Complete Application Guide for Scholarships in Portugal via OS Online Portal.
Are you considering studying in Portugal with the help of a fully funded or partially funded scholarship? You are not alone. With its world-class universities, affordable living costs, and welcoming culture, Portugal has become an attractive destination for international students.
To make higher education more accessible, the Portuguese government provides several scholarship opportunities—many of which can be applied for through the OS Online Portal, a centralized system designed to simplify the entire application process.
This guide will walk you through the essentials of applying for scholarships in Portugal via the OS Online Portal, including eligibility requirements, required documents, deadlines, and tips for a successful application.
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Complete Application Guide for Scholarships in Portugal via OS Online Portal
One of the main financial aid programs available in Portugal is the Higher Education Study Grant (Bolsa de Estudo do Ensino Superior). This national grant supports students enrolled in Portuguese public and private universities, particularly those from low- or middle-income families. The scholarship is paid monthly throughout the academic year and does not need to be repaid.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be Portuguese citizens, EU/EEA permanent residents, recognized refugees, or individuals with valid long-term residence permits.
- Be enrolled in a bachelor’s program, integrated master’s, stand-alone master’s, or advanced technical courses with at least 30 ECTS credits.
- Come from a household with an annual per capita income below €11,049.89, or €12,569.89 for working students.
- Ensure that household assets (such as savings or investments) do not exceed the legally defined limits.
Application Timeline and Process
Applications are submitted exclusively through the Student Online Portal (OS Portal). Important points include:
- The regular application period runs from June 25 to September 30 each academic year.
- Students enrolling after this period may still apply within 20 working days from their official registration or internship start date.
- The process is free of charge, but applicants must upload all required documents, such as:
- Valid identification documents
- Proof of household income
- Statements of family assets
- Rental or housing contracts
- Bank account IBAN details
- Documentation for all household members
Scholarship Amount and Payment
- The award amount is based on financial need and is never less than 125% of public university tuition fees, up to a maximum of €5,981.73 per year.
- Payments are issued via direct bank transfer in 10 monthly installments.
Renewal and Academic Requirements
To continue receiving the scholarship, students must:
- Earn the minimum number of credits required each academic year to demonstrate satisfactory academic performance.
- Renew their application annually, which involves reassessment of household income, asset limits, and academic progress.
- Doctoral students must apply separately through the Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT) or similar research funding bodies.
Final Thoughts
Applying for scholarships in Portugal has become much more straightforward thanks to the OS Online Portal. The platform streamlines the process and connects eligible students with financial aid opportunities that can make a real difference in their educational journey.
With proper preparation, timely submission, and accurate documentation, you can secure funding to pursue undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral studies in Portugal.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your academic journey, this could be your chance to join Portugal’s thriving higher education.
