Study in Portugal 2026: The Ultimate Guide to University of Porto Scholarships (Merit & SASUP)

Study in Portugal 2026: The Ultimate Guide to University of Porto Scholarships (Merit & SASUP)

February 23, 2026 by Tuition Free Trek

If you missed the University of Coimbra deadline, or if you simply want to study in Portugal's vibrant second city, the University of Porto (U.Porto) is your next best target for the 2026-2027 intake.

Ranked consistently among the top universities in Europe, U.Porto is famous for its research output and employability. But for international students, the real draw is its "Incentive Scholarship" system. unlike many universities that only offer one type of aid, Porto offers specific tracks for Academic Merit and Social Support (SASUP).

Here is the verified, step-by-step guide to applying for the 2026 intake.

1. The Two Types of Scholarships Available

The University of Porto separates its funding into two distinct categories. You should aim for the Merit scholarship, but be aware of the Social Support option.

A. Merit-Based Incentive Scholarships (Best for Internationals)

This is the most accessible option for non-EU students.

• What it covers: These scholarships typically offer a full or partial tuition fee waiver. In some cases, for top-ranking students, it provides a monetary prize equal to the annual tuition fee (approx. €697 - €1,500 for Merit scholars).
• Who gets it: It is awarded to the students with the highest admission scores in their respective faculties. If you have excellent high school or Bachelor's grades, you are automatically in the running.

B. SASUP Scholarships (Social Action Services)

• What it covers: Monthly stipends, food vouchers for the university canteen, and accommodation in university residences.
• Eligibility Note: While technically open to all, SASUP scholarships prioritize students from the European Union or those with permanent residence in Portugal. However, international students from CPLP nations (Portuguese-speaking countries like Brazil, Angola, Mozambique) often have specific agreements that allow them to access this funding.

2. Eligibility Criteria for 2026

To be eligible for the Merit Scholarship in the 2026/2027 cycle, you must:

1. Be an International Student: You must not have Portuguese nationality.
2. First-Time Applicant: You must be enrolling in the first year of a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Integrated Master’s degree.
3. High Admission Score: Unlike Coimbra’s fixed "160 points," Porto’s cutoff varies by faculty (Engineering, Architecture, Economics, etc.). Generally, you need a converted grade of 16/20 or higher to be safe.
4. Language Requirement (No IELTS?):
• Many Master's and PhD programs at U.Porto are taught in English.
• No IELTS Policy: U.Porto generally accepts a Certificate of Medium of Instruction (MOI) from your previous university if it states that your degree was taught in English. You do not strictly need IELTS if you have this document.

3. Application Procedure (Step-by-Step)

The University of Porto does not have a central "Apply for Scholarship" button. The process is integrated into your admission.

Step 1: Choose Your Faculty

U.Porto is decentralized. You do not apply to the "University" generally; you apply to a specific Faculty (e.g., Faculty of Engineering - FEUP, Faculty of Economics - FEP).

• Action: Visit the specific website of the Faculty you want.

Step 2: Submit Admission Application

• Dates: Phase 1 typically runs from January to February/March 2026. Phase 2 runs from April to May 2026.
• Portal: Each faculty has its own portal (usually called "Sigarra").
• Documents: Upload your Passport, Transcripts, CV, and Motivation Letter.

Step 3: The "Incentive" Selection

Once admitted, the Faculty ranks all new international students based on their entry grade.

• If you are in the top tier (e.g., top 5-10% of entrants), you will receive a notification offering the Incentive Scholarship.
• Tip: A strong CV and high grades are the ONLY way to trigger this. There is no separate essay to write.

Step 4: Apply for SASUP (Optional)

If you are from a CPLP country or have specific financial need status:

• After admission, register on the SASUP website to apply for accommodation and social support. Deadlines for this are usually in September, just before classes start.

4. Estimated Costs (If You Don't Get a Scholarship)

Even without a scholarship, U.Porto is incredibly affordable compared to the US/UK:

• Tuition (International): Approx. €3,000 – €4,500 per year (depending on the course).
• Tuition (CPLP Students): Often reduced to approx. €1,500 per year.
• Living Costs: Porto is cheaper than Lisbon. You can survive on €600-€700 per month (Room + Food + Transport).

5. Important Dates for 2026 Intake

• Applications Open (Phase 1): January/February 2026 (Apply NOW for the best scholarship chance).
• Results Announced: March/April 2026.
• SASUP Application: June – September 2026.
• Classes Start: September 2026.

Official Links

• Official Application Portal (Sigarra): U.Porto Sigarra Search (Select your Faculty from the list).
• Scholarship Information: U.Porto International Fees & Funding
• SASUP (Social Services): SASUP Official Site

 Also Check: 

The University of Coimbra International Merit Scholarship 2026 (Step-by-Step Guide)