Portugal Higher Education Scholarship 2026–2027
Portugal continues to strengthen access to higher education through its national scholarship program designed to support students from lower-income families.
The Portugal Higher Education Scholarship 2026–2027 provides financial assistance to eligible students enrolled in public and private higher education institutions across the country. The program helps reduce educational costs and ensures that talented students can pursue university studies regardless of their economic background.
For international students residing legally in Portugal and Portuguese citizens alike, this scholarship can significantly ease the financial burden of higher education.
What Is the Portugal Higher Education Scholarship?
The Portugal Higher Education Scholarship is a government-funded financial aid program administered by the Directorate-General for Higher Education (DGES).
The scholarship is intended for students who demonstrate financial need and are enrolled in eligible higher education programs.
Successful applicants receive support throughout the academic year, typically paid in ten monthly installments.
Key Features
- Government-funded financial assistance
- Available for public and private higher education institutions
- Supports undergraduate and master’s studies
- Paid monthly during the academic year
- Designed for students with limited financial resources
Scholarship Benefits
Students selected for the scholarship receive financial support to help cover:
- Tuition-related expenses
- Accommodation costs
- Living expenses
- Study materials
- Transportation and daily educational needs
Maximum Scholarship Amount
Under special humanitarian protection provisions, eligible students may receive up to:
€5,981.73 per academic year
The scholarship is usually distributed across ten monthly payments.
Who Can Apply?
Students enrolled in eligible Portuguese higher education programs may apply.
Eligible Study Levels
Applicants must be enrolled in:
- Higher Professional Technical Courses (CTESP)
- Bachelor’s Degrees
- Integrated Master’s Degrees
- Master’s Degrees
Students must be registered for at least 30 ECTS credits.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Portugal Higher Education Scholarship 2026–2027, applicants must meet all of the following conditions:
Nationality or Residency Requirements
Applicants must:
- Hold Portuguese nationality, or
- Possess a valid and regularized residence status in Portugal
Academic Requirements
Students must:
- Be enrolled in an eligible higher education program
- Register for at least 30 ECTS credits
- Meet academic progression requirements in subsequent years
- Stay within the maximum number of permitted enrollments
Qualification Restrictions
Applicants cannot already hold:
- A diploma
- A degree
- A qualification equal to or higher than the program for which the scholarship is being requested
Financial Compliance
Applicants must:
- Have updated tax obligations
- Have Social Security contributions in good standing
Income and Asset Requirements
Financial need is a key component of scholarship eligibility.
Household Income Limit
The total annual household income must be below:
| Requirement | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual Household Income | Less than €11,049.89 |
Household Asset Limit
Movable assets owned by the household must be below:
| Requirement | Amount |
| Movable Assets | Less than €115,303.20 |
Movable assets include:
- Bank account balances
- Savings certificates
- Stocks
- Bonds
- Retirement savings plans
- Other financial investments
Special Conditions for Working Students
Portugal provides additional flexibility for working students.
Income Threshold for Working Students
Students who work or earn occasional income during holiday periods may qualify under a higher income limit:
| Category | Income Limit |
| Standard Applicants | €11,049.89 |
| Working Students | €12,569.89 |
This provision helps students balance employment and education while maintaining eligibility for financial support.
Humanitarian Emergency Exceptions
Certain categories of students are exempt from minimum annual income requirements.
These include:
Syrian Humanitarian Emergency Beneficiaries
Students affected by the humanitarian crisis originating from Syria.
Afghan Refugees
Refugees from Afghanistan residing in Portugal.
Temporary Protection Beneficiaries from Ukraine
Students under temporary protection measures due to the conflict in Ukraine.
These students may be eligible to receive the maximum scholarship amount of:
€5,981.73
Required Documents
Before starting your application, prepare the following information for all members of your household.
Identification Information
- Taxpayer Identification Number (NIF)
- Social Security Number (NISS)
Financial Information
- Bank account balances as of December 31 of the previous calendar year
- Value of investments and movable assets
Tax Documentation
- Previous year’s income tax return (if submitted)
Housing Documents
If your family owns its residence:
- Municipal Property Tax (IMI) declaration
- Property registration documentation
If your family rents:
- Lease agreement
- Proof of subsidized rent (if applicable)
- Social housing documentation (if applicable)
Bank Information
Applicants must provide:
- IBAN documentation
- Proof of account ownership
For minor students, a parent or guardian’s account may be used.
Can Applicants Use a Foreign Tax Identification Number?
Yes.
Household members do not need to possess a Portuguese Tax Identification Number (NIF).
Applicants may provide a foreign tax identification number and indicate the corresponding country code during the application process.
Examples include:
- France – FR
- Spain – ES
- Germany – DE
- Italy – IT
This flexibility makes the program accessible to legally residing international families.
How to Apply for the Portugal Higher Education Scholarship
Applications are submitted online through Portugal’s official public services portal.
Application Process
- Gather all required documents.
- Collect financial information for all household members.
- Prepare tax and residency documentation.
- Access the online scholarship application portal.
- Complete the application form accurately.
- Upload supporting documents if requested.
- Submit the application and retain confirmation records.
Applicants should ensure that all financial and personal information is accurate to avoid delays or rejection.
Scholarship Payment Schedule
The scholarship is generally awarded for the entire academic year.
Payment Structure
- Paid monthly
- Usually distributed in 10 installments
- Deposited directly into the registered bank account
Why Study in Portugal?
Portugal has become one of Europe’s most attractive study destinations.
Advantages of Studying in Portugal
- Affordable tuition compared to many Western European countries
- High-quality universities
- Safe and welcoming environment
- Strong international student community
- Access to the European Higher Education Area
- Excellent quality of life
- Opportunities to travel across Europe
Cities such as Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra, and Braga offer vibrant academic environments and growing international opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is eligible for the Portugal Higher Education Scholarship?
Students enrolled in eligible higher education programs in Portugal who meet residency, academic, and financial requirements.
Can international students apply?
Yes. International students with regularized residence status in Portugal may be eligible.
What is the maximum scholarship amount?
Eligible humanitarian protection beneficiaries may receive up to €5,981.73 per year.
Is the scholarship available for master’s degrees?
Yes. Master’s degree students are eligible if they meet all requirements.
How is the scholarship paid?
The scholarship is typically paid monthly in ten installments directly to the student’s designated bank account.
What is the household income limit?
The annual household income must generally be below €11,049.89.
APPLY HERE: https://www.gov.pt/servicos/candidatar-se-a-uma-bolsa-de-estudo-para-o-ensino-superior
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