Study Abroad in Lisbon

College Study Abroad

Click to scroll down and read more

lisbon study abroad

Explore Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is a major economic center, tourist destination, and headquarters to multinational businesses. One of the oldest cities in the world, Lisbon