UNIVERSITÁ DEGLI STUDI DI BERGAMO
UNIVERSITY OF BERGAMO
THIS GUIDE IS INTENDED FOR EXCHANGE STUDENTS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BERGAMO. IT CONTAINS INFORMATION THAT WE HOPE IT WILL BE USEFUL FOR YOU DURING YOUR EXCHANGE.
WISHING YOU A PLEASANT STAY IN BERGAMO!
A. A 2014/ 2015
Università degli studi di Bergamo, Ufficio internazionalizzazione via S. Bernardino 72/e 24127 Bergamo Tel: 035 2052830 / 831 / 832 / 833 Fax: 035 2052838 E-mail: [email protected]
Chapter 1: before you arrive
Documents to prepare 5 Accommodation service 6 Private Accommodation 7 Visa and Health Insurance 8 Italian Language Courses 9 Intensive Language Courses 10 What is the best way to travel to Bergamo 12 When to arrive and what to bring 14 Pre-departure check-list for EU students 15 Pre-departure check list for NON- EU Students 16
Chapter 2: After you arrive
Arrival procedure- steps 18
Chapter 3: Studying and living
Italian grading system 20 Departments at the University of Bergamo 21 Getting Around-Public transport 23 Academic Calendar 26 Public Holidays in Italy 26 Learning Agreement 27 How to choose courses 27 Examination 28 U.S. Card 28 University Libraries 29 Competence centre languages 30 Canteens 31 University Sports Centre 31 Tandem Project 32 Students Association 32 Further Information 35 F.A.Q 36 International Office Staff 38 About the author 41
ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY: FACTS & FIGURES*:
Formerly the Istituto Universitario di Bergamo, a 6 departments private university set up in 1968, the University of Bergamo has been a State university since November 1st, 1992. 12 bachelor programmes
16 specialist degree courses
The University of Bergamo's strong points are:
• the wide range of academic programmes 1 five-year Degree in Law offered • the excellent facilities available to students: Language Centre, Computer Labs, Library 5 Master's degrees taught in services English • the diversified and increasing number of International Student Exchanges • numerous PhDs, Masters, and post-graduate Specialization Programs 15,415 students, • well organised work placement though the Student Placement Office.
116 Exchange students:
The consolidation of scientific activities which is 331 professors and reached beyond national boundaries is also researchers important. At the University of Bergamo, research activity is carried out by the 6 Departments and by the numerous Research Centres. The University of administrative staffs Bergamo is the administrative site of 16 Research 230 Doctorates; it also hosts prestigious initiatives such as the International Seminar of Russian Language and Culture, Courses in Italian Language and Culture for Foreigners. * in academic year 2012/13
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Your first few days and weeks in any new environment can be disorientating and confusing. International Office of Bergamo University prepared this guide to make sure your arrival in Bergamo is organized and comfortable.
DOCUMENTS TO PREPARE TO COMPLETE APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
First and foremost, you have to make sure that all necessary documents are collected and send them to the International Relation Office. To complete application procedure as an Erasmus/ Exchange student at the University of Bergamo you will be requested to collect documents mentioned below which have to be sent by your Home University.
The on line application Form and the Learning Agreement duly signed and stamped by the home institution’s coordinator .
The official Transcript of Records (listing all exams taken at Home University prior to departure)
a certificate of Exchange/Erasmus status and grant assigned, issued by Home University;
a copy of adequate health insurance for non EU students or Health Insurance Card (or equivalent) for EU students;
a copy of valid ID card for EU students or passport for non EU students;
one passport-size photo (to be attached directly on the application form)
the application form for the Italian Language Course
Students are required to fill in, submit and print the online application Please note that though most Online ECTS Application Provisional courses do not differ from one Form and Learning Agreement: year to the next, the semester www.unibg.it/incoming > “Admission and in which the courses are held, Registration. might change. The present ECTS Guide is usually uploaded between the end of July and Departments officially early August each year. In the meantime, approve class schedules, students must rely on the ECTS Guide around the end of July/beginning published on :www.unibg.it/ects>Degree of August Programmes)
ACCOMMODATION
One of the most important thing to Before renting a room arrange when coming to the University is check on the map where where you are going to live. You have to exactly your department and flat are decide which type of accommodation you located, to ensure the most convenient want before arriving in Bergamo. Our Accommodation Service, designed connection especially for Erasmus/Exchange Students, helps you to settle quickly and easily.
Accommodation Service at the University of The service is completely free and reserved Bergamo to exchange/Erasmus students only.
As an Erasmus/ Exchange Students you will All students pay a deposit fee of € 300,00 be given the chance to rent a flat through to be refunded at the end of tenancy. the Accommodation Service of the Rents are to be paid to the owners monthly, University of Bergamo. at the beginning of each month. The contract registration fee is approximately How to apply? € 80,00. Before departure students are Reservation of the housing is possible only required to pay the owner a final cleaning through the online platform available at the charge of € 30,00. website- www.unibg.it/accommodation. Responsible for Accommodation applications are open: Accommodation Service • after June 15th (for Winter Semester/ or all academic year) • after November 1st ( for Spring Semester).
