Universidade de Lisboa

Admissions Guide for International Students

Universidade de Lisboa is Portugal's largest and most prestigious university, ranked #1 nationally and #266 globally by QS. Born from the 2013 merger of the historic University of Lisbon with the Technical University of Lisbon, it united world-class faculties in engineering (Instituto Superior Técnico), medicine, law, economics, fine arts and the sciences under one roof. With 50,000 students spread across the vibrant Portuguese capital, it is the natural choice for ambitious international students who want a rigorous European education at a fraction of UK or US costs — while living in one of the world's most liveable cities.

Universidade de Lisboa — campus in pictures

Real, freely-licensed photographs of the campus (via Wikimedia Commons).

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Nova School of Business and Economics Campus

Miguelmcorreia · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

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Nova School of Business and Economics Campus

Miguelmcorreia · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

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Nova School of Business and Economics Campus

Miguelmcorreia · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

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Nova School of Business and Economics Campus

Miguelmcorreia · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

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Campus de Carnide (Lisboa) da Universidade Europeia

Jotaguareluaz · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

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Nova School of Business and Economics Campus

Miguelmcorreia · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

ULisboa combines the academic depth of a classic European research university with the engineering excellence of Instituto Superior Técnico, consistently ranked among Europe's top technical schools. Its position in Lisbon — a fast-growing tech and startup hub — gives graduates unrivalled access to Southern Europe's most dynamic economy.

ULisboa holds the top national rank and sits at #266 in the QS World University Rankings, placing it firmly among the world's leading 300 universities — a distinction it uniquely combines with genuinely affordable tuition.

Engineering Powerhouse — Instituto Superior Técnico

IST (Técnico) is consistently ranked among Europe's top 10 engineering schools and attracts over 11,000 students. Its alumni include founders and engineers at companies across the EU tech ecosystem, and it has deep research ties with MIT, Carnegie Mellon, and the European Space Agency.

The Faculdade de Medicina de Lisboa is one of Iberia's oldest and most respected medical schools. The Faculdade de Direito (Law) and ISEG (Economics & Management) prepare students for Portugal's leading professions and international careers alike.

Lisbon is one of Europe's most affordable major capitals and a booming destination for startups, tech firms, and multinationals. Students enjoy year-round sunshine, a rich cultural scene, excellent transport links to the rest of Europe, and one of the continent's lowest costs of living.

As a Portuguese public university, ULisboa is deeply integrated into the Erasmus+ network and European Research Area. Students gain seamless access to exchange programmes at hundreds of partner universities across Europe, and degrees are recognised throughout the EU.

ULisboa actively recruits international students — 12% of its 50,000 students come from abroad. Multiple application windows, dedicated international offices at each school, and a growing portfolio of English-taught master's programmes make entry straightforward for non-Portuguese speakers.

ULisboa's overall acceptance rate across all programmes is approximately 60%, but this figure masks enormous variation. Undergraduate entry to IST (Técnico) engineering programmes and the Faculdade de Medicina is highly competitive, with Portuguese students needing near-perfect national exam scores. International students apply under a separate 'Special Regime' with dedicated international vacancies at each school — competition is keener for engineering, medicine and law than for humanities or social sciences. IB students are welcomed and evaluated holistically; a score of 29 or above satisfies the minimum entry benchmark, though competitive programmes expect higher.

https://tecnico.ulisboa.pt/en/education/admissions/international-students/

International students apply directly to each school or faculty within ULisboa under the 'Regime Especial para Estudantes Internacionais' (Special Regime for International Students). Unlike US or UK systems, there is no central application platform for the whole university — each faculty manages its own international admissions. The application is documentation-based rather than essay-based.

Official certified transcripts from all secondary (and prior tertiary) institutions. Grades should be accompanied by a transcript key showing the grading scale. For IB students, a predicted grades letter from your school is acceptable at application stage.

A certified copy of your highest qualification — IB Diploma, A-Levels, or equivalent national qualification recognised by Portuguese authorities. The DGES (Directorate-General for Higher Education) provides guidance on international qualification equivalence.

Most undergraduate programmes are taught in Portuguese — B1-level Portuguese proficiency is required. English-taught programmes (primarily at Master's level) accept IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80 minimum. Some schools have specific thresholds; verify with your target faculty.

