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

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.

    Поступила на Fashion PR в 5 университетов США. Выбрала сильную программу с хорошими карьерными перспективами.
    Anastasia

    I got accepted to a Fashion PR bachelor’s degree in the USA on my first attempt, having received offers from 5 universities.

    Поступила на graphic design во Францию, Италию и Венгрию, в одном из вузов получила 100% финансирование.
    Camilla

    She enrolled in graphic design at universities in France, Italy and Hungary. She received scholarships at all of them and chose the university with the maximum funding — $135,000 for the entire period of study.

    Поступила в Augustana College, Widener University и University of South Dakota (США) со стипендией $45 000.
    Diera

    She was admitted to three American universities at once: Augustana College, Widener University, and the University of South Dakota. She chose Augustana College, where she received a scholarship of $45,000 per year.

    Поступил на магистратуру по финансам в Brandeis University и Washington University in St. Louis (США). Финансирование — $80 000.
    Egor

    He entered a master’s program in the USA at two universities at once – Brandeis University and Washington University in St. Louis, receiving scholarships totaling $80,000. He chose Brandeis University and went to study on the first try.

    Поступила в Siena Heights University (США) на Theater and Music с полной стипендией на весь период обучения.
    Leila

    She entered graduate school at Kent State University and Ohio University. At Ohio University, she won a Graduate Teaching Assistantship with full funding of $37,774, covering tuition, insurance, and living expenses.

    Theatre and music
    Leonid

    He entered Siena Heights University (USA) for the Theater and Music program with a full scholarship of $170,000. Preparation took less than a year.

    Поступила на PhD в Columbia University (Earth & Environmental Science). Получила полное финансирование и позицию ассистента.
    Zhanna

    I was accepted to the PhD program at Columbia University on my first try, having strengthened my profile and compiled my achievements into a strong application.

    Поступил в NYU Abu Dhabi (≈4% приёма) со стипендией $217 000. Также поступил в Lynn University и Drexel University.
    Ruslan

    Got accepted to NYU Abu Dhabi on the first try (acceptance rate 4%) with a scholarship of $217,000. Also received offers from Lynn and Drexel University.

    Student Cases

    АнастасияUSA

    «Try, work and trust! Don’t be afraid to trust, I trusted the SelfStartGlobal team and haven’t regretted it for a minute»

    Video review by Anastasia
    КамиллаЕвропаEnrolled in one of the best applied arts schools in France - LISAA. Bachelor's degree, graphic design.
    Review by Camilla
    AnastasiaUSA

    «If you are in doubt about where to go, worried that it won’t work out, then what are you waiting for? Come for a consultation with an expert»

    Video review by Anastasia
    ElinaUSA

    «I liked that the company focuses on developing a personal brand, as this is important for admission to the USA»

    Elina's video review
    KseniaGermany

    «Now a new best life is beginning, full of victories and adventures. This is absolute happiness, and I wish it to everyone»

    Video review from Ksenia
    KseniaUSA

    «I am currently in 11th grade at a school in Kyiv, but I have already been admitted to a U.S. bachelor’s program and received a 100% scholarship»

    Feedback from Ksenia
    RuslanUAEWhen I started, I knew absolutely nothing about studying abroad: deadlines, documents — nothing at all.
    Review by Ruslan
    ЛеонидUSA

    «I was looking for information on how to apply to a university and came across many webinars. One of them was hosted by Radmila»

    Video review by Leonid

    Feedback about working with us

    Study Abroad: How to Apply and What to Expect After GraduationМечтаешь учиться за границей, но в голове множество вопросов и сомнений? Разбираем, как поступить в иностранный вуз, с чем предстоит столкнуться во время учебы и что ждет после.
    Время чтения:
    0 мин
    Top 7 Universities in the World: How to Enter a Prestigious UniversityТоповые университеты мира — мечта или переоцененный миф? Рассказываем, как поступить в престижный вуз, что на самом деле дают громкие имена, и стоит ли гнаться за рейтингами любой ценой.
    Время чтения:
    0 мин
    What documents are needed to study abroad and how to prepare themМечта об учебе за границей может разбиться о бумажную волокиту — если не знать "правила игры". В статье разбираем, какие документы действительно нужны, и на что обращают внимание приемные комиссии зарубежных вузов.
    Время чтения:
    0 мин
    TOEFL or IELTS: which one to choose for studying abroad?We compare the TOEFL and IELTS exams to help students choose which test is best suited for studying abroad. We examine the key differences in format, scoring system, and international recognition of the exams.
    Время чтения:
    0 мин
    How can I stay and work abroad after completing my studies?How to stay and work abroad after graduation: visa options and pathways, as well as practical steps to start a career overseas.
    Время чтения:
    0 мин
    How much does it cost to study abroad in 2026?Studying abroad in 2026 involves various costs, from tuition fees to living expenses. Understanding these costs helps students plan their budget more effectively.
    Время чтения:
    0 мин
    Education abroad: popular countries 2026Find out the most in-demand countries to study abroad in 2026. We look at the benefits, programs and opportunities that attract students from all over the world.
    Время чтения:
    0 мин