Are you considering studying abroad? Think of Portugal — a country with over 200 days of sunshine in its capital Lisbon. Portuguese universities are known for quality education in a friendly environment, making them a great choice for those looking to study in Portugal.
In addition to teaching, the country also offers beautiful landscapes, good food and even activities such as surfing. This makes it an ideal place for those who want to study in Portugal themselves or enroll their children in a school in Portugal.
In this guide, we cover important aspects such as:
- Ranking
- System
- English-speaking schools
- Holidays
- Public schools
- Private schools
- International schools
- Higher education
- Erasmus
- Top universities
- Cheapest universities
- Student visa
- Learning Portuguese
- Languages
- Cost of living
- Accommodation
Portugal education ranking
Portugal is widely recognized for its high-quality education system. The government has made substantial investments in schools and universities to uphold and sustain an excellent standard.
In the 2023 Best Countries for Education rankings by U.S. News, Portugal holds the 24th position. These rankings are based on a global survey involving over 17,000 participants, reflecting respondents' perceptions of countries with respect to various factors.
Criteria include the presence of a robust public education system, the desirability of attending university in that country, and the existence of high-quality universities.
Portugal education system
Some technical details, just in case you want to compare the Portuguese education system with that of your country.
The education system in Portugal follows the Basic Law of the Educational System, split into:
- primary
- secondary
- higher education
Higher education in Portugal has two parts: university and polytechnic education, taught in public and private schools.
University education includes universities and similar institutions, while polytechnic education includes polytechnic institutes and related schools
In 2005, the education law was updated to follow the Bologna Process, bringing in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) and other changes. Higher education now has three study cycles, namely bachelor's, master's, and doctoral studies.
This new system began in 2006 and was fully in place in Portugal by the 2009/2010 school year.
The education system in Portugal is overseen by the Ministry of Education (Direção-Geral da Educação – DGE), covering pre-school through secondary school.
Private schools in Portugal require approval from the Ministry of Higher Education.
School groups (agrupamentos escolares) collaborate with local municipalities to allocate funding and establish the curriculum. Policies and budgets for higher education are managed by the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Higher Education (Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior – MCTES).
English-language schools and programs
In this section, you’ll find information on whether it’s possible to study in Portugal in English. In Portugal, public schools primarily use the Portuguese language, but some provide language support classes for expat children. You might consider international schools in Portugal if your child is older. Private schools have various language programs, with many using English as a primary language. Look into schools offering bilingual programs for more options.
For higher education, most bachelor's level courses in Portugal are conducted in Portuguese. Yet, at the graduate level, you'll find numerous programs taught in English, aligning with patterns seen in European universities. Further information can be found further down in this article.
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Structure of education in Portugal
In this section, the Portugal school system is explained. In Portugal, you have the option of enrolling in a private or a public school. If you choose a private school, make sure that it is certified by the relevant ministry.
Whether you go for a state or private school, the education system in Portugal follows the same structure, consisting of four stages with these educational levels:
- Pre-school education (Educação Pré-escolar): Ages 3 to 6
- Primary education (Ensino Básico): Ages 6 to 15
- Secondary education (Ensino Secundário): Ages 15 to 18
- Higher education (Ensino Superior): Ages 18 and above
School is mandatory from ages 6 to 18. After this, students can decide whether to continue to university. Even in international schools, it's recommended that children learn Portuguese. The state provides free language courses and support to help them become familiar with Portuguese from a young age.
School year and hours
The school year in Portugal begins in mid-September and ends in mid-June. And if you’re wondering how long a school day is in Portugal, you should know that the school hours in Portugal vary based on factors such as the chosen school (public, private, or international schools), the educational stage (primary or secondary), and your child's involvement in extracurricular activities.
Typically, schools start between 8:30 and 9:30 and conclude around 16:00 or 18:00. Each school day must consist of five hours, including breaks.
School holidays in Portugal
The Ministry of Education establishes the dates for school holidays in Portugal. While general holiday dates are consistent nationwide, there might be variations in additional holidays or days off between regional districts and schools. To get specific information, you can inquire with your individual school or the regional educational authority (Direção Regional de Educação in Portuguese).