A current curriculum vitae documenting academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and any relevant work experience. Required at Técnico and most faculties.

Several faculties — including IST (Técnico) and ISEG — request a motivation letter explaining your academic background, reasons for choosing the programme, and career goals. This is not a US-style personal essay; it is a professional academic statement.

A clear photocopy of your valid passport (or national ID for EU students) is required for all applications.

https://tecnico.ulisboa.pt/en/education/study-at-tecnico/applications/international-students/

What ULisboa Looks For in International Students

ULisboa's international admissions are primarily merit-based and qualification-driven. Each faculty allocates a set number of vacancies to international students in each academic year, and decisions are made by ranking applicants on academic performance. Unlike many Anglo-American universities, there is no holistic review of personality, leadership, or extracurriculars for standard undergraduate entry — grades and qualification scores are paramount.

Your secondary school GPA or national examination results are the primary selection criterion. For IST (engineering), expect to need strong mathematics and sciences. For Medicine, a very strong academic record is essential given the limited international vacancies.

IB Diploma, A-Levels, Advanced Placement (AP), or a national secondary certificate that is formally recognised as equivalent to the Portuguese Ensino Secundário. The facts file notes a minimum GPA equivalent of 2.9 on a 4.0 scale, but competitive programmes require much higher.

For Portuguese-medium programmes, demonstrable B1 (or higher) Portuguese proficiency is expected. Students who do not yet have this may be able to join preparatory Portuguese language courses offered in Lisbon before the start of term.

Applicants should have studied subjects relevant to their intended programme. Engineering applicants need strong mathematics and physics; Medicine needs biology and chemistry; Law benefits from humanities and social sciences; ISEG (Economics) needs mathematics.

ULisboa's schools each run their own admissions calendar. Técnico (IST) is the best documented for international students and runs three application calls per year. Other faculties typically follow a similar academic-year calendar. Applications for the 2026/27 academic year at IST follow the schedule below. Always verify dates directly with your target faculty as they vary.

Dates above are for IST (Técnico) 2026/27. Other faculties (Law, Medicine, ISEG, Sciences, etc.) may differ. Always check your specific faculty's website or contact their International Office.

https://tecnico.ulisboa.pt/en/education/study-at-tecnico/applications/international-students/

With 50,000 students across multiple campuses in one of Europe's most vibrant capitals, the ULisboa experience is rich, diverse, and genuinely international. The university's main campus clusters around the Cidade Universitária in the Campolide/Benfica area of Lisbon, with Técnico's Alameda campus being the most iconic — a grand early-20th-century building facing an imposing fountain plaza.

ULisboa operates student residences through its Social Action services (Serviços de Acção Social — SASUl). Priority for university accommodation is given to lower-income students and those from far away. Many international students rent rooms in Lisbon's well-connected neighbourhoods (Alvalade, Campo Pequeno, Arroios), which are increasingly popular and walkable to campus. Average rents in shared flats near campus range widely — budget carefully and look early as the market is competitive.

Portuguese university culture is steeped in the tradition of 'Praxe' (student initiation rituals, student-led and mostly good-natured), the 'Fado Académico' tradition, and vibrant student associations (Núcleos de Estudantes). IST alone has dozens of student groups spanning robotics, formula student racing, music, and entrepreneurship. International students are warmly welcomed and integration is eased by a large Erasmus+ community.

Académica de Lisboa (AAULisboa), the university sports association, operates gyms, sports halls, swimming pools, and fields across campuses. The Faculty of Human Kinetics (Motricidade Humana) in Cruz Quebrada adds world-class sports science facilities. Students can access discounted gym memberships and join competitive sports teams.

Lisbon is perennially ranked among Europe's most liveable and affordable capitals. Sun-drenched with a famously laid-back energy, it combines exceptional food, nightlife, beaches (Cascais and Sintra are under an hour away), and a booming tech scene (the city hosts Web Summit, Europe's largest tech conference). Public transport is good and improving, and the cost of living is meaningfully lower than in London, Paris, or Amsterdam.

ULisboa graduates are among the most sought-after in Portugal and increasingly competitive across Europe and globally. The university's employment rate of 85% reflects strong placement records particularly in engineering, medicine, law, and economics.

