English-taught degree programs in Portugal for international students

Portugal is increasingly becoming a popular destination for international students seeking quality higher education in Europe. One notable advantage is the growing availability of English-taught degree programs across various universities, which opens doors for students who do not speak Portuguese fluently but want to experience European education and culture.

This article provides a practical guide to English-taught programs in Portugal, focusing on which universities offer them, at what study levels, and what language evidence international students typically need to provide. We also touch on related considerations such as visa requirements, work rights, and university credibility to help you make an informed study decision.

Why choose Portugal for English-taught degrees?

Portugal offers several benefits for international students:

• Affordable tuition fees and living costs compared to other Western European countries.
• A welcoming environment with a rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
• Quality universities with growing international recognition.
• Increasing number of programs fully delivered in English at undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels.
• Access to the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) system, facilitating degree recognition across Europe.

However, it is important to research specific programs and universities carefully, as not all degrees are available in English, and some may require basic Portuguese skills or language tests.

Which Portuguese universities offer English-taught programs?

Several public and private universities in Portugal have expanded their English-taught offerings. Below are some of the most notable institutions:

University of Lisbon (Universidade de Lisboa)

• Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs.
• Fields: Business, Economics, Computer Science, Engineering, Social Sciences, and Health Sciences.
• Language requirements: Proof of English proficiency, usually through tests like IELTS or TOEFL, is required. Some programs may ask for basic Portuguese for daily life but do not require it for academic purposes.
• The University of Lisbon is one of the largest and most prestigious universities in Portugal and part of the European research network.

University of Porto (Universidade do Porto)

• Levels: Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
• Fields: Engineering, Natural Sciences, Management, and Arts.
• Language requirements: English language certificates are mandatory for English-taught programs. Some faculties offer Portuguese language courses for international students.
• Known for strong research output and industry connections, the University of Porto is a solid choice for STEM and business students.

NOVA University Lisbon (Universidade NOVA de Lisboa)

• Levels: Primarily Master’s and PhD programs, with some Bachelor’s degrees.
• Fields: Economics, Business, Law, Social Sciences, and Health.
• Language requirements: English proficiency tests are required. NOVA also offers language support and integration programs.
• NOVA is well-regarded for its international outlook and partnerships with universities worldwide.

ISCTE – University Institute of Lisbon

• Levels: Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
• Fields: Business, Public Policy, Social Sciences, and Technology.
• Language requirements: English language proof is required for English-taught programs.
• ISCTE is known for its focus on social sciences and business education.

University of Minho (Universidade do Minho)

• Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD.
• Fields: Engineering, Sciences, Arts, and Social Sciences.
• Language requirements: English language certificates are mandatory for English-taught programs. Portuguese language courses are often available.
• The University of Minho is recognized for innovative research and a welcoming international environment.

What levels of study are available in English?

English-taught programs in Portugal span all higher education levels but with some variations:

• Bachelor’s degrees: Increasingly available in fields like Business, Computer Science, and Engineering, though many undergraduate courses remain primarily in Portuguese.
• Master’s degrees: The widest range of English-taught programs is at the master’s level, including specialized and professional degrees.
• Doctoral programs: Many research-based PhD programs are available in English, especially in sciences and technology.

If your goal is an undergraduate degree, check carefully whether the program is fully offered in English or if some components require Portuguese.

Language requirements for international students

While studying in English, universities still require proof of English language proficiency. Common accepted tests include:

• IELTS Academic (usually a minimum overall score of 6.0 to 6.5)
• TOEFL iBT (minimum scores vary by university, often around 80-90)
• Cambridge English Qualifications (e.g., CAE or CPE)

Some universities may accept other equivalent certificates or offer their own English tests.

Portuguese language proficiency is generally not mandatory for English-taught programs, but basic knowledge is highly recommended for daily living and integration. Many universities offer free or low-cost Portuguese courses for international students.

Visa and work rights for international students in Portugal

International students accepted into Portuguese universities must apply for a student visa through the Portuguese consulate or embassy in their home country. Visa requirements typically include:

• Proof of university acceptance.
• Evidence of sufficient financial means.
• Health insurance.
• Accommodation details.

Students from EU/EEA countries do not require a visa but must register with local authorities.

Regarding work rights, student visa holders in Portugal can usually work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during term time and full-time during holidays, but you should always confirm current rules with official sources or through our Visa and work rights section.

How credible are Portuguese universities internationally?

Portuguese universities are part of the European Higher Education Area and follow the Bologna Process, ensuring degrees are comparable across Europe. Many universities have international accreditations and partnerships, and some feature in global university rankings.

However, international recognition can vary by field and university, so it’s wise to:

• Verify the accreditation status of the program.
• Check if the degree is recognized in your home country or where you plan to work.
• Use our University check tool to research university reputation and program details.

Can you transfer or switch universities in Portugal?

If you start a degree in Portugal and want to transfer to another university or switch programs, this is sometimes possible but depends on:

• Compatibility of your completed credits.
• Acceptance policies of the receiving university.
• Timing within the academic year.

International students considering transfers should plan carefully and consult with university admissions offices. For more guidance on transferring between universities or countries, see our Switch and transfer resources.

Costs and scholarships for English-taught programs

Tuition fees in Portugal are generally lower than in many Western European countries, but they vary widely depending on the university and program.

• Public universities usually have lower fees for EU students, with higher fees for non-EU international students.
• Private universities often charge higher tuition but may offer more English-taught options.

Scholarships and financial aid may be available but are competitive and often limited. It’s important to research funding early and check our Costs and scholarships section for tips on managing expenses.

Practical tips for applying to English-taught programs in Portugal

• Start your application early, as some programs have limited seats for international students.
• Prepare your English proficiency documents well in advance.
• Check if you need to translate or notarize your academic transcripts.
• Confirm visa processing times to avoid delays.
• Explore accommodation options near your university.
• Consider joining student groups or international clubs to ease integration.

FAQs

Q: Are all degree programs in Portugal available in English? A: No, many undergraduate programs remain primarily in Portuguese. English-taught degrees are more common at the master’s and doctoral levels, though some bachelor’s programs are available.

Q: Do I need to know Portuguese to study in Portugal? A: For English-taught programs, Portuguese is usually not required but is helpful for daily life. Many universities offer Portuguese language courses for international students.

Q: Can I work while studying in Portugal? A: Yes, student visa holders can usually work part-time during studies, but check current visa regulations for exact work hour limits.

Q: How can I verify the credibility of a Portuguese university? A: Check official accreditation, international rankings, and use tools like our University check for detailed information.

Q: Can I transfer to another university in Portugal? A: Transfers are possible but depend on credit recognition and university policies. Early planning and consultation with admissions offices are essential.

Get help with your study decision

Choosing the right English-taught degree program in Portugal can be complex. If you need personalized support with university selection, visa questions, costs, or transfer options, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact UniversitySwitch for expert guidance tailored to your study goals and circumstances.

Contact UniversitySwitch