Language Requirements for Studying in Portugal
For international students planning to enroll in Portuguese higher education for the 2025/2026 academic year, language proficiency is a primary admission criterion. The specific requirements depend on the language of instruction of the chosen program, the type of degree (Undergraduate, Master's, or PhD), and the internal regulations of the specific university or polytechnic institute.
While the national language is Portuguese, an increasing number of programs—particularly at the graduate level—are offered entirely in English to accommodate international applicants. Students must provide standardized certification to prove they can follow academic lectures, participate in seminars, and complete written assessments.
Portuguese-Taught Programs
Most undergraduate (Licenciatura) programs in public universities are taught in Portuguese. To ensure academic success, institutions generally require a minimum level of proficiency according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
- Required Level: Most institutions require a B2 level (Upper Intermediate) for full admission. Some programs may accept B1 level (Intermediate) on the condition that the student reaches B2 by the end of the first year.
- Assessment: Proficiency is verified through the Centro de Avaliação de Português Língua Estrangeira (CAPLE) exams.
- Common Certificates:
- DIPLE (B2): Diploma Intermédio de Português Língua Estrangeira.
- DEPLE (B1): Diploma Elementar de Português Língua Estrangeira (accepted for some vocational or specific entrance tracks).
For the 2025/2026 cycle, exam fees for CAPLE certifications typically range from 75 EUR ($79 USD, Jan 2025) to 165 EUR ($173 USD, Jan 2025) depending on the level and location of the testing center. Detailed information on exam dates and locations can be found on the official CAPLE website.
English-Taught Programs
English-medium programs are widely available at the Master’s and PhD levels, as well as in business, engineering, and international relations subjects at private universities. If English is not the applicant's native language, they must provide proof of proficiency.
Standardized tests accepted by Portuguese institutions include:
- IELTS Academic: Usually a minimum score of 6.0 or 6.5 is required.
- TOEFL iBT: Typically a minimum score between 79 and 90.
- Cambridge English: B2 First (FCE), C1 Advanced (CAE), or C2 Proficiency (CPE).
The cost of these exams varies globally but generally falls between 210 EUR ($220 USD, Jan 2025) and 260 EUR ($273 USD, Jan 2025). Verification of specific score requirements should be conducted through the Directorate-General for Higher Education (DGES) or the individual university's admissions office.
Exceptions and Preparatory Courses
There are specific scenarios where formal language certification may be waived or deferred:
1. Native Speakers and Previous Education
Students from Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) such as Brazil, Angola, or Mozambique are generally exempt from Portuguese language exams. Similarly, students who have completed their previous degree in a country where the medium of instruction was English may be exempt from English proficiency tests.
2. Foundation Years (Year Zero)
Many Portuguese universities offer "Year Zero" or "Portuguese Foundation" programs. These are intensive language courses designed for students who meet academic requirements but lack the necessary language level. Upon successful completion of the intensive course (usually lasting 6 to 10 months), the student gains direct entry into their chosen degree.
Note: Entrance requirements for "International Student Status" candidates may differ from those of EU citizens. Always verify the specific "Edital" (public notice) for the current application cycle.
