When international students plan to study in Europe, scholarships for international students in Portugal often stand out as a destination that combines academic excellence with cultural richness. Opting to pursue education in Portugal enables international students to access globally recognized universities, affordable tuition fees, and a lifestyle infused with history and modernity. With programs taught in English in disciplines such as engineering, medicine, business, and the arts, Portugal is increasingly regarded as a compelling alternative to traditional study abroad destinations. Moreover, the cost of living is comparatively lower than in Western Europe, making Portugal a practical and attractive choice for students.
For those seeking to integrate education with personal development, studying in Portugal offers much more than classroom learning. From top-ranked universities in Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra to the charm of small, student-friendly towns, Portugal serves as a gateway to both academic and cultural experiences. This blog aims to guide prospective students through the entire process of studying in Portugal, including admission procedures, scholarships, and visa requirements, ensuring they are well-prepared for their academic journey.
Benefits of Studying in Portugal for International Students
- Affordable tuition: Public universities offer programs at reasonable fees of €2,000 – €5,000 per year.
- English-taught programs: Bachelor’s, Master and PHD programs
- Cultural experience: Live in a culturally rich country
- High-ranking universities: University of Porto, University of Lisbon, and University of Coimbra are internationally well-known universities
- Student accommodates lifestyle: affordable lifestyle compared to other countries
- Work opportunities: part-time work opportunities while studying
How to Apply
- Choose a university and program
- Check eligibility requirements
- Prepare necessary documents
- Submit your application online
- Receive your admission letter
Scholarships for International Students in Portugal
One of the main reasons students select Portugal for study is that there’s a wide variety of scholarships designed for financial assistance. These include tuition, travel, and monthly stipends. There are major scholarship categories you can choose from and apply for:
- Portuguese Government Scholarships
- Eligibility: EU and non-EU students, Master’s and PHD programs
- Coverage: Full or partial tuition fees, a monthly allowance (around €800–€1,000), and health insurance.
- Duration: Usually, 6–12 months; the scholarship is renewable depending on academic performance.
- Erasmus+ Scholarships
- Best for: those students who want to continue master’s and PHD programs
- Coverage: Monthly stipend of €850–€1,000.
- Visit the official site https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/opportunities/opportunities-for-individuals/students/erasmus-mundus-joint-masters
University-Specific Scholarships in Portugal
Many Portuguese universities offer scholarships to support talented international students. For detailed eligibility and application guidelines, visit the official website of each university.
- University of Porto Merit Scholarships: Cover tuition fees and provide a living allowance for outstanding students. Visit the University of Porto’s official website for details https://www.up.pt/portal/en/live/student-life/scholarships-and-funding/
- University of Lisbon International Student Scholarships: Offers tuition fee reductions and stipends based on academic merit. Visit the University of Lisbon’s official website for details https://www.ulisboa.pt/en/info/scholarships
- NOVA University Lisbon Scholarships: Provides full or partial tuition waivers for international students in fields like management, law, and social sciences. Visit the NOVA University Lisbon official website for details https://sas.unl.pt/en/scholarships-2/scholarships_/
- Regional and Foundation Scholarships
- Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation Scholarships: Supports postgraduate students, especially in research, arts, and sciences. Visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation official website for details https://gulbenkian.pt/en/bolsas-lista/
- Santander Universities Scholarships: Offers partial funding for tuition and mobility grants. Visit the Santander Universities official website for details https://app.santanderopenacademy.com/en/program/santander-scholarships-skills-santander-universities-scholars-programme
Other Funding Opportunities
- Private Scholarships: Programs such as Fulbright Portugal and other corporate-funded initiatives provide financial support in specific fields. Visit the Fulbright Portugal website for more information https://us.fulbrightonline.org/countries/europe-and-eurasia/portugal/1734
- Research Grants: The Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) offers research grants for PhD and postdoctoral studies. Visit the FCT official website for details https://www.fct.pt/en/financiamento/programas-de-financiamento/
Visa Process for Studying in Portugal
Step 1: Obtain the University offer Letter
Step 2: Book a Visa Appointment
Step 3: Prepare Documents
- Passport copy
- Offer letter.
- Proof of Financial Income
- Health insurance valid in Portugal.
- Proof of accommodation
- Completed visa form
- Passport-size pictures
Step 4: Submit and Attend Interview
Step 5: Receive Visa & Travel
Choosing to study in Portugal as an international student is a fantastic choice that combines top-quality education, affordability, and rich cultural experiences. With reputable universities, programs taught in English, available scholarships, and an easier visa process, Portugal truly welcomes students from around the world. Be sure to start your preparations early, secure your admission, and look into scholarship options to make your study-abroad adventure a memorable success!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Portugal good for international students?
Absolutely! Portugal is a welcoming and affordable destination known for its high-quality education, vibrant culture, and internationally recognized degrees.
Can I work while studying in Portugal?
Yes, international students are allowed to work part-time during their studies to support their living expenses.
What is the average cost of studying in Portugal?
Tuition fees typically range between €2,000 and €5,000 per year, while living expenses are around €600 to €900 per month, depending on the city and lifestyle.
Do I need to know Portuguese?
Not necessarily. Many programs are taught in English, especially at the postgraduate level, but learning some Portuguese can make daily life and social interactions easier.