Scholarships are available for Student Visa holders in Portugal, offered by the government, universities, and other organizations.
Yes, scholarships are available for international students, including those on student visas, in Portugal. These scholarships are offered by various entities, including the Portuguese government, universities, and private organizations. Here's an overview of the types of scholarships you can apply for:
1. Government Scholarships
- Instituto Camões Scholarships: The Portuguese government, through Instituto Camões, offers scholarships for international students, particularly those from Portuguese-speaking countries. These scholarships are typically for graduate and postgraduate studies in Portugal and cover tuition fees and living expenses.
- Scholarships for Specific Programs: The Portuguese government also provides scholarships for specific programs, such as the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees, which are open to students from all over the world. These scholarships cover tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses.
2. University-Specific Scholarships
- Merit-Based Scholarships: Many Portuguese universities offer merit-based scholarships to outstanding international students. These scholarships are often awarded based on academic performance and may cover part or all of the tuition fees. Examples include scholarships offered by the University of Lisbon, the University of Porto, and NOVA University of Lisbon.
- Need-Based Scholarships: Some universities also offer need-based scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need. These scholarships can help cover tuition fees and living expenses and are available to both EU and non-EU students.
3. Private and International Scholarships
- Private Foundations: Various private foundations and organizations provide scholarships for international students in Portugal. For example, the Gulbenkian Foundation offers scholarships to students in the fields of science, technology, and the arts. These scholarships are open to both Portuguese and international students.
- International Scholarships: Scholarships from international organizations such as the Fulbright Program (for U.S. students) or the Erasmus+ program (for European students) are also available for studying in Portugal. These scholarships often include stipends for living expenses in addition to covering tuition costs.
4. Research and Postgraduate Scholarships
- Research Grants: Students pursuing research degrees, such as a PhD, may be eligible for research grants and scholarships. These are often provided by universities, research institutions, or government bodies like the Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT), which funds research projects in Portugal.
- Postgraduate Scholarships: In addition to research grants, postgraduate students can apply for scholarships specifically designed for Master’s and PhD programs. These scholarships often cover tuition, research costs, and living expenses.
How to Apply for Scholarships
- Application Process: The application process for scholarships varies depending on the scholarship provider. Generally, you need to apply directly to the scholarship program or through the university you are attending. The application typically requires academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and proof of enrollment.
- Deadlines and Eligibility: It's important to check the specific eligibility criteria and deadlines for each scholarship, as these can vary significantly. Some scholarships are only available to students from specific countries or studying in certain fields.
Summary
Scholarships are available for international students in Portugal, including those on student visas. These scholarships are offered by the Portuguese government, universities, private foundations, and international organizations. They may be merit-based, need-based, or specific to research and postgraduate studies. Students should explore the various options and apply early to increase their chances of receiving financial support for their studies in Portugal.