The most affordable universities in Portugal If you are looking for a high quality European education without spending a fortune, Portugal is one of the best options available right now. The most affordable universities in Portugal charge as little as €1,300 per year for international students, making them a top choice for students from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and beyond. Portugal is consistently ranked among the safest countries in the world, offers a warm Mediterranean climate, a rich culture, and a relatively low cost of living compared to countries like the UK, Germany, or France. Portuguese universities offer some of the most affordable degrees in Europe, and the country is also known for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and amazing landscapes. With over 75,000 international students choosing Portugal every year, the country has proven that it can deliver world class education at prices that do not break the bank.

Studying at the most affordable universities in Portugal also means you are getting degrees that are fully recognized across the European Union and globally, thanks to Portugal’s participation in the Bologna Process. Both public and private educational systems in Portugal are part of the European Higher Education Area through the Bologna Process, which facilitates international student mobility and the recognition of academic qualifications. Whether you want to study engineering, medicine, business, humanities, or technology, Portugal has a course for you at a price that fits your budget. This guide covers the 10 most affordable universities in Portugal for international students, complete with tuition fees, available scholarships, and everything else you need to make the right choice.

Quick Overview: Most Affordable Universities in Portugal

Why Choose Portugal for Affordable Higher Education?

Portugal has become one of the most popular study destinations in Europe, and for very good reasons. Tuition fees in Portugal are relatively modest, with public universities generally charging less than €1,500 per year for their Bachelor and Master programmes, while some private universities may charge up to €4,000 per year. The most affordable universities in Portugal When you compare this to countries like the United Kingdom, where tuition alone can reach €17,000 to €36,000 per year, Portugal stands out as an extraordinarily budget friendly option.

Beyond tuition, the cost of living in Portugal is also quite reasonable. For your monthly food and groceries, you will spend around €150 to €200. You can also find affordable food at university canteens, where you can get a meal for around €2 to €5. A one way ticket for local transport is around €1.50, while a student transit pass costs between €20 and €55 per month.

Portugal also offers a safe and welcoming environment for international students. Its universities maintain strong ties with industries and research institutions around the world. The most affordable universities in Portugal The country’s public universities are funded by the government, which keeps tuition costs low while maintaining high academic standards. If you are searching for the most affordable universities in Portugal, you are making a smart academic and financial decision.

10 Most Affordable Universities in Portugal for International Students

1. Polytechnic Institute of Tomar (IPT)

The Polytechnic Institute of Tomar, commonly known as IPT, is one of the most affordable universities in Portugal and a hidden gem for international students looking for quality education at the lowest possible cost. IPT was initiated in 1973 but was withheld due to the Portuguese revolution. In 1996, the Ministry of Education and Science led the institution’s establishment, primarily offering management and technology programs. Today, IPT has more than 60 courses to choose from. The institute is located in the historic city of Tomar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which gives students a unique cultural experience alongside their academic journey.

IPT offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and short course programs in areas like engineering, management, computing, arts, and education. The campus is small and student friendly, which means you get more direct attention from professors and a tighter knit academic community. The most affordable universities in Portugal. The institute actively participates in the Erasmus+ program, giving students the chance to study at partner universities across Europe. Classes are taught in Portuguese, but the institution has been expanding its English language offerings for international students.

For students from countries outside the EU who are looking for the most affordable universities in Portugal, IPT remains one of the top choices due to its combination of low fees, diverse programs, and excellent location. IPT’s international bachelor’s tuition ranges from €1,350 to €2,700. With this level of affordability, it is very hard to find a better deal anywhere else in Western Europe.

Scholarships at IPT

IPT students can access a variety of scholarship opportunities. The Portuguese Government Scholarship is one of the most sought-after options, covering full tuition fees and providing a monthly stipend. Backed by the Government of Portugal, this initiative invites talented students worldwide to join top Portuguese universities with 100% tuition coverage and a €1,250 monthly stipend. The most affordable universities in Portugal Students at IPT can also apply for Erasmus+ mobility grants and various social support grants offered through the institution. International students from CPLP countries (community of Portuguese-speaking nations) may receive a significant reduction on already-low fees. The IPT social services office also manages emergency financial support funds for students who face unexpected financial difficulties during their studies.

