Are you an international student dreaming of studying at one of Portugal’s top universities?
The University of Porto offers excellent scholarship and funding opportunities to help make your academic goals a reality.
As a prestigious public research institution with a rich history dating back to 1911, the University of Porto provides world-class education across 14 faculties and over 600 degree programs.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various scholarships, grants, and financial aid options available to international students at the University of Porto for the 2024-2025 academic year.
You’ll learn about eligibility requirements, application procedures, deadlines, and everything you need to know to fund your studies at this leading Portuguese university.
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Overview of University of Porto Scholarships
University of Porto Scholarships 2024: Complete Guide for International Students | Funding Options & Application Tips
The University of Porto is committed to attracting talented international students by offering several scholarship programs and funding opportunities. These include:
- SASUP Scholarships
- Merit Scholarships
- Scientific Research Scholarships
- Social Support Fund
- External Scholarships
Let’s take a closer look at each of these scholarship options for international students:
SASUP Scholarships
The Social Support Services of the University of Porto (SASUP) offers study scholarships for students enrolled in Bachelor’s, Master’s and Integrated Master’s programs.
These scholarships provide monthly financial support to help cover costs related to attending the university.
Eligibility:
- Portuguese and EU nationals
- Stateless persons
- Nationals of countries with reciprocal cooperation agreements
- Students without International Student Status
Benefits:
- Monthly cash payment to cover study-related expenses
How to Apply:
Applications are submitted through the SASUP website. The scholarship is granted annually and can be renewed each year.
Deadline:
Application deadlines are published on the SASUP website each year.
Merit Scholarships
The University of Porto awards merit-based scholarships to recognize and reward academic excellence.
These cash prizes are given to top-performing students in Bachelor’s, Master’s and Integrated Master’s programs.Eligibility:
- Enrolled students in eligible degree programs
- Outstanding academic achievement
Benefits:
- Cash prize (amount varies)
How to Apply:
Students do not need to apply. Merit scholarships are awarded automatically based on academic performance.
Scientific Research Scholarships
For students interested in gaining research experience, the University of Porto offers undergraduate and graduate research scholarships. These provide scientific training opportunities in research projects or institutions in Portugal.
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral students
- Interest in scientific research
Benefits:
- Monthly stipend
- Research training and experience
Duration:
Typically 1 year, extendable up to 3 years. Minimum duration of 3 months.How to Apply:
Application procedures are outlined on the University of Porto research portal.
Social Support Fund
The SASUP Social Support Fund provides financial assistance to students facing temporary economic difficulties who may not qualify for other scholarships.
Eligibility:
- Students experiencing financial hardship
- Not eligible for SASUP scholarships
Benefits:
- Financial support to cover study-related costs
How to Apply:
Applications are submitted through SASUP.
External Scholarships
In addition to University of Porto scholarships, international students may be eligible for external funding through:
- Government scholarships
- Partner institutions
- International agreements and consortia
Some examples include scholarships for students from Portuguese-speaking African countries (PALOP) and programs like:
- Camões Institute scholarships
- Portuguese Communities Portal scholarships
- Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) grants
- Santander Universities scholarships
- Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation scholarships
- Millennium BCP Foundation scholarships
Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility criteria vary depending on the specific scholarship program. In general, applicants must:
- Be enrolled or accepted to a degree program at the University of Porto
- Meet academic requirements (grades, test scores, etc.)
- Demonstrate financial need (for need-based scholarships)
- Be proficient in the language of instruction (Portuguese or English)
- Meet nationality/residency requirements (varies by scholarship)
Always carefully review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship you’re interested in applying for. Some are restricted to certain nationalities, degree levels, or fields of study.
How to Apply for University of Porto Scholarships
The application process differs for each scholarship program. Here are some general steps to follow:
- Research available scholarships and check eligibility requirements
- Gather required documents (transcripts, CV, motivation letter, etc.)
- Submit online application through the relevant portal (SASUP, research portal, etc.)
- Provide any additional requested information
- Meet application deadlines
- Wait for results to be announced
For SASUP scholarships, you’ll need to:
- Create an account on the SASUP portal
- Fill out the online application form
- Upload required documents
- Submit your application before the deadline
For research scholarships:
- Check open calls on the University of Porto research portal
- Review application requirements and deadlines
- Prepare research proposal and other documents
- Submit application through the online system
External scholarship applications are usually submitted directly to the funding organization. Always follow the specific instructions provided for each scholarship opportunity.
