General Information and Tuition Fees - University of Porto

The University of Porto (U.Porto) has specific language requirements for its programs, depending on whether they are taught in Portuguese or English. Here’s an overview of the language requirements:

1. Portuguese Language Requirements

• Undergraduate Programs: Most undergraduate programs at U.Porto are taught in Portuguese. International students applying to these programs are usually required to demonstrate proficiency in Portuguese.
  • Accepted Proof of Proficiency: U.Porto typically accepts certificates such as the CAPLE (C1 or C2 level), which corresponds to a high level of proficiency in Portuguese according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
  • Portuguese Language Courses: U.Porto offers Portuguese language courses for international students who do not meet the language requirements but wish to improve their proficiency before or during their studies.
• Master’s and PhD Programs: Some postgraduate programs are taught in Portuguese, so proficiency is required for those. However, many master’s and PhD programs, especially in fields like engineering, economics, and natural sciences, are offered in English.

2. English Language Requirements

• Programs Taught in English: U.Porto offers several master’s and PhD programs entirely in English, particularly in areas like engineering, business, and science.
  • Accepted English Proficiency Tests:
    • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 is typically required, depending on the program.
    • TOEFL: The minimum required score is usually around 80-90 for the internet-based test (iBT).
    • Cambridge English Exams: A C1 Advanced (formerly CAE) or C2 Proficiency (formerly CPE) is also accepted.
• International Students: If English is the language of instruction for your previous studies (usually a bachelor's degree), you might be exempt from providing a separate language proficiency certificate. However, this depends on the specific program and faculty.

3. Exceptions and Preparatory Programs

• Language Support: U.Porto’s Faculty of Arts (FLUP) offers language courses for international students, including Portuguese as a Foreign Language, which helps students improve their language skills if needed.
• Preparatory Programs: For students who do not meet the language requirements, U.Porto sometimes offers preparatory programs or suggests language courses that students can take before fully enrolling in their desired programs.

Applications for International Students - University of Porto

Applications and Admissions - University of Porto

The University of Porto (U.Porto) is one of the top universities in Portugal and is known for its strong academic and research programs across a variety of fields. Here are some of its key course specialties:

1. Engineering and Technology

• Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering: The Faculty of Engineering (FEUP) is one of the most prestigious engineering schools in Europe. It offers a range of engineering programs with a strong focus on innovation, technology, and sustainability.
• Computer Science and Information Systems: With cutting-edge research in artificial intelligence, data science, and cybersecurity, U.Porto’s computer science programs are internationally recognized.

2. Life Sciences and Health

• Medicine: The Faculty of Medicine (FMUP) is a top-tier medical school in Portugal, with strong programs in clinical research, biomedical sciences, and public health.
• Pharmacy: The Faculty of Pharmacy is well-regarded for its programs in pharmaceutical sciences, pharmacology, and biochemistry.
• Dental Medicine: U.Porto offers one of the best programs in dental medicine in Portugal, with a focus on clinical practice and research in oral health.
• Nursing and Veterinary Medicine: The nursing school and veterinary medicine programs are known for their academic rigor and research contributions to healthcare.

3. Business and Economics

• Economics and Management: The School of Economics and Management (FEP) offers highly respected programs in economics, finance, and management. Its MBA and master’s programs are particularly strong in areas such as corporate finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.

4. Architecture and Urban Planning

• Architecture: The Faculty of Architecture (FAUP) is internationally renowned, particularly due to its connection to Álvaro Siza Vieira, a Pritzker Prize-winning architect who studied and taught at the faculty. FAUP is known for its innovative design and urban planning programs.

5. Arts and Humanities

• Fine Arts: The Faculty of Fine Arts (FBAUP) is one of Portugal’s leading art schools, offering programs in visual arts, multimedia, and design.
• Literature and Philosophy: U.Porto’s programs in Portuguese and classical literature, philosophy, and history are highly regarded, contributing significantly to research in these fields.

6. Natural Sciences

• Biology, Chemistry, and Environmental Science: The Faculty of Sciences (FCUP) offers strong programs in biological sciences, chemistry, physics, and environmental science, with a focus on sustainability and innovation.
• Physics and Mathematics: Programs in theoretical and applied physics, mathematics, and statistics are also highly regarded, particularly for research in areas such as quantum physics and data science.

7. Social Sciences and Psychology

• Psychology and Educational Sciences: The Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences is known for its leading research in cognitive psychology, educational methodologies, and mental health.
• Sociology and Political Science: U.Porto offers strong programs in sociology, political science, and international relations, with a focus on contemporary social issues and governance.

8. Law

• Legal Studies: The Faculty of Law provides comprehensive education in legal theory, international law, and European Union law, preparing students for careers in both public and private sectors.

9. Sports Science

• Sports and Physical Education: The Faculty of Sports (FADEUP) is a leading institution for sports science, with programs in physical education, sports management, and exercise science, along with a focus on research in performance and health-related fitness.

