Portugal is an engaging and welcoming country that offers students a truly international education. Take advantage of its stunning mountainous environment and mild climate to make new friends or enjoy various cultural activities – there’s plenty to do here!
Language: Portuguese is the official language, though English is widely spoken as well. A good knowledge of this language is essential for undergraduate studies and can help you adjust to your new environment more quickly.
Scholarships: Many international schools in Portugal provide grants to cover tuition fees and living expenses. Parents should reach out directly to the school for more specific information.
Health: Students are required to have private medical insurance prior to applying for a student visa. They should review the terms and conditions of their policy to guarantee it meets their needs.
Education: Primary and secondary education in Portugal is free for all citizens. Children attend public or private schools that follow the national curriculum under supervision from teachers; alternatively, some expat families choose homeschooling.
In Portugal, there are numerous private and international schools located primarily around Lisbon and Porto. Many of these establishments offer courses under the International Baccalaureate (IB) system which has become widely praised by parents as an excellent curriculum.
The IB program is well-recognized worldwide and can serve as a great preparation for university life. In some cases, scholarships may even cover the cost of one year of study at an IB school!
Boarding schools are also offered in Portugal, where students live and learn throughout the year. These are a popular option for many international children, particularly those who do not speak Portuguese as their native tongue.
Holidays: In Portugal, children receive holidays throughout the year and an extended summer break between each grade. This usually takes place in July or August and varies by school depending on length and date.
If you need to travel for work while studying, a short-term visa called D5 can be obtained. This visa allows up to 20 hours per week during term time and full time during holidays.
Living Costs: Portugal has relatively low living costs compared to other European countries, making it an appealing option for many students looking to study abroad. You can expect to pay between EUR8,000 and EUR10,500 annually for living expenses; however, you can supplement these by working part time at a bar or restaurant or volunteering in a local community project.
Employment: After graduating from a Portuguese university, you’ll be ready to find employment on both the Portuguese and European market quickly. A diploma isn’t the only factor when searching for a job; an impressive CV and recommendations from scientific advisers will also be essential elements in your search.
Universities in Portugal are renowned for their quality and esteemed reputations. They offer an extensive selection of Bachelor, Master, and PhD degrees across a variety of fields.
Through the Bologna Process, higher education in Portugal is now aligned with other European nations. Portuguese Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees are often comparable to their counterparts across Europe. Furthermore, Portuguese universities have begun offering more English-taught degrees such as computer science, business management, and engineering.