If you want to study computer science in Portugal, you will usually choose between a bachelor's degree and a master's degree. The exact rules depend on the university and programme, but most applications ask for your school or previous degree documents, language proof, and sometimes a motivation letter or entrance exam results.
Portugal can be a good option if you want a European degree, many international students, and a mix of Portuguese- and English-taught programmes. The safest way to plan is to check each university's admissions page, because entry rules, tuition, and deadlines can change from year to year.
What study levels are available?
For computer science, the main routes are:
- Bachelor's degree - usually 3 years, sometimes 180 ECTS credits.
- Master's degree - usually 2 years, often 120 ECTS credits.
- Doctoral studies - for research after a master's degree.
At bachelor's level, you start from school and build the basics in programming, maths, algorithms, software engineering, and systems. At master's level, you usually study a more focused area such as artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, or software engineering.
Some universities also offer integrated programmes or special tracks, but the most common path is bachelor's first, then master's.
Typical entry requirements
Entry requirements vary by university, but the usual documents are similar.
- For a bachelor's degree: secondary school certificate, transcript or grade list, passport, and sometimes proof of specific subjects such as maths.
- For a master's degree: a recognised bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field, transcript, CV, motivation letter, and sometimes references.
- Language proof: English test results for English-taught programmes, or Portuguese proof for Portuguese-taught ones.
- Some programmes may ask for an entrance exam, interview, portfolio, or ranking based on grades.
If your documents are from outside Portugal, the university may ask for official translations and recognition of your previous studies. Check the university admissions page and the Portuguese recognition rules if your diploma is foreign.
English-taught options and language proof
Many computer science master's programmes in Portugal are taught in English. At bachelor's level, English-taught options exist, but they are less common than Portuguese-taught ones. Universities usually state the teaching language on the programme page.
Common English proof includes IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test. Some universities may accept previous study in English or their own language certificate policy. Do not assume they accept every test or every score. Check the exact programme requirements.
If you plan to study in Portuguese, some universities may accept proof from a school course, an exam, or a language certificate. Again, the programme page is the source to trust.
Tuition and living costs
Tuition in Portugal depends on the university, the level, and whether you are an EU or non-EU student. Public universities often charge lower tuition than private ones, but there is still a wide range.
- Bachelor's tuition: commonly a few thousand euros per year at public universities, and often higher at private universities.
- Master's tuition: commonly in a similar or slightly higher range, depending on the programme and your nationality.
- EU and non-EU fees: some universities charge the same fee for all students, while others set different rates.
For living costs, many students should plan for rent, food, transport, phone, books, and personal expenses. In larger cities like Lisbon or Porto, housing is usually the biggest cost. A realistic monthly budget often falls in the low hundreds of euros for a very modest lifestyle, and can be much higher in expensive areas or with private housing. Always check current student housing options and local rent listings before you decide.
For the most accurate numbers, use the university's fee page and housing office, plus local cost-of-living sources. Do not rely only on old forum posts.
Application timeline and documents
Most students should start early. A simple plan is:
- 9-12 months before start: choose programmes, check language rules, and prepare documents.
- 6-9 months before start: apply, if the university opens its round.
- 3-6 months before start: follow up on admission results, housing, visa steps, and travel.
Typical documents include:
- passport
- school or degree certificate
- transcript or grade list
- language test results
- CV
- motivation letter
- reference letters, if requested
- proof of funds for visa or residence steps, if needed
If you need a visa or residence permit, check the Portuguese national immigration authority and the nearest Portuguese embassy or consulate. The rules depend on your nationality and country of residence.
How universities find candidates
Many universities do not wait for applicants only through their main form. Admissions teams also search student databases, fair lists, and profile platforms to find students who match a programme.
They usually look for simple matching details such as:
- your field of interest
- your current or previous education
- your grades or level
- your English level
- your documents and planned start date
If your profile is clear, you can be easier to contact. That matters if you want universities to find you first instead of you applying to every place one by one.
Common questions
Can I study computer science in Portugal without speaking Portuguese?
Yes, some programmes are taught in English, especially at master's level. For bachelor's studies, English options exist but are less common. Always check the teaching language on the programme page.
Is Portugal cheap for international students?
It can be more affordable than some other Western European countries, but it is not always cheap. Tuition, housing, and city choice make a big difference. Check the university fee page and local rent prices before you plan.
Do I need to apply through a national system or directly to the university?
It depends on the university and the type of applicant. Some students apply directly to the university, while others use national or shared application systems. Check the programme's admissions page for the correct route.
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 show interest in computer science programmes in Portugal without sending the same details again and again.
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.