Portugal

Europe (Schengen)

Portugal

About

International students are increasingly choosing to study in Portugal due to its appealing combination of pleasant weather, stunning architecture, affordable living costs, and rich historical heritage. Those pursuing their studies in Portugal benefit from a globally recognized academic framework that promises a great study-abroad experience. Compared to other European countries, both the cost of living and tuition fees in Portugal are relatively affordable. The world top ranking universities in Portugal are well-known for their exchange programs. They don’t expect you to speak their language but learning it can always be a fun activity during your stay and study in Portugal. 


Students looking to save money will find that Portugal offers high-quality education alongside a Mediterranean lifestyle at reasonable prices. Portugal is a popular destination for adventure and social engagement. International students can easily visit nearby cities and coastal areas within a single day during their time off.

Portugal

What the Portugal offers

Globally recognized education system

Reasonable tuition fees

Focus on research and practical skills

Cosmopolitan cities

Rich history and culture

Career opportunities

  • Educational opportunities: Portugal maintains an esteemed higher education system that includes numerous prestigious academic institutions.

  • Affordability: Western Europe's cities show Portugal as a region with lower expenses which are especially affordable in its main setting Lisbon.

  • Language immersion: The country offers excellent opportunities for language immersion through its rich cultural and historical environment.

  • Focus on practical skills and research: Academic research serves as the main focus for Portuguese universities but polytechnics provide career-specific trainings too.

  • Career prospect: Students who study abroad in Portugal will find ample job opportunities along with professional development opportunities.

For undergraduate studies, applications to Portuguese universities are made through the centralized online portal Candidatura Online. For graduate and postgraduate studies, students should apply directly on the website of their chosen university. The admission requirements to study in Portugal are a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, health insurance, a letter of acceptance from a Portuguese university, and proof of language proficiency.

Required documents

  • Student visa

  • Valid passport

  • Academic transcripts and certificates

  • Proof of language proficiency

  • Health insurance

  • Completed application form

  • Statement of purpose (SOP) or personal statement

  • Letters of recommendation

  • Proof of financial means

Intake sessions

International students should apply for university admission to Portugal during specific periods in April-May, June-July, and August-September if their courses begin in the autumn or spring terms. University courses in Portugal commence their academic year during autumn or spring time intervals.

Intake 1


March
May

Intake 2


October
December
Student Visa Type Purpose Cost Allowed stay duration
Long-Stay Student Visa (Type D) For students undertaking studies in Portugal for more than 90 days. $200 1 year (renewable)
Short-Stay Student Visa (Type C) For students attending short-term courses lasting less than 90 days. $82.22 90 days (within 180 day period)

For most part you will require:

  • Valid passport

  • Acceptance letter from a recognized university

  • Proof of sufficient funds

  • Health insurance

  • Language proficiency test results

  • Academic transcripts and certificates

  • Health examination reports

  • Proof of residency

Job opportunities in Portugal

If you study in Portugal, you will have plenty of opportunities. Career advancement doors will open to you through both the local startup community and major international businesses. Lisbon and Porto are startup hubs attracting global talent. The tourism and hospitality industry remains a major employer, capitalizing on Portugal's popularity as a tourist destination, while sectors like renewable energy, IT, digital marketing, and customer service are experiencing significant growth.International students studying in Portugal have multiple options for employment across tourism, hospitality, IT and education sectors because of abundant part-time roles in tourist destinations.

Portugal

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