Accommodation and living costs in Europe

Living costs depend a lot on the city – in big cities such as Lisbon and Porto, rent is the biggest expense. Universities give an estimated monthly budget in their guides for international students – check the website of your chosen institution.

Your options are:

• student residences run by the universities' social services (Serviços de Ação Social, SAS) – cheap, but places are limited,
• a room in a shared flat – the most common option,
• renting a studio flat.

Ask about accommodation as soon as you are admitted, and see the flat before you sign a contract. Student canteens and student discounts on public transport help.