Study in Portugal as international students: Requirements and more

Portugal is an attractive destination for students thanks to its affordable tuition and cost of living, high-quality education system with 105 higher education institutions and around 4,787 courses, and its vibrant multicultural environment. On top of that, the Mediterranean lifestyle, Portuguese hospitality, and pleasant climate make it even more appealing. If you’re considering studying at a university in Portugal, this guide has everything you need to know as an international student.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of studying and living in Portugal, helping you adapt more easily to the local culture. If you’re interested in studying remotely from Portugal, we’ll also cover the available online education options. Plus, you’ll find useful tips to make your experience in the country as smooth as possible.

How does the education system work in Portugal?

The Portuguese education system is designed to provide comprehensive, high-quality training at all levels. Its structure ensures a smooth transition between academic stages, allowing students to progress toward their goals based on their interests.

Basic and secondary education

In Portugal, basic education is split into three stages and is compulsory from age 6 to 18. The final stage, called secondary education, helps students get ready for university or start their careers.

Higher education

University education in Portugal is divided into three main levels:

• Degree: Duration of three to four years, depending on the program of study.
• Doctorate: Usually lasts three years and is the highest level of academic specialization.
• Master’s degree: The average duration is one to two years and is designed to specialize in specific areas.

In addition, Portugal has polytechnics, institutions that offer training focused on professional practice.

Duration and academic calendar

The academic year in Portugal is usually divided into two semesters:

• First semester: September to January.
• Second semester: February to June. This structure includes exam and vacation periods that vary according to the institution.

International recognition

Portugal is part of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), ensuring the validity of degrees obtained in other member countries.

Requirements to study in Portugal as an international student

Studying in Portugal involves meeting certain academic and administrative requirements. Here’s what you need to know to get started:

Select a study program

Before getting started, take some time to research and choose a program that best matches your interests. Many universities in Portugal offer courses in Portuguese, and quite a few also have options in English.

Prove the required language level

If the program is in Portuguese, you’ll need to show proof of language skills, like the Certificado de Proficiência em Língua Portuguesa para Estrangeiros (CAPLE). For English-taught programs, you’ll usually need to provide a specific score from tests like the TOEFL or IELTS.

Have the required documentation

Basic documents include:

• Valid passport.
• Academic transcripts translated into Portuguese and apostilled.
• Cover letter explaining your reasons for studying in Portugal.
• Updated CV.
• Application form provided by the university.

Meet specific program requirements

Each university and program may have additional criteria, such as interviews, portfolios or recommendation letters.

Student visa

Non-EU students need to obtain a residence visa to study in Portugal. This process involves:

• Presenting a letter of acceptance from the university.
• Prove financial solvency to cover living expenses and tuition.
• Obtain medical insurance valid in Portugal.

Registration at the university

Once admitted, you’ll need to formalize your enrollment at the institution. This process may include the payment of administrative or initial registration fees.

Accommodation

It’s a good idea to start looking for accommodation early. Many universities offer student housing, but you can also consider renting a shared apartment or a room.

Open a bank account in Portugal

As an international student, you’ll need a bank account to manage your expenses while in the country. Most Portuguese banks offer services tailored for students.

Travel arrangements and settling in

Once you’ve got all the paperwork sorted, make sure to plan your arrival in Portugal—book your flight and take care of things like transfer from the airport.

Steps to study in Portugal for international students

Studying in Portugal may seem daunting at first, but with the right planning, it’s much simpler than it seems. In this section, we’ll walk you through everything you need to do to make your dream of studying in this European country a reality. From picking a university to getting settled in, each step will bring you closer to starting an amazing academic journey.

1. Evaluate universities and courses in Portugal

The first thing you’ll need to do when planning to study in Portugal is research and compare your education options. With a variety of public and private universities, as well as polytechnic institutes, there’s something for every interest and academic background.

