Study In Portugal For Pakistani Students 2026-27

Study in Portugal for Pakistani students presents a compelling opportunity seeking quality education and a unique cultural experience. The capital of Portugal is Lisbon, which is also the country's largest city and its economic and cultural center. The official language of Portugal is Portuguese.

The acceptance rate of Portugal is 85%-90%. Study in Portugal for Pakistani students and international students can be a beneficial experience, offering a number of high-quality education options, affordability, and a welcoming environment. The minimum marks required for a Bachelor’s degree are 70% and the CGPA for a Master’s degree is 2.0 or above. Study in Portugal without IELTS is possible for Pakistani students with MOI. But some universities require IELTS with a minimum IELTS score required is 6.5.

The average tuition fees in Portugal universities range from 3000 to 5000 euros per year. Portugal offers a wide range of educational courses to Pakistani students, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral Programs in various fields like medical, science, social science, and business studies. Pakistani students can do PhD in Portugal in different study fields. Portugal offers variety of programs in English language.

The total cost to study in Portugal is 6000 euros. The minimum IELTS score required is 6.5.  The amount of the bank statement is required to be 10000 euros. The visa ratio in Portugal for Pakistani students is 70% to 80%.

Why Study in Portugal University

Studying in a Portugal university has a lot of benefits for Pakistani and other international students. Some of the benefits are given below:

Portugal University Programs: Portugal universities offer a variety of programs in the English language for international students.

World-Class Education: The education quality in Portugal is top-notch, like other European countries.

Research Opportunities: Universities in Portugal have all the modern research facilities and labs for both Pakistani and International students.

Scholarships: Options of different partial and fully funded scholarships are available for Pakistani students while studying in Portugal, such as the Portugal Government scholarship.

Schengen Visa: Portugal is a Schengen state and provides a facility for students to explore all European states with one single visa; students can visit all Schengen countries.

Affordable Tuition Fee: The cost of living in Portugal is affordable for Pakistani students. The average living cost is €550 and €3,000 per year.

Affordability: The cost of living in Portugal is affordable for Pakistani students. The average living cost is €1183 per month with rent and €481 without rent.

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Top Scholarships in Portugal for Pakistani students

• Portuguese Government Scholarships
• Lisbon MBA Scholarships
• University of Aveiro Scholarships
• University of Minho Scholarships
• University of Coimbra Scholarships

1. Portuguese Government Scholarships

Portuguese government scholarships, particularly those offered through DGES, provide financial assistance to students in higher education, covering tuition fees and a monthly stipend. These scholarships are based on family income and are awarded based on social support criteria, with a focus on broadening access and raising eligibility thresholds. Many universities in Portugal also offer their scholarships, and the Erasmus Mundus program provides additional funding opportunities. Tuition fees and a monthly stipend (e.g., 1250 euros). Portuguese government is fully funded scholarship 

Open to international students pursuing undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degrees. Targets talented students to enhance Portugal's higher education system. Includes grants for underprivileged students and scholarships for students studying abroad. Portugal Government Scholarships 2025-26 is a fully funded scholarship program that provides a full tuition fee waiver along with monthly stipends.

2. Lisbon MBA Scholarships

The Lisbon MBA, a joint program by Nova SBE and Catholic-Lisbon, offers scholarships to diverse and outstanding applicants. These scholarships recognize applicants' unique professional and personal experience, background, gender, nationality, or international exposure. The program is highly ranked in Europe and has a strong international focus, emphasizing global leadership and impact. The scholarships are awarded based on the applicant's demonstrated dedication to the program's mission, highlighting their potential as a global leader. 

 3. University of Aveiro Scholarships

The University of Aveiro (UA) in Portugal offers incentive scholarships to international students, including those from Pakistan, who are admitted to their undergraduate (1st cycle) and master's (2nd cycle) programs through the Special Tender for Access and Admission for International Students. These scholarships reduce tuition fees, offering a financial incentive for academically strong students. Incentive scholarships are available for both undergraduate and master's courses. 

For undergraduate courses, the scholarship reduces the annual tuition fee to €1,000. For master's courses, the scholarship also reduces the course fee to €1,000 per year. Students must meet specific requirements, including maintaining full-time enrollment and academic achievement in the previous year. Students need to apply for these incentives. 