Before you apply, please make sure you have first completed the Admission/ Registration procedure and mailed all relevant forms to the International Relations Office( see page 5 ). You will not be able to access the Accommodation Service, unless CENTRO STAMPA -Università degli studi di the required documents have been completed. Bergamo After that, you may request for your login Address: - via dei Caniana 2 ( Città Bassa) and password by filling the online Tel.: +39 035 2052555 Fax: +39 035 2052614 application. Only then, you can enter the E-mail: [email protected] database and see all available rooms provided with descriptions, pictures and prices. Office hours: Monday to Friday - 9am to 7 pm (in August: 9am to 1pm), Saturday 9a.m- You can choose in what kind of room you 1p.m). would like to stay ( double or single). Most of the rooms are with the Internet access. The flats are fully furnished. However, bed linens and towels are not provided. 6
Private Accommodation: Below, there are some addresses of hostels where you can stay for a couple of days: Otherwise, you can choose to stay in a private apartment (to share or to live alone) in Bergamo. However do not A. I. G. Nuovo Ostello della Gioventù di book this kind of accommodation Bergamo through a website. If you want to live in Via G. Ferraris, 1 - 24123 Bergamo private rented accommodation, we Telefono: +39.035.3692376 advise you to stay in temporary Email: [email protected] accommodation and look for another www.ostellodibergamo.it place after you are in Bergamo.
CentralHostelBG,
Via Ghislanzoni 30,24122 Bergamo Telefono: (+39) 035 211359 Email: [email protected] www.centralhostelbg.com
If you wish to live with Italian students it is always a good idea to check students notice boards located at each department.
Do you know…
Electricity in Italy is 220 volts. For comparison, in the United States it is 110 volts. Make sure your devices are designed also to 220 volt, otherwise you will need a voltage converter. Regardless of voltage, if your devices has flat prongs, you will need a plug adapter.
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VISA AND HEALTH INSURANCE FOR INCOMING STUDENTS:
EU STUDENTS: NON EU STUDENTS:
1. EU students should have a valid 1. VISA passport or ID card and after reaching Bergamo must apply for Codice Fiscale Non EU students must apply for a (see page: 18) ‘Study Visa’ prior to departure at an Italian Embassy or Consulate. 2. HEALTH INSURANCE: Students are strongly recommended to start this procedure well in advance EU students should bring with them the of their period abroad. European Health Insurance Card
2. Non EU students must apply for
residency (Permesso di soggiorno)
within 8 days of arrival ( see page: 18)
3.HEALTH INSURANCE
Non EU students may choose one of *Please note that medical the following options: treatment without coverage is very expensive! □ Subscribe a private health insurance policy in their home ** More details will be country, and obtain from the provided by International Office competent Italian Consulate a on arrival statement of its validity for Italy.
□ Subscribe a health insurance policy with the Italian National Health Service. The service is offered at a cost of €149,77 which must be paid at the Post Office through the postal account n. 379222 of the Amministrazione P.T. Regione. On the Payment slip under “causale (reason for payment) students should write Iscrizione Volontaria al S.S.N. - Servizio Sanitario Nazionale - The National Health Service.
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ITALIAN LANGUAGE COURSES:
Every year the University of Bergamo, in available for you, depending on your collaboration with the CIS - Centro di preferences: The courses usually start at italiano per stranieri - ricerca, the beginning of each semester and formazione, didattica, offers semester last 15 weeks. The courses consist of two courses of Italian language and culture two-hour classes a week and are held to Erasmus and Exchange students. in the ancient Upper Town of Bergamo. At the end of each course students will Italian Language Courses are not receive a certificate of attendance. obligatory but highly advisable while you will stay in Italy for some period. All students are obliged to take a There are several types of courses placement test at the start of the course (on the first day) in order to determine their proficiency. Classes will then be formed according to level (beginners A1, elementary A2, pre- intermediate B1, post-intermediate B2, advanced C1-C2)
Upon request and depending on the number of participants, the following courses are also be running in both semesters:
- ITALIAN BUSINESS LANGUAGE : a 3 ects course specifically designed for post-intermediate and advanced business students but open to all exchange students.
- ITALIAN CULTURE : a 3 ects course specifically designed for intermediate, post-intermediate and advanced students.
- WRITING SKILLS : a 3 ects course specifically designed for post-intermediate and advanced students.
Students may enrol in ONE General Course of Italian Language per semester + Business Language Course or the Writing Skills Course or the Italian Culture Course, in addition to the Intensive Language Courses 9
The intensive Italian language course is mostly designed for beginners CEFR A1/A2 and it is offered at the beginning of each semester.
