Portugal offers several ways to study mathematics. You can start with a bachelor's, continue with a master's, or combine both in an integrated programme. This guide shows you what you need to apply, what you might pay and how to get found by Portuguese universities.
Levels of study
Portuguese universities organise mathematics programmes in three main levels.
- - Bachelor’s degree (Licence). Usually three years of full‑time study.
- - Master’s degree (Mestrado). Typically one to two years after a licence.
- - Integrated master. A four‑year track that combines licence and master content, common in engineering schools.
All levels are recognised across the EU and can lead to further research or professional work.
Typical entry requirements
Requirements vary by level and by university, but the following are common.
- - A completed secondary education certificate for a bachelor’s programme. For EU students this is the national school leaving exam; for non‑EU students an equivalent diploma is needed.
- - A relevant bachelor’s degree for a master’s programme, with a minimum grade point average of around 2.5-3.0 on a 4‑point scale.
- - Proof of English proficiency for programmes taught in English, such as IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80.
- - Sometimes a short maths test or interview, especially for competitive master’s.
Always check the specific programme page on the university’s admissions site for exact rules.
English‑taught options
Many Portuguese universities now offer mathematics courses in English, especially at the master’s level.
- - Look for programmes labelled “English‑taught” or “International”.
- - The language requirement is usually the same as above.
- - Some schools provide a pre‑session to improve academic English before the semester starts.
Visit the university’s admissions page for the latest list of English‑taught programmes.
Typical tuition and living costs
Fees differ for EU and non‑EU students, and they also depend on the type of university (public vs private).
- - Public universities: typically €2,000-€4,000 per year for EU students and €5,000-€8,000 for non‑EU students.
- - Private institutions: typically €6,000-€12,000 per year for all students.
- - Living costs: typically €600-€900 per month for accommodation, food, transport and personal expenses.
These figures are averages. For exact numbers, check the tuition section of the programme page and the national student finance website.
Application timeline and how universities find you
Plan your steps well in advance. The general timeline looks like this.
- - 12 months before start: research programmes and check language requirements.
- - 9 months before: prepare documents - diploma, transcripts, language test, passport.
- - 6-8 months before: submit the online application on the university’s admissions portal.
- - 4-6 months before: receive a response, accept an offer and pay any deposit.
- - 2-3 months before: apply for a student visa at the national immigration authority (SEF in Portugal) and arrange accommodation.
Universities often search for candidates on platforms like Eduuro. If you create a free profile with your field, education level, English score and documents, admissions offices can find you and send the first contact.
Common questions
Do I need a visa to study in Portugal?
If you are not an EU/EEA citizen, you will need a student residence visa. Check the Portuguese immigration authority (SEF) for the exact list of required documents and processing times.
Can I work while I study?
Yes. Non‑EU students may work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full time during holidays, provided the visa allows it. Verify the conditions on the SEF website.
Are there scholarships for international maths students?
Many Portuguese universities offer merit‑based scholarships for non‑EU students. Look at the scholarship section of the university’s admissions page or at national scholarship portals for specific calls.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education level, English level and documents. Admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.