IST (Técnico) graduates are among the most recruited engineers in Europe. Major employers include Siemens, Bosch, EDP, Galp, Microsoft Lisbon, and dozens of Lisbon-based startups. Técnico alumni have founded and lead major European tech companies, and the school has produced several unicorn founders.

Faculty of Medicine graduates join the NHS-equivalent Serviço Nacional de Saúde, hospitals across Portugal and Spain, and increasingly pursue further specialisation in the UK, Germany, and other EU countries. The Portuguese medical degree is EU-recognised, giving international graduates broad mobility.

The Faculdade de Direito de Lisboa is one of Portugal's most prestigious, producing politicians, Supreme Court judges, and partners at leading law firms. Graduates from ISEG (Economics & Management) join the Big 4, investment banks, and major Portuguese and multinational corporations.

ULisboa is one of Portugal's biggest research producers, with strong doctoral programmes and affiliations with research institutes such as INESC-ID, Instituto de Medicina Molecular, and CIUL. Many graduates pursue PhDs in Portugal or at European partner institutions.

Do I need to speak Portuguese to study at ULisboa?

For most undergraduate programmes, yes — a B1 level of Portuguese is the minimum requirement, and most instruction is in Portuguese. At Master's level, an increasing number of programmes are taught in English (particularly at IST/Técnico, ISEG, and the Faculty of Sciences). Always check the language of instruction for your specific programme before applying.

Yes. The IB Diploma is a recognised secondary qualification for international student admissions. The minimum IB band in the facts file is 29, though competitive programmes at IST, Medicine, and Law will typically expect higher scores. Check with your target faculty for programme-specific benchmarks.

Do I apply to ULisboa as a whole, or to a specific faculty?

You apply to a specific faculty or school (e.g. IST for engineering, Faculdade de Direito for law, ISEG for economics). Each faculty runs its own international admissions process. There is no single ULisboa application portal for international undergraduates.

What is the 'Special Regime for International Students'?

It is the separate admissions pathway for non-Portuguese and non-EU students (and some others). Each faculty allocates a fixed number of vacancies specifically for international students, and these are filled by ranking applicants by academic merit. This means your competition is other international applicants, not Portuguese domestic students.

How does the tuition compare to other top European universities?

ULisboa is one of Europe's most affordable top-ranked universities. Annual tuition for international students is approximately $5,500 (USD equivalent), and total annual cost of attendance including living costs is approximately $18,000 — substantially less than comparable UK, Dutch, or Swiss universities.

Can EU citizens apply on the same terms as domestic Portuguese students?

EU/EEA citizens generally have access to the regular Portuguese national admissions process via DGES (which uses national exam scores). Non-EU international students apply via the Special Regime for International Students. Terms, vacancies, and requirements differ significantly between the two routes.

Is financial aid available for international students?

ULisboa's social action services (SASUl) offer some scholarships and bursaries, primarily targeted at students from Portuguese-speaking countries (PALOP) and lower-income backgrounds. Merit scholarships from the Portuguese government and Camões Institute also exist. Financial aid access is more limited for international students than at US universities — plan your budget accordingly.

What is Lisbon's cost of living like for students?

Lisbon remains one of Europe's more affordable capitals for students, though rents have risen sharply in recent years. Budget approximately $12,000 USD per year for accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses — this is the figure in the university's cost data. Student canteens (cantinas) on campus offer subsidised meals for enrolled students.

ULisboa's schools span the full spectrum from STEM-intensive engineering at IST to creative disciplines at Fine Arts and Philosophy. Academic standards are high and European-rigorous. International students who have completed the IB Diploma, A-Levels, or a strong national secondary certificate are well-positioned — but you must also be honest about the language-of-instruction challenge if your programme is taught in Portuguese.

The Portuguese grading system runs from 0–20 (10 is pass; 14–15 is good; 17–20 is excellent). Your international grades will be converted by the faculty's admissions team. Be prepared for a university culture where independent study hours are high, lecture attendance is expected, and end-of-semester exams carry significant weight.

ULisboa's academic entry thresholds vary significantly by school and programme. The data below reflects the university's minimum published benchmarks. Competitive programmes (particularly IST engineering and Medicine) expect applicants whose academic records are well above these minima.