Erasmus students can choose the appropriate intensive language course
From 08 to 13 September 2014
1- FALSE BEGINNER ITALIAN COURSE (A1+) 2- ELEMENTARY ITALIAN COURSE (A2) 3- ACADEMIC ITALIAN FOR FIRST ECONOMICS (INTERMEDIATE AND POST-INTERMEDIATE STUDENTS, 15 SEMESTER HRS)
From 22 to 27 September 2014
4- ELEMENTARY/PRE-INTERMEDIATE ITALIAN COURSE (A2+/B1) 5- ACADEMIC ITALIAN FOR HUMAN STUDIES (INTERMEDIATE AND POST- INTERMEDIATE STUDENTS, 15 HRS)
From 26 to 31 January 2014
1- FALSE BEGINNER ITALIAN COURSE (A1+) SECOND SEMESTER From 02 to 07 February 2014
2- ELEMENTARY / PRE-INTERMEDIATE ITALIAN COURSE (A2+/B1)
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Please note that the University of Bergamo requires B2 level of Italian Language.
If you don’t have the required level you can attend a
Which also offers cultural and recreational activities. More information at http://www.unibg.it/struttura/struttura.asp?cerca=cis_corso_estivo
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WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO TRAVEL TO BERGAMO?
The next step is to decide what means of transport you prefer to take. Bergamo is situated in the centre of Lombardy, about 45km from Milan. It can be reached by air train or car (it’s on the A4 Milan- Venice motorway).
ORIO AL SERIO Airport
Probably the best option for you is to fly directly to Bergamo. The ORIO AL SERIO Airport (see: www.orioaeroporto.it) is approximately 5 km from the city centre and 45 km from Milan. It is connected to many Italian and European destinations, and is known for its large number of law- cost airlines.
A Shuttle Bus Service (Bus 1C) is available every 30 minutes and tickets can be bought at the airport (€2.10 for a single ticket into town). You can also get a taxi (Radio TAXI 035/4519090) for approximately €16- 20.
MILANO LINATE Airport
If you cannot find a flight to Bergamo airport, we advise you to get a flight to MILANO LINATE Airport ( see: www.sea-aeroportimilano.it), located 7 km from Milano centre (not Milano Malpensa which is 45 km from Milan). You will then need to get from Linate airport to Stazione Centrale Milano for a train to Bergamo (we suggest you go to Lambrate Station as it is a shorter ride). In order to do so: - either buy a bus ticket for STAZIONE CENTRALE at the STARFLY (www.starfly.net) near Arrivals. - take a taxi at the arrivals: apprx price from the airport to Milano centre, €30,00.
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MILANO MALPENSA Airport
If your flight arrives at MILANO MALPENSA Airport (www.sea-aeroportimilano.it ), the journey time to get to Bergamo is quite a bit longer:
- the best option is to take the ORIO SHUTTLE which goes from Malpensa to Orio al Serio Airport, or directly to the city of Bergamo ( Via Furetti 17). http://www.orioshuttle.com/Bergamo-Orio-al-Serio_Milano-Malpensa.cfm One ticket costs €18, €16 if bought on-line, and the journey takes 2 hours. There are seven daily runs from Monday to Friday, three daily runs on Saturday and holydays. - Otherwise, you can take the Malpensa Shuttle AIR PULLMAN (www.malpensashuttle.it) to Milano “Stazione Centrale”. Departures are every 20 min. from Terminal 1 A ticket costs €7,50. - From Milano Stazione centrale to Orio al Serio airport (ORIO SHUTTLE) a ticket costs €7,00. - Another – less convenient – solution (too many connections involved), is to take the Malpensa Express Train that leaves every 30 minutes www.malpensaexpress.it (terminal 1- Floor 1) to Milano Cadorna Railway Station (Underground Red/ Green Line). Then from there the underground either to Lambrate Railway Station or to Milano Stazione Centrale, before getting a train for Bergamo.
Taxis are quite expensive. You can get one at the Arrivals (approximately €90,00 to go to Milano Stazione Centrale)
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WHEN TO ARRIVE AND WHAT TO BRING:
It is important that you arrive with complete the accommodation plenty of a spare time before the start procedure. of the courses that you are going to take. Students are strongly advised to arrive at least one week before the start During the first week of each semester, of classes (two weeks for those a WELCOME DAY is organised for all attending the Intensive Italian incoming students. Students will also be Language Course). This will give you given a tour of the facilities and meet sufficient time to enrol at the University Bergamo students. of Bergamo, organise your class schedules, apply for residency, and
TOP TIPS ☺
® open an bank account that does not charge you for transactions in other countries! Otherwise, be prepared to open a local account
® Make copies of all important documents (i.e. ID, passports, visa etc) and keep them separately with the originals. Don’t forget to leave copies of all important documents at home. If you do happen to lose any of them, it will be much easier and faster to replace them.
