Study in Portugal
Western Europe's most affordable gem — a rising tech hub
Why Study in Portugal?
Top reasons students choose this destination.
Extremely Affordable
Public university tuition as low as €1,000/year — cheapest in Western Europe
Rising Tech Hub
Lisbon is becoming Europe's Silicon Valley with Web Summit, startup ecosystem
Historic Excellence
University of Coimbra (founded 1290) — one of Europe's oldest and most prestigious
Mediterranean Lifestyle
Warm climate, safe society, and one of the most welcoming countries in Europe
EU-Recognized Degrees
Bologna-aligned degrees recognized across all EU member states
Tech Visa & D4 Pathway
Clear student visa and employment pathways for international graduates
Best Cities in Portugal
Top destinations for international students to study, live, and build careers.
Lisbon
Portugal's capital has transformed into one of Europe's hottest tech and startup hubs, hosting Web Summit annually and attracting companies like Google, Amazon, and Mercedes-Benz. Home to the University of Lisbon and NOVA University, the city offers a fantastic quality of life with sunny weather, incredible food, and a growing international community. The Tech Visa program makes it easier for graduates to stay and work.
Porto
Portugal's second city and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Porto hosts the University of Porto, the country's highest-ranked institution. A growing tech scene with companies like Farfetch (founded here), Blip, and Critical Software provides graduate opportunities. More affordable than Lisbon with a charming riverside setting, world-famous food, and wine culture.
Coimbra
Portugal's traditional university city, Coimbra hosts one of the oldest universities in the world (est. 1290), a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city revolves around student life with affordable living, rich academic traditions (including the famous Fado de Coimbra), and a tight-knit international student community. Ideal for those seeking an authentic Portuguese academic experience.
Braga
One of the oldest cities in Portugal, Braga hosts the University of Minho and is known as Portugal's third city. A young, dynamic city with a growing technology park (Braga is home to Bosch's largest engineering centre outside Germany). Very affordable, safe, and with a strong sense of community making it excellent for students seeking value.
Aveiro
Known as the 'Venice of Portugal' for its canals and colourful boats, Aveiro hosts the University of Aveiro, strong in engineering and telecommunications. One of the most affordable cities in Portugal with a high quality of life. The nearby industrial zone and tech companies provide job opportunities, and the coastal location offers a relaxed student lifestyle.
Top Ranked Universities
Reputed institutions ranked by trusted global agencies.
QS World 2025
University of Lisbon (Universidade de Lisboa)
QS World 2025
University of Porto (Universidade do Porto)
QS World 2025
NOVA University Lisbon (Universidade NOVA de Lisboa)
QS World 2025
University of Coimbra (Universidade de Coimbra)
QS World 2025
University of Aveiro (Universidade de Aveiro)
QS World 2025
University of Minho (Universidade do Minho)
THE World 2024
Universidade Católica Portuguesa
QS World 2025
ISCTE - University Institute of Lisbon
Tuition Fee Ranges
Cost comparison by institution type — shown in both local currency and INR.
Public Universities
₹90K–₹6.3L
€1,000–€7,000
- University of Lisbon
- University of Porto
- University of Coimbra
Polytechnic Institutes
₹90K–₹2.7L
€1,000–€3,000
- Polytechnic of Lisbon
- Polytechnic of Leiria
Private Universities
₹3.6L–₹10.8L
€4,000–€12,000
- Catholic University of Portugal
- Nova SBE
Employment
Work opportunities for students.
During Studies
Up to 20 hrs/week or full-time during holidays.
After Graduation
Can apply for residence permit for job-seeking (1 year) or employment. Tech Visa available for startup/tech sector employment.
Expected Salaries
Average salary ranges by field.
Visa Process
Step-by-step visa application for Portugal.
Get Acceptance Letter
From a Portuguese university
Gather Documents
Passport (valid 6+ months), acceptance letter, accommodation proof, funds, insurance, background check, transcripts
Apply at Embassy
Portuguese Embassy/Consulate in India (New Delhi)
Pay Visa Fee
Approximately €90 (₹8,100)
Attend Interview
If required by the consulate
Receive D4 Visa
Valid for 4 months
Get Residence Permit
Apply at SEF (Immigration & Borders Service) after arrival
Estimated Expenditure
Breakdown of costs in both local currency and INR.
| Item | Local Currency | INR (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (public) | €1,000–€7,000/year | ₹90K–₹6.3L |
| Living Expenses | €6,000–€9,000/year | ₹5.4L–₹8.1L |
| Health Insurance | €300–€500/year | ₹27K–₹45K |
| Visa Fee | €90 (one-time) | ₹8,100 |
| Residence Permit | €50–€80 | ₹4.5K–₹7.2K |
| Total Per Year | €7,500–€17,000 | ₹6.75L–₹15.3L |
Chat with an NKE Alumni in Portugal
Get real, first-hand insights from our students who are already studying or working in Portugal. No sales pitch — just honest advice from someone who walked the same path.
Portugal FAQs
Commonly asked questions about studying here.
For English-taught programs, no. Most Master's programs have English options. Most Bachelor's are in Portuguese.
Yes. Public university tuition is among the lowest in all of Western Europe, starting from just €1,000/year.
After 5 years of legal residence, you can apply for permanent residence.
For English-taught programs, IELTS 6.0–6.5 is typically required.
September (main). February has limited program availability.