Savanna Hoffman
Portugal is a popular destination for international students due to its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and high-quality education system. The cost of studying in Portugal depends on several factors, including the type of school (public or private), the degree level, and the length of the program. While primary and secondary education in public schools is free, higher education institutions in Portugal can independently choose their tuition fees for national and international students. This means that tuition fees vary across universities and programs. On average, international students can expect to pay between €3,000 and €5,000 per academic year for Bachelor's and Master's programs at public universities, while private universities tend to have higher tuition fees. In addition to tuition fees, international students should also budget for living expenses, such as accommodation and food, and health insurance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tuition fees | Not free for international students; higher fees for non-EU/EEA students; range from €1,000 to €12,500 per year |
| Scholarships | Available from the government and various institutions for international students |
| Living costs | Between 500-800 EUR per month |
| Health insurance | Required; costs €20-50 per month for private insurance, and around €25 per month for non-EU/EEA students via the national health system |
| Study materials | €100-300 per year |
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What You'll Learn
Tuition fees for international students in Portugal
International students in Portugal are required to have health insurance, either through a private provider or the national health system. The cost of private health insurance can range from €20 to €50 per month, while registering with the national health system is usually free for EU/EEA students and around €25 per month for non-EU/EEA students.
Each higher education institution in Portugal can independently set its fees. For the 2024/25 academic year, the legal maximum tuition fee for public universities was set at €697 for Bachelor's and integrated Master's programs. However, this maximum is subject to change annually. It's important to note that universities rarely charge students the minimum amount dictated by the national minimum wage.
Living costs in Portugal are relatively affordable compared to other European countries. On average, students can expect to spend between €500 and €800 per month on accommodation, food, and other expenses. There are also scholarships and financial aid programmes available for international students, offered by the government and various foundations and institutions.
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Scholarships and grants for international students
Portugal offers grants and government-funded scholarships to both EU and non-EU/EEA students. The scholarships are awarded for the entire academic year and are paid in instalments, usually in 10 instalments. The purpose of the grants is to support students with limited financial resources in paying the costs of higher education.
To be eligible for a grant, you must apply to a university recognised by the Portuguese Ministry of Education. There is a variety of scholarships, most of them awarded to Master's students, but you can find financial aid programmes for other degrees as well.
The University of Porto, for example, awards undergraduate research scholarships and research scholarships for Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral students. These scholarships are aimed at scientific training in research projects or institutions of science and technology in Portugal. The scholarship duration is annual and extendable up to three years. Aside from study scholarships, the university also has a Social Support Fund aimed at students who temporarily find themselves in a difficult economic situation.
The Portugal Government Scholarship is another option for international students. It covers tuition fees and provides a monthly stipend of 1250 euros for living expenses. Applicants should demonstrate proficiency in Portuguese or English, depending on the language of instruction of the chosen program, as well as academic merit and potential for success in the chosen field of study.
It is important to note that tuition fees for public universities in Portugal vary by course and are subject to a maximum amount established by law, which may change every year. For the 2024/25 academic year, the maximum tuition fee for Bachelor's and integrated Master's programs at public universities was set at €697. For other study cycles and private institutions, universities have more freedom to set their fees.
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Living costs for international students in Portugal
Portugal is one of the more affordable countries in Europe for students. On average, international students in Portugal spend between 500 and 800 EUR per month, including rent. The average monthly budget for a single person in Portugal ranges from 640 to 1210 EUR.
Accommodation
The cost of student accommodation in Portugal is in line with the international average. Here are some of the average prices for common housing options:
- University-owned student halls of residence: 150–250 EUR/month
- Privately-owned student halls of residence: 300–600 EUR/month
- Rent a studio/one-room apartment: 200–800 EUR/month
- Rent a room in a shared apartment: 100–550 EUR/month
Utilities
If you decide to rent a studio or share an apartment, ask if utilities are included in the price. They can add up to 100 EUR to your monthly expenses.
Food
For monthly food and groceries, you will spend around 150–200 EUR. Some of the cheapest supermarkets in Portugal are Jumbo, Continente/Modelo, Lidl and Pingo Doce. You can also find affordable food at university canteens, where meals cost around 2–5 EUR.
Scholarships and Grants
Portugal offers grants and government-funded scholarships to both EU and non-EU/EEA students. To be eligible for a grant, you must apply to a university recognised by the Portuguese Ministry of Education. Most scholarships are awarded to Master's students, but financial aid programmes exist for other degrees. Foundations and research institutions in Portugal also offer internships to students.