4. University of Minho Scholarships

The University of Minho in Portugal offers scholarships for Pakistani students, particularly for those pursuing bachelor's and master's degrees. These scholarships are primarily merit-based, recognizing academic excellence and, in some cases, offering tuition fee reductions or even full waivers. Additionally, there are opportunities for scholarships through the Portuguese government and the European Union. These scholarships are awarded to students with excellent academic records. Some scholarships can reduce tuition fees, potentially from 3500-5000 euros to 1000 euros for both undergraduate and master's programs.

Some scholarships offer a full waiver of tuition fees, covering the entire program. Certain scholarships may also include living and accommodation allowances. Students with strong academic records are eligible for merit-based scholarships. Scholarships are typically awarded to students enrolled in full-time degree programs. The University of Minho provides scholarships for international students, including those from Pakistan. 

5. University of Coimbra Scholarships

The University of Coimbra (UC) in Portugal offers merit-based scholarships to international students, including those from Pakistan, for both Bachelor's and Master's degrees. These scholarships primarily cover tuition fees, with some offering a stipend or allowance for living expenses. The specific amount and benefits vary depending on the scholarship type and the student's academic program. The UC offers merit-based scholarships to recognize and reward academic excellence. 

Many scholarships offer full or partial tuition fee waivers. For Master's students, a common scholarship offers a 2000 Euro tuition fee exemption. Some scholarships may include a monthly stipend, accommodation allowance, or research allowance.

Top Universities in Portugal for Pakistani Students

1. University of Lisbon
2. University of Porto
3. University of Aveiro
4. University of Coimbra
5. University of Catholic
6. University of Minho

1. University of Lisbon

The University of Lisbon is Portugal's largest and most prestigious university, and one of Europe's leading institutions. Founded in 1911 and later restructured in 2013 with the merger of the University of Lisbon. Lisbon university scholarship is also a good option for Pakistani students .

The acceptance rate of Lisbon University is 40%. The average tuition fee of University of Lisbon is €1,037 and €2,500 per year. The minimum IELTS score required is 6.5. The minimum marks required for a Bachelor’s degree is 60% and CGPA required for a Master’s degree is 2.0. The University of Lisbon has over 21000 students.

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2. University of Porto

The University of Porto founded in 1911, is a leading Public research University in Portugal, situated in the city of Porto. It's known for its commitment to global education, international research, and sustainable development.

The acceptance rate of Lisbon University is 31%. The average tuition fee of the University of Lisbon is €3500 to €8000 per year. The minimum IELTS score required is 6.0. The minimum marks required for a Bachelor’s degree are 80% and CGPA required for a Master’s degree is 2.7. The University of Porto has over 30000 or more students.

3. University of Aveiro

The University of Aveiro (UA), established in 1973, is a leading public university in Portugal known for its multidisciplinary approach, research focus, and close ties with industry and society. It's a public foundation under private law, offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs.

The acceptance rate of the University of Aveiro is 60%. The average tuition fee of the University of Aveiro is €3500 to €5000 per year. The minimum IELTS score required is 6.0. The minimum marks required for a Bachelor’s degree is 75% and the CGPA required for a Master’s degree is 2.0. The University of Porto has over 15000 or more students.         

4. University of Coimbra

The University of Coimbra (UC) is the oldest in Portugal and one of the oldest in Europe, founded in 1290. It is a public research university located in Coimbatore, Portugal. UC is renowned for its historical significance, rich cultural traditions, and contributions to higher education in the Porterhouse-speaking world.

The acceptance rate of the University of Coimbra is 40% to 49%. The average tuition fee of the University of Coimbra is €3500 to €5000 per year. The minimum IELTS score required is 6.0. The minimum marks required for a Bachelor’s degree is 60 to 70% and the CGPA required for a Master’s degree is 3.0. The University of Porto has over 30000 or more students.         

5. Catholic University of Portugal

The University of Catholic refers to the Catholic University of Portugal (UCP), a private, coeducational institution of higher learning in Lisbon with other locations in Braga, Porto and Visue. a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

The acceptance rate of the University of Catholic is 60%. The average tuition fee of the University of Catholic starts from 5330 Euros per year. The minimum IELTS score required is 6.0. The minimum marks required for a Bachelor’s degree are 85% to 95% and the CGPA required for a Master’s degree is 2.5. The University of Catholic has over 11000 or more students.         

