If you want to study mechanical engineering in Portugal, you usually choose between a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree. The main points are your school results, language level, and whether the programme is taught in English or Portuguese. Check each university’s admissions page, because requirements and deadlines can change by programme.
What study levels you can choose
In Portugal, mechanical engineering is usually offered as:
- Bachelor’s degree - a first degree for students who finished secondary school.
- Master’s degree - for students who already have a relevant bachelor’s degree.
Some universities offer a combined path with a strong engineering base, while others keep bachelor’s and master’s separate. If you want to work in engineering later, check whether the degree is recognised for your target country and profession.
Typical admission requirements
For a bachelor’s, universities usually ask for a secondary school diploma and good grades in maths and physics. Some programmes also look at chemistry or other science subjects. If you studied outside Portugal, the university will usually ask for a document showing that your diploma is equivalent to the local school level.
For a master’s, you usually need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a closely related field. Some programmes accept students from other engineering areas, but they may ask for extra credits or background in core subjects.
Common documents include:
- passport or ID
- school diploma or bachelor’s degree
- transcripts or grade reports
- proof of language level, if required
- CV and motivation letter, for some programmes
- recommendation letters, for some master’s programmes
Entry rules can differ a lot between universities. Always check the official admissions page of the programme you want.
English-taught and Portuguese-taught options
You can find both English-taught and Portuguese-taught programmes in Portugal, especially at master’s level. Bachelor’s programmes are more often taught in Portuguese, although some universities may offer English modules or full English tracks.
If the programme is in Portuguese, you may need to show Portuguese language skills. If it is in English, you may need IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test. Some universities accept other proof of English, such as previous study in English, but this is not the same everywhere.
Before you apply, check:
- the language of instruction
- the minimum score required
- whether the university accepts alternative proof
- whether you need to learn Portuguese for internships or daily life
Even if your programme is in English, basic Portuguese can still help with housing, transport, and part-time life.
Tuition and living costs
Tuition in Portugal depends on the university, study level, and whether you are an EU or non-EU student. Public universities often have lower fees than private ones, but the exact amount can still vary.
A realistic way to plan is to use these broad ranges:
- EU students - usually lower tuition at public universities, often around the lower end of the national range.
- Non-EU students - often pay higher tuition, especially at public universities, but the exact policy depends on the school.
- Private universities - usually cost more than public ones.
For living costs, many students budget for rent, food, transport, books, and daily expenses. Costs are usually higher in Lisbon and Porto than in smaller cities. A careful monthly budget often includes:
- shared room or student housing
- food and groceries
- public transport
- phone and internet
- study materials and small personal costs
Do not rely on one number from a blog. Check the university fee page and local cost-of-living guides from the city or student unions.
Timeline and how to apply
Start early. For many students, the best plan is to begin 9 to 12 months before the start date, especially if you need a visa, translated documents, or a language test.
A simple timeline looks like this:
- 9-12 months before start - compare programmes and entry rules.
- 6-9 months before - take language tests and prepare documents.
- 3-6 months before - submit the application.
- After admission - arrange housing, health insurance, and, if needed, your visa or residence permit.
For non-EU students, the visa and residence process is handled by the national immigration system and the Portuguese authorities in your country. Check the official immigration site and your local Portuguese consulate for the current steps and documents.
How universities find candidates
Many universities do not wait for you to apply first. They also search for students who match a programme, especially in international recruitment.
They usually look for:
- your field of interest
- your current education level
- your grades and subjects
- your English level
- your documents and study goals
If you create a clear student profile, admissions teams can find you and contact you first if you fit what they need. This is useful if you are still comparing countries, programmes, and entry routes.
Common questions
Do I need Portuguese to study mechanical engineering in Portugal?
Not always. Some master’s programmes are taught in English. Many bachelor’s programmes are in Portuguese. Check the programme page for the exact language requirement.
Can I apply with a foreign diploma?
Yes, in many cases. Universities usually ask for your diploma, transcripts, and sometimes an equivalency or recognition document. The exact process depends on the university and your country.
Is mechanical engineering expensive in Portugal?
It can be moderate compared with some other Western European countries, but costs vary by university and city. Tuition and living costs are both important, so always check the official fee page and estimate your monthly budget carefully.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
This gives you a simple way to be visible while you compare programmes, costs, and deadlines in Portugal.
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.