The Catholic University of Portugal offers tuition fees that reflect the actual costs of each program, varying depending on equipment, facilities, and laboratory needs. Students should review the specific fees for their chosen academic unit, as tuition is not subsidized by the state and differs across courses.
Admission requirements differ for domestic and international students, with additional documentation often needed for the latter to validate academic credentials. Scholarships, such as the CATÓLICA-LISBON program, reward academic achievement, providing financial support to students who meet defined criteria.
Ranked within the top 600 universities worldwide by QS World University Rankings, the Catholic University of Portugal is recognized for its academic quality and is one of the largest private universities in the country by enrollment. This standing reinforces its reputation as a competitive choice for higher education within Portugal and internationally.
Overview of Catholic University of Portugal
The Catholic University of Portugal is a private institution with multiple campuses across the country. It maintains a distinct academic profile through a blend of traditional values and modern research initiatives. Its reputation is reinforced by international rankings and partnerships.
History and Background
Founded in 1967, the Catholic University of Portugal has grown into one of the country’s key private universities. It is a not-for-profit institution, operating without direct state funding.
Its courses reflect diverse fields including humanities, social sciences, law, and health sciences. The university emphasizes quality education by aligning tuition fees with the actual costs of resources such as laboratories and equipment.
The institution maintains collaboration with international organizations like the European University Association and the International Federation of Catholic Universities. This network supports its mission and broadens academic opportunities.
Campuses and Locations
The university has several campuses located in Lisbon, Porto, Braga, and Viseu. Lisbon and Porto are its main urban centers, offering the widest range of programs.
Each campus is equipped with facilities tailored to the specific course requirements. This includes specialized laboratories, libraries, and study areas designed to support both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
The decentralized model allows students across different regions to access education within this private system while maintaining consistent academic standards.
Academic Reputation
The Catholic University of Portugal is ranked within the top 900 universities worldwide according to the QS World University Rankings. It also appears in the top 800 institutions in the Times Higher Education rankings.
The university is noted for strong research output and high teaching quality. External evaluations and rankings reflect its growing influence within Portugal and internationally.
Its membership in global academic organizations reinforces its credibility and commitment to maintaining high standards in education and research.
Tuition Fees Structure
The tuition fees at the Catholic University of Portugal are determined based on the actual costs related to each program. Fees vary depending on the level of study, course requirements, and specific resources involved. Students should anticipate different charges for undergraduate and postgraduate studies, as well as additional applicable costs.
Undergraduate Tuition Fees
Undergraduate tuition fees reflect the real expenses tied to equipment, laboratories, and teaching resources. For the 2025/2026 academic year, students from EU member states and Portuguese-speaking countries generally pay around €540 per month, spread over five monthly installments per semester.
International students outside these regions usually pay slightly higher fees. The monthly rate for them can go up to approximately €648. These tuition fees cover the main curricular year but do not include additional fees like registration or exams. Each academic unit within the university may have variations based on course-specific needs.
Postgraduate Tuition Fees
Postgraduate fees differ depending on the program, but they also align with actual cost requirements. Fees are typically calculated per credit or semester and may be higher than undergraduate fees due to specialized content and resources.
Students should expect to pay a registration fee upon enrollment, ranging between €455 to €550, depending on nationality. Specific master’s and doctoral courses may have detailed fee schedules that reflect extra lab work or dissertation supervision costs. Payment plans often allow division into installments each semester.
Additional Costs and Fees
Besides tuition, students face several additional charges. These include:
- Application fees: Early bird applications cost around €135, increasing to €200 in later phases.
- Registration fees: Paid annually or per course.
- Lab and equipment fees: For programs demanding specialized materials.
- Dissertation or final project fees: Applicable in postgraduate studies.
It is important to check the fees for each academic unit to understand the full financial commitment throughout the course duration.
Admission Requirements
The Catholic University of Portugal has clear criteria for enrolling students at various levels. These criteria include academic qualifications, specific documentation, and language abilities.
Undergraduate Admission Criteria
Applicants must hold a secondary education diploma equivalent to the Portuguese secondary school completion. Official transcripts and proof of completion are required.
Specific programs may request additional materials, such as portfolios or entrance exams. International students must validate their academic credentials through the university’s prescribed process.
Applications typically require submission of a completed form, academic records, and identification documents. Meeting minimum grade requirements is essential, and each program may set its own thresholds.
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Candidates must possess a recognized undergraduate degree relevant to the chosen master’s or doctoral program. Official transcripts detailing coursework and grades need submission.
Some postgraduate programs require professional experience or a research proposal. The university evaluates applications based on prior academic performance and program-specific criteria.
Applicants may also need recommendation letters or a statement of purpose. Meeting graduate program prerequisites assures eligibility for enrollment.
Language Proficiency Standards
Proficiency in Portuguese or English is mandatory depending on the program language. The university accepts internationally recognized tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent for English proficiency.
Minimum score requirements typically apply, for example:
| Test | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| TOEFL | 80 (iBT) |
| IELTS | 6.0 |
Portuguese language skills may be required for courses taught in Portuguese, and proof through official certification or testing can be requested.
International students must meet these language standards as part of their admission process.
Application Process
The application process for the Catholic University of Portugal requires careful attention to deadlines, submission of specific documents, and proper use of the university’s application system. Candidates must meet academic criteria and provide verified credentials to proceed.
Application Deadlines
Applicants must submit their applications before the specific deadlines set for each enrollment period. These deadlines vary depending on the program and intake session but generally occur twice a year: one for the fall semester and one for the spring semester.