2. Polytechnic Institute of Bragança (IPB)

The Polytechnic Institute of Bragança is consistently listed among the most affordable universities in Portugal for international students. Located in the northeastern corner of Portugal near the Spanish border, Bragança is a peaceful and safe university town with a relaxed lifestyle that is perfect for students who want to focus on their studies without the distractions of a big city. IPB is a public polytechnic institution that emphasizes practical, career focused learning, making its graduates highly employable after graduation.

IPB offers programs in agriculture, engineering, education, health, technology, management, and social sciences. The institute has a strong international outlook and is home to thousands of international students every year, drawn in large part by its very low tuition fees and high quality of teaching. The Polytechnic Institute of Bragança is consistently listed among the most affordable universities in Portugal for international students. The faculty members at IPB are research active and maintain close links with industry and agriculture sectors, which means the academic experience is both current and practical.

The Polytechnic Institute of Bragança offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as engineering, business, and computer science, with tuition fees for international students around €1,000 to €1,500 per year. This makes IPB one of the cheapest options in all of Europe for a quality university education. The low cost of living in Bragança further increases the appeal of studying here.

Scholarships at IPB

IPB has a dedicated international office that helps students find and apply for available scholarships. The Erasmus+ program is widely available at IPB, allowing both incoming and outgoing international exchanges. Students from Portuguese speaking countries benefit from the CPLP fee discount of up to 50%. The Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation also offers scholarships for international students in Portugal, covering living costs and sometimes tuition fees. The Portuguese government provides scholarships for students from certain countries through bilateral agreements or specific programs. The most affordable universities in Portugal IPB students can also apply for research scholarships funded by Portuguese science foundations, which are open to graduate students engaged in research projects.

3. Polytechnic Institute of Guarda (IPG)

The Polytechnic Institute of Guarda is another standout name on the list of most affordable universities in Portugal. Located in Guarda, the highest altitude city in Portugal, IPG combines academic quality with a unique mountain environment near the Serra da Estrela natural park. IPG combines a friendly campus with an outdoorsy lifestyle thanks to nearby Serra da Estrela. Programs span technology, health, education, and business, with maker spaces and practic oriented labs that suit students who prefer applied learning and small classes.

IPG is a small institution, which works in the student’s favor. You get personalized academic support, smaller class sizes, and a stronger connection to faculty. The institute follows a practical, applied approach to education, which is ideal for students who want job-ready skills alongside their degree. Students in fields like health sciences, sports science, education, business, and engineering all benefit greatly from the hands-on curriculum at IPG.

IPG lists straightforward international fees: €1,300 per year for most bachelor’s courses and €1,500 per year for most master’s, making IPG one of the cheapest universities in Portugal for international students. The city of Guarda is also significantly cheaper to live in compared to Lisbon or Porto, making your overall budget stretch even further.

Scholarships at IPG

Students at IPG are eligible for the Portuguese Government Scholarship, which covers full tuition and offers a monthly living stipend of €1,250. The Portugal Government Scholarships cover all tuition fees and offer a monthly stipend of €1,250 to support living expenses, so students can fully focus on their studies. IPG also participates in the Erasmus+ program and has bilateral agreements with universities in Africa and Latin America that sometimes include scholarship components. Social support scholarships are available for students who demonstrate financial need, and the institution’s academic services office is known for being especially helpful to international students navigating the application process for the first time.

4. University of Algarve (UAlg)

The University of Algarve is one of the most sought-after destinations for international students who want to combine quality education with an incredible quality of life in southern Portugal. UAlg is a public educational institution located in Southern Portugal. It currently operates 2 campuses, one in Faro and another in Portimão. While UAlg only has a small student population, approximately a fifth (19%) comes from more than 70 countries across the globe. The Algarve region is world-famous for its golden beaches, sunshine, and relaxed lifestyle, making it one of the most attractive study destinations in all of Europe.

UAlg is ranked among the best universities in Portugal and Europe for several subject areas. This university is noted for its Social Science courses, which are globally bracketed at 301 to 400. It is also listed in the 501-600 category for Life Science, Physical Science, and Business & Economics. Its programs in marine biology, tourism, hotel management, health sciences, and engineering are particularly popular among international students. The university has strong industry connections with the thriving tourism and hospitality sectors in the Algarve region, giving students direct career pathways after graduation.

The tuition fee at UAlg is affordable, and the university even allows international students to pay tuition in up to ten installments. For students covered by the International Student Statute, fees are between €3,500 and €4,500 for standard international students, and between €1,500 and €4,500 for CPLP and Latin American students.

