Why did the University of Paris and the University of Bologna seek papal bulls in 1292?

In 1292, the University of Paris and the University of Bologna sought papal bulls from Pope Nicholas IV to secure the formal authority to confer a universally valid teaching license, known as the jus ubique docendi.1

By the late 13th century, the prestige of a studium generale—a place of study attracting scholars from all regions—had become closely tied to the ability to grant degrees that were recognized everywhere without further examination. While these institutions had previously established their status through reputation and general consent, obtaining a papal or imperial bull became the standard way to solidify this privilege.1

Following this period, the possession of such a bull became the defining characteristic of a studium generale, establishing the principle that no new institution could attain that status without formal sanction from the pope or the emperor.1