Application Deadlines
Application deadlines vary by scholarship program and may change from year to year. Here are some general timeframes to keep in mind:
- SASUP Scholarships: Typically open in summer for the following academic year
- Merit Scholarships: Awarded automatically based on academic performance
- Research Scholarships: Multiple calls throughout the year, check research portal
- External Scholarships: Deadlines set by individual funding organizations
It’s crucial to stay on top of deadlines and submit your applications well in advance. Late or incomplete applications are usually not considered.
Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application
Follow these tips to strengthen your University of Porto scholarship application:
- Start early and give yourself plenty of time to prepare materials
- Carefully read eligibility criteria and application instructions
- Gather all required documents before starting your application
- Tailor your motivation letter/statement of purpose to each scholarship
- Highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and goals
- Have someone proofread your application materials
- Submit your application well before the deadline
- Follow up if you don’t hear back within the expected timeframe
Funding Your Studies Beyond Scholarships
While scholarships can significantly reduce costs, you may need additional funding sources to cover all your expenses as an international student. Consider these options:
Part-Time Work
International students in Portugal can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the academic year and full-time during holidays. This can help supplement your income.
Student Loans
Check if your home country offers student loans for studying abroad. Some international banks also provide education loans.
Crowdfunding
Platforms like GoFundMe allow you to raise money from family, friends, and supporters for your studies.
Savings and Family Support
Use personal savings or seek financial support from family members if possible.
Budgeting
Create a realistic budget to manage your expenses and stretch your funding as far as possible.
Cost of Studying at University of Porto
To determine how much funding you’ll need, it’s important to understand the costs associated with studying at the University of Porto. Here’s a breakdown of estimated expenses:
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees for international students in 2024-2025:
- Bachelor’s/Integrated Master’s: €3,000 – €7,000 per year
- Master’s: €3,000 – €7,000 per year
- PhD: €2,750 – €6,000 per year
Exact fees vary by program. EU/EEA students pay the same fees as Portuguese students.
Living Costs
Monthly living expenses in Porto:
- Accommodation: €250 – €450
- Food: €150 – €200
- Transportation: €30 – €40
- Books/Supplies: €30 – €50
- Personal Expenses: €100 – €150
Estimated total: €560 – €890 per month
Other Costs
- Health Insurance: €150 – €400 per year
- Residence Permit: €50 – €100
- Student Visa: €75 – €100
Life as an International Student at University of Porto
The University of Porto offers an enriching academic and cultural experience for international students. Here’s what you can expect:
Academic Excellence
- Ranked among top 200 European universities
- 14 faculties across 3 campuses
- Over 600 training programs
- State-of-the-art facilities and research centers
Student Support
- International Office to assist with visas, accommodation, etc.
- Portuguese language courses
- Academic advising and tutoring
- Career services and internship opportunities
Campus Life
- Over 50 student associations and groups
- Sports facilities and cultural activities
- Libraries and study spaces
- E-learning cafes
City of Porto
- Safe and affordable European city
- Rich history and culture
- Beautiful beaches nearby
- Excellent food and wine
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about University of Porto scholarships:
Q: Can international students apply for all scholarships?
A: Eligibility varies by scholarship. Some are open to all international students, while others have nationality restrictions.
Always check specific requirements.
Q: Are scholarships available for all degree levels?
A: Yes, there are scholarship opportunities for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students.
Q: Can I apply for multiple scholarships?
A: In most cases, yes. However, some scholarships may have restrictions on combining with other funding.
Q: Are scholarships renewable?
A: Many scholarships are renewable annually, subject to maintaining academic performance and meeting other criteria.
Q: Do I need to speak Portuguese to apply?
A: For most scholarships, proficiency in the language of instruction (Portuguese or English) is required.
Some programs offer Portuguese language courses.
Q: When will I know if I’ve been awarded a scholarship?
A: Notification timelines vary by scholarship. Check the scholarship details for expected announcement dates.
Conclusion
The University of Porto offers a range of scholarship and funding opportunities to help international students achieve their academic goals.
By carefully researching options, preparing strong applications, and meeting deadlines, you can increase your chances of securing financial support for your studies in Portugal.
Remember to explore both university-specific scholarships and external funding sources. With proper planning and persistence, you can make your dream of studying at the University of Porto a reality.
Ready to take the next step?
Visit the University of Porto International Student Portal to learn more about programs and start your application.
Good luck with your scholarship applications and future studies at the University of Porto!