Scholarships at UAlg

UAlg offers a flexible installment plan for tuition, easing the financial burden throughout the academic year. Students from CPLP countries get significantly reduced fees. The university participates in several Erasmus+ mobility programs and has agreements with universities in Brazil, Angola, and other Portuguese speaking nations. The Santander Universidades scholarship program is also available to students at UAlg. Santander Universidades scholarships are provided by Banco Santander and are available for students from partner universities around the world to study in Portugal. Students with exceptional academic records can apply for merit-based awards offered directly by the institution, which reduce overall study costs.

5. Polytechnic Institute of Leiria (IPLeiria)

The Polytechnic Institute of Leiria is one of the most internationally connected and affordable polytechnic universities in Portugal. Situated in the city of Leiria, midway between Lisbon and Porto, the institute benefits from excellent transport links and a vibrant student community. IPLeiria is a modern, dynamic institution that has embraced internationalization at every level of its operations. It has partner universities in over 50 countries and is a hub for Erasmus+ exchange students from all over Europe and beyond.

IPLeiria offers programs across five schools covering health sciences, business, engineering, education, and arts and design. The school of Tourism, Hospitality, and Maritime Technology is one of the most unique offerings of any university in Portugal, reflecting the country’s strong connection to the sea and tourism. The institute has a strong focus on entrepreneurship, digital skills, and innovation, ensuring that graduates are prepared for the modern labor market.

Polytechnic Institute of Leiria’s tuition starts at €1,040 per year, which is among the lowest starting points for any university in Portugal. For international students, tuition fees are around €1,200 to €1,800 per year. The city of Leiria is also very affordable, with a lively cultural scene and easy access to nearby beaches along the Silver Coast.

Scholarships at IPLeiria

IPLeiria actively supports international students through a dedicated scholarship fund. Merit based scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance during their first year. The Erasmus+ program provides financial support for both incoming and outgoing students engaged in academic exchanges. Some private Portuguese universities offer a discount of up to 100% of lecture fees depending on a student’s final grades. Students from CPLP countries receive a discounted tuition rate at IPLeiria. Social support scholarships funded by the Portuguese government’s social action system are also available, covering part of tuition and living expenses for financially disadvantaged students.

6. University of Minho (UMinho)

The University of Minho is one of the most respected public research universities in Portugal and is also one of the most affordable options for international students looking for a research intensive education. The University of Minho is a renowned public research university located in the northern region of Portugal. It was established in 1973 and has since grown into a leading educational institution in the country. UMinho has two main campuses, one in Braga and one in Guimarães, both vibrant university cities with strong student communities and affordable living costs.

UMinho is particularly strong in engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, education, and health sciences. The University of Minho enrolls over 21,000 students, with 8.5% coming from abroad, reflecting its growing international appeal. It offers over 100 master’s programs across 14 disciplines, including top ranked fields like Textile Science and Engineering (ranked 21st globally) and Food Science and Technology (top 75). The university maintains a 15:1 student to staff ratio, which ensures students get sufficient individual attention.

The University of Minho offers affordable tuition, ranging from €872 to €6,500 annually, depending on the program and level of study. For most undergraduate programs, the annual tuition for international students is around €2,500, making it excellent value given UMinho’s strong international reputation and research output.

Scholarships at UMinho

International students at the University of Minho can apply for several scholarships, including academic merit awards and emergency financial aid. The university also offers 50 annual scholarships for disadvantaged students. UMinho participates in the Erasmus+ program and has bilateral agreements with universities in Brazil, Mozambique, and Cape Verde, which sometimes include scholarship components. The university’s merit scholarships are awarded based on academic performance and are renewed annually. Students engaged in research programs at master’s or doctoral level can apply for FCT (Foundation for Science and Technology) research scholarships, which provide competitive monthly stipends.

7. University of the Azores (UAc)

The University of the Azores is a truly unique destination for international students who want to combine world class education with an extraordinary natural environment. Located in the Azores archipelago, an autonomous region of Portugal in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, UAc offers a one of a kind study experience surrounded by volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, and some of the cleanest air in the world. The University of the Azores is a nationally recognized public institution with years of expertise in cultivating socially accountable professionals, innovators, and leaders. The institute’s formation began in 1976, as the region of the Azores needed a higher education school that offered good quality education at affordable costs.

