In short
The University of Lisbon is Portugal's largest public university, offering a wide range of programs and strong research opportunities. It is a highly-ranked institution located in a vibrant and affordable European capital, making it an attractive destination for international students.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1290
- Students
- 50,009
- International students
- 9,500
- Acceptance rate
- 55%
- Tuition (intl)
- €3–8k/yr
- Languages
- PT, EN
- Location
- Lisbon, Portugal
The University of Lisbon (ULisboa) is Portugal's largest and most internationally recognised public university, formed in 2013 from the merger of the University of Lisbon and the Technical University of Lisbon. It spans 18 schools and faculties covering engineering, medicine, law, science, economics, humanities, and the arts, enrolling more than 50,000 students. ULisboa is ranked among the top 250 universities worldwide and is a leader in European research partnerships. Its location in Lisbon - a vibrant, affordable, and cosmopolitan European capital - makes it a compelling destination for international students.
Why study here
- Portugal charges among the lowest university tuition fees in Western Europe, making ULisboa exceptional value for international students.
- Instituto Superior Tecnico is one of southern Europe's most prestigious engineering and technology faculties.
- Benefit from an extensive EU Horizon research portfolio and opportunities in dozens of research centres.
- Lisbon's booming tech and startup ecosystem offers outstanding internship and employment pathways.
- Study in one of Europe's most liveable, sunny cities with a low cost of living and rich cultural heritage.
Student life
Lisbon provides an exceptional backdrop for student life: mild weather year-round, world-class gastronomy, a lively nightlife scene, and stunning coastal beaches within 30 minutes of campus. ULisboa's student associations organise academic ceremonies, sports competitions, and cultural festivals. The university supports international students with a dedicated Welcome Centre, buddy programmes, and Portuguese language courses. Erasmus and exchange students integrate seamlessly into the multilingual campus community.
Fees
InternationalAnnual tuition for international students: approximately EUR 3,000-7,000 for undergraduate; EUR 3,500-8,000 for postgraduate, varying by faculty and programme.
HomeEU/domestic students pay approximately EUR 700-1,500 per year in tuition for undergraduate programmes.
LivingMonthly living costs in Lisbon average EUR 850-1,300 including accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.
Fees are set per academic year and may vary by faculty. Non-EU international students pay differentiated fees. Check the ULisboa tuition page for exact figures by programme.
Admissions
International undergraduateUpper secondary school leaving certificate equivalent to Portuguese 12th grade. Special international student contest (Concurso Especial para Estudantes Internacionais).
Postgraduate / Master'sRelevant bachelor's degree or equivalent. Some programmes require a minimum GPA or entrance interview.
DoctoralMaster's degree or equivalent. Candidates submit research proposals assessed by faculty committees.
IELTS Academic6.0 overall (some programmes 6.5+)
TOEFL iBT72 overall
Cambridge C1 Advanced / C2 ProficiencyGrade C or above
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2025230
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025201-250
QS World Rankings by Subject - Engineering & TechnologyTop 200
University scholarships
Santander Universities ScholarshipsEUR 1,500-5,000 one-off award for merit and mobility
Erasmus+ Mobility GrantsMonthly stipend of EUR 250-800 depending on sending country
FCT PhD ScholarshipsMonthly stipend approximately EUR 1,259 plus tuition fees covered
Accreditation
ULisboa is accredited by the Portuguese national accreditation agency (A3ES). Individual programmes hold international accreditations including EUR-ACE (engineering), AACSB, and EQUIS (management at ISEG).
Programs
a selectionUniversity of Lisbon · Portugal
LLM in Artificial Intelligence in Legal Practice and its Regulation
The LLM in Artificial Intelligence in Legal Practice and its Regulation is a specialized Master of Laws program designed for students seeking to deepen their understanding of the intersection between AI, legal practice, and regulatory frameworks. This program offers a unique opportunity to engage with cross-cutting and international legal issues, positioning graduates to contribute to the global scientific discourse in this rapidly evolving field. The University of Lisbon School of Law's LLM stands out with its intensive, modular structure, limited class sizes, and a curriculum delivered entirely in English by a distinguished faculty including academics and renowned experts.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
University of Lisbon · Portugal
Master in Law & Management
The Master in Law & Management is a collaborative program offered by the Faculty of Law of the University of Lisbon (FDUL) and the School of Business and Economics (ISEG). This master's degree is designed for aspiring leaders who want to gain expertise at the intersection of law and management. It aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of both disciplines, preparing them for complex challenges in the modern professional landscape.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
University of Lisbon · Portugal
Master in Law and Management
The Master in Law and Management is a two-year postgraduate program designed for individuals seeking to bridge the gap between legal expertise and management skills. This interdisciplinary program aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of how legal frameworks impact business operations and strategic decision-making. You will explore a range of topics at the intersection of law and business, fostering a unique skillset applicable to various professional environments. The program provides a robust academic foundation, combining rigorous legal analysis with essential management principles. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in diverse sectors, including international business, consulting, finance, and public administration, where a strong grasp of both legal and business disciplines is crucial for success.
Master's
Level
€6k
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
University of Lisbon · Portugal
Plant Biology
The Plant Biology Master's program at the University of Lisbon provides advanced knowledge in the field of plant science. It delves into various aspects of plant life, from their evolutionary history to their genetic makeup and ecological roles. This program is designed for students seeking a deeper understanding of botany and its broader implications. The curriculum focuses on understanding plant diversity, adaptation, and the mechanisms driving plant evolution. It explores topics such as polyploidy, speciation, and genomic evolution, offering insights into how plants have adapted to diverse environments and how they interact with other organisms. This program aims to equip students with the scientific knowledge and research skills necessary for careers in plant science, research institutions, environmental agencies, or the agricultural sector. It encourages a critical approach to understanding plant biology and its relevance to global challenges.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
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 Lisbon?
+
Annual tuition fees for international students at the University of Lisbon range approximately from EUR 3,000-7,000 for undergraduate programs and EUR 3,500-8,000 for postgraduate programs. These fees can vary by faculty and specific program. Non-EU students pay differentiated fees.
How does the University of Lisbon rank globally?
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The University of Lisbon is ranked among the top 250 universities worldwide by QS World University Rankings 2025 and within the 201-250 band by Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025. It is also recognized in the Top 200 for Engineering & Technology by QS World Rankings by Subject.
What are the living costs for students in Lisbon?
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Monthly living costs in Lisbon average between EUR 850-1,300. This estimate includes accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses, making Lisbon an affordable European capital for students.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
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For admission, international students typically need to demonstrate English proficiency through tests like IELTS Academic with a score of 6.0 overall (some programs may require 6.5+), TOEFL iBT with a score of 72 overall, or Cambridge C1 Advanced / C2 Proficiency with a grade of C or above.
What academic qualifications are needed for international students?
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International undergraduate applicants need an upper secondary school leaving certificate equivalent to Portuguese 12th grade and must apply through the Special International Student Contest. For postgraduate studies, a relevant bachelor's degree is required, with some programs possibly needing a minimum GPA or an interview.
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