University minimum; top programmes expect higher

ULisboa operates a test-blind admissions policy — SAT, ACT, and similar standardised test scores are not required and are not part of the application evaluation. Admission is based on your secondary school qualifications, grades, and in some cases, interviews or additional evaluations specific to the programme.

This makes ULisboa more accessible for strong academic students who do not excel at standardised US-style tests, but it also means that your school grades and IB / A-Level / national exam results carry the full weight of your application.

Neither the SAT nor ACT is required or used in ULisboa's admissions process. If you are preparing for US universities simultaneously, you may sit these tests for those applications — but do not worry about submitting scores to ULisboa. The university's evaluation is based entirely on your qualification type (IB, A-Levels, national baccalaureate, etc.) and the grades you have achieved.

Some graduate/master's programmes at IST and other faculties may request evidence of academic aptitude (e.g. GRE for certain highly selective research master's), but this is rare and should be verified directly with the admitting programme.

IB, A-Levels & International Qualifications

ULisboa recognises the IB Diploma and A-Levels as valid qualifications for international student admission. The IB minimum benchmark is 29 points (total diploma score); A-Level applicants are typically expected to hold passes in subjects relevant to their intended programme.

IB students applying to engineering programmes (IST) should hold strong Higher Level scores in Mathematics and Physics. Applicants to Medicine benefit from Higher Level Biology and Chemistry. For ISEG (Economics & Management), Higher Level Mathematics is valuable. Arts and humanities faculties look for relevant subjects without prescribing specific IB scores beyond the minimum.

Your IB predicted grades are acceptable at application; certified results must be submitted before registration. The admissions committee will convert your IB score into the Portuguese 0–20 scale internally.

Different ULisboa schools have distinct subject expectations. Aligning your senior secondary subjects with your intended programme is one of the most important steps you can take.

Instituto Superior Técnico (Engineering & Technology)

Mathematics and physics are non-negotiable at Higher Level (IB) or A-Level. IST is mathematically demanding from the first semester. Students who have taken Further Mathematics or IB HL Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches have a significant advantage.

Biology and chemistry at Higher Level. Medicine is among the most competitive programmes for international vacancies. A very strong academic record across all subjects is expected, along with relevant health or research experience where possible.

History, philosophy, and social sciences form the strongest foundation. While not formally required, strong writing, critical thinking, and analytical skills — developed through humanities subjects — are the foundation of legal study at ULisboa.

Mathematics is central to ISEG's quantitative approach to economics and finance. IB Higher Level Mathematics or A-Level Maths is strongly recommended. Economics or Business Studies as a subject is helpful but not required.

Sciences at Higher Level relevant to your chosen degree (e.g. chemistry and biology for biochemistry; mathematics and physics for physics). The Faculty of Sciences offers programmes across mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, geology, and computer science.

The Faculdade de Belas-Artes (Fine Arts) and Faculdade de Arquitectura typically require a portfolio submission in addition to academic qualifications. Humanities faculties (Letras) welcome broad senior secondary profiles.

English & Portuguese Language Requirements

Language requirements at ULisboa depend critically on the language of instruction of your chosen programme. Most undergraduate programmes are taught in Portuguese — verify the medium of instruction on your target programme page before applying.

For English-taught programmes (mainly Master's level)

For English-taught programmes (mainly Master's level)

Verify with target faculty; not widely listed

Required for Portuguese-medium undergraduate programmes

Native English speakers are typically exempt from English proficiency requirements for English-medium programmes. Always confirm with your specific faculty — requirements can differ between programmes within the same school.

https://tecnico.ulisboa.pt/en/education/study-at-tecnico/applications/international-students/

Focus on strong grades in mathematics and sciences if you are targeting IST or Medicine; humanities and social sciences for Law, Letras or Social Sciences. Begin Portuguese language study if you intend to apply to Portuguese-medium programmes — A2/B1 by the time of application is the target.

Grade 11: Choose Your IB/A-Level Subjects Strategically

Select Higher Level IB subjects (or A-Level choices) that align with your intended programme. IB HL Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches for engineering or economics; HL Biology and Chemistry for medicine. Research the specific faculty and programme pages on ulisboa.pt.

Grade 11–12: Research Portugal and ULisboa

Investigate Lisbon's cost of living, housing options near campus, and the programme structure of your target school. Attend virtual open days if offered. Understand the academic calendar (two semesters, September–June) and the Portuguese grading system.

