treated as alternatives, so the real question is which one gives you the best shot for the least effort. Here's how to decide.

The quick answer

• Already on an American curriculum, or already sitting the SAT? Use the SAT — you're preparing for it anyway, and admitted applicants commonly report scores around 1500+.*
• Anyone else? The Online Bocconi Test is usually the better route: it's shorter, taken online from home, results come back quickly, and it's built specifically for Bocconi admissions.

The selection test is 55% of your admission decision (the other 45% is your third-last and second-last year GPA)^[1], so whichever route you pick, it's worth preparing for properly.

* Bocconi publishes no cutoff and no "competitive" score for any route — the only official number is the 17-point floor on its own test, below which you aren't considered. The 1500+ figure is what admitted applicants report on forums, not a Bocconi threshold.

Head to head

Format and length. The Bocconi Test is 50 questions in 75 minutes, online with proctoring. The SAT is longer and broader, and is built for US college admissions generally rather than for Bocconi.

Where and when. The Bocconi Test is taken from home on Bocconi's platform across the admissions window, with multiple dates. The SAT runs on fixed international test dates at test centres — which can be scarce depending on where you live.

Cost. Each Bocconi Test attempt has a €60 fee. The SAT has its own registration fee (often higher once international surcharges are included), plus travel to a centre.

Retakes. You can take the Bocconi Test up to four times per academic year and use your best score. The SAT can also be retaken, but you're tied to scheduled dates.

Language. The Bocconi Test can be taken in English or Italian. The SAT is in English only.

Preparation transfer. SAT prep is useful beyond Bocconi if you're also applying to US or other universities that take the SAT. If Bocconi is your main target, Bocconi-specific prep is more efficient — you're training the exact format and the negative marking.

How to choose

1. List your other applications. If several also accept the SAT, the SAT does double duty.
2. Check test-centre access. No convenient SAT centre nearby pushes you toward the online Bocconi Test.
3. Be honest about your timeline. The Bocconi Test's flexible dates and quick results suit a tighter schedule.
4. Match it to your strengths. Both reward quantitative ability and careful reading; the Bocconi Test is more compact and faster-paced.

Source: Bocconi University official admissions pages (selection-test routes and the Online Bocconi Test). SAT/ACT details vary by year and region — confirm current fees and dates with the College Board / ACT. BocconiPrep is independent and not affiliated with or endorsed by Bocconi University.