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FOR EU STUDENTS:
Check them off once you have completed each tasks
Send email to the International Office to confirm your arrival
Send Travel Information Form
Take valid Identity Card or Passport
Take European Health Insurance Card for medical assistance, or other forms or insurance documents required in Non-EU countries
Take enrolment certificate from Home University
Secure adequate accommodation ( to avoid time consuming house searching
Take a document stating the student's LLP/ERASMUS or International Exchange status
Take a passport-sized photographs (for documents to be issued in Italy)
Apply for the Italian Language Course
Take any documents which may be helpful when opening a bank account.
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FOR NON EU STUDENTS:
Send email to the International Office to confirm your arrival
Send Travel Information Form
Take valid Passport
Secure adequate accommodation (to avoid time consuming house searching)
Take enrolment certificate from Home University
Take Health Insurance Documents Take a document stating the student's LLP/ERASMUS or International Exchange status
Take passport sized photos (for documents to be issued in Italy)
Other documents necessary for the issue of Residence Permit ( see page)
Apply for the Italian Language Course
Take any documents which may be helpful when opening a bank account
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AAARRRRRRIIIVVVAAALLL PPPRRROOOCCCEEEDDDUUURRREEE PERMESSO DI SOGGIORNO (compulsory only for not EU students) Only NON EU Students must apply for the SSSTTTEEEPPPSSS::: Residence Permit ‘Permesso di soggiorno’ within 8 days after their arrival. All non EU students need a residence permit for a stay longer than three months. An appointment will be First thing you have to do after your scheduled by International Office at Patronato arrive is to finalize your registration, in (UIL). At the appointment with Patronato NON order to do so, you have meet with the EU students must bring: International Office staff. - a stamp worth 14,62 euro ( which is called ‘ marca da bollo’ must be bought at any local tobacconist’s shop - a statement issued by the International Office CODICE FISCALE - the acceptance letter from the University of Bergamo sealed by the All exchange students are obliged to Italian Consulate of the Home Country get ‘codice fiscale’ from AGENZIA - a copy of the whole passport, showing DELLE ENTRATE DI BERGAMO. Codice entry visa fiscale is necessary to sign - a copy of the health insurance policy, accommodation contract or to open a bank valid throughout Italy and for the entire account. All Exchange students must go to the period of study requested in the permit office and present following documents: - to have cash around 100 euros - a copy of the passport or ID ( and original to present) Later to go the Post Office with the appropriate - the confirmation as Erasmus /Exchange documents ( without closing the Yellow students issued by University of Bergamo Envelope called KIT) and pay: - application form completed - 27.50 € for send the issue of electronic permit, NON EU students must go to the office with: - 80 euro fee for the permit - copy of passport (first page and page - 30 € for the application to be send of Visto) - the confirmation as Erasmus/ Exchange The applicant will receive a registered letter students issued by University of Bergamo through the Post Office with the date and - application form completed the time of the first appointment at the Questura ( Police Station). For that appointment students must bring 4 identical passport size photos and all documents in original requested in the KIT ( Yellow Envelope). AGENZIA DELLE ENTRATE:
Address: Via Bonomelli, 1/3, Then, bring the receipt issued by the post office to the International Office. 24122 Bergamo Tel : 035/22 79 211
Office hours: Monday- Friday from 8.30 to 12.30 All students who decided to use Tuesday- Thursday (14.30- Accommodation Service are requested 16.30) to go to the Centro Stampa to finalize the registration of your room (you need to have codice fiscale number with you).
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ITALIAN GRADING SYSTEM
At the end of semester there is usually a final exam organized. Exams are conducted in written or oral form, or only written, depending on lecturer. The exam is graded out of 30. The minimum grade is 18/30, below this grades exam is considered to be failed. The maximum grade is 30/ 30 or 30/30 cum laude (with honours). Here is a table illustrating the value of the grades comparing to ECTS scale.
30 con lode Con lode (With honours and commendations)
29-30 Ottimo (Excellent)
27-28 Molto Buono (Very Good)
24-26 Buono (Good)
19-23 Soddisfacente (Satisfactory)
18 Sufficiente (Sufficient)
This is the minimum grade for passing an exam).
0-17 Respinto (Fail)
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If you have any questions regarding Departments your courses, ECTS at the University of Bergamo: points, don’t hesitate to contact your Erasmus Coordinator at your Department!
Department of Law via G.B. Moroni 255 -Bergamo Erasmus Co-ordinator Prof. SILVIO TROILO [email protected]
Department of Management, Economics and Quantitative Methods Dipartimento di Scienze aziendali, economiche e metodi quantitativi via dei Caniana 2 (Bergamo, Città Bassa) Erasmus Coordinator: Prof.ssa EDOARDO DELLA TORRE [email protected]
The Department of Human and Social Sciences Dipartimento di Scienze umane e sociali piazzale S. Agostino 2 (Città Alta, Bergamo) Erasmus Co-ordinator Prof. FABIO DOVIGO [email protected]
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Department of Languages, Foreign Literatures and Communication Studies
Dipartimento di Lingue, letterature straniere e comunicazione piazza Rosate 2 - 24129 Bergamo Erasmus Co-ordinator: Prof.ssa CÉCILE DESOUTTER [email protected]
Department of Letters and Philosophy Area didattica di Lettere e Filosofia via Pignolo 123 - 24121 Bergamo Erasmus Co-ordinator: Prof.ssa FRANCA FRANCHI [email protected]
Department of Engineering Dipartimento di Ingegneria viale Marconi 5 - 24044 Dalmine Erasmus Co-ordinator: Prof. Riccardo Riva [email protected] 22
GETTING AROUND- PUBLIC TRANSPORT:
There is a public transport in the city of Bergamo. Please note, that in Italy tickets must A ticket ‘per la città’ can be bought at any newspaper kiosk or be bought before tobacconist’s and costs €1,20. There is also a possibility to buy a boarding any bus. slightly-cheaper-in-the-long-run multiple ticket: ‘un tesserino’ (10 rides cost€ 10,50). Once validated lasts 75 minutes. With the same ticket you can also get a ride with ‘ funicolare’(the cable system which links Città Alta with Città Bassa). However, the best way to get around the city is by foot☺. The city is not very large, and full of splendid views.
HOW TO GET TO ?:
Citta Bassà take bus number 5 1. Department of Law (via Moroni) Every 15 min leaves from Stazione, reaches Porta 2. Department of Management, Nuova, Zambonate, S. Economics and Quantitative Methods Bernardino, Moroni (via dei Caniana)
3.International Office (via S. Bernardino 72)
Canteen, via dei Caniana 2
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Città Alta:
1. The Department of Human and Social Sciences (S. Agostino 2)
2.Department of Languages, Foreign Literatures and Take bus number 1 A/B/ C Communication Studies (piazza Rosate 2) or funicolare, otherwise take a 30 min walk in wonderful surrounding 3.Department of Letters and Philosophy (via Pignolo 123)
4.Via Salvecchio (some classes for the Department of Languages are held there)
Via San Lorenzo (canteen)
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Dalmine (Bus no.5 or 10):
1) Department of Engineering- viale Marconi 5
2) Canteen- via Pasubio 7
3) C.U.S. - via Verdi 56
For detailed hours and routs check the website: www.atb.bergamo.it the side is available also in English!
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ACADEMIC CALENDAR:
Academic Calendars in the University of Bergamo depends on the department where you will study. They The Academic Calendar for may differ a little bit from one year to another. each Department will be However, usually first semester starts in the mid of available from June onwards at September and lasts till the last January (with the exam www.unibg.it/incoming session included). Second semester lasts approximately CHECK THE ECTS GUIDE! from February and can last until the mid of September (depending on the courses and exams you will choose to take).
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS IN ITALY:
1 January New Year’s Day (Capodanno)
6 January Epiphany (Epifania)
Monday after Easter Monday (Lunedì dell'Angelo, Pasquetta)
25 April Liberation Day (Festa della Liberazione)
1 May International Workers' Day (Festa del Lavoro)
2 June Republic Day (Festa della Repubblica)
15 August Ferragosto (Ferragosto)
1 November All Saints (Tutti i santi)
8 December Immaculate Conception (Immacolata Concezione)
25 December Christmas Day (Natale)
26 December St. Stephen's Day (Santo Stefano)
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SUBMIT YOUR LEARNING AGREEMENT: All information which could be useful for planning your schedule are Another important thing you available at the unibg website. have to decide is the subjects you are going to take during your study period. Information about courses programmes: Before coming to Bergamo you were obliged to prepare your Learning www.unibg.it > Didattica > Dipartamenti- Agreement. Didattica > choose your department > Insegnamenti, piani di studio e materiali didattici EXCEPTIONAL CHANGES: In case, you > Insegnamenti ( choose current year) need to change subjects or some of your lectures are overlapping you will While choosing your courses, please be given time and possibility to change pay attention to the number of credits it. After a given deadline, the Definitive given. Courses in the University are Learning Agreement cannot be divided into Attività didattiche single changed! (single courses) and Attività didattiche composte (courses compounded). Courses compounded are consisting of 2 or more subjects, and number of credits is appropriately higher.
It is always a good Further information about the idea to talk to the timetables: professors and
introduce yourself www.unibg.it > Didattica > Dipartamenti- before the Didattica > choose your department > Orari beginning of lezioni classes. Information about professors’s office hours:
www.unibg.it > Didattica > Dipartamenti- Didattica > choose your department > Orari ricevimento
Information about all dates of exams for the whole academic year:
www.unibg.it > Didattica > Dipartamenti- Didattica > choose your department > Esami> Calendario e verbalizzazioni > Callendario appeli annuale
HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR COURSES?
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EXAMINATIONS
The dates of the exams are In the University of Bergamo you available in advance for must register for the exams. You can the whole academic year. register for the exams until 5 days It may be useful before the exam date planning your departure!
