PORTUGAL · COIMBRA
University of Coimbra
public · Founded 1290 · Languages: en, pt
In short
The University of Coimbra, Portugal's oldest university and a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers over 417 courses across diverse fields. It is a highly ranked public research institution with affordable tuition fees and living costs, making it an attractive destination for international students seeking a rich academic and cultural experience.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1290
- Students
- 29,577
- International students
- 7,000
- Acceptance rate
- 55%
- Tuition (intl)
- €3–7k/yr
- Languages
- EN, PT
- Location
- Coimbra, Portugal
The University of Coimbra (UC) is Portugal's oldest and most celebrated public research university, officially founded in 1290 and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spread across 12 organic units on 4 campuses in the historic city of Coimbra, it offers over 417 courses at undergraduate, master's, and doctoral level across sciences, engineering, medicine, law, arts, and more. UC is consistently ranked among Portugal's top four universities in QS, THE, and ARWU global rankings.
Why study here
- Historic prestige and UNESCO World Heritage campus — a unique academic atmosphere with 730+ years of scholarly tradition.
- Ranked top 4 in Portugal (QS 2026, THE 2026, ARWU 2025) and top 400 globally, with 24 internationally recognised R&D units.
- Affordable EU tuition fees — typically 2,500–7,000 EUR/year for EU and non-EU international students in most programmes.
- Vibrant Erasmus+ and international exchange network; thousands of incoming and outgoing students annually.
- Immersive student culture including the world-famous Queima das Fitas spring festival and centuries-old academic traditions.
Student life
Student life at UC is rich with tradition and modern amenities. The historic Alta district houses the iconic Joanina Library and ceremonial buildings, while the city offers affordable cafes, cultural venues, and the Mondego riverside. Student associations (republicas) provide accommodation and community life unique to Coimbra. The UC Sports services offer competitive and recreational activities, and an active international student office supports Erasmus and non-EU students.
Fees
InternationalNon-EU international students typically pay 3,000–7,000 EUR/year depending on the programme and cycle. Some professional programmes such as medicine may be higher.
HomeEU/EEA students pay the national student fee base rate (propina base) of approximately 697 EUR/year, with some variation by programme.
LivingCoimbra is one of Portugal's most affordable student cities. Monthly living costs run approximately 600–900 EUR including accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.
Fees vary by programme and cycle. Consult UC Academic Services for exact figures. Merit and need-based scholarships are available.
Admissions
Bachelor entry (Portuguese students)National secondary school certificate + Provas de Ingresso exams
International bachelor entryEquivalent secondary qualification recognised by the Portuguese Ministry of Education
Master entryBachelor degree in a related field; GPA and motivation letter typically required
Doctoral entryMaster degree (or equivalent) with a research proposal
IELTS6.0 (for English-taught programmes)
TOEFL iBT80
Cambridge CertificateB2 or above
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2026 (Europe)135
Times Higher Education World Rankings 2026401
QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2026220
ARWU Shanghai Rankings 2025501
CWTS Leiden Ranking 2025368
University scholarships
UC Merit Scholarships (1st and 2nd Cycle)Partial tuition waiver based on academic excellence
Erasmus+ Mobility Grants300–700 EUR/month for exchange study periods
Portuguese Government Scholarships (IPDJ/Camoes)Varies; targeted at students from Portuguese-speaking countries
Accreditation
The University of Coimbra is a state-chartered public institution under Portuguese higher education law. Its Faculty of Science and Technology (FCTUC) comprises 24 internationally recognised R&D units. UC is a member of the Coimbra Group and the European University Association (EUA).
Programs
a selectionUniversity of Coimbra · Portugal
Bachelor's Degree in Educational Sciences
The Bachelor's Degree in Educational Sciences provides a comprehensive understanding of education's theoretical and practical aspects. Over three years, students will explore various fields within educational sciences, gaining knowledge in areas such as educational psychology, sociology of education, and research methodologies. The program aims to equip students with the skills necessary to analyze educational processes and contribute to the development of effective educational strategies.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
University of Coimbra · Portugal
Courses not conferring degrees
The University of Coimbra offers a diverse catalogue of non-degree conferring courses designed to provide specialized knowledge and skills in various academic and professional fields. These programs are available in different formats, including distance learning, blended learning, online synchronous, and on-campus. This catalogue allows prospective students to filter courses based on their status (enrolling, ongoing, closed), format, scientific area, and specific program funding initiatives. These courses cater to a wide range of disciplines, from traditional fields like Medicine and Engineering to emerging areas such as Digital Competence Reinforcement and Technological Modernization in various sectors. The aim is to offer flexible learning opportunities to meet the evolving needs of students and the job market.