Private international schools in Portugal may have their own holiday schedules, potentially differing from the general dates. It's advisable to check with your child's school for the specific holiday dates.
Typically, Portuguese schools observe four main holidays throughout the year:
- Christmas holidays (Os feriados de Natal): Two weeks off
- Mardi Gras carnival (Feriados de carnaval): A few days off in February/March
- Easter holidays (Férias da Páscoa): Two weeks off
- Summer break (Férias de verão): Between June and September
Additionally, there may be some extra days off for Portuguese public holidays and other school-related activities.
Pre-school education in Portugal
Pre-school education, or Educação Pré-escolar, is optional for children aged three to five and is provided by kindergartens in Portugal. The Ministry of Labor, Solidarity, and Social Security (Ministério do Trabalho, Solidariedade e Segurança Social) oversees these institutions, most of which are privatized. Parents can choose between kindergartens (creches) and childminders (amas) who come to their homes.
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Free pre-school education (educação pré-escolar) is available for 25 hours per week from age three. However, private pre-schools, including international schools, Montessori, and Waldorf institutions, charge tuition fees.
The following information is for those looking for a Waldorf school or a Montessori school in Portugal:
- The Montessori schools in Portugal use the Montessori educational approach. It focuses on children's natural interests and activities, emphasizing hands-on learning and the development of real-world skills. In a Montessori school, formal teaching methods take a backseat.
- The Waldorf schools in Portugal are based on Waldorf education, also known as Steiner education, which follows the philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, the founder of anthroposophy. This holistic educational style aims to cultivate students' intellectual, artistic, and practical skills, with a particular emphasis on fostering imagination and creativity.
A 2022 government initiative made all social sector daycare centers free for children born on or after September 1, 2021, covering basic education, food, insurance, and physical education, with no tuition fees. The scheme aimed to benefit 100,000 children by 2024, irrespective of family income.
While optional, pre-school is chosen by working parents for its convenience and its role in preparing children for primary school, both socially and psychologically.
Unfortunately, there is a shortage of spaces in creches for children under the age of three, with waiting lists for government-subsidized creches being challenging. Pre-registering is recommended, although it doesn't guarantee a spot, and choosing a private pre-school is suggested to avoid long delays.
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In Portugal, primary education consists of nine years, organized into three cycles lasting four, two, and three years respectively. All children aged six by September 15 must be enrolled in school for that calendar year. Primary school is also referred to as elementary school.
The Ministry of Education oversees policies for state schools, and these are three primary cycles (escolas básicas):
- First cycle (primeiro ciclo or 1º ciclo): Grades 1 to 4 - This initial four-year phase has a single teacher responsible for teaching students.
- Second cycle (segundo ciclo or 2º ciclo): Grades 5 to 6 - This two-year cycle involves different teachers teaching various subjects.
- Third cycle (terceiro ciclo or 3º ciclo): Grades 7 to 9 - Lasting three years, one teacher is responsible for teaching specific subjects, including vocational studies. A diploma/certificate is awarded at the end of this cycle.
Public primary schools in Portugal
Many locals choose public schools in Portugal because they are tuition-free. Parents only need to cover minor costs like books, school meals, and occasional field trips.
The national curriculum is consistent across public schools, including subjects like:
- Portuguese
- mathematics
- science
- history
- geography
- English
Starting from Grade 7, students can also choose another foreign language, usually French or Spanish.
It's essential to select a school near your home or work and provide proof of address during the application. Waiting lists, especially for popular schools, exist, so early registration is recommended.
While Portugal's public schools have a great reputation, expatriate parents may opt for international schools or learn Portuguese to assist their children in becoming fluent in the language.
Private primary schools in Portugal
Private schools in Portugal provide an opportunity for children to learn in their native language while engaging with peers globally, ensuring educational continuity if they relocate. These schools offer benefits like smaller class sizes, robust extra-curricular activities, and modern facilities. Some even provide boarding options.