Tips for choosing a university and program in Portugal:

• Define your academic goals: Identify which area of study interests you and how you plan to use that knowledge in the future.
• Check rankings and accreditations: Universities such as the University of Lisbon and the University of Porto have international prestige and offer internationally recognized programs.
• Research the language of the program: A lot of programs are available in Portuguese, but there is a growing offer of programs taught in English.
• Consult international student reviews: Doing so will help you better understand the academic and cultural experience of each institution.

2. Review financing options for studies in Portugal

After you’ve narrowed down your list of universities and programs, the next step is to plan how you’ll finance your studies. Portugal provides various options for international students, from scholarships to personal funding.

Financing options in Portugal:

• Scholarships for international students: Organizations like the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation and Portuguese government programs offer scholarships based on academic achievement or financial need.
• Erasmus+ scholarships: If you’re studying at a European university, you might be eligible for this exchange program, which helps cover some of your living and tuition expenses.
• International student loans: Some financial institutions offer loans specifically for studying abroad, with terms that are favorable for students.
• Part-time work: Even though the allowed working hours are limited, part-time work can help you cover some basic expenses.

Check out our guide to the best scholarships in Portugal for more details and examples of available programs.

3. Apply to a study program in Portugal

The application process is a key step in securing your spot at a Portuguese university. Make sure to carefully follow the admission requirements and prepare all your documents well in advance.

General admissions process in Portugal:

• Check specific program requirements: Additional tests, interviews or portfolios may be required for some degrees.
• Complete the application form: Most universities have online tools where you can submit your application.
• Prepare your documents: Including academic transcripts, cover letter, CV, and language test results if applicable.
• Pay the application fee: Many institutions require you to pay a non-refundable fee when you submit your application.
• Await a response: You’ll usually be notified if you’ve been admitted within several weeks.

4. Apply for a visa to study in Portugal

If you’re not an EU citizen, you’ll need a student visa to live in Portugal during your studies. Since this process can take a few weeks, it’s best to begin as soon as you get your acceptance letter.

Steps to apply for a student visa in Portugal:

• Obtain an acceptance letter: This document issued by the university is essential to apply for your visa.
• Prepare the required documentation:
  • Valid passport.
  • Completed visa application form.
  • Proof of economic solvency.
  • Medical insurance valid in Portugal.
  • Accommodation reservation.
  • Academic certificates and criminal record, if applicable.
• Apply at the Portuguese consulate or embassy: Be sure to apply for a study residence visa.
• Wait for approval: Processing time varies, but generally takes between 30 and 60 days.

5. Moving to Portugal

Once your visa is sorted and everything is set, it’s time to get ready for your move. This includes taking care of both the practical and logistical aspects to make sure the transition goes smoothly.

Tips for a successful move to Portugal:

• Organize your accommodation: Many universities offer student housing, but if you prefer renting an apartment, make sure to look for options near your campus in advance.
• Prepare your documents for your arrival: Make sure to bring both physical and digital copies of all your important documents, like your visa, passport, and acceptance letter.
• Adjust your budget: Take into account the costs of living in Portugal, which include accommodation, food, transport and academic materials.
• Familiarize yourself with the language: Many people in Portugal speak English, but learning basic Portuguese can make it easier for you to adapt.
• Get to know your surroundings: Take advantage of your first few days to explore your city, the campus and the services available to international students.

Also, look into opening a local bank account and getting a transport card for easy travel. It’s also a good idea to check out the taxes you’ll need to pay in Portugal.

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How much does it cost to study in Portugal as an international student?

Studying in Portugal can be a more affordable option compared to other European countries, but it’s important to consider all the costs involved. Here’s a general breakdown of the expenses you may encounter as an international student, from tuition to living expenses.