Research at U.Porto - University of Porto

Programmes with Scholarships

List of Courses - University of Porto

Merit scholarships are awarded every year to the U.Porto students with the best academic results. These scholarships are a cash prize for students enrolled in Bachelor's, Master's and Integrated Master's programmes who display exceptional academic achievement, regardless of their socio-economic situation.

Scholarships and Funding - University of Porto

International student help

Jobs - University of Porto

The University of Porto (U.Porto) has many distinguished professors across various disciplines, contributing significantly to research, innovation, and education. Here are some top professors known for their academic excellence:

1. Álvaro Siza Vieira (Architecture)

• Position: Emeritus Professor at the Faculty of Architecture (FAUP)
• Expertise: Architecture and Urban Planning
• Accomplishments: One of the most celebrated architects in the world, Siza Vieira won the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize in 1992. He is known for his minimalist designs and has designed iconic buildings across the globe, including in Portugal, Spain, and Germany. His work has shaped the field of contemporary architecture.

2. Eduardo Souto de Moura (Architecture)

• Position: Professor at FAUP
• Expertise: Architecture
• Accomplishments: Another Pritzker Prize laureate (2011), Eduardo Souto de Moura is internationally recognized for his architectural projects that combine modernity with regionalism. He is one of the leading figures in Portuguese architecture and has also had a significant impact on FAUP’s standing as one of the top architecture schools.

3. António Amorim (Genetics and Evolution)

• Position: Professor at the Faculty of Sciences (FCUP)
• Expertise: Population genetics, evolutionary biology
• Accomplishments: A prominent figure in genetics research, Amorim is known for his work on genetic diversity, human populations, and forensic genetics. He has contributed to major international research projects in evolutionary biology and is recognized for his leadership in Portuguese science.

4. Maria de Sousa (Immunology)

• Position: Professor at the Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS)
• Expertise: Immunology, cancer biology
• Accomplishments: Maria de Sousa is a renowned researcher in the field of immunology and is known for her pioneering work on T-cell biology and cancer immunology. She has received several awards for her research contributions and has helped elevate U.Porto's international reputation in the biomedical sciences.

5. Manuel Sobrinho Simões (Pathology and Cancer Research)

• Position: Professor at ICBAS and Director of the Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP)
• Expertise: Pathology, cancer research
• Accomplishments: A globally recognized expert in cancer research, especially thyroid cancer, Sobrinho Simões was named the most influential pathologist in the world by The British Medical Journal in 2015. His work has contributed to advancements in molecular pathology and personalized medicine.

6. Nuno Sousa Pereira (Economics and Management)

• Position: Professor at the Faculty of Economics (FEP)
• Expertise: Corporate finance, business management, public policy
• Accomplishments: An influential figure in economics and management education, Pereira is known for his research in corporate finance and public policy. He has served as a consultant for various international organizations and has helped shape economic and business programs at U.Porto.

7. Paula Morais (Molecular Biology)

• Position: Professor at FCUP
• Expertise: Molecular biology, environmental microbiology
• Accomplishments: A leading researcher in microbiology and biotechnology, Morais has made significant contributions to the study of microorganisms in extreme environments. She is involved in several international research projects and is known for advancing U.Porto’s scientific research profile.

8. Helena Machado (Sociology and Criminology)

• Position: Professor at the Faculty of Arts (FLUP)
• Expertise: Sociology, criminology, bioethics
• Accomplishments: Helena Machado is a prominent sociologist who focuses on the social and ethical implications of biotechnology, particularly in forensic genetics and criminal justice. Her work has influenced the understanding of science’s role in society, and she is a respected voice in European bioethics.

The University of Porto (U.Porto) does not have any direct Nobel Prize winners on its faculty or among its alumni. However, the university has strong ties to groundbreaking research and international collaborations with Nobel Prize-winning scientists and institutions. Here are some key points regarding U.Porto's connections to the Nobel Prize:

1. Collaborations with Nobel Laureates

• U.Porto has a strong research culture and regularly collaborates with internationally renowned scientists and institutions, some of which include Nobel laureates. These collaborations often take place in fields such as physics, chemistry, and biomedical sciences. For example, researchers at the Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology (IPATIMUP) and the Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS) have partnered with Nobel Prize-winning scientists on cancer research, molecular biology, and genetics.

2. Contributions to Nobel-Worthy Research

• While U.Porto does not have its own Nobel laureates, the university has played a part in major research initiatives that have contributed to global scientific knowledge, particularly in medicine, life sciences, and engineering. U.Porto's research centers are involved in leading-edge work that aligns with the kind of breakthroughs recognized by Nobel committees.

3. Álvaro Siza Vieira's Global Impact (Pritzker Prize)

• While not a Nobel Prize, it’s worth noting that Álvaro Siza Vieira, one of U.Porto’s most famous professors and alumni, won the Pritzker Prize in 1992, which is considered the Nobel equivalent for architecture. Siza’s global influence and innovative contributions to architecture and design have brought significant recognition to U.Porto.