Grade 12 (January): First Application Window

Técnico's first application call opens in early January. Gather all required documentation: transcripts, passport copy, language certificates, CV, and motivation letter. Submit before the 6 February deadline to maximise vacancy availability.

Grade 12 (Spring): Results and Confirmation

If accepted in the first or second call, you will need to pay a vacancy reservation fee to hold your place. Begin planning your move to Lisbon: visa requirements (for non-EU students this means a Student Visa from the Portuguese consulate in your home country), health insurance, and housing.

If your programme is in Portuguese and your level is not yet B1, consider enrolling in a Portuguese language course in Lisbon in July/August before the academic year begins. Attend orientation week (Semana de Acolhimento) — an essential introduction to campus life and services.

Applying to a Portuguese-medium programme without adequate Portuguese language preparation — this is the single biggest pitfall for international students and leads to high dropout rates in the first year.

Underestimating the mathematics intensity of IST programmes — Técnico's engineering curriculum is demanding even by European standards; many students underestimate the pace of advanced calculus, linear algebra and physics modules.

Assuming your international qualification is automatically equivalent — it usually is, but some national secondary certificates from outside the EU require formal equivalence recognition by DGES (Portuguese directorate for higher education).

Missing application windows — ULisboa's international admission calls open and close on specific dates and late applications are typically not accepted. The first call (January) often has the most vacancies.

Not verifying programme-specific requirements — Medicine, Architecture, and Fine Arts have additional requirements (portfolios, interviews, or pre-admission tests) beyond the standard documentation.

Forgetting the vacancy reservation payment — after receiving an offer, you must pay a reservation fee within a short window or your place is released. This is non-refundable.

Expecting US-style financial aid — ULisboa has limited merit and need-based aid specifically for international students; the expectation is that you fund your own studies or seek external scholarships.

A Genuinely Affordable Top-300 University

Universidade de Lisboa is one of Europe's most compelling value propositions for international students: a QS Top-300 institution with genuine research depth and strong employment outcomes, at a total annual cost of attendance roughly one-third to one-fifth of comparable UK or US universities. Portugal's low cost of living amplifies this further — Lisbon is still meaningfully cheaper than London, Amsterdam, or Zurich for day-to-day student expenses.

All cost figures below are drawn from the university's published data and reflect approximate annual costs for the 2025/26 academic year for non-EU international students. Costs for EU/EEA students may differ as they may qualify for the domestic tuition rate.

The figures below are annual estimates for a non-EU international student based on the university's published data. Actual tuition varies slightly by faculty and programme.

Non-EU international rate; varies slightly by faculty

Cost of Living (accommodation, food, transport)

Paid on offer acceptance; counted toward tuition

All USD figures are approximate conversions from EUR at prevailing rates. The vacancy reservation fee at IST (€2,000) is deducted from the annual tuition. Verify current fee schedules with your target faculty before applying.

https://tecnico.ulisboa.pt/en/education/study-at-tecnico/applications/international-students/

ULisboa's social action services (Serviços de Acção Social — SASUl) administer need-based support, primarily in the form of accommodation grants and canteen subsidies. International students from countries with bilateral agreements with Portugal (particularly Portuguese-speaking African countries — PALOP — and Brazil) may be eligible for some need-based support through SASUl or through Camões, the Portuguese cultural institute.

On average, around 15% of a student's costs may be offset through institutional aid and scholarships combined — but this figure is broadly distributed and not all international students will qualify. The primary expectation is self-funding. Prepare a realistic budget before applying, taking into account tuition, accommodation, visa costs, health insurance, and personal expenses.

Need-based aid from SASUl is means-tested and requires documentation of family income. Applications are typically submitted at the start of the academic year after enrolment.

Several scholarship programmes are available to international students at ULisboa, though competition is high and not all are open to non-EU students. Always verify eligibility and current status on the official scholarship provider's website.

The Portuguese government's Camões, Instituto da Cooperação e da Língua, offers scholarships for students from Portuguese-speaking countries and bilateral-agreement nations to study at Portuguese universities. These cover partial or full tuition and/or a monthly stipend. Verify current open calls at camoes.mne.gov.pt.

