Higher Education in Portugal for Foreigners

Portugal combines a rich history, picturesque landscapes, and a high standard of living, making it increasingly popular among international students. Local universities offer high-quality and affordable education, and close cooperation with the UK opens up opportunities for dual degrees. Studying in Portugal offers European standards at a reasonable cost and a comfortable environment for living and studying.
Culture
Portugal is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, shaped by Moorish, Roman, and maritime influences. The country treasures fado music, famous for its emotional depth, literature (especially the works of Luís de Camões and Fernando Pessoa), as well as visual arts and the distinctive azulejo tiles. National identity is closely tied to the Age of Discoveries, reflected in architecture, monuments, and traditional festivities.
Climate
Portugal has a predominantly Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot, dry summers. Along the Atlantic coast, the weather is more moderate thanks to ocean winds, while in the south, especially in the Algarve, the climate is warmer and sunnier, making it a popular tourist destination. Inland areas can be hotter in summer and cooler in winter.
Economy
Portugal’s economy is diverse, relying on tourism, agriculture (wine, olive oil, cork), fishing, and light industry. In recent decades, the service sector, information technology, and renewable energy have been developing rapidly. Tourism plays a crucial role, especially thanks to the coastline, cultural cities, and wine regions, making the country attractive for investment and international business.
10.7 millionpopulation of the country
17%percentage of international students
81,7 годаaverage life expectancy
6,5%unemployment rate
0.890 human development index

Popular Universities

Peculiarities of Higher Education in Portugal

Bachelor's degreeMaster's degreeDoctoral studies

Специальности

Programs and specialties

Prospects for International Students

Portugal is a magnet for ambitious students from all over the world who want to gain quality academic knowledge, develop practical skills and discover a world of international opportunities. A diploma from a Portuguese university is not just a document, but a pass to the global professional community.

1

The study programmes are certified by international organisations such as EUR-ACE and AACSB, which guarantees a high level of education.

2

A wide range of programmes in English and Portuguese, from business and engineering to arts and sciences.

3

The cost of living is one of the most affordable in Western Europe: housing, food and transport are cheaper than, for example, in France or Germany.

4

Studying in Portugal is not only about lectures, but also about participating in research projects, internships, start-up initiatives and other opportunities.

5

How to apply to Portugal

The admissions process to Portuguese universities varies by university and program, but the general steps are as follows:

Getting into a university in Portugal is real. Yes, it will require effort and preparation, but the dream of studying in Europe is closer than it seems. We help students from the CIS countries to get into Portuguese universities, including programs with scholarships. We know all the nuances, we will suggest the best options, we will help at every stage.

Cost of education in Portugal for foreigners

The cost of education in Portugal for foreign students depends on the level of study, the type of educational institution (public or private), and the chosen program.

In state universities
Плюсик
Плюсик
Плюсик
Плюсик
Плюсик
Плюсик

International students may be eligible for scholarships based on academic or other achievements. The amount of the scholarship depends on the type of scholarship and the conditions of the specific program, and may also partially cover accommodation and meals.

Scholarships for Foreigners in Portugal

Scholarships are available at Portuguese universities for both local and international students. Funding is awarded for academic, scientific and other achievements.

There are several types of financing:
University scholarships

These are academic scholarships (awarded on the basis of academic merit and may cover part or all of the tuition fees) and scholarships for students from low-income countries.

Government Scholarships

These are scholarships for students from non-EU countries (awarded on the basis of financial need and academic achievement) and fellowships (financial grants) for Masters and PhD students.

Exchange programs

Students participating in exchange programmes such as Erasmus+ can receive financial support for their studies abroad. This programme allows them to study at Portuguese universities with a scholarship.

The unique algorithm of our work is aimed at obtaining a decent scholarship, which covers from 50 to 100% of the costs of education. Become our student – sign up for a free consultation.

