the "scuola normale superiore di pisa" is an exception. it is a special institution, totally different from any other university in italy. basically, its philosophy is to admit only the best of best and the most motivated student. you have to be extremely excellent in you subject, and you must maintain your excellence while you study there (for example, if you manage to pass the exams to do your undergraduate there, you have to keep your exam results above a certain level, otherwise you get kicked out of the school). in exchange, it is free (or paid in same cases) and gives you one of the best possible education in the world. basically, you go there if you are an incredible genius/nerd and you wish to dedicate your whole life and free time to your subject. bologna is a normal university, so its policies are similar to all the other unis in italy. however, i'm italian and i really dont suggest you to come study here. seriously. if you want to see a beautiful country, come here on vacation. what do you study, btw?