
At public universities, bachelor's tuition is capped at €697 a year (2025/26), and you can pay it in at least seven monthly instalments. International (non-EU) students pay fees set by each university – €1,500–18,000 a year at ULisboa in 2026/27 – but EU citizens don't have that status. Find out how housing works in Lisbon and Porto and which casual jobs are easiest to find.
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:
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.
Sources: European Commission – Study in Europe (education.ec.europa.eu/study-in-europe), Eurostat, official national study and residence portals and authorities, Eurodesk, enic-naric.net, studentnews.eu. As of September 2026.