Admission Required Documents for Pakistani Students

The required documents to get admission to Portugal universities are

• Educational Certificates
• Identity and Residence
• Domicile Certificate
• Photographs
• Equivalence certificate
• Family Registration certificates

Visa Required Documents for Pakistani Students

To apply for a Portugal study visa, different documents are required. These documents are:

• Passport photo
• Health insurance
• English language proficiency certificate
• Visa application form
• Passport
• Accommodation proof
• Visa Fee
• Proof of finances
• Academic documents
• Statement of bank
• Health insurance
• Medical certificate
• Police Clearance Certificate
• A strong cover letter

Cost of Living in Portugal for Pakistani Students

The cost of living in Portugal is relatively low compared to other Western European countries, making it an attractive destination for expats and retirees. For a comfortable lifestyle, a single person might need around €1,285 per month, while a family might need €3,010, including rent. However, costs can vary significantly depending on location and lifestyle choices. Rent for a spacious apartment in a desirable area can range from €1,200 to €1,500 per month. In smaller cities, a two-bedroom apartment might be found for €350 to €700.

Utilities, including electricity, water, and internet, can cost around €1 to €150 per month. Groceries can cost around €500 to €600 per month for a comfortable lifestyle. Transportation costs can vary depending on location and whether you own a car. Public transportation is generally affordable, while a car might add €200-€300 to the monthly expenses. Public healthcare is available, but many expats opt for private health insurance, which can cost around €150-€200 per month for a premium plan.

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Part-time Job and Income Pakistani Students

In Portugal, a part-time job typically means working fewer than 40 hours per week. Part-time workers are entitled to the same rights as full-time employees, including paid holidays and sick leave, but on a pro rata basis. The expected hourly rate for part-time jobs can range from €4 to €8, depending on the industry, job responsibilities, and experience. The average income for a part-time worker in Portugal is around €4.38 per hour. The minimum wage in Portugal is €12,180 annually (14 installments of €870). If you're paid by the hour, you can expect to earn around €4.40 per hour. 

Work Permit and Future Opportunities

Portugal offers various work permits and visas for different types of employment, including temporary, permanent, and highly skilled professionals. The country also has a fast-track work visa processing agreement to expedite applications, aiming to reduce wait times and address labor shortages. Additionally, Portugal offers a Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers and a Job Seeker Visa for those looking for employment. For short-term employment on fixed-term contracts or seasonal jobs, requiring sponsorship from a Portuguese employer.  

FAQs

Q1: How much money is required to study in Portugal?

Answer: Studying in Portugal from Pakistan involves tuition fees, visa costs, and living expenses. Public universities offer relatively affordable tuition, while private universities are more expensive. Tuition fees for public universities can range from 950 to 1,200 EUR per year for undergraduate programs and 900 to 1,300 EUR for postgraduate (Master's) programs. 

Q2: Is Portugal's study visa open for Pakistanis?

Answer: Yes, Pakistanis can apply for a Portugal study visa. They need to apply for a Residency visa for study if they plan to study in Portugal. This visa is specifically designed for students like those from Pakistan who are ready to study abroad in Portugal. 

Q3: Is IELTS compulsory for Portugal?

Answer: No, IELTS is not always compulsory for studying in Portugal. While some universities may require IELTS, particularly for graduate programs, others may accept proof of English proficiency through other means, such as a previous degree completed in the English medium. It's crucial to check the specific requirements of the institution and program you are applying for. 

Q4: Can I get PR in Portugal after studying?

Answer: It's possible to obtain Permanent Residency (PR) in Portugal after studying. While the student visa itself doesn't automatically lead to PR, you can transition to a work visa after graduation and then, after five years of continuous legal residence, you'll be eligible to apply for PR. 

Q5: Can I work in Portugal while studying?

Answer: Yes, International students are allowed to work part-time while they are studying in Portugal. Students are allowed 20 hours weekly. At holidays time, students can work up to 40 hours. International students can cover living expenses easily with part-time job.

Q6: Can you study in Portugal without IELTS?

Answer: Yes, IELTS in not necessary for studying in Portugal. Many universities in Portugal accept international students without IELTS. Some universities accept MOI and some accept other tests like PTE, TOEFL, DUOLINGO etc.

Q7: How to get a Portugal study visa from Pakistan?

Answer: First of all students needs to get an admission or offer letter from recognized Portuguese university. After completing university documents student need to prepare visa file and submit at VSF Global office or Islamabad Embassy. Submit your visa file and wait for the results.

Q8: Is Portugal good for studying?

Answer: Portugal is a very good and affordable study option for Pakistani students who wish to study in Europe. Portugal offers a variety of programs in the English language, and Portuguese universities' fees are low compared to many other European countries. Portugal is a European state that provides a Schengen visa, so students can visit other European states easily.