Portugal is rapidly emerging as a prime destination for international students, offering world-class education, a rich cultural heritage, and an affordable living environment. With an increasing number of fully funded scholarship opportunities, students from around the globe are considering Portugal’s top universities for their higher education.
This article highlights the best universities in Portugal that offer fully funded scholarships, making higher education more accessible to students at various academic levels.
1. University of Porto Scholarships
The University of Porto is one of Portugal’s premier educational institutions, recognized for its academic excellence and international reach. It offers a wide range of scholarships to support students at undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels.
Scholarship Opportunities:
- SASUP Scholarships: Fully funded, these scholarships cover accommodation, meals, transportation, and other living expenses for students pursuing undergraduate or master’s programs.
- Merit Scholarships: Awarded to high-achieving students, these scholarships reward academic excellence and provide significant reductions in tuition fees.
- Scientific Scholarships: Designed for students engaged in research, these scholarships support those pursuing scientific and technological studies.
With these opportunities, the University of Porto offers international students a chance to study at one of Europe’s top-ranking universities while minimizing financial barriers.
2. University of Coimbra Scholarships
As one of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Coimbra has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence. The institution provides various scholarship options for international students seeking to study in Portugal.
Scholarship Opportunities:
- Merit Undergraduate International Scholarship: This scholarship offers between €1,000 and €2,000 per year to top-performing international undergraduate students. To qualify, applicants must achieve at least 160 points on the university’s entrance exam.
- Extraordinary Merit Scholarships: For students who score 180 or higher on the entrance exam, this fully funded scholarship covers 100% of tuition fees.
These scholarships make the University of Coimbra an attractive and affordable option for international students looking for a world-class education in Portugal.
3. University of Aveiro International Scholarships
The University of Aveiro is known for its innovative research programs and interdisciplinary approach to education. It offers €1,000 scholarships to international students pursuing undergraduate and master’s degrees in various disciplines.
Scholarship Criteria:
- Applicants must achieve a minimum score of 14 in the university’s admission exams.
- Scholarships are awarded based on academic performance and are available across a range of academic fields.
These scholarships provide international students with an opportunity to study in Aveiro, a picturesque coastal city, while alleviating some of the financial burden associated with higher education.
4. Carnegie Mellon Portugal Ph.D. Scholarships
The Carnegie Mellon Portugal Ph.D. Scholarship offers a unique and prestigious opportunity for students specializing in Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This fully funded scholarship, offered in collaboration with Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT), allows students to pursue research in cutting-edge fields such as:
- Computer Science
- Electrical Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Robotics
Successful applicants benefit from full tuition coverage for four years, as well as the opportunity to split their time between Carnegie Mellon University in the United States and a partner university in Portugal.
5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship is one of the most prestigious and sought-after programs in Europe. It provides fully funded scholarships for international students enrolling in master’s programs at Portuguese universities.
Scholarship Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage
- Travel allowances
- Monthly stipends for living expenses
This scholarship supports students with outstanding academic records, encouraging cultural exchange and promoting academic excellence. It is an excellent option for those looking to study in Portugal while gaining a global perspective.
6. University of Minho Scholarships
The University of Minho offers a diverse range of scholarships to international students, funded by the European Social Fund and the Portuguese government. These scholarships support students across all academic levels.
Scholarship Opportunities:
- Excellence Scholarships: Awarded to the top-performing student in each academic year.
- Social Program Scholarships: Designed for students from low-income backgrounds, covering both tuition fees and living expenses.
- Academic Merit Awards: For students demonstrating exceptional academic achievements.
These scholarships provide financial support to students pursuing a variety of academic disciplines at the University of Minho, making it an excellent choice for international students seeking quality education at an affordable cost.
7. Learn Africa Scholarships
The Learn Africa Scholarships aim to empower African women by offering fully funded scholarships for undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate studies in Portugal. This program fosters collaboration between Portuguese universities and African countries, providing African students with the opportunity to pursue a world-class education in Europe.
Scholarship Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage
- Living expenses
- Travel allowances
This initiative not only provides educational opportunities but also promotes cultural exchange, helping to strengthen ties between Portugal and African nations.
8. Portuguese Government Scholarships
The Portuguese government offers fully funded scholarships to international students, particularly from former Portuguese-speaking colonies such as Angola, Mozambique, and Cape Verde. These scholarships cover all expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, and study materials.
Conclusion
Portugal offers a wealth of opportunities for international students through a variety of fully funded scholarships. Whether pursuing an undergraduate degree or a Ph.D., students can access world-class education without the financial burden. With its welcoming atmosphere, excellent climate, and affordable cost of living, Portugal is increasingly becoming a top choice for students seeking quality education in Europe.
Studying in Portugal not only provides access to high-ranking universities but also allows students to experience a vibrant culture and an enriching academic environment. The scholarships available across different universities make it easier for students worldwide to take advantage of these educational opportunities and embark on an international academic journey.