How to register for exams?
www.unibg.it > Sportello Internet per gli studenti > Login > Nome Utente ( XXXXX) – Password- OK > Choose the exam and click on the date you want to take the exam on> Register > Procedi
UNIVERSITY STUDENT’S CARD (U.S. CARD)
After having an appointment with the staff of International Office you Having your U.S will finalise the registration. You will be card, matricola and given the individual student number password you can and password which you will serve you easily obtain the during your study period. access to the The U.S Card which confirms that Internet at the you are enrolled as the student of the University University of Bergamo and guarantees you access to:
- all libraries of the University of Bergamo - all computer rooms available at In case of losing your U.S. Card you the University of Bergamo have to: - Centro competenza lingue - fill in the form Duplicato Tessera (Competence Centre Magnetica U.S Card (available in Languages) the International Office) - Service available at ‘ Centro - pay € 35 through ‘bolletino‘ Stampa’ (where you can print (postal transfer) available at the your papers) International Office - to all university canteens - reporting the losing of your U. S. Card to Polizia ( Police Station) or Along with the U.S Card you will be Carabinieri given your individual student number - bring the payment receipt and a (matricola) and password. copy of your report to the police at the International Office. This will issue a new copy In case of theft it is not necessary to pay 35€ for a new cop 28
UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES
The University of Bergamo’s three libraries are the service points of a single library system. Your department’s library is the first and most important port where you can find a suitable environment for studying. However, the services and resources of the other libraries are at your disposal: you can use them in person or, if you need a book or article, you can ask to have it sent to your own library.
Reading rooms offer quiet, comfortable study conditions, books and journals are mostly freely available on open shelving for immediate use, and can also be Your US Card functions taken out on loan or photocopied. Numerous also as borrower’s connection points for students' own lap-top computers ticket: use it at the allow on-line access to further resources. desk when you take books out
Even from home !
All the electronic resources of journals and databases are accessible through Internet
Addresses: Humanities Department Library:
Piazzale S. Agostino,2 -24129 Bergamo OPENING HOURS Tel: 035 2052977 ORARIO BIBLIOTECHE Email: [email protected] Humanities Libraries Monday-Friday : 8.30- 22.00 Economics and Law Library Saturday: 8.30- 12.30 Via dei Caniania, 2 - -24129 Bergamo Tel: 035 2052527 Economic and Law Library Email: www. [email protected] Monday – Friday 8.30 -19.30 Saturday: 8.30 -12.30
Engineering Library Engineering Library Via Einstein- 24044 Dalmine ( BG) Monday – Friday 8.30-19.30 Tel: 035 2052304 Email: [email protected]
More information available
at:
www.servizibibliotecari.unibg.it 29
CENTRO COMPETENZA LINGUE- COMPETENCE CENTRE LANGUAGES
The Competenze centre languages is an inter-department centre providing services for teaching and learning foreign languages.
The Centre makes the following services available to users:
• language courses with audio-cassettes, phonetics Office hours: Monday courses, exercises and mock tests (dictation, to Friday 9.00 a.m. - summarising, translation) grammar books, dictionaries, 7.00 p.m. etc. • multimedia language courses, exercises and tests on Address: via computer, CD-ROM about culture, Internet Salvecchio 19 24129 - connection Bergamo –(Città Alta)
• satellite TV channels (viewing must be booked), E-mail: [email protected] original language films (with glossary and script transcription), videos and documentaries, television web: recordings www.unibg.it/claub • Music CDs (the video library currently holds more than 1,000 titles). tel.: +39 035 2052225
Head: Prof. Giuliano Bernini
During the academic year, students may consult the tutors (language undergraduates or graduates) as regards the choice of materials as well as any language problems. Tutors can be contacted on the phone (+39 035 2052225) or via e- mail: [email protected]
For further detailed and updated information (materials, Tutors' timetables, etc.) students may check the website www.unibg.it/claub
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UNIVERSITY CANTEENS
Canteens are open University of Bergamo offers students low cost, full meals during the lunch from with a varied menu. Monday to Friday From 12.00-14.00 Canteens are located in each department.
• via S. Lorenzo 11 - Bergamo Upper town (Foreign Languages and Literatures, Educational Studies, Humanities) • via dei Caniana 2 - Bergamo (Economy and Law) Erasmus students have • via Pasubio 7 - Dalmine (Engineering). 42,7% discount! ☺
Don’t forget to show
your U.S Card
CUS - University Sports Centre OPENING HOURS:
Monday-Friday 8.30-24.00 The C.U.S. organises and advertises sporting activities Saturday-Sunday and events for the University of Bergamo. Students can 9.00 a.m. – 18.00 p.m. practice sports and exercise. Some excellent sports
equipment is available for their use. Address: via Verdi 56 24044 - Dalmine (BG) It has 14,000 sqm of space, 4,000 of which indoors, with 2 Tel:035 2052328 / 035 playing fields (soccer, basket ball, volley ball ...), 2 gyms where 372819 to practice fitness, aerobics, personal defence and martial E-mail: [email protected] arts, and changing areas (including sauna and Turkish Bath).