ULisboa's social action office administers means-tested grants covering canteen, accommodation, and ancillary costs for enrolled students. Applications are made after enrolment. Not specifically targeted at international students but may be available depending on family income documentation.

For students progressing to doctoral research, the Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT) offers competitive PhD studentships at Portuguese universities including ULisboa. These are prestigious, fully-funded positions open to international applicants. Explore at fct.pt.

If you are enrolled at a partner university in the EU, you may participate in ULisboa as an Erasmus+ exchange student, typically with a grant covering part of your living costs in Lisbon. This is not a degree-level scholarship but enables a semester or year at ULisboa at low cost.

Some ULisboa faculties — particularly IST (Técnico) and ISEG — offer merit awards and prizes to outstanding students during their studies. These are typically awarded in-year rather than at admission. Contact your target faculty's international office to ask about current programmes.

Compared to the global universe of top-300 universities, ULisboa is an exceptional value. A four-year degree (a typical Licenciatura is 3 years + optionally 2-year Master's) might cost a non-EU international student approximately $54,000–$70,000 in total tuition across a full undergraduate cycle — before any aid. This compares favourably with UK Russell Group universities at £90,000+ in tuition alone for the same period, and US private universities often exceeding $250,000.

Portugal also has no 'sticker shock' gap between announced tuition and net price for most international students. The rate you see is broadly the rate you pay, unless you qualify for a scholarship. Lisbon's cost of living, while rising, remains lower than comparable European capitals — and the Portuguese student experience is exceptional value for money.

Research your country's bilateral agreements with Portugal

If your home country has a cultural or educational agreement with Portugal, you may be eligible for Camões or government-to-government scholarships. Check with your local Portuguese embassy or the Camões Institute website.

Apply to FCT scholarships if pursuing research or a PhD

FCT (Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia) runs open calls for PhD studentships and postdoctoral fellowships, many of which are open to international applicants. Applications are competitive but these are fully-funded.

Enrol and apply to SASUl in your first semester

After enrolment, apply to the university's social action services for any means-tested support. Bring comprehensive documentation of family income for the means test.

Explore home-country scholarships for study abroad

Many governments and foundations (in India, China, Brazil, the US, etc.) offer scholarships for students studying in Europe. These are often easier to obtain than scholarships from the destination country. Research your government's scholarship board, the Fulbright Program, or Commonwealth Scholarships where applicable.

Plan your budget using the total cost of attendance figure

Budget approximately $18,000 per academic year (tuition + living) and ensure you have proof of financial means for the Student Visa application. Portuguese consulates require evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of your studies.

Does ULisboa have a 'no loan' or 'meet full need' policy for international students?

No. ULisboa does not have a US-style 'meet 100% of demonstrated need' policy for international students. Aid is limited and primarily targeted at students from Portuguese-speaking countries or those with bilateral agreements. Most non-EU international students are expected to fund their own studies.

What does the €2,000 vacancy reservation fee at IST cover?

The vacancy reservation fee at IST (Técnico) is paid after you receive and accept an offer of admission. It is non-refundable if you withdraw but is counted toward (i.e. deducted from) your annual tuition fee. Think of it as an enrolment deposit.

Are there fee waivers for the application?

This is not widely advertised. Contact the International Office of your target faculty directly to ask. Some scholarship programmes cover application fees as part of their package.

Is accommodation guaranteed for international students?

No. University residences have limited capacity and priority is given to lower-income domestic students. International students should plan to rent privately. Lisbon's rental market is competitive — start searching early and budget carefully.

What are the typical living costs per month for a student in Lisbon?

The university's annual cost of living estimate is approximately $12,000 USD, which works out to roughly $1,000 per month. This covers a shared-flat room, basic groceries and canteen meals, local transport, and modest personal expenses. Costs may be higher if you prefer private accommodation.

Can I work part-time as an international student in Portugal?

Non-EU students holding a valid Portuguese Student Visa are generally permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time in vacations, subject to Portuguese labour law. Lisbon's hospitality, tech, and retail sectors do employ students. Confirm the conditions of your specific visa before accepting employment.

