Offering a mild Mediterranean climate, beautiful coastline and cities packed with historic interest and cultural experiences, Portugal- the westernmost country in mainland Europe-is surely among the continent's most attractive destinations. Aside from the many historic sites and areas of natural beauty, the country is also known for its contemporary culture and nightlife. If you're a fan of rock and world music, in the main cities along the coast you'll find a remarkable number of festivals and events to suit your tastes. But if this isn't your thing, fear not, because the diverse student communities in Portugal's major cities will ensure there's always something to get involved in. So, whether you're a food lover, hiker, music fanatic, sight-seer or history buff, choosing to study in Portugal is a great option.
The majority of Portuguese Higher Education Institutions offer accommodation in Student Residences. These are usually spread out around the city/town. Higher Education Institution campuses which include housing facilities are rare in Portugal. Although the easiest and often cheapest option for students is to stay in Students' Residence, you may want to rent your own room/flat. If so, check: local newspapers (e.g. Ocasiao) Internet (e.g. EasyQuarto, BQuarto, Erasmus Lisboa, Uniplaces, OLX, etc.) Pin-walls inside Higher Education Institutions buildings' Sharing a flat with other students is very common in Portugal. Prices vary significantly depending on the city (Lisbon is e.g. more expensive than other Portuguese cities) and the area (living in the outskirts is, obviously, less expensive than living in town centre).
Portugal is situated in the south-western extremity of Europe, occupying the western littoral of the Iberian Peninsula. The territory also includes the Azores, Madeira and Porto Santo Islands. It is bound to the west and south by the Atlantic Ocean and to the east and north by Spain. The capital of the country is Lisbon. The population of the country is 10.4 million the official language is Portuguese, which is spoken by the entire population.
Higher education in Portugal is divided into two subsystems: university education and non-university higher education (polytechnic education), and it is provided in autonomous public universities, private universities, polytechnic institutions and private higher educational institutions of other types. The two systems of higher education are linked and it is possible to transfer from one to the other. It is also possible to transfer from a public institution to a private one and vice-versa.