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PROGETTO TANDEM- TANDEM PROJECT
It is a free way of intercultural project run by AEGEE- Bergamo, provides learning with a full autonomy of time and opportunity for all University students to place Students of different mother tongues meet with native speakers all around and practise and improve their competences in to put knowledge into practise. pairs. If you want to be in touch with Italian students in order to practice your Italian For further information please contact the you can join the TANDEM project. The language tutors at [email protected]
TO FIND YOUR LANGUAGE BUDDY:
You just need insert your university credentials! Registeron the http://tandem.unibg.it/
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STUDENTS ASSOCIATIONS:
AEGEE
AEGEE (European Students’ Forum) is the biggest interdisciplinary student association in Europe that promotes co-operation, communication and integration amongst young people in Europe. Today it counts 15.000 members, active in more than 240 university cities in 43 European countries.
AEGEE was founded in 1985 in Paris, and thanks to our association, that persuaded in 1986 French President François Mitterrand to support funding for the Erasmus Programme, in the next few months a compromise was worked out between European Member States and the programme was adopted. So, now, if you are here, is even thanks to this “old” association!
In Bergamo AEGEE is present since more than 10 years and has a strong partnership with the University of Bergamo. During the year, we organize several activities for the hundreds of erasmus that “invade” Bergamo!
We organize a film festival with movies in original language, Italian and Bergamasco cooking courses, sports tournaments (football, volleyball, basketball, etc..), aperitifs in language where people can meet and learn each other mother tongue language.
Moreover we organize hiking to the mountains and ski trips, an international dinner where everyone brings its typical food and drink from his country, guided tours of Bergamo and the most beautiful city in Italy (Milan, Venice, Florence, Rome, Verona, etc..) and, of course, several thematic parties!
You can keep in touch with us on our website (www.aegeebergamo.eu) or on our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/aegee.bg)
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ERASMUS STUDENT NETWORK:
ESN in general:
Erasmus Student Network (ESN) is one of the biggest interdisciplinary student associations in Europe: it was born in 1989 and its aim is to support students that participate to exchange programs. ESN is present in more than 424 Universities from 36 countries and our network is constantly developing and expanding. In Italy there are 49 sections and ESN Bergamo is at its 2 years of life.
ESN Bergamo: We are willing to help students from abroad to settle in our nice city and to know the Italian culture at its best! We help foreign students to know each other and to integrate with Italian students, we organize parties and trips all over Italy. Moreover we are committed with serious programs such as Social Erasmus and Exchange Ability. We are all volunteers and we work to spread European culture and to understand different way of thinking!
ESN Bergamo mail: [email protected] fb: ESN Bergamo web: www.esnbergamo.it
Find us on Facebook to be always up- to- date with our programme of events prepared for Erasmus students like you!
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FURTHER INFORMATION:
I. A. T Informazioni e Accoglienza Turistica (I. A. T) - Tourist Information Points in Bergamo are located:
o I.A.T Tourist Offices of Lower Town (at Urban Center, Piazzale Marconi, near railway station), tel. +39 035210204 o I.A.T. Tourist Offices of Upper Bergamo (Via Gombito 13, at Gombito Tower), tel. +39 035242226 o Turismo Bergamo (Urban Center, Piazzale Marconi, near railway station), tel. +39 035230640 o Turismo Bergamo (Orio al Serio Airport, Arrivals Area), tel. +39 035320402
THEATRE:
The Gaetano Donizetti Theatre is located in the city centre of the lower town. The closest bus stop is Porta Nuova. Students of the University of Bergamo can get a reduced rate on theatre tickets by showing their US Card when booking during show season at Teatro Donizetti in Bergamo. Further information is available at www.unibg.it/uniteatro
TELEPHONE SERVICE
In Italy country code from outside the country is 39. is +39 Area code ( in Bergamo): 035
Emergency calls:
The number for medical emergencies in Italy is 118. Emergency services, provided in the emergency room of hospitals, are free of charge. Emergency calls are free from all phones. Hereby are other emergency phone numbers, which may turn out useful during your stay in Italy.
• 112 - Carabinieri • 113 - Emergency Police Help Number (also ambulance and fire) • 115 - Fire Department • 116 - A.C.I. (Italian Automobile Club) road assistance. • 118 - Medical Emergencies
POST OFFICE: Bergamo’s main post office: Address Via Locatelli 11 Phone: +39 035 453 2211 Open hours: 8.30 am- 7 pm ( Monday- Friday), 8.30 am-12 pm Saturday
TAXI: Radio Taxi, tel. +39 0354519090 35
F.A.Q
1. Can I be picked up at the airport?
The University of Bergamo does not provide the pick-up service. However, depending on the date and time of your arrival, we will try to arrange for an ex-Erasmus student or a member of the students association (AEGEE, ESN) in Bergamo, to pick you up or meet you at the office.
