Cost of Studying in Portugal for Pakistani Students

For Pakistani students aiming to study in Europe, Portugal offers one of the most affordable education systems without compromising on academic quality. The country’s low tuition fees, reasonable living expenses, and availability of scholarships make it a perfect destination for international students seeking value for money.

This article provides a detailed breakdown of the cost of studying in Portugal, including tuition fees, living expenses, accommodation costs, health insurance, and scholarships available for Pakistani students in 2025.

Overview of Study Costs in Portugal

Compared to other European countries such as the UK, France, or the Netherlands, Portugal provides an affordable education system with equally reputable universities. Tuition fees and living costs vary depending on the university, program, and city, but remain within a manageable range for Pakistani students.

Tuition Fees in Portugal for Pakistani Students

The tuition fee in Portugal depends on whether you enroll in a public or private university. Public universities are funded by the government and offer lower tuition fees, while private universities tend to be slightly more expensive.

Type of Institution	Average Tuition Fee (per year)	Notes
Public Universities	€2,000 – €4,000	Most affordable; wide program selection
Private Universities	€4,000 – €7,500	Offer flexible programs and English-taught degrees
Polytechnic Institutes	€1,500 – €3,000	Focus on practical and technical courses
PhD Programs	€3,000 – €8,000	Research-based programs, may include scholarships

Tip: Always check the university’s website for the exact tuition fee, as it may differ depending on the course and academic level.

Living Expenses in Portugal

Living expenses in Portugal are comparatively lower than in Western Europe. On average, Pakistani students can expect to spend between €700 to €1,000 per month, depending on their lifestyle and the city they live in.

Expense Category	Average Monthly Cost (in €)
Accommodation (shared)	250 – 450
Food and Groceries	150 – 250
Transportation	30 – 50
Health Insurance	40 – 60
Utilities & Internet	80 – 100
Leisure & Miscellaneous	100 – 150

Total Monthly Estimate: €700 – €1,000
Annual Living Cost: €8,400 – €12,000

Lisbon and Porto are slightly more expensive, while smaller cities like Coimbra, Braga, and Aveiro are more affordable.

Accommodation Options for Pakistani Students

Students in Portugal can choose from a variety of housing options depending on their budget:

University Dormitories – The most affordable choice, costing €150–€300 per month.
Shared Apartments – Ideal for students looking for more independence, costing €300–€450 per month.
Private Apartments – Range from €500–€800 per month, depending on the city.

Most universities assist international students in finding accommodation through their International Office.

Transportation and Student Discounts

Portugal has an efficient public transport system that includes buses, metros, and trams. Students can get a monthly transport pass for around €30–€40, which allows unlimited travel within city limits.

Many cities offer student discounts on transportation, museums, cinemas, and cultural events, helping students save even more.

Health Insurance Costs

All international students in Portugal are required to have valid health insurance throughout their stay.

EU students can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
Pakistani students (non-EU) must purchase private health insurance, which costs approximately €40–€60 per month.

Several universities also provide student health insurance packages at discounted rates.

Additional Expenses

Beyond tuition and living costs, students may need to budget for the following:

Expense Type	Estimated Cost (€)
Residence Permit Renewal	158
Study Materials & Books (per semester)	50 – 100
Visa Application Fee	90 – 120
Flight from Pakistan to Portugal	500 – 800 (one-way)
Portuguese Language Course (optional)	300 – 500 per level

Planning your budget early ensures financial stability throughout your studies.

Scholarships for Pakistani Students

Portugal offers several scholarships for international students, which can significantly reduce tuition and living costs. Some of the most popular options include:

Erasmus+ Scholarships – For master’s and exchange students.
University of Lisbon Merit Scholarships – For top-performing students.
NOVA University Lisbon Excellence Scholarships – Based on academic performance.
Government of Portugal Scholarships – For students from developing countries, including Pakistan.

Most scholarships cover partial or full tuition fees, and some even provide monthly stipends for living expenses.

Conclusion

Portugal stands out as one of the most affordable study destinations in Europe. With low tuition fees, reasonable living costs, and generous scholarship programs, Pakistani students can earn world-class degrees without financial strain.

By planning your budget carefully and exploring available scholarships, you can make your educational dream in Portugal both achievable and rewarding.