UAc offers programs in agriculture, marine sciences, geography, languages, education, economics, and engineering. The university has developed particular strengths in marine biology, ecology, and environmental sciences, thanks to its island location and the rich biodiversity of the surrounding ocean. Students at UAc get research opportunities that are virtually impossible to find anywhere else in Europe. The campus atmosphere is calm, safe, and strongly supportive of international students.

The University of the Azores is a strong contender among the most affordable universities in Portugal, with tuition fees starting at approximately €1,500 per year for international students. For international students not from the EU, tuition fees in Portugal vary anywhere from €1,300 to €10,000 per year, but UAc sits at the more affordable end of this range. The overall cost of living on the islands is also lower than mainland Portugal.

Scholarships at UAc

The University of the Azores participates in national scholarship programs managed by the Directorate-General for Higher Education (DGES). Students from CPLP countries receive a considerable reduction in their tuition fees. The Erasmus+ program is active at UAc, enabling student mobility within the EU. Research scholarships funded by the Azorean Regional Government are also available to graduate students working in environmental, marine, and agricultural research. The FCT PhD Studentships offer 1,550 fully funded doctoral positions across all scientific fields, which students at UAc can also apply for. The remote and peaceful nature of the islands also means living costs are remarkably low.

8. University of Évora (UÉvora)

The University of Évora is a historic and distinguished institution that ranks among the most affordable universities in Portugal with centuries of academic tradition behind it. The University of Évora is the second oldest university in the country and was established in 1559 to meet the need of the southern region of Portugal for a higher education institution. Located in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Évora in the Alentejo region, the university offers an unparalleled blend of historical significance and modern academic excellence.

UÉvora is known for its strong programs in arts and humanities, earth sciences, agricultural engineering, veterinary sciences, sports sciences, and social sciences. The city of Évora itself is one of the most beautiful in Portugal, with well-preserved Roman temples, medieval cathedrals, and a relaxed Alentejo lifestyle that is very different from the bustle of Lisbon. Students who study here benefit from a peaceful, culturally rich environment that is highly conducive to deep academic focus.

The tuition fee at the University of Évora starts from €2,500 per year for undergraduate and graduate programs. Given the university’s long history, academic prestige, and beautiful location, this represents outstanding value for international students who want a genuinely world-class European university education at an affordable price.

Scholarships at UÉvora

The University of Évora offers merit based scholarships for high achieving international students in their first year of study. The university’s social action office administers a range of financial support programs, including food vouchers, accommodation subsidies, and partial tuition waivers. CPLP students are entitled to reduced fees. The Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, one of Portugal’s most prestigious private foundations, offers scholarships for postgraduate students studying in Portugal. The Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation offers scholarships for students from selected countries to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Portugal. UÉvora students also have access to FCT-funded research grants for doctoral-level work.

9. University of Coimbra (UC)

The University of Coimbra is one of the oldest and most famous universities in the world, and it remains one of the most affordable universities in Portugal for international students when you factor in the scholarships and discounts it offers. The University of Coimbra, founded in 1290, is one of the oldest universities in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the historic city of Coimbra, it is renowned for its rich academic traditions and stunning architecture, including the iconic Joanina Library, which inspired The Great Hall in the Harry Potter film franchise.

UC offers programs across all major academic disciplines, including medicine, law, engineering, pharmacy, psychology, humanities, and sciences. It is a full research university with a massive international student community and deep connections to universities worldwide. The city of Coimbra has a lively student culture, with the famous Queima das Fitas festival (Burning of the Ribbons) being one of the most celebrated student events in all of Europe. The university consistently appears in the QS World University Rankings.

The University of Coimbra charges tuition fees between €900 and €9,000 per year for international students. While the upper end of this range is higher than other institutions on this list, UC’s merit scholarships can significantly reduce the actual cost you pay. The University of Coimbra offers discounts on tuition and accommodation, as well as coupons for free meals in canteens for students with an average performance of 18 points.

Scholarships at UC

The University of Coimbra has some of the most generous scholarship options among all universities in Portugal. The University of Coimbra offers discounts on tuition and accommodation in a student hostel, as well as coupons for free meals in canteens for students achieving an average performance of 18 points. The university participates in the Erasmus+ program extensively and has bilateral agreements with universities on every continent. The Portuguese Government Scholarship is also available to eligible students at UC. The scholarship covers all tuition fees and provides a €1,250 monthly stipend for living expenses. Students can also apply for research grants through the FCT and various EU-funded research programs that UC actively participates in.

