Portugal named among the top European destinations for international students

Portugal has risen to second place in the ranking of Europe’s most popular destinations for international students, according to a study by the platform StudiesIn.com. This notable climb highlights the country’s growing appeal for young people seeking an academic experience abroad. Discover the key factors that have made Portugal one of Europe’s leading destinations for international students.

Portugal among Europe’s best: what does the ranking say?

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The study conducted by StudiesIn.com emphasises Portugal’s increasing recognition as a top-tier educational hub, outperforming many traditionally popular countries among international students.

Portugal stands out in the ranking with the highest score for cost of living (1.00), making it one of the most affordable countries for international students. This is complemented by its high annual sunshine levels (0.94), a factor that contributes to student well-being and day-to-day quality of life. The country also scores well in student support (0.77), both at institutional and social levels.

Although Portugal records more modest scores in academic performance (GPA: 0.15) and overall quality of life (0.38) within the scope of this study, its relaxed atmosphere and the appeal of cities such as Lisbon and Porto make it a welcoming and vibrant destination for students. Employment prospects (0.64) are also encouraging, offering solid opportunities for graduates entering the job market.

Why do international students choose Portugal?

First and foremost, Portugal offers high-quality academic institutions, with prestigious universities such as those in Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra, and Aveiro. These are well-ranked both in Europe and globally, demonstrating excellence in fields such as engineering, social sciences, and the arts. They also promote strong internationalisation, offering numerous courses taught in English and participating in Erasmus exchange networks.

The cost of living in Portugal is significantly lower than in many other Western European countries. For instance, rooms in a shared flat in Lisbon range from €200 to €1,000, while in the North, prices in Porto range between €180 and €1,000.

When it comes to student housing, Portugal offers various options, but most students opt for public university residences managed by the universities themselves.

Which country ranked first?

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Spain secured first place in the study, scoring the maximum for sunshine (1.00) — a factor that positively impacts student well-being. It also performed well in terms of affordable housing (0.78), effective student support (0.77), and a high overall quality of life (0.75).

Despite a more moderate score for employment prospects (0.27), Spain continues to be highly valued for the lifestyle it offers.

International students can live in some of the country’s major cities, where a combination of cultural festivals, easy access to beaches, and a vibrant nightlife enhances the academic experience. For example, shared rooms in Barcelona cost between €250 and €1,500, while in the capital Madrid, prices range from €200 to €3,690.

Top 10 European destinations for international students

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The study revealed a list of the most attractive European destinations for international students. This ranking provides insight into current trends in European higher education and highlights the countries that are investing in the value of their academic environments. Here is the top 10, according to the study:

1. Spain – 0.69
2. Portugal – 0.66
3. Hungary – 0.62
4. Italy – 0.44
5. United Kingdom – 0.35
6. Sweden – 0.33
7. Germany – 0.31
8. Netherlands – 0.22
9. Austria – 0.20
10. France – 0.20