Study in Portugal - Global Grads

  • Introduction
  • Scholarships
  • Universities
  • Cost

Study in Portugal

Studying in Portugal offers a unique opportunity for international students to experience high-quality education in one of the world's most picturesque and welcoming countries. With its diverse landscapes, friendly culture, and globally recognized institutions, Portugal has become a sought-after destination for those seeking academic excellence and an enriching life experience. Navigating the process of studying abroad, however, can be complex, from choosing the right university to securing visas and financial aid.


This is where Global Grads comes in. As your educational companion, Global Grads is dedicated to simplifying the path to studying in Portugal. We provide valuable guidance and resources to help you make informed decisions, ensuring that your educational journey in Portugal is smooth and successful.

Awesome Image
University Selection

Our experts help you choose the right university, aligning with your academic interests and career goals, ensuring informed decisions.

Awesome Image
Visa Guidance

We simplify the complex Portugal student visa process, ensuring eligibility and streamlined applications for a hassle-free experience.

Awesome Image
Scholarship

Discover international scholarships with our guidance, matching profile and unlocking financial support for education.

Scholarships to study in Portugal

If you are considering studying in Portugal as an international student, you have the opportunity to access various forms of financial support, including scholarships, grants, and bursaries, which are provided by both the government and educational institutions. Specifically, there are scholarships available for those pursuing a Master's degree or conducting Ph.D. research.


The value of these scholarships varies depending on the institution or university you plan to attend. For research programs, you may have your entire tuition fees covered along with a portion of your living expenses.


Government scholarships can be more competitive compared to those offered by universities.

Here are some well-known scholarships:

Scholarship Conducting Body Eligibility Award
Portugal-GRADS Portuguese Global Research Alliance Doctoral Scholarship Portuguese Government Doctoral research students Tuition fees, living allowance, and more
Lisbon City Mayor's Goodwill Ambassador Scholarship Lisbon City Council International students $1,000 to $2,000
Portugal Commonwealth Scholarships Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Citizens of eligible Commonwealth countries Full tuition, living allowance, and more
Portugal Excellence Awards (PEA) Portuguese Ministry of Education Academically excellent international students Full tuition and $500 to $10,000 towards living costs
PT Scholarship Study in Portugal International students pursuing a program in Portugal $10,000
EduPortugal Memorial Scholarship Education Portugal Various categories, including undergraduate and postgraduate students Up to $35,000
Guardian Trust’s Masters Scholarship in Commerce Guardian Trust Master's in Commerce students $15,000
Portugal International Doctoral Research Scholarships (PIDRS) Education Portugal Ph.D. students Full tuition, living allowance, and more

Top Ranked Universities in Portugal

Portugal is home to several esteemed universities, with some of them making their mark in global university rankings. Below is a list of Portuguese universities and their rankings in the QS and THE World University Rankings for 2023.

Universities QS World University Rankings 2023 THE World University Rankings 2023
University of Lisbon #115 #179
University of Porto #189 #251-300
University of Coimbra #224 #301-350
Nova University of Lisbon #257 #351-400
University of Aveiro #311
University of Minho #351-400 #401-500
University of Évora #391
University of Algarve #471 #501-600

Cost to study in Portugal

The cost of tuition in Portugal can vary significantly depending on the field of study. Typically, courses in humanities, arts, and education tend to have lower tuition fees compared to programs in fields like medicine and engineering. Postgraduate courses generally come with higher fees, and the exact cost varies depending on the specific program you choose. On average, graduate course fees can range from €1,000 to €3,000 per year, while undergraduate programs typically cost around €1,200 to €2,500 per year.

Study Program Cost (in €)*
Undergraduate degree €1,200 - €2,500 annually
Master's degree €1,000 - €3,000 annually
Doctoral degree €1,000 - €2,500 annually
MBA €2,500 - €5,000 annually

Cost of living in Portugal for International Students

Portugal is known for its affordability, making it an attractive destination for international students. When considering the cost of living for international students studying in Portugal, it typically amounts to approximately €700 to €1,000 per month. In total, the annual estimated cost of living in Portugal for a family of four is around €28,000.

Understanding Portugal Student Visa Requirements

Understanding the student visa requirements in Portugal is a crucial step for international students planning to pursue their education in this beautiful country. To study in Portugal, you generally need a student visa, which allows you to stay in the country for the duration of your program. The specific requirements may vary depending on factors such as your nationality, the type of course you intend to enroll in, and the length of your stay. Typically, you'll need to provide proof of enrollment in an accredited institution, evidence of sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses, and a valid passport. Navigating these requirements can be complex, but with the right guidance and support, you can ensure a smooth visa application process and embark on your academic journey in Portugal with confidence.

  • Visa Requirements
  • Documents Required
  • Eligibility

Requirement to Study in Portugal

If you are 18 years of age or above and are planning to study in Portugal for more than six months, you need to consider these student visa categories:

  • Tuition-Paid Student Visa: With this visa, you can study full-time for up to four years while having the option to work part-time.
  • Exchange Student Visa: You can study full-time for up to four years in an approved student exchange program.
  • Government Scholarship Student Visa: You have the opportunity to pursue a full-time study program that spans up to four years, funded through a government scholarship or loan.
  • Pathway Student Visa: It is possible to pursue three consecutive courses for up to five years on a single student visa and also have the opportunity to work part-time.

Documents Required for Student Visa Portugal

Check out some of the requirements and documents for obtaining the Portugal Student Visa for study in Portugal as an international student:

  • Offer or acceptance letter from a recognized Portuguese educational institution.
  • Accommodation arrangements or proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses during your stay.
  • Proof of financial means to support your studies and livelihood in Portugal.
  • Health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay in Portugal.
  • Passport valid for the duration of your intended stay in Portugal.
  • Visa application fees - varies depending on your home country.

Eligibility for Study in Portugal

To gain admission to undergraduate programs at universities or colleges in Portugal, achieving strong grades in your 12th-grade examinations is crucial as admissions are often based on these scores.


Additionally, some applicants may be required to submit standardized test scores, such as the National Examinations (Exames Nacionais), for specific programs.


For postgraduate studies, you will need to provide transcripts and scores from your undergraduate degree. Proficiency in Portuguese or English is also essential, and this can be demonstrated through tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, or others.

Service & Processing Includes

Our comprehensive service and processing package ensures that every aspect of your journey, from document check to embassy follow-up, is streamlined for your convenience. Here's a quick checklist of what's included: