Are you dreaming of studying abroad without drowning in debt? Portugal’s Government Scholarship 2026 offers a life-changing opportunity to complete coverage for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD studies at top universities across the country. Between financial support, immersive language training, and rich academic cultures, it’s your ideal ticket to European higher education. Here check all the details of scholarship from below.
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Portugal Government Scholarship 2026
The Portugal Government Scholarship 2026 offers a life-changing opportunity for international students aiming to study in one of Europe’s most welcoming and culturally rich nations. Funded by Portugal’s Directorate-General for Higher Education (DGES), this scholarship supports full-time Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD studies at top accredited Portuguese universities.
Open to students from all nationalities, the program covers full tuition, provides a generous monthly stipend of €1,250 for living expenses, and includes health insurance, visa assistance, and even free Portuguese language lessons to ease cultural integration. PhD candidates also receive additional support for research, travel, and academic development.
What is Scholarship?
Funded by Portugal’s Ministry of Higher Education and administered by the Directorate‑General for Higher Education (DGES), this scholarship is part of the 2026 academic cycle. It supports international students enrolling full-time in accredited Portuguese institutions during the 2025–2026 academic year.
Quick Update of Scholarship
Scholarship Name | Portugal Government Scholarship 2026 |
Managed By | Directorate-General for Higher Education (DGES), Portugal |
Study Levels | Supported Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs |
Who Can Apply | International students from all countries |
Application Window | 25 June 2025 to 30 September 2025 |
Eligible Institutions | Accredited public universities and higher education institutions in Portugal |
Coverage | Full tuition fees |
Living Allowance | €1,250 monthly (for 10 months per year) |
Other Benefits | Health insurance, visa support, free Portuguese classes, research funding (PhD) |
Required Documents | Transcripts, income proof, motivation letter, recommendation letters, ID/passport |
Language Requirement | Proficiency in Portuguese or English (depending on program) |
Financial Need | Criteria Household income and assets must meet DGES thresholds |
Application Method | Online through the DGES scholarship portal |
Bonus for PhD Applicants | Travel allowance, research grants, and academic conference support |
Selection Factors | Academic merit, financial background, program admission, etc. |
Result Notification | Via email or DGES portal updates |
Website | www.dges.gov.pt |
Who is Eligible?
The scholarship welcomes students from all over the world for full-time enrollment in bachelor’s programs (undergraduate level), master’s degrees (graduate studies), and PhD research courses. Eligible applicants should fall under some qualification set by officials.
- Hold or must enroll in the process of securing admission to a Portuguese university.
- Possess relevant previous qualifications (e.g., high school, bachelor’s, or master’s degree as applicable).
- Demonstrate proficiency in the course language (either Portuguese or English).
- Show strong academic performance.
- Meet income requirements, unless coming from conflict-affected regions.
What’s Included in Award?
The Portugal Government Scholarship 2026 offers a complete academic support package. It fully waives tuition fees and provides a monthly stipend of €1,250 for living costs over ten months. Scholars also benefit from health coverage, visa facilitation, and complimentary Portuguese language classes for smoother integration. PhD students receive extra perks like research grants and travel funding. Additionally, orientation sessions and cultural immersion programs help you settle in and thrive in your new academic environment.
Application Timeline
Titles | Date |
Main application window | 25 June to 30 September 2025 |
Late applicants | May apply within 20 working days of their program start |
Final enrollment confirmation | Before 30 June 2026. |
Programs usually begin | August 2026 |
How to Apply?
- Choose your program and university (e.g., University of Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra, Aveiro).
- Secure admission via university or national portals by late 2024.
- Register on the DGES portal, enter personal data (including tax information and assets).
- Upload required documents –
- Application form
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Language test results (IELTS, TOEFL, or Portuguese equivalent)
- Motivation letter and CV
- References
- Passport copy and photo
- Proof of finances
- Submit before the deadline (Frist: September 30, 2025).
- Check your application status via email or online updates.
- Confirm enrollment by end of June 2026.
How Can You Perfect Your Application?
Start your application well ahead of deadlines, as university admissions often close before the scholarship timeline. Craft a personalized motivation letter that clearly explains your academic goals and why Portugal is your destination of choice. Secure impactful reference letters from trusted academic or professional mentors. Double check your financial documents to ensure they meet the scholarship’s income guidelines. Lastly, pick up some basic Portuguese; demonstrating language initiative adds extra value to your application.
Views of Previous Scholars
International students describe the DGES process as streamlined and user-friendly. Many report competitive application pools but emphasize that well prepared research proposals and academic plans helped them succeed.
Our Thoughts
The Portugal Government Scholarship 2026 transcends simple financial aid; it’s a launchpad into the heart of European education. With zero tuition, generous living subsidies, visa support, language training, and cultural immersion, it offers high-quality learning in an inspiring environment. If you’re chasing academic excellence abroad without financial constraints, this scholarship is your ticket.