It is critical to check official university announcements annually, as deadlines can shift slightly. Late applications may not be accepted or may impact chances of receiving scholarships. Early submission is advisable to allow time for processing and any additional requests.
Required Documents
Applicants need to prepare several documents to support their application. Essential materials typically include:
- Completed application form
- Proof of secondary education completion or equivalent
- Academic transcripts and diplomas
- Proof of language proficiency (usually English or Portuguese)
- Curriculum vitae (optional depending on program)
- Copy of passport or valid ID for international students
All documents must be authenticated and, if necessary, officially translated. Additional program-specific requirements may apply, so consulting the latest guidelines is essential.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted online through the Catholic University of Portugal’s official admission portal. Applicants create an account, complete the form, and upload all required documents in the prescribed formats.
After submission, applicants receive a confirmation email and can track their status through the portal. International applicants may need to validate their academic credentials through recognized procedures specific to their country of origin.
Payment of an application fee, if applicable, usually signals completion of the process. Candidates must also monitor communications for interview invitations or further instructions.
Available Scholarships and Funding Opportunities
The Catholic University of Portugal offers various financial supports to assist students throughout their studies. Scholarships reward academic merit, financial need, and provide specific support for international students. These options help reduce tuition and living expenses for eligible candidates.
Merit-Based Scholarships
Merit-based scholarships at the Catholic University of Portugal are awarded to students demonstrating high academic performance. These awards recognize achievements in specific programs like Management, Economics, and Medicine.
For example, the Católica Medical School offers scholarships covering the full annual tuition fee. These are granted based on application grades and the student’s financial situation. Similarly, the CATÓLICA-LISBON scholarship program supports students meeting yearly academic criteria.
Students must maintain the academic standards set by their faculty to remain eligible. Merit scholarships may also include awards of excellence and merit grants, aimed at motivating continued academic success.
Need-Based Financial Aid
Need-based financial aid helps students facing economic challenges. The university provides social support grants, renewable annually for up to 10 months, to assist with tuition and living expenses.
This aid is strictly regulated and cannot be combined with government scholarships like those from the Ministry of Science and Technology. Eligibility requires proof of financial need, and the support amount may include a monthly allowance.
Students should consult the university’s official channels for current application deadlines and documentation requirements, as these vary by program and year.
International Student Scholarships
The Catholic University of Portugal extends scholarships to international students to promote diverse enrollment. These scholarships cover tuition fees partially or fully, depending on the program and country of origin.
Applicants from Portuguese-speaking countries and EU nations often benefit from reduced fees and targeted scholarships. International scholarships consider academic achievement alongside financial need.
International students are encouraged to review eligibility details and application procedures early, as these scholarships are competitive and have specific documentation requirements.
QS World University Ranking
The Catholic University of Portugal holds a specific position within global and national QS rankings that reflects its academic strengths and areas for improvement. Its standing influences prospective students’ decisions and highlights the university’s competitiveness in Portugal’s higher education landscape.
Recent QS Ranking Results
In the 2025 QS World University Rankings, the Catholic University of Portugal was placed around 1173rd globally. This ranking positions it as the 7th top university within Portugal. Such placement demonstrates a moderate international recognition, particularly for a specialized institution.
Additionally, the university scored notably better in subject-specific rankings, with Nutrition and Food Science ranked at 297th worldwide. Nearly half of its academic disciplines fall within the top 50% globally, highlighting focused areas of academic excellence alongside room for growth.
Factors Influencing Ranking
The university’s QS ranking is influenced by criteria such as academic reputation, employer reputation, faculty-to-student ratio, citations per faculty, and international academic and student presence. Strengths in small faculty numbers and specialized programs have helped maintain stable results.
Challenges in increasing research citations and broadening international engagement impact overall ranking points. Efforts to enhance global collaboration and amplify research output could strengthen future standings.
Comparison to Other Portuguese Universities
When compared to other Portuguese universities, the Catholic University of Portugal ranks within the top 10 nationally but trails behind flagship institutions like the University of Lisbon and University of Porto.
Its niche focus contrasts with larger universities offering broader academic portfolios, which typically secure higher QS rankings. However, in specific subject areas, it competes well, showing concentrated expertise that attracts students interested in those fields.
Student Life and Support Services
The university offers practical living arrangements, active student groups, and professional career support. Facilities are designed to create a balanced academic and social environment. Each area helps students integrate, develop skills, and prepare for future employment.
Accommodation Options
Catholic University of Portugal provides various accommodation choices aimed at both local and international students. On-campus residences are available, offering convenience and a community atmosphere. These residences typically include essential amenities such as internet access, study spaces, and security.
Off-campus housing is also common, with students often opting for private apartments or shared rentals near the campus. The university’s website lists trusted housing options and provides guidance on rental contracts and costs. Additionally, the university supports students in finding affordable and safe accommodation.
Student Organizations
A wide range of student organizations operates within the university, representing academic interests, cultural backgrounds, and recreational activities. These clubs include management, economics, sports teams, and international student groups. Participation helps students build networks and develop leadership skills.
Regular events, workshops, and social activities are organized, encouraging interaction beyond the classroom. Student unions and councils also provide a voice in university governance, fostering a participatory campus culture.
Career Guidance and Support
The Career Services Office offers tailored support to students preparing for the job market. Services include resume reviews, interview preparation, and job placement assistance. The office frequently hosts career fairs and employer networking events.
Students can access internships and part-time job opportunities through partnerships the university maintains with companies. Workshops on skills development and career planning are regularly scheduled to help students align their academic paths with career goals.