International schools maintain high education standards and diverse curricula. Admissions processes vary, with some requiring entrance exams, school records, and personal interviews. Many parents choose private schools, confident that their children will receive a top-notch education, preparing them to compete globally in university-level higher education.
Secondary education in Portugal
Compulsory secondary education in Portugal aims to advance children's knowledge and build on the skills acquired in primary school. This phase is crucial as it prepares students for higher education and the job market.
Spanning three years from Grade 10 to Grade 12, entry requires a certificate of primary school education. Secondary education includes general, artistic, and vocational or technical courses.
To successfully complete secondary education, students must pass all subjects. Internal assessments contribute 70 percent to the final grade, with the remaining 30 percent based on four mandatory national exams.
Grade 11 involves two finals (based on the scientific/humanities courses chosen), and Grade 12 includes exams in Portuguese and another subject of the student's choice.
Successful completion results in a diploma and certificate, and the national exam results are vital for third-level education admissions.
Public secondary schools in Portugal
Public secondary education (Ensino Secundário) is free in Portugal and generally of high quality. Core subjects, including Portuguese, philosophy, physical education (PE), and a foreign language, are compulsory. However, the rest of the curriculum depends on the chosen educational stream.
Students can opt for either vocational (Cursos Profissionais) or science-humanities streams (Cursos Científico-Humanísticos). In the Cursos Profissionais, students focus on gaining trade qualifications, opening pathways to careers in IT, design, or hospitality.
On the other hand, Cursos Científico-Humanísticos streams are more academically oriented, covering subjects like visual arts, sciences, and humanities. For those interested in pursuing a creative career, there's a third option: taking a specialized artistic course (Cursos Artísticos Especializados).
Private secondary schools in Portugal
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Independent organizations, including religious orders or private companies, manage private secondary schools in Portugal. These schools typically adopt a more personalized teaching approach, featuring smaller class sizes and increased individual attention from teachers. In return for tuition fees, private institutions usually have access to more resources than public secondary education institutions, offering modern classrooms and technology-based learning tools.
Private schools are commonly regarded as an effective means for students to ready themselves for higher education and pursue their chosen career paths. They create a more challenging academic environment, aiding students in developing the skills and knowledge necessary for future success.
Religious schools
Religious schools in Portugal, managed by religious orders like the Catholic Church, emphasize a robust moral and religious education. They impart knowledge about faith and emphasize its significance in their lives. In addition to core subjects like Math, Science, and Languages, religious educational institutions delve into the history and culture of the students' faith, illustrating its influence on their lives. These schools offer a diverse range of extracurricular activities.
International schools
For expats in Portugal, international schools stand out as a top choice. International schools in Portugal create a multicultural environment, offering global skills and the opportunity for students to engage with diverse cultures while learning in their native languages.
Parents can choose from British, American, French, and German schools, making it ideal for those who prefer their child to learn in their home language or follow a familiar curriculum. There are also adaptive learning schools and various schooling options, ensuring a range of choices.
International schools play a crucial role in the public or private school discussion, especially for expat families. Moreover, the fees for Portugal international schools are relatively affordable compared to other European countries, starting at around €5,000 per year.
Among the notable international schools in Portugal are:
- St. Julian’s School in Carcavelos
- United Lisbon International School in Lisbon
- The Carlucci American International School of Lisbon in Sintra (This is a good option for those looking for an American school in Portugal.)
- Oporto British School in Porto
Boarding schools
For families seeking boarding schools in Portugal, there are distinguished institutions, each tailored to the individuality of its students. These schools are relatively scarce in Portugal, mainly situated near Lisbon and the Algarve.
It is recommended to visit the school before applying to familiarize yourself with the facilities and the program. Tuition fees generally hover around €30,000 per year.
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International Baccalaureate (IB) in Portugal
In Portugal, the International Baccalaureate (IB) is a globally recognized pre-university curriculum offered mainly in international secondary schools. This program, taught in English, prepares students for higher education and results in an IB diploma upon secondary school graduation.
