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Beyond Abroad has been sending students to study abroad in Portugal for years, we understand the importance of providing accurate and detailed information about the costs of pursuing higher education in this beautiful country. Portugal is becoming a more popular place for international students to study because of its long history, beautiful landscapes, and high-quality education system. Each year, nearly 70,000 international students select Portugal as their preferred destination for studying abroad (lisbontales). Based on our many years of experience and knowledge, we will break down the costs of studying in Portugal in this blog post so that you can make an informed decision about your educational journey.
Tuition fees as the main cost of study in Portugal
Overview of tuition fees in Portugal
Portugal’s tuition costs depend on the type of school (public or private), the level of degree (Bachelor’s or Master’s), and the length of the program (one or two semesters, exchange programs, or full degrees). Generally, public universities have lower tuition fees compared to private institutions. However, both types of institutions offer high-quality education.
Comparison of tuition fees between public and private universities
At public universities, tuition fees for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs typically range from €1,000 to €1,500 per academic year for EU/EEA students. For non-EU/EEA students, the fees can be slightly higher, usually between €3,000 and €5000 per academic year. Private universities, on the other hand, tend to have higher tuition fees, with costs ranging from €3,000 to €12,500 per academic year for both EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA students.
Breakdown of fees for different degree levels (Bachelor’s and Master’s)
Bachelor’s programs in Portugal usually take three years to complete, while Master’s programs take one to two years, depending on the field of study. As a result, the total tuition fees for a Bachelor’s degree at a public university would range from €3,000 to €7,000 for EU/EEA students and from €9,000 to €15,000 for non-EU/EEA students. For a Master’s degree, the total tuition fees at a public university would range from €1,000 to €3,000 for EU/EEA students and from €3,000 to €10,000 for non-EU/EEA students.
At private universities, the total tuition fees for a Bachelor’s degree can range from €9,000 to €30,000, while for a Master’s degree, the fees can range from €3,000 to €20,000 for both EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA students.
Tuition fees for short-term study abroad or exchange programs:
One-semester study abroad or exchange programs: Tuition fees for these programs can start from €2,500 for public universities and from €2,500 to €6,000 for private universities. The fees may vary depending on the chosen course of study and the specific agreement between the home and host institutions.
Studying abroad in Portugal at the European University of Lisbon with Beyond Abroad
At the core of our values is maintaining outstanding relationships with all our partners, which translates into significant benefits for our students. Our exceptional partnership with the European University Lisbon enables you to save an impressive 1,310 EUR compared to applying independently. This exclusive advantage not only saves you money but also spares you considerable effort and time. Most importantly, it provides you with the most reliable and secure pathway to securing your coveted study place.
Tuition fee: 2,490 EUR
Application fee: 75 EUR
Living Expenses
Accommodation cost of study in Portugal
Accommodation is one of the significant expenses for students studying in Portugal. On-campus housing, like dorms at a university, is usually cheaper, costing between €150 and €300 per month. However, availability may be limited, and students may need to apply early to secure a spot.
Prices for off-campus housing, like shared apartments or private rentals, can vary greatly depending on location, size, and amenities. Rent for a shared apartment in Portugal usually ranges from €200 to €500 per month, while a private studio or one-bedroom apartment can cost between €400 and €800 per month. Remember that utilities and internet may not be included in the rent and could add €50 to €150 per month to your expenses.
Cost of study in Portugal: Food and groceries
Eating out in Portugal can be pretty affordable, with meals at budget-friendly restaurants and cafés costing between €5 and €10. However, cooking at home can help you save even more on your food expenses. The average monthly grocery bill for a student in Portugal is estimated to be around €150 to €250, depending on your dietary preferences and shopping habits.
Cost of study in Portugal: Transportation
Public transportation is an affordable and efficient way to get around Portugal. A monthly public transport pass for students usually costs between €20 and €40, depending on the city. People also like to walk and ride bikes, especially in smaller cities and towns with shorter distances.
Entertainment and socializing expenses
Portugal has a lively social scene where students can meet new people and try new things. Cinema tickets, for example, typically cost around €6 to €9, while entrance fees to museums and other cultural attractions are often discounted for students. Socializing at bars and clubs can be relatively inexpensive, with prices for drinks ranging from €1.50 to €5, depending on the venue and location.
Health insurance and medical costs
International students in Portugal are required to have health insurance, either through a private provider or the national health system. The cost of private health insurance can range from €20 to €50 per month while registering with the national health system is usually free for EU/EEA students and around €25 per month for non-EU/EEA students. It is important to note that some medical services or medications may still require out-of-pocket payments, although these costs are generally lower than in many other countries.
Miscellaneous expenses (books, supplies, etc.)
Conclusion
Depending on your field of study and personal preferences, you may have to pay different amounts for books, study materials, and supplies. On average, you can expect to spend around €100 to €300 per academic year on these items. Don’t forget that many universities also give students access to digital resources and libraries, which can make it less critical to buy physical textbooks.
Studying in Portugal can be an affordable and rewarding experience for international students. Knowing how much tuition, living expenses, and other costs add up, you can plan and manage your money well while in school. As a company with years of experience sending students to study abroad in Portugal, we are confident in the quality of education and the unique opportunities this country offers. We want you to do more research and consider studying in Portugal because we know you’ll have a great time and learn a lot.
About the writer
Foad specializes in creating engaging articles on education and studying abroad. His writing provides valuable information and aims to establish a connection with readers.
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