2. How can I improve my Italian?
There are plenty of opportunities for you to improve your Italian. There are university courses organized for exchange students (page 10). You are also welcomed to take advantage of EILC courses granted by European Commission. The Intensive Courses take place at the beginning of each semester ( see page:) Moreover, you can be part of TANDEM Project, initiative designed for students to practise new language with university fellows.
3. Where can I buy some food just after my arrival?
The supermarkets in Bergamo ( Esselunga, Auchen, Coop) are open every day . Usually, Monday- Saturday ( 8.00- 21.00) and Sunday, from 9.00 until 14.00. Check the websites (orario di apertura) to be-up –to- date!
4. Where can I find lockers to leave my luggage, in case I need it after my arrival?
In Bergamo city, lockers can be found in two places:
1) Urban Center, bus station Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday from 9 a.m. to 7. p.m. to leave luggage. 24/24h to collect luggage. Info: +39 035 5293888 www.eco-rent.it
2) Caravaggio Airport: Arrivals area € 4,00 per item per day Info: +39 035 318472 www.orioaeroporto.it
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5. Where can I go shopping?
The main shopping streets in Bergamo are located in the Città Bassa: via Sant’Alessandro, via XX Settembre and via Torquato Tasso. In the città Alta you can also find some nice shops in via Colleoni. The bigger shopping centre is OrioCenter Shopping Center is located in front of International Airport of Orio al Serio.
6. Is it safe to drink water ?
Thanks to the mountains, it is safe to drink water from the tap in Italy. Also in the city you can find public fountains where water is clean and safe. Like all the rest you can easily stop to take a drink instead of carrying a bottle of water around.
7. Where can I buy medicines in case I need it?
In Italy you can buy medicine at any ‘Farmacia’ (Chemistry) , where you can find prescription drugs as well as over the counter drugs. Bergamo’s chemists are open from Monday to Friday from 8.30 am to 12.30 pm and from 3.30 pm to 7.30 pm. Addresses of chemists are open all day long or/ and during weekends are posted on the pharmacies.
8. Where can I obtain medical service in case I need it?
Every district of Bergamo are provided with Azienda Sanitaria Locale. A.S.L (www.asl.bergamo.it) is place where all healthcare facilities and consulting rooms are gathered. There you can also find doctors surgeries existing in your district. For the nearest ASL you can ask at a chemist’s. However, if you need a dentist visit, it’s better to go to private one, because state- run dental office have very long waiting list. Remember that emergency services in the emergency rooms in hospitals, are free of charge.
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UFFICIO INTERNAZIONALIZZAZIONE INTERNATIONAL OFFICE STAFF
Location: via S. Bernardino 72/e 24127 – Bergamo
Office hours: Tue 10.00- 12.00 14.00-16.00 Thu 10-00-12.00 14.00-16.00
Tel.: +39 035 2052830 / 831
/ 832 / 833
E-mail: [email protected]
webiste: www.unibg.it/relint The International Office is located via S. Bernardino, 72 (2nd floor - room 20/22), just off the via dei Caniana building. If you find the gate closed, please ring the door bell with “Università degli studi di Bergamo” written on it. During arrival period, our office will be open every day of the week, except Friday afternoon, from 9 to 12 and from 2
pm to 4 pm.
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Vice- Chancellor of International Relations:
Prof. Giuliano Bernini e-mail: [email protected] Tel: +39 0352052420
Staff manager : Vocational, Traineeship and International Programs
Ms. GOTTI Elena [email protected]
Head of unit:
Ms. RIVA Maria Paola [email protected]
International Relations Office staff
Ms. DELLA CIOPPA Giovanna [email protected] (Exchange programs)
Ms. DI MARCO Annamaria [email protected] (INCOMING students officer) 39
Mr. DONIZETTI Marco [email protected] OUTGOING students officer
Ms. FERRARI Rita [email protected] OUTGOING students officer
Ms. PLEBANI Milena [email protected] INCOMING students officer
Mr. VALSECCHI Daniele [email protected] OUTGOING students officer
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About the author:
This guide was realized in the framework of the Erasmus Placement programme. Below are some words from its author, Aleksandra Zieba.
Hello! I am a Polish student from KUL in Lublin (PL) and carried out my Erasmus placement at the International Office of the University of Bergamo, where among my duties I was also in charge of the guide you have just read. I have stayed for a whole semester and I was enthusiastic about my experience. It was a great opportunity for me to get to know a culture in depth and to learn to work in a foreign language: I feel I have learnt so much and it seems to me that time has flown! Realising this guide was a long, demanding task as I had to retrieve a lot of information about the city and then organise it into a text and a graphic layout. I had no previous experience of this sort of job, but in the course of it I realised I really liked it! That is just one of the many things my internship has allowed me to find out.
I also found out that Bergamo and its University are a great place to be and study, and I am already looking forward to coming back. For this reason, I am very grateful for the opportunity the Erasmus Placement programme has offered me. I hope many of you will also take this chance and start their international adventure
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