Portugal offers PhD scholarships through its national science foundation (FCT) and research units, with relatively low living costs.
PhD opportunities in Portugal
Why do a PhD in Portugal?
- FCT PhD grants
- Growing research centres
- Affordable living costs
Universities in Portugal
Well-known research universities and institutes for PhD study in Portugal include:
- University of Lisbon
- University of Porto
- NOVA University Lisbon
- University of Coimbra
- University of Minho
Choose a university by your supervisor and research group, not the overall ranking — fit with the group decides most PhD outcomes.
PhD structure
Programmes combine a curricular year in some fields with research and a thesis defence.
Fees and funding
Fees: Universities charge annual tuition; FCT grants usually cover it.
Main funded routes: FCT PhD scholarships and university-funded positions.
Official starting points: FCT
See PhD funding by country to compare routes across 46 countries, or estimate your budget with the study cost calculator.
Applying for a PhD in Portugal
Apply to a PhD programme and to FCT or research-unit calls with a supervisor.
Language: Many programmes in English; Portuguese helps.
Your application checklist
- CV with research experience and any publications
- Research proposal or statement written for the project or supervisor — see our research proposal guide
- Master's (and undergraduate) transcripts and degree certificates; for Pakistanis, HEC-attested copies
- Two or three academic references — see our recommendation letter guide
- English test score or proof of English-medium study, if required
- Interview preparation — see our interview guide
Student visas and work
Visa: Non-EU candidates apply for a study or research visa.
Working during your PhD: Student-visa holders may work part time.
After your PhD
Graduates can seek a job-seeker or work visa.
Open PhD opportunities in Portugal
New listings are added every week — get weekly alerts.
This guide gives an overview for international applicants. Rules on fees, funding and visas change — always confirm the details on the university, funder and embassy websites before you apply.
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