The IB curriculum, available in both public and private schools in Portugal, fosters creativity and a sense of community. It is often viewed as an alternative to the traditional national education system, providing students with a comprehensive and well-rounded education. Recognized worldwide, the IB Diploma Program is a challenging two-year curriculum, emphasizing critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and independent research.
The IB Diploma is available at at least 12 schools in Portugal, encompassing, including both international and private Portuguese educational institutions.
Higher education in Portugal
Higher education in Portugal is well-regarded worldwide and is divided into two subsystems:
Universities
In Portugal, universities provide degrees at the bachelor's, master's, and doctorate levels, focusing on theoretical education and research. The country has both private and public universities, with private ones obviously being more expensive.
Higher education institutions have unique admission processes for sportspeople, mature applicants over 23, international students, and those transferring from other educational institutions. Portugal boasts some of Europe's oldest universities, like the University of Coimbra founded in 1290.
A noteworthy feature of Portuguese universities is their emphasis on internationalization. Many have global partnerships, allowing students to study abroad and gain a worldwide perspective. Additionally, many universities offer programs in English, making them accessible to international students.
In terms of programs and specializations, Portuguese universities provide a broad range of options, from traditional fields like law and medicine to specialized areas like renewable energy and biotechnology.
Polytechnics
Polytechnic institutes in Portugal offer both undergraduate and master’s degree programs, emphasizing education and training in specific fields, making them ideal for vocational courses like engineering and nursing.
These institutes are distinguished for their hands-on learning approach, providing a wide array of technical courses and vocational programs in areas such as engineering, design, and technology. Notably, they focus on project-based learning, encouraging students to apply their skills to real-world challenges, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork.
The curriculum is highly flexible, enabling students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals. Elective courses are diverse, and students are encouraged to engage in internships and co-op programs for practical experience.
One prominent polytechnic institute in Portugal is the Polytechnic Institute of Porto, renowned for its programs in engineering, design, and technology. The institute is also home to cutting-edge research centers focusing on technologies like renewable energy, smart cities, and sustainable transportation.
Scholarships and financial aid
Students, both local and international, have access to various Portugal scholarship programs offered by the government and higher education institutions.
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These are some of the institutions that offer scholarships or funding:
- DGES: It offers scholarships, including merit scholarships and student loans at public and private universities.
- FCT: It offers various funding opportunities for doctoral students.
- Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation: It offers scholarship opportunities to graduate students researching in Armenian studies and for students involved in research projects on Portuguese language and culture.
As an EU member, Portugal participates in EU-based scholarships such as Erasmus Mundus programs. Additionally, private and semi-private organizations offer scholarships covering studies in Portuguese language and culture, sciences, and technology.
For children from low-income families, government support is available. Financial aid, known as Ação Social Escolar (ASE), can be requested through the school. Families can also apply for a family allowance (Abono de família).
The Portuguese government provides financial support for children with disabilities.
Through the social security system (Segurança Social), families can apply for subsidies such as:
- Disability bonus (Bonificação do abono de família para crianças e jovens com deficiência)
- Special schooling subsidy (Subsídio de educação especial)
- Support for assistance by a third person (Subsídio por assistência de 3ª pessoa)
Various financial support options are available for covering school tuition fees. Parents can discuss their low-income status with school management to explore suitable options. It's important to note that private universities are generally more expensive than public universities.
Erasmus in Portugal
If you're planning a short-term stay in Portugal, you may want to consider the long-standing Erasmus initiative, which has been helping higher education students travel for 30 years.
If you're from the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Turkey, or Macedonia, check your institution's agreements with Portuguese universities. Erasmus can support your studies or internships in Portugal, lasting from two to 12 months in each study cycle and for recent graduates.
If you're from other countries, you might also benefit from the International Credit Mobility. Get details from your institution.
Introduction to Erasmus Portugal
How to apply
Consult your home university's Erasmus office and inquire about partner universities in Portugal offering courses of interest. Once you've made your selection, apply to the universities you're interested in.
Acceptance
Upon acceptance, kickstart your preparations for your Erasmus experience in Portugal.