Your Motivation Letter & Application Statement

Universidade de Lisboa does not use a US-style Common Application, supplemental essays, or UCAS personal statement. This is a direct, documentation-based application system. However, many ULisboa faculties — particularly IST (Técnico), ISEG, and the Faculty of Sciences — request a Motivation Letter (Carta de Motivação) as part of the international student application. Done well, this can meaningfully differentiate your application.

Think of the motivation letter not as a personal essay but as a professional academic pitch: who you are academically, why you have chosen this specific programme and this specific faculty, and what you intend to do with the degree. Keep it honest, specific, and free of generic clichés.

ULisboa operates direct, faculty-level admissions for international students under the Special Regime for International Students. There is no single university-wide application portal or essay platform. Applications are submitted through each school's own online system, accompanied by scanned PDF documents.

Unlike US universities (Common App / Coalition) or UK universities (UCAS), ULisboa does not participate in any central application system. You apply directly to the faculty or school where you wish to study. If you want to be considered for multiple programmes, you may need to submit separate applications.

Your academic transcripts, secondary school certificate, and language proof carry most of the evaluation weight. The motivation letter and CV are supplementary but important for courses with competitive international quotas.

Required by several faculties including IST (Técnico). This is a 1–2 page document explaining your academic background, why you are choosing this specific programme, your professional aspirations, and why ULisboa is the right institution. It is not a creative personal narrative — it is a professional academic statement.

The Faculdade de Arquitectura and Faculdade de Belas-Artes (Fine Arts) require a portfolio in addition to standard documentation. The portfolio demonstrates your creative and technical skills and is typically the most important element of your application for these programmes.

https://tecnico.ulisboa.pt/en/education/study-at-tecnico/applications/international-students/

What the Motivation Letter Should Address

No verbatim prompts are officially published for ULisboa's motivation letter. The following are the standard themes expected, based on faculty guidance and established practice. Verify any specific requirements with your target faculty's international admissions office.

Not a verbatim prompt — describe your academic history, qualifications, and results to date, with emphasis on subjects relevant to your chosen programme.

Be specific and factual. Name your IB subjects and predicted scores, A-Level choices, or national qualification. If you have a strong result in a relevant subject (e.g. HL Mathematics for IST), highlight it explicitly. Avoid vague statements like 'I have always loved science' without supporting evidence.

Not a verbatim prompt — explain why you have chosen this specific programme at this specific faculty, and what drew you to study in Portugal.

Specificity is everything. Do not write a generic letter that could apply to any engineering school. Name specific research groups, professors, labs, or programme modules at ULisboa that excite you. If you are applying to IST because of its work in robotics, aerospace, or energy, say so — and name the relevant research centre (e.g. INESC-ID, LARSyS, IDMEC). For Medicine, mention the faculty's clinical hospital partnerships. For ISEG, reference its specialisations in finance, economics, or management.

Not a verbatim prompt — outline your professional or academic ambitions after completing your degree.

Be honest and realistic rather than grandiose. A clear statement connecting your degree to a specific career direction (engineering in renewable energy, medicine in oncology research, law in international arbitration) signals maturity and purpose. You do not need a fully formed career plan — but you should be able to articulate why a degree from ULisboa in this field positions you well.

Writing a Strong Motivation Letter for ULisboa

The ULisboa motivation letter is a professional academic document, not a personal narrative. Aim for 400–600 words (approximately one to one-and-a-half pages of A4). Write in clear, formal English (or Portuguese if you are applying to a Portuguese-medium programme and your proficiency allows it — this can make a positive impression).

Structure your letter in three clear sections: first, establish your academic credentials and why your background is strong for this programme; second, make a specific and well-researched case for why this faculty and programme are the right fit for your interests and goals; third, briefly describe your professional aspirations and what you plan to do after graduating. Avoid lengthy personal backstory, family anecdotes, or vague declarations of passion. Admissions evaluators at European universities respond better to precision and intellectual clarity than to narrative flair.

IST (Instituto Superior Técnico) — Engineering & Technology

The most internationally competitive ULisboa school. Submit your strongest academic evidence (grades in Mathematics and Physics) and a focused motivation letter explaining your specific research or engineering interests. Mention any relevant extracurriculars (robotics, coding competitions, science olympiads) concisely in your CV.

Highly limited international vacancies. A strong academic record is the primary criterion. Some schools within Medicine also require a structured interview. Contact the faculty's international office early to confirm the current process.