MentoringSupport from a mentor throughout the entire training process. When every step is carefully planned and the outcome is predictable.
Full supportApplying abroad with a scholarship is a complete solution: strategy, documents, universities, and visas – all in one service.
Personal brand in a yearApplying abroad is all about marketing yourself. A personal brand can help you get not only an offer but also a scholarship of up to 100%.
Selection of activities for Personal brandA personal brand is your secret weapon when applying to universities abroad. Get a list of activities and boost your personal brand!
Universal supportAccelerated preparation for admission: save time and money without compromising results.
Consultation with an expertOne conversation can save you months. Get a professional answer to any question you have.
Consultation with a career guidance specialistOne consultation will help you better understand your strengths and choose the right profession.
Getting a student visa from the USAStudent visa for studying abroad: we'll process your application without stress and refusals.
Selection of universities and scholarshipsUniversities and scholarships abroad: we'll find what's right for you.
Admission to Foundation Programme AbroadDon't waste a year. Enroll in the Foundation program and start your journey to an international degree now.
Preparation of documentationStrong documents make a strong candidate. We'll prepare your application documents based on the university's explicit and implicit requirements.

    I applied to five US universities for Fashion PR programs. I chose a strong program with good career prospects.
    Anastasia
    I enrolled in graphic design programs in France, Italy, and Hungary, and received 100% funding at one of the universities.
    Camilla
    Nutritionology
    Diera
    Admitted to a Master's program in Finance at Brandeis University and Washington University in St. Louis (USA). Funding: $80,000.
    Egor

    “Initially, I thought it was impossible, but SelfStartGlobal took care of all the difficulties. The work was done flawlessly.”

    She entered Siena Heights University (USA) for Theater and Music with a full scholarship for the entire period of study.
    Leila

    “An interesting insight: if you want it, there’s a place for you. You just can’t always see it yourself, but your mentor will.”

    Поступил в Siena Heights University (США) Theater and Music с полной стипендией $170 000.
    Leonid
    Поступила на PhD в Columbia University (Earth & Environmental Science). Получила полное финансирование и позицию ассистента.
    Zhanna
    Admitted to NYU Abu Dhabi (≈4% of admissions) with a $217,000 scholarship. Also admitted to Lynn University and Drexel University.
    Ruslan

    “I didn’t know anything, but Radmila and the team of curators explained everything quickly and clearly from the very beginning. Support was available 24/7.”

    Student Cases

    АнастасияUSAI entered the USA for international relations with a scholarship. The secret is in the Personal Brand!
    Review by Anastasia
    КамиллаЕвропаEnrolled in one of the best applied arts schools in France - LISAA. Bachelor's degree, graphic design.
    Review by Camilla
    АнастасияUSAAdmission to the USA with a 100% scholarship! One of the top universities, majoring in international relations.
    Anastasia's review
    ЭлинаUSAAdmission to the USA with 100% scholarship after 2 unsuccessful independent attempts!
    Elina's review
    КсенияGermanyShe entered Macromedia University for a bachelor's degree in acting.
    Feedback from Ksenia
    КсенияUSAI entered the USA with full funding, majoring in applied mathematics. The annual tuition will be only $81!
    Feedback from Ksenia
    РусланUAEAdmission to Business and Management at NYU ABU DHABI with a $217,000 scholarship!
    Review by Ruslan
    ЛеонидUSAAdmission to the USA for a master's degree in theater and music with a scholarship of $170,000.
    Review by Leonid
    ВикторияUSAFeedback on work on Full Support. Victoria is entering a master's program with us in the USA.
    Victoria's review
    ТамараUSAShe entered a master's program in the USA in the field of psychology. But most importantly, with a diploma in philology from 2008...
    Feedback from Tamara

    Feedback about working with us

    Study Abroad: How to Apply and What to Expect After GraduationDreaming of studying abroad, but filled with questions and doubts? We'll explore how to apply to a foreign university, what you'll encounter during your studies, and what awaits you afterward.
    Время чтения:
    0 мин
    Top 7 Universities in the World: How to Enter a Prestigious UniversityAre the world's top universities a dream or an overrated myth? We explain how to get into a prestigious university, what big names really offer, and whether chasing rankings at any cost is worth it.
    Время чтения:
    0 мин
    What documents are needed to study abroad and how to prepare themYour dream of studying abroad can be dashed by red tape if you don't know the rules. In this article, we explore what documents are actually required and what admissions committees at foreign universities look for.
    Время чтения:
    0 мин