Accommodation for students in Portugal

Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses for those who study abroad. In Portugal, you have several options:

• University dorms: They tend to be more affordable than private rentals, with prices ranging from 150 to 300 euros per month ($160 to $320), depending on the university and city.
• Shared apartments: Renting a room in a shared apartment is common among students. Prices vary by location, with average costs ranging from 250 to 500 euros per month ($270 to $540).
• Private apartments: If you prefer your own space, the monthly rent can range from 500 to 1,000 euros ($540 to $1,085), depending on the size and location.

Cities such as Lisbon and Porto tend to have higher prices compared to others such as Coimbra or Braga.

Transport in Portugal

Portugal has an efficient and affordable transport system. As a student, you may be eligible for discounts on transport cards.

• Monthly public transport card: In cities such as Lisbon, it costs around 30 to 40 euros ($32-43) with student discount.
• Individual trips: Each trip costs between 1.50 and 3 euros ($1,63-3,20) depending on the city and means of transport.
• Bicycles or walking: Cities such as Porto are friendly to those who prefer to get around on foot or by bicycle.

Food in Portugal

Food costs can be affordable if you shop in supermarkets and cook at home.

• Meals in restaurants: An inexpensive menu costs between 8 and 12 euros ($8,70-13), while a meal in a nicer restaurant can cost 25 euros ($27) or more.
• Supermarkets: Monthly food costs can be around 150 to 250 euros ($160-270), depending on your spending habits.
• University cafeterias: Some universities offer menus for students at very affordable prices, between 2.50 and 5 euros ($2,70-5,60) per meal.

Tuition and courses in Portugal

Tuition fees vary depending on the university and level of study.

• University degrees: Annual fees at public universities usually range from 950 to 1,250 euros ($1,020 to $1,350), while at private institutions, they can exceed 5,000 euros ($5,400).
• Master’s and doctoral degrees: Postgraduate programs can cost between 1,500 and 3,000 euros ($1,620 to $3,250) per year at public universities, and between 5,000 and 20,000 euros ($5,400 to $21,600) at private institutions.
• Short-term courses: Specific courses are available ranging from 200 to 1,000 ($217-1,086) euros depending on the duration and level.

When and how to homologate degrees and courses in Portugal?

If you’re planning to continue your studies in Portugal or work in a regulated field, you’ll need to have your degree recognized. Here’s what you need to know about when it’s required and how to go about it.

When is it necessary to homologate a degree in Portugal?

• To access university studies: If your previous education is from a different system, you’ll need to have your high school diploma recognized in order to apply to university.
• To practice regulated professions: Degrees such as medicine, law or engineering require the degree to be officially recognized in Portugal.

How is the homologation process carried out in Portugal?

• Identify the competent entity: In Portugal, the organization responsible for recognition is the Direção-Geral da Educação for pre-university levels and the Direção-Geral do Ensino Superior for higher education.
• Gather the necessary documents:
  • Certificate of studies translated into Portuguese.
  • Study plan (for university studies).
  • Transcripts and original diploma.
• Submit your application: Online or directly at the corresponding institutions.
• Wait for the resolution: The process may take several months, depending on the complexity of the case.

Study online in Portugal as an international student

If you’d prefer not to relocate, Portugal offers options for studying remotely. These are great for those looking for flexibility while still receiving a high-quality education.

Online study options in Portugal

• Portuguese universities: Institutions like Universidade Aberta offer fully online programs in fields such as social sciences, education, and technology.
• Short courses and certificates: Platforms such as Coursera and edX collaborate with Portuguese universities to offer virtual courses in specific subjects.
• Virtual exchange programs: Some universities offer online courses through international agreements, making it easier to pursue your education without the need for a visa.

How to enroll in online programs in Portugal?

• Check the academic offer: Check the universities and programs that offer online options.
• Comply with the requirements: You must present the same documentation as for in-person studies.
• Access the learning platform: Most institutions offer a virtual campus where you can attend classes, interact with professors, and complete assignments.

Studying online in Portugal can be an excellent alternative for those looking to combine studies with other responsibilities.

Frequently asked questions about studying in Portugal as an international student

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