10. University of Beira Interior (UBI)

The University of Beira Interior rounds out our list of the most affordable universities in Portugal and is a fantastic choice for international students interested in sciences, engineering, and technology. UBI is a public university located in the city of Covilhã, in the inland mountain region of Portugal near the Serra da Estrela. The university is known for its strong focus on applied research, particularly in the fields of aeronautics, textiles, optical fiber technology, and biomedicine.

UBI has a diverse and international student body, with hundreds of students from dozens of countries enrolled in its programs every year. The city of Covilhã is safe, affordable, and has a strong student culture built around the university. The cost of accommodation, food, and transport in Covilhã is significantly lower than in Lisbon or Porto, making UBI one of the most economically sensible choices on this list. The university has strong partnerships with industries in the textile and aeronautics sectors.

The University of Beira Interior offers undergraduate and graduate programs in engineering, business, and computer science, with tuition fees for international students around €1,200 to €1,800 per year. With this price range and UBI’s strong academic reputation in technical fields, it offers one of the best value propositions among all affordable Portuguese universities.

Scholarships at UBI

UBI offers institutional scholarships for international students who demonstrate strong academic performance. Students from CPLP countries receive a fee reduction of up to 50% on already low tuition rates. The Erasmus+ program is active at UBI, supporting student exchanges across Europe. Merit-based scholarships are renewed annually and tied to academic performance in the previous year. The University of Aveiro reduces tuition fees to €1,000 for international students with an average grade of 16 or higher, and UBI has a similar internal merit award policy. Students pursuing doctoral programs can apply for fully funded FCT studentships in research areas where UBI has strong output.

Cost of Living for International Students in Portugal

The most affordable universities in Portugal understanding the cost of living is just as important as knowing tuition fees when you are budgeting for your studies. Portugal is one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe, and your monthly expenses will depend heavily on which city you study in. Lisbon and Porto are the most expensive cities, while smaller university towns like Bragança, Guarda, Covilhã, and Évora are significantly cheaper.

On average, you will need between €500 and €800 per month to cover all living expenses in Portugal. For accommodation, student halls of residence cost between €150 and €250 per month, while renting a room in a shared apartment costs between €100 and €550 per month.

Here is a rough monthly budget breakdown for international students in Portugal:

Key Scholarships Available for International Students in Portugal

Portugal offers several scholarship programs at national and institutional levels that make studying even more affordable.

Portugal Government Scholarship: The most affordable universities in Portugal. This is the most well known scholarship for international students. The Portugal Government Scholarships offer 100% tuition coverage and a €1,250 monthly stipend, and they are open to students worldwide at undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels.

FCT PhD Studentships: The FCT offers 1,550 fully funded doctoral positions across all scientific fields, managed by the Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia.

Erasmus+ Grants: Available at nearly all Portuguese universities, these grants fund student exchanges, language learning, and joint degree programs within Europe.

Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation Scholarships: The most affordable universities in Portugal.The Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation offers scholarships for students from selected countries to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Portugal.

Santander Universidades Scholarships: These scholarships are provided by Banco Santander and are available for students from partner universities around the world to study in Portugal.

Camões Institute Scholarships: The Camões Institute offers scholarships for foreign students interested in Portuguese language and culture studies, including language courses and degrees in Portugal.

CPLP Discounts: Students from Portuguese speaking countries like Brazil, Angola, Cape Verde, Mozambique, and others receive fee reductions of up to 50% at most public universities.

How to Apply to Universities in Portugal as an International Student

Applying to the most affordable universities in Portugal is a straightforward process once you understand the steps involved. Most universities accept online applications through their official portals. For international students not from the EU, tuition fees can vary anywhere from €1,300 to €10,000 per year, and there are also large reductions for students from CPLP countries, often close to around 50% discount.

Here is a general step-by-step process for applying:

Step 1: Research Programs and Universities. Identify the program and university that fits your academic goals and budget. Use resources like Mastersportal or the DGES official portal to compare programs.

Step 2: Check Admission Requirements. Each university and faculty sets its own requirements. Most require a secondary school diploma for bachelor’s programs and a recognized degree for master’s programs.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents. This usually includes your academic transcripts, a copy of your passport, proof of language proficiency (Portuguese or English), a motivation letter, and apostilled copies of your qualifications.

Step 4: Submit Your Online Application. Apply through the university’s international student portal before the stated deadline.

Step 5: Await Admission and Visa. Once admitted, apply for a Portuguese student visa through your nearest Portuguese consulate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)