Present your quantitative academic strengths (Mathematics, Economics) in your CV and motivation letter. ISEG has English-taught Master's programmes that are increasingly popular with international students. For undergraduate entry, Portuguese language ability is expected.

Faculdade de Arquitectura & Belas-Artes (Architecture & Fine Arts)

The portfolio is your primary application asset. Curate 10–15 pieces that demonstrate technical skill, creative range, and design thinking. Academic grades and a motivation letter support the portfolio but are secondary to it.

Faculdade de Ciências (Sciences) & Faculdade de Direito (Law)

Standard documentation-driven application. The motivation letter is important for competitive programmes within these faculties. For Law, strong analytical writing (even in Portuguese) will be noted positively.

The most effective ULisboa motivation letters do one thing extremely well: they demonstrate that the applicant has specifically researched the programme and faculty — not just Portugal or 'European universities' generically.

Before writing, spend time on the faculty's website. Identify one or two research groups, labs, or professors whose work excites you, or specific modules in the curriculum that align with your interests. Reference these by name in your letter.

Draw a clear line from your secondary school subjects and any projects, competitions, or extracurriculars to the degree you are applying for. The connection should feel logical and inevitable, not forced.

If you are applying to a Portuguese-medium programme and are currently at A2 Portuguese, acknowledge it and explain what you are doing to reach B1 before the start of term. Honesty about your language trajectory is better than silence.

Do not open with 'I have always been passionate about [field]'. Start with something specific: a project you worked on, a result you are proud of, a question in your field that genuinely intrigues you. Specificity signals a strong, prepared applicant.

Writing a generic letter that could apply to any university — every sentence should demonstrate you have specifically researched ULisboa and the target faculty.

Exceeding two pages — European academic motivation letters should be concise. 400–600 words is ideal; rarely more than 700.

Copying text from the faculty website back into your letter — evaluators recognise it immediately and it signals a lack of genuine engagement.

Writing in poor Portuguese if applying to a Portuguese-medium programme and your level is not yet B1 — submit in English if uncertain, and explain your Portuguese language learning plans.

Omitting your IB or A-Level subject choices and scores — these are the primary academic evidence; state them clearly in your letter or ensure they are prominent in your CV.

Not reading the specific documentation requirements for your faculty — some require additional documents (portfolio, certificate translations, equivalence recognitions) that take weeks to obtain.

Failing to mention a specific programme module, research group, or faculty strength — generic statements about Portugal or European education do not impress admissions evaluators.

Is a motivation letter required for all ULisboa applications?

No — requirements vary by faculty. IST (Técnico) requests a motivation letter as part of the international student application. Some other faculties do not require one. Always check the specific application requirements listed by your target faculty's admissions office.

Should I write my motivation letter in English or Portuguese?

For programmes taught in English, write in English. For programmes taught in Portuguese, writing in good Portuguese can demonstrate your language ability — but only do so if your written Portuguese is genuinely solid (B1+ level). A well-written letter in English is better than a poorly written one in Portuguese.

Aim for 400–600 words (approximately one A4 page). European universities and faculties do not reward length the way US personal essays sometimes are. Be concise, specific, and professional.

Do I need to write separately to each faculty if I apply to multiple programmes?

Yes. If you are applying to multiple schools or programmes within ULisboa, each application is separate and should be accompanied by a tailored motivation letter. A generic letter sent to multiple faculties is less effective than one that addresses the specific programme.

Are there interviews as part of the ULisboa international admissions process?

Most programmes at ULisboa do not require an interview for international undergraduate applicants. However, some programmes — particularly Medicine and certain competitive master's programmes — may require an interview or additional evaluation. Confirm with the specific faculty before applying.

What if the programme I want is taught in Portuguese and I do not yet speak Portuguese?

If the programme is exclusively Portuguese-medium, you will need to reach B1 level before you begin. Consider enrolling in a Portuguese language course in Lisbon in the summer before term starts, or completing an online course. Some universities and private language schools in Lisbon offer intensive summer programmes specifically for incoming university students.

Is there a portfolio requirement for all programmes?

Only for the Faculdade de Arquitectura (Architecture) and Faculdade de Belas-Artes (Fine Arts). All other programmes do not require a portfolio. Check the specific programme page on the faculty website for any creative or technical submission requirements.