Diploma
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
University of Coimbra · Portugal
Licenciatura em Estudos Europeus (Bachelor in European Studies)
The Bachelor in European Studies at the University of Coimbra offers an interdisciplinary program focused on European integration and international systems. It aims to provide students with a broad and foundational understanding of Europe, delving into its historical, cultural, political, and economic dimensions. The curriculum is designed to build comprehensive knowledge and specific expertise without leading to a premature specialization, preparing students for further postgraduate studies. Graduates will be equipped with strong analytical skills, the ability to communicate effectively, and a critical understanding of complex European issues.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
University of Coimbra · Portugal
Licenciatura em Português (Bachelor's Degree in Portuguese)
The Bachelor's Degree in Portuguese at the University of Coimbra aims to provide a strong interdisciplinary foundation in the Humanities, preparing students for careers that require advanced language, literary, and cultural expertise. The program focuses on developing comprehensive skills in oral and written Portuguese, understanding its international dimension, and fostering critical thinking and analytical abilities. Students will learn to connect their studies to broader fields of knowledge and appreciate the civilizational value of the Humanities.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
University of Coimbra · Portugal
Licenciatura em Psicologia (BSc in Psychology)
The Bachelor of Psychology (Licenciatura em Psicologia) program at the University of Coimbra provides a comprehensive foundation in the science of human behavior and mental processes. Over three years, students will explore the core areas of psychology, including biological bases of behavior, social sciences, cognitive neuroscience, and statistical methods. The curriculum is designed to build a strong theoretical understanding alongside practical research methodologies. Graduates will be equipped with a solid understanding of psychological principles and research methods, preparing them for further specialization or entry-level roles in psychology-related fields.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Portugal
full fundingUN DESA and the Government of Portugal
UN-Portugal Ocean Fellowship
Aimed at senior government officials and decision-makers from developing countries, including Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs), who hold a senior position in ocean policy or marine governance, such as heads or deputy heads of national ocean agencies or ambassadors. Candidates need a proven track record in ocean governance, a commitment to continued public-sector service, and full English proficiency. Nominations of women and Indigenous candidates are strongly encouraged. Applicants cannot self-nominate; candidates must be put forward by UN Member States.
full
Funding
€5k
Max
-17d left
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome Trust Fellowships and Grants (for international researchers)
For researchers at different career stages working on health-related science. Wellcome funds a family of fellowships and grants — early-career, career-development, and discovery awards, plus team and translational funding — each with its own eligibility, value, and call deadline. There is no single scholarship application; you apply to the specific scheme that fits your stage and project.
full
Funding
€3000k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome International Training Fellowships
For early-career researchers based in low- and middle-income countries (outside the high-income world) who want protected time and support for research training in health, often including a PhD or postdoctoral research. Wellcome's scheme names and exact criteria change over time, so applicants should check the current relevant Wellcome funding scheme.
full
Funding
€150k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
full funding
European Commission - European Research Executive Agency (REA)
Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions Postdoctoral Fellowships
Open to researchers of any nationality who hold a PhD (or will have defended their doctoral thesis by the call deadline) and have at most 8 years of full-time-equivalent research experience after the PhD. Applicants apply jointly with a host organisation - a university, research institution, business, SME, or other body based in an EU Member State or a country associated to Horizon Europe. European Postdoctoral Fellowships are open to all nationalities for a project inside the EU or an associated country; Global Postdoctoral Fellowships are reserved for EU nationals or long-term residents who carry out a phase in a third country before returning to Europe. Researchers who have been displaced by conflict and those restarting a research career after a break are explicitly encouraged to apply.
full
Funding
€100k
Max
Sep 10, 2026
Deadline
full funding
Rotary Foundation
Rotary Peace Fellowships
For professionals committed to peace and development, with relevant work experience and (for the master's) a strong academic background and proficiency in English. Applicants apply through their local Rotary district and are selected globally by The Rotary Foundation for study at a Rotary Peace Center.
full
Funding
€90k
Max
May 15, 2027
Deadline
full funding
Independent Social Research Foundation (ISRF)
ISRF Europe Early Career Fellowship
Open to early-career researchers in the social sciences and humanities who are within 10 years of their PhD award (career breaks considered) and hold a salaried position at a higher education or research institution, or are independent scholars with a host institution. Research must be hosted at a European institution and address innovative, interdisciplinary social research questions. Open to scholars of all nationalities.
full
Funding
€82k
Max
Feb 14, 2027
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students at the University of Coimbra?
+
Non-EU international students can expect tuition fees to range from approximately 3,000 to 7,000 EUR per year, depending on the specific programme. Some professional programmes, like medicine, may have higher fees. It's recommended to consult UC Academic Services for precise figures.
What are the living costs for students in Coimbra?
+
Coimbra is known as one of Portugal's most affordable cities for students. Monthly living expenses, including accommodation, food, transport, and personal costs, are estimated to be between 600 and 900 EUR.
What are the English language requirements for international students?
+
For programmes taught in English, you will typically need to provide proof of English proficiency. Accepted tests include IELTS with a score of 6.0, TOEFL iBT with a score of 80, or a Cambridge Certificate with a grade of B2 or higher.
What academic qualifications are needed for international undergraduate admission?
+
International students applying for undergraduate programmes need an equivalent secondary school qualification that is recognised by the Portuguese Ministry of Education. Specific entry exams or requirements may apply depending on the programme.
Does the University of Coimbra offer scholarships for international students?
+
Yes, the University of Coimbra offers various scholarships. These include UC Merit Scholarships for academic excellence, Erasmus+ Mobility Grants for exchange students, and Portuguese Government Scholarships targeted at students from Portuguese-speaking countries.
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