Study in Portugal
Southern Europe
Country Overview
Portugal offers international students a captivating blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and high-quality education at affordable costs. With ancient universities and modern institutions, Portugal has emerged as an attractive study destination with a Mediterranean climate, welcoming culture, and a growing number of English-taught programs.
Education System
Portugal follows the Bologna Process with three cycles: Licenciatura (bachelor's, 3-4 years), Mestrado (master's, 1-2 years), and Doutoramento (doctorate, 3-4 years). The country has both public and private universities, with the University of Coimbra being one of Europe's oldest, founded in 1290.
Student Population
Portugal hosts around 65,000 international students from over 170 countries, with significant numbers from Brazil, Angola, Cape Verde, and increasingly from across Europe and Asia. International students make up approximately 15% of the total student population.
Cost of Living
Living expenses in Portugal are among the lowest in Western Europe. Students can expect to spend €600-900 per month, including accommodation, food, and transportation. Lisbon and Porto are slightly more expensive than smaller university cities like Coimbra or Braga.
What Portugal is Famous For
Affordable Education
Tuition fees at Portuguese public universities range from €1,500-7,000 per year for international students, significantly lower than many other European countries while maintaining high educational standards. Many programs offer scholarships for non-EU students.
Engineering & Technology
Portugal has established a strong reputation in engineering, particularly in civil, mechanical, and computer engineering. Universities like Instituto Superior Técnico are internationally recognized for their research and innovation in technologies, renewables, and computer science.
Safety & Quality of Life
Portugal consistently ranks among the safest countries globally, with low crime rates and political stability. The country offers an outstanding quality of life with its mild climate, beautiful coastlines, excellent healthcare system, and relaxed lifestyle.
Gateway to EU Opportunities
As an EU member state, studying in Portugal gives international students access to Erasmus+ exchange opportunities across Europe. Graduates from Portuguese universities can also benefit from post-study work opportunities throughout the EU.
Top Universities
University of Lisbon
Portugal's largest university and highest-ranked institution, formed by the merger of the Technical University of Lisbon and the Classical University of Lisbon. Known for excellence in engineering, natural sciences, humanities, and medicine.
University of Porto
Located in Portugal's second-largest city, it consistently ranks among the country's top universities with strong programs in engineering, medicine, sciences, and arts. Renowned for research output and industry connections.
University of Coimbra
One of the oldest universities in continuous operation in the world, with a UNESCO World Heritage campus. Strong in law, humanities, and sciences with a rich academic tradition and vibrant student culture.
Nova University Lisbon
A young, innovative institution known for business, economics, and interdisciplinary programs. Particularly strong in research with numerous English-taught master's and doctoral programs.
Student Life in Portugal
Accommodation
Options include university residences (€150-300/month), private student residences (€250-450/month), and shared apartments (€200-400/month). Student housing is generally affordable compared to other Western European countries, especially outside Lisbon.
Social Life
Portuguese universities have active student associations that organize cultural events, sports activities, and traditional academic festivities like Queima das Fitas. The ESN (Erasmus Student Network) is particularly active in helping international students integrate.
Work Opportunities
EU students can work without restrictions, while non-EU students with student visas can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holidays. Portugal's growing tech sector, tourism, and international business services offer opportunities for English speakers.
Travel & Exploration
Portugal offers diverse landscapes from stunning beaches to mountains, historic cities to rural villages. The country's compact size makes weekend trips easy, with affordable public transportation. Flights to other European destinations are frequent and reasonably priced.
Application Requirements
Undergraduate Programs
- • High school diploma or equivalent
- • Academic transcripts
- • Portuguese language proficiency for Portuguese-taught programs (CIPLE/DEPLE certificate)
- • English proficiency for English-taught programs (IELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL iBT 80+)
- • Letter of motivation
- • Copy of passport/ID
- • Passport-sized photographs
- • Application fee (varies by university)
Postgraduate Programs
- • Bachelor's degree or equivalent
- • Academic transcripts
- • Language proficiency (Portuguese or English)
- • CV/Resume
- • Letters of recommendation (typically 2)
- • Statement of purpose
- • Research proposal (for some programs)
- • Interview (for competitive programs)
Visa Requirements
- • University acceptance letter
- • Valid passport
- • Completed visa application form
- • Proof of sufficient funds (minimum €7,200 per year)
- • Health insurance
- • Criminal record certificate
- • Proof of accommodation
- • Visa application fee