Over the last few years, people have started to realize just how incredible Portugal is. It’s easy to understand why students are jumping at the chance to study in Portugal, too.
Why study in Portugal? Let’s start with the charming cities and welcoming locals.
So, why study in Portugal? Exchange students flock to this Western European nation for everything from its climate, with sunshine galore, to its cost of living, ranked among the lowest in Western Europe. That’s just the start, so check out some of the best reasons to study abroad in Portugal.
15 reasons to study abroad in Portugal
1. The climate is of one of the best in Europe
Perched on the western edge of Europe, Lisbon is the continent’s sunniest capital city and has an average temperature of around 20°C (that’s 68°F). The city boasts an average of more than 200 days of sunshine per year, so you’ll notice immediately how nice the weather is.
Generally speaking, Portugal is hot in the summer and has moderate temperatures in the winter. So if you're looking for some winter sunshine, Portugal is a fantastic option!
2. Portugal features reputable universities with beautiful campuses
With gorgeous and historic campuses, several universities in Portugal are strategically located close to the city's center yet still feature plenty of open and green areas. All over the country, you will find universities with a reputation around the world. The QS World University Rankings 2021 placed seven Portuguese universities in the list of top universities in the world.
As a Bologna Process participant, Portugal upholds the level of higher education in Europe. All higher education degrees, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, are available in Portugal. Your career will certainly advance thanks to a degree from a university in Portugal or a study abroad semester at one of the many programs there.
3. You can become fluent in Portuguese
Discover Portuguese! As with any country where English is not the native tongue, you have the opportunity to become fluent in another language. Portuguese is attractive, and its similarities to Spanish and Italian will enable you to at least comprehend those two languages as well.
Learn Portuguese and have a great time chatting with your new friends and classmates.
While master's degree programs are primarily taught in English, most bachelor's degrees are taught in Portuguese. Learning Portuguese will help you in either case. Consider the language a doorway to South America and northern Africa.
Learning the language while you’re abroad can also aid in your adjustment to the new culture and habits as well as to studying in a new location.
4. Security is a priority
As it should be. The Portuguese take security very seriously. In fact, according to a global peace index, Portugal is the sixth most peaceful nation in the world.
Despite the low crime statistics, pickpocketing, bag snatching, auto break-ins, and thefts from vacation homes and cars are frequent in popular tourist destinations and may include violence. As in any country, it's better to remain on guard, keep an eye on your possessions, and watch out for thieves who may be utilizing deception to their advantage. However, generally speaking, Portugal and its inhabitants firmly believe in mutual respect for one another.
READ: 10 Annoying Travel Problems and Their Solutions
5. The quality and price of education can’t be beat
You’ll want this country on your list if you’re searching for cheap places to study abroad. You’ll find world-class, affordable education in Portugal, which is also noteworthy in terms of global rankings. For example, the University of Lisbon offers a variety of programs and locations for every students’ needs.
The cost of tuition and fees is relatively affordable, particularly for degrees that are taught in English. Many colleges also encourage room sharing, so you can further reduce the cost of your study abroad program in Portugal.
6. Portugal is a land of stunning scenery
From the breathtaking Benagil Caves to the hiker's paradise of the Penado Geres National Park to the picturesque wine-growing region of the Douro Valley, not to mention the magnificent beaches of the Algarve, Portugal has been voted one of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe.
Portugal offers it all if you're seeking natural beauty. Fortunately, Portugal is a small country, so you won't ever be too far from a beach!
7. You can indulge in gastronomy to die for
Go ahead, sample all the tasty treats Portugal has in store for you.
You will never, ever be hungry while studying in Portugal, unless you're a vegan. The majority of the meals here are made with meat, fish, or eggs.
The cuisine is excellent, with most of the food spicy and filling. Traditional Portuguese desserts are often sweet and made with various combinations of egg, sugar, and cinnamon.
8. You’ll learn how to adapt in a new and welcoming environment
The Portuguese have a well-deserved reputation for being kind people and will welcome you with open arms. This nation welcomes all visitors and does not differentiate between tourists, foreigners, and citizens.
Additionally, they will support you and help you during your entire stay in Portugal. Isn't it incredible? You will settle into this new country with ease because of this kind culture.
9. You can study in English
Although learning Portuguese is a great reason to study abroad in Portugal, learning any language is that much more challenging when all classes are taught in the target language. If you’re asking yourself, “Can I study in English in Portugal?” before you hit send on your study abroad application, we have good news for you.
Programs in Portugal are increasingly being taught in English, especially at the master's level, thus Portuguese is not required. Fortunately, the majority of universities offer options for students to study in English in Portugal.
10. You’ll have access to affordable travel
Since Portugal is such a small country, you can travel short distances at a decent price. For instance, in Porto or Lisbon, the beach is never far away—you are never more than 20 or 30 minutes from it.
If you have a day off from school, you can take a day excursion to any city in the nation and return in time for class the following day. Or you may spend a weekend learning much more about the nation.
11. You’ll feel right at home in this rich culture
The open-mindedness of the Portuguese is renowned. You'll find the people in Portugal to be kind and accepting, and getting to know the locals will be much easier if you learn a little of their language. Enrolling in a language course can actually be a terrific opportunity to make new friends and learn more about Portugal, which is known for producing some of the best coffee in the world.
With a population of little over 10 million, Portugal is the 17th most populous country in Europe. Portugal is small enough to easily travel around, but not so small that all can be done in a single day or weekend.
12. This location is great for surfing
Easy access to all those amazing beaches is one of the top reasons to study abroad in Portugal!
With the sea nearby, Portugal has become so well known for its ideal surf conditions after the world's largest wave was caught by a Hawaiian surfer at 90 feet. In addition, there are many surf accommodations that have on-site instructors, with prices starting at just 15 to 30 Euros per night with the bed. This is a great option if you want to learn to surf and still build community.
Take care when walking close to the water’s edge along unsupervised stretches of beaches. Waves can be unpredictable and may have a strong undertow.
13. You can get involved in diverse activities
The major cities of Portugal are quite multicultural and have a thriving music and nightlife culture. The wine and beer are on par with those in France and Germany, and the food is outstanding.
The reputation of the Portuguese as warm and inviting people who like celebrations is well-deserved. Be sure to attend one of the various festivals held while you’re there.
14. Exchange students can study and work
Part-time employment is permitted for international students while they are studying in Portugal. During their semester, they are permitted to work up to 40 hours. Additionally, they may have the chance to work longer hours throughout the summer and during breaks.
You must obtain permission from migration in order to work while you are a student in Portugal. This can offer a huge benefit if you’re looking for ways to help pay for part of your living expenses while you're studying in Portugal.
15. Portugal offers a comfortable cost of living
One of the main benefits of studying in Portugal is that it is comparatively less expensive than the rest of Western Europe. Portugal is an ideal location for you if you have a limited budget yet wish to receive a top-notch education overseas. With less than $1,000, you may survive relatively well in smaller student cities.
READ: How to Make Money While Studying Abroad
3 cool study abroad programs in Portugal
1. USAC Portugal: Lisbon - Undergraduate Courses
- Why it’s great: The semester Partnership Program at Lisbon's Universidade Católica Portuguesa (UCP) is perfect for students who want to reside and study in one of Europe's most historic, picturesque, and reasonably priced port cities.
- You can choose from a variety of undergraduate courses offered in English through the program, including those in the humanities, social sciences, business, and culture (AACSB accredited). Additionally, you can finish up to two years of Portuguese during the semester.
- Read University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) reviews
2. Portugal: Sustainability and Environmental Justice
- Why it’s great: SIT Study Abroad students can study sustainability in Lisbon, Portugal's 2020 Green Capital of Europe. Participants in the program will see how Lisbon diverges from traditional economic methods with an emphasis on sustainability and social equality. The city has been tackling carbon emissions and the effects of mass tourism through renewable energy technology and social programs.
- Participants will take field trips to the stunning Extremadura Region of Spain, the Azores Islands, the historic university town of Coimbra, and the coastal city of Porto to compare conservation initiatives, resource management and environmental policies, and sustainable agricultural production.
- Read SIT Study Abroad reviews
3. CIEE Language and Culture in Lisbon, Portugal
- Why it’s great: This program offers English-language business courses that have received AACSB accreditation, a specialized accreditation for business and accounting programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral level. Only two classes can be taken at a time.
- You’ll get to choose other courses from CIEE or the School of Social Sciences and Humanities at Universidade Nova de Lisboa (FCSH-UNL). Students can choose from a wide range of area studies electives in addition to the obligatory Portuguese Language classes delivered by CIEE.
- Read CIEE reviews
Next steps to study abroad in Portugal
Ready to take the leap and learn about your options for studying abroad in Portugal this year or beyond? Here are the essential steps you need to take to make it happen:
- Get matched with study abroad programs. No clue where to start? Our free online advisor will get you started with program matches based on your preferences!
- Talk to your study abroad advisor. They’ll have insight on what kind of programs your school offers in Portugal, or how to transfer academic credit from a study abroad provider.
- Compare programs with MyGoAbroad. See all your options side-by-side for free! MyGoAbroad removes the confusion from deciding on the best study abroad program for YOU.
- Read more about study abroad. GoAbroad has tons of resources to help you learn about what it’s like to study abroad in Portugal, and what you can expect when you get there.
Our Online Advisor can match you with 5 study abroad programs in Portugal—it’s free!
Your study abroad adventure in Portugal awaits!
Studying abroad in Portugal might just be the best decision ever.
Portugal is a fantastic choice for international students because it is one of the most affordable countries in Europe to study and live. Without going broke, you’ll take advantage of a sunny climate, world-class cities, and a warm, welcoming culture.
Portugal does not require comparison to other nations, but it certainly excels. After reading all of this, you should understand why Portugal is one of Europe's most popular study abroad destinations and why study in Portugal is such a great idea.
Look for the Perfect Study Abroad Program Now
Start Your Search