Best cities for Erasmus in Portugal
Erasmus in Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital, is known for its dynamic and student-friendly atmosphere. The city offers remarkable scenery, distinctive architecture, and an active nightlife.
Erasmus in Porto
Porto, often designated as Portugal's second city, is located along the Atlantic Ocean and is marked by a distinctive character. The presence of a high-caliber university, amicable locals, and a lively nightlife enhances Porto's appeal as a destination for Erasmus participants.
Erasmus in Coimbra
Coimbra, home to Portugal's oldest university, is a historically significant city with well-preserved ancient structures. It serves as a focal point for students, offering a scenic backdrop for academic pursuits and exploration.
Erasmus in Faro
Faro, the capital of the Algarve region in the south, stands out as a noteworthy Erasmus destination. In addition to its scenic beaches and resorts, Faro serves as a gateway to the Ria Formosa Islands, a natural park that adds to the city's appeal for students wishing to explore the southern region of Portugal.
Top Erasmus universities in Portugal
You can consider these well-known universities for your Erasmus experience:
- University of Lisbon
- Nova University of Lisbon
- University of Porto
- University of Coimbra
- University of Algarve
Best time for Erasmus in Portugal
The second semester, usually from February to mid-June, is ideal to go on Erasmus in Portugal. As winter gives way to warmer temperatures, this period allows for ideal exploration without the usual large crowds of tourists.
Pros and cons
Disadvantages
- Transportation challenges: Outside major cities, transportation may be challenging, especially during rush hours.
- Bureaucracy: Portugal's bureaucratic processes might require extra paperwork.
- Classes in Portuguese: Although some courses are taught in Portuguese, they also offer a unique opportunity to learn the language.
Advantages
- Affordability: Portugal is a beautiful and cost-effective country to explore.
- Rich culture: You can immerse yourself in a culturally rich experience.
- Welcoming schools: Portuguese universities warmly welcome Erasmus students.
- Safety: Portugal is known for its safety.
- Lifelong connections: You can make lasting friendships during your Erasmus stay because Portugal offers a multinational and multicultural environment.
Educational support for expat students in Portugal
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Portugal welcomes expats and their children, and certain schools provide support classes for students unfamiliar with the Portuguese language. However, it's important to note that this language support may not be available in every city; it is more common in larger cities like Lisbon or Porto. Alternatively, you may explore schools offering bilingual programs.
If you are wondering what papers you need to enroll in a high school in Portugal, or if you have other education-related inquiries, you can reach out to the High Commission for Migration (Alto Comissariado para as Migrações–ACM).
Support for children with special educational needs (SEN)
Portugal aims to establish an inclusive educational system (educação inclusive) to ensure equal opportunities for children with special needs. Most mainstream schools offer special educational needs (SEN) programs under this initiative. The Ministry of Education has identified state schools (in Portuguese) actively promoting inclusion.
Children under six can receive specialized teachers at home or attend a kindergarten in Portugal, especially if their parents work. Upon entering primary school, they receive an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) tailored to their learning needs. This plan may include specific learning tools or exam accommodations. At the end of their schooling, children receive a plan to assist their transition into adulthood.
Special education schools are available in major Portuguese cities, equipped to support children with hearing or visual impairments or developmental disabilities. Additional support is provided by organizations like (CADIn), a non-profit assisting families with children having neurodevelopmental disorders.
Changing schools, parental involvement, and homeschooling
In Portugal, changing schools is a flexible process, and children can transfer freely. When applying for a new school or switching, providing your home address is a key requirement. Transfers can occur at any time during the year, typically with a valid reason such as a change in residence.
For parents interested in actively participating in their children's school, joining the Associação de Pais - Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is a valuable option. It's important to note that PTA meetings are primarily conducted in Portuguese.
Homeschooling is legally allowed in Portugal but is not widely adopted. A small number of children are enrolled in homeschooling or individual teaching. Most parents opt for traditional schools due to convenience. Homeschooled children must have an individual tutor with a university degree residing in the same house and undergo annual exams conducted in Portuguese.
For further information on homeschooling, you can explore the website of Movimento Educação Livre (MEL), one of the prominent homeschool associations in Portugal.
Portugal student visa
If you're accepted to a Portuguese higher education institution, you'll probably need to apply for a student visa. Here is a quick guide to applying for a student visa in Portugal:
- For courses over three months, a visa is likely needed.
- Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens need a student visa. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens need to register their stay.
Documents needed:
- Valid passport (or travel document)
- University acceptance letter
- Proof of tuition payment
- Passport photos
- Completed visa application form (usually provided by the embassy)
- Financial proof
- Accommodation details
- Criminal record certificate
- Schengen travel health insurance (After your arrival in Portugal, you must also take out appropriate health insurance with a private company.)
Application process:
- Contact the Portuguese embassy.
- Schedule an appointment.
- Submit required documents.
- Wait for processing (weeks to months)
Note: Visit the website of the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs for more information on the application process.
Cost:
- Embassy fee: €90
- Residence permit application: €83
- Residence permit issuance: €72
- Note: Check the fees on the official auhotirites’ websites as they are updated regularly.
Family members:
- Dependents can join if financially supported.
- Spouse, children, and dependent adult children qualify.
Duration:
- Visa valid for three months.
- Residence permit issued for one year, renewable annually. It replaces the visa.
Post-study:
- Can stay if job offer secured.
- Switch to work visa before student visa expires.
Permanent residency:
- Student years don't count.
- Need job offer, temporary residence, then apply for permanent residency after five years.
Work allowance:
- Allowed to work up to 20 hours/week during semesters, full-time during breaks and holidays.
- EU/EEA/Swiss students have no work restrictions.
Dependent visa:
- Family members can study and work if accompanying a Portuguese citizen or working resident.
Researcher visa:
Another type of student visa for Portugal.
For non-EU citizens in doctoral programs or recognized research institutions.
Other Portugal visa options
If you plan to immigrate to Portugal first and then apply to study in Portugal, there are a few other visa options you can consider.
The following articles provide information on Portugal immigration policy and Portugal immigration requirements, including Portugal visa options, that are available (such as Portugal digital nomad visa known as Portugal D8 visa, Portugal D7 visa, and Portugal D2 visa) or the ones that have changed (Portugal Golden Visa):
- Portugal Digital Nomad Visa D8: How to Apply, Requirements, and Alternatives (D7 and D2)
- Portugal Takes Steps to Ease Housing Crisis: Portugal Golden Visa to Be Scrapped, Airbnbs to Be Restricted
Best Portugal universities for international students
Here’s a list of the best universities in Portugal for international students that you can consider if you want to study abroad. Please note that this university list features the best English-speaking universities in Portugal.
- European University of Lisbon
- Nova University of Lisbon
- ISCTE – University Institute of Lisbon
- University of Lisbon
- Polytechnic Institute of Leiria
- University of Porto
- Catholic University of Portugal
Cheapest universities in Portugal for international students
If you’re looking for budget-friendly universities in Portugal, here is a list of the most affordable universities where you can study without spending a fortune.
- Escola Superior Náutica Infante D. Henrique
- Fernando Pessoa University
- Higher Institute of Administration and Languages
- Higher Institute of Entre Douro and Vouga
- Instituto Superior Politecnico Gaya
- Lusofona University of Porto
- Politécnico de Lisboa
- Polytechnic Institute of Braganca
- Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra
- Polytechnic Institute of Setubal
- Polytechnic Institute of Tomar
- University of Evora
- University of Minho
- University of Porto
- University of the Algarve
Learning Portuguese in Portugal
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It’s a good idea to learn Portuguese before or after moving to Portugal, as knowing the language will make it easier to adapt to local life, especially if you're planning a longer stay. This includes tasks such as finding accommodation, organizing utilities, using public transport and shopping in local supermarkets.
Why learn Portuguese?
Portuguese is spoken by over 260 million people worldwide, ranking as the ninth most spoken language. While it's mainly used in Portugal and Brazil, it's also an official language in eight other countries across four continents, including:
- Angola
- Mozambique
- Guinea-Bissau
- Equatorial Guinea,
- Cabo Verde
- São Tomé and Príncipe
- Macao
- East Timor
In Portugal, 95.6% of the population speaks Portuguese as their native or second language. Learning Portuguese is definitely a valuable endeavor.
Portuguese language schools and programs
Learning Portuguese in Portugal offers several advantages, including access to a diverse range of classes such as conversational lessons, intensive courses, and summer camps in various cities. The flexibility to choose different teachers allows learners to find a suitable match for their preferred learning style.
Additionally, daily practice in real-life settings, such as cafes and restaurants, enables the acquisition of informal Portuguese expressions.
Portugal's universities are excellent options for language learning, with many offering courses for foreigners. These courses provide a chance to immerse oneself in local culture and study in historically significant buildings, such as the Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal’s oldest university. However, it's important to note that university courses may be less flexible in terms of curriculum.
The Instituto de Camões and the Institute for Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP) provide information on universities and centers offering Portuguese language courses. Various language schools across Portugal cater to different needs:
- Alliance Française offers Portuguese courses for expats in locations such as Lisbon, Porto, and Faro.
- Cambridge School provides official certification in Portuguese and prepares students for language exams in cities like Lisbon, Coimbra, Porto, and Funchal (Madeira).
- Home Language International offers immersive experiences by allowing students to live with accredited teachers in Lisbon.
- International House World Organisation has locations in Braga, Coimbra, Torres Vedras, and Viseu, offering flexible schedules for all levels.
- Lusa Language School in Lisbon provides part-time and intensive courses, along with an online learning platform.
- Portuguese Connection, located in Lisbon, offers both online and in-person courses with individual or group options.
The Portuguese government supports language integration through free Portuguese Host Language (PLA) courses under the Português para Todos program. These courses, available to individuals aged 16 or older, offer certification from A1 to B2 levels. Local councils and the Plataforma de Português Online also contribute to language education for expats.
To enroll in PLA courses, individuals can contact local institutions, the Portuguese Language Learning Promotion Office (GLPt), or the Migrant Support Line for information on registration processes. Applicants need a resident permit or specific documents, such as proof of a visa request or Social Security Identification Number (NISS) attribution.
Can you study in Portugal without IELTS?
Many universities in Portugal don't demand IELTS if the student's prior education was in English. Note that in some cases, the university might not require IELTS, but it could still be necessary for the visa application.
Cost of living in Portugal for international students
If you are planning to study abroad in Portugal, here is a brief overview of the costs you can expect in addition to the tuition fees.
Accommodation:
- On-campus housing: €150 to €500 per month.
- Off-campus options (shared/private): €200 to €800 per month.
- Utilities and Internet: They may cost an additional €50 to €150.
Food and groceries:
- Eating out: €5 to €10 at budget-friendly places.
- Monthly grocery bill: Estimated €150 to €250.
Transportation:
- Monthly public transport pass: €25 to €40.
- Walking and biking: They’re very common, especially in smaller cities.
Entertainment and socializing:
- Cinema tickets: €6 to €9.
- Museums: They often offer student discounts.
- Bar and club prices: €1.50 to €5 for drinks.
Student accommodation in Portugal
The common options for student housing in Portugal are either on-campus halls of residence (dormitories) or off-campus accommodation in shared or private apartments or houses.
If you’re looking for accommodation, you may want to consider listings on Flatio, a rental housing platform operating in over 300 destinations in Europe and beyond. In Portugal, we have listings in popular destinations such as:
We focus on monthly stays (rooms, flats, and houses), but short-term rentals are also possible from 5 days. No deposit is required for stays under 180 days unless local laws require otherwise.
Utilities and Wi-Fi are included in our lease agreements, which can be used for visa purposes and as proof of address. We offer a secure payment system, including a Bitcoin option, and daily customer service, including a 24/7 emergency line.
(Sources: U.S. News, DGES, Expatica (1), Expatica (2), Study & Research in Portugal, bePortugal, VisaGuide.World, Beyond Abroad, Jeduka, Study Abroad Aide, and Masters Portal)