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Health insurance for international students
Portugal has become an attractive destination for international students seeking high-quality education and a vibrant cultural experience. The country offers a well-developed healthcare system that provides comprehensive medical care to its residents. International students in Portugal can benefit from this system, which is composed of public and private healthcare providers.
Public Healthcare
Public healthcare facilities in Portugal are accessible to all residents, including international students, who are registered with the Portuguese National Health Service (Serviço Nacional de Saúde, SNS). EU/EEA citizens can access public healthcare through the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which is free and provides access to healthcare services under the same conditions and standards as Portuguese nationals.
Private Healthcare
For non-EU/EEA students, private health insurance is typically required to cover medical expenses. While the Portuguese healthcare system provides essential coverage, it is highly recommended for international students to have health insurance for additional benefits and coverage. Private insurance also offers reduced waiting times and a greater choice of doctors.
Health Insurance Options for International Students
There are various health insurance options available in Portugal, including policies tailored for international students. It is important to carefully review the coverage details and compare different insurance plans to select one that suits your needs and budget. The cost of health insurance for international students depends on factors such as coverage level, duration, and provider, with premiums ranging from €100 to €300 per year on average.
Specific Insurance Plans
Some specific insurance plans for international students include Euro Travel, which covers up to €100,000 for a maximum of one year, and Student Secure, a monthly plan with coverage options of up to four years and a $300,000 maximum.
Other Considerations
It is worth noting that higher fees usually apply for non-EU/EEA students in Portugal, but some private universities offer discounts of up to 100% on lecture fees based on a student's final grades. Additionally, Portugal offers grants and scholarships to both EU and non-EU/EEA students, providing financial aid opportunities for international students.
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Private vs public universities for international students
International students are welcome in Portugal, with nearly 70,000 choosing the country as their study destination each year. The country offers a high-quality education system, a rich history, and beautiful landscapes.
Tuition Fees
The cost of tuition in Portugal depends on whether you attend a public or private university, the level of your degree, and the length of your program.
For the 2024/25 academic year, the legal maximum tuition fee for public universities was set at €697 per year for Bachelor's and integrated Master's programs. However, this maximum is subject to change annually. For non-EU/EEA students, fees are typically higher, ranging from €3,000 to €5,000 per year for Bachelor's and Master's programs.
Private universities have more freedom in setting their fees and tend to be more expensive, with costs ranging from €3,000 to €12,500 per year for all students, regardless of their citizenship status.
It's worth noting that some private universities offer discounts of up to 100% on lecture fees for high-achieving students, based on their final grades.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Portugal offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid programs for international students, including grants and government-funded scholarships for both EU and non-EU/EEA students. These scholarships are available for students at both public and private universities.
Living Costs
Living in Portugal is relatively affordable compared to other European countries. On average, you can expect to spend between €500 and €800 per month on living expenses. Accommodation costs vary depending on your choice of residence, with options ranging from student halls to renting a room in a shared apartment.
International students are required to have health insurance, either through a private provider or the national health system. Private health insurance can cost between €20 and €50 per month, while the national health system is typically free for EU/EEA students and around €25 per month for non-EU/EEA students.
Language
For students enrolling in a Portuguese public or private school, proficiency in the Portuguese language is necessary, as all instruction and classes are conducted in Portuguese. However, international schools are an option, offering education in English or other languages, although these schools come at a premium.
Both public and private universities in Portugal offer high-quality education. Public universities tend to have lower tuition fees, especially for EU/EEA students, while private universities offer more flexibility in fees and may provide discounts for high-achieving students. Private universities may also have smaller class sizes and higher budgets for extra-curricular programs and facilities, but often have a faith-based foundation. Ultimately, the choice between a public or private university in Portugal depends on your financial situation, preferred language of instruction, and personal preferences.
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Frequently asked questions
Primary and secondary education is free for citizens and residents of Portugal. However, international students will have to pay tuition fees for higher education.
Tuition fees vary depending on the university, your academic discipline, and your citizenship. As an international student, you can expect to pay between €3,000 and €5,000 a year for public universities. Private universities can cost up to €12,000 annually.
Yes, Portugal offers grants and government-funded scholarships to both EU and non-EU/EEA students. There are also scholarships offered by institutions like DGES and FCT.
Portugal is home to some of the world's oldest and most prestigious universities, including the University of Lisbon, the University of Porto, and the University of Coimbra. These universities offer a wide range of programs and have a large international student body.
Portugal is known for its laid-back lifestyle, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty. Portuguese universities are usually within reach of either a coastline or a mountain, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Cities like Porto and Lisbon have a great selection of student-friendly bars, clubs, and pubs.
