Scholarships for Students Studying in Portugal

Portugal is an increasingly popular destination for international students, not only because of its quality education and affordable living costs but also due to the variety of scholarships available to help ease financial burdens. These scholarships, offered by the government, universities, foundations, and other organizations, can cover tuition fees, living stipends, accommodation, and other related expenses.

Government-Funded Scholarships

Several government bodies provide financial support to international students:

• Instituto Português de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento (IPAD) offers scholarships primarily to students from historic Portuguese foreign territories, fostering educational ties with these regions.

• DGES (Direção-Geral do Ensino Superior) administers a range of scholarships including merit-based awards and student loans available for both public and private universities across Portugal.

• FCT (Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia) supports doctoral students by offering funding opportunities focused on research and advanced studies.

University and University-Affiliated Scholarships

Many Portuguese universities have dedicated scholarship programs to assist their students:

• The University of Porto through SASUP provides study scholarships with monthly financial support to students enrolled in various academic programs.

• The University of Coimbra offers merit-based scholarships to undergraduate students, along with additional awards for academic excellence.

• The University of Algarve runs several merit-based scholarships as well as a Social Support Fund aimed at helping students with financial needs.

• Universidade de Aveiro hosts programs like the “Science without Borders,” which is designed for PhD candidates from Brazil and other international students.

Foundation Scholarships

Several foundations also offer scholarships that focus on specific fields or regions:

• The Gulbenkian Foundation supports graduate students conducting research in Armenian studies or Portuguese language and culture.

• The Instituto Camões provides scholarships to Timorese students who demonstrate merit, enabling them to pursue undergraduate studies in Portugal.

Other Scholarship Programs

• The Gilman-FLAD Scholarship is a highly selective award targeting underrepresented U.S. students who wish to study in Portugal, facilitated by the Study in Portugal Network (SiPN).

• Erasmus Scholarships encourage students across Europe to study abroad and are available through partnerships between Portuguese universities and other European institutions.

• The Erasmus Mundus Scholarships provide additional opportunities for international students to pursue joint master’s degrees in Europe, with some programs involving Portuguese universities.

• Banco Santander Scholarships offer financial aid to international students demonstrating academic excellence while studying in Portugal.

Tips for Finding and Applying for Scholarships

• Research Thoroughly: Visit official websites of Portuguese universities, foundations, and scholarship providers to find programs that match your profile.

• Tailor Your Application: Customize your application materials to emphasize your achievements and experiences relevant to each scholarship’s criteria.

• Apply Early: Scholarship deadlines vary, so submitting your application well in advance increases your chances of success.

Portugal offers a wealth of scholarship options that cater to diverse student needs and backgrounds, making it an accessible and attractive study destination. By exploring government, university, foundation, and international programs, prospective students can find the support they need to pursue their academic goals in Portugal. Early preparation and a focused application strategy are key to securing financial aid and enjoying a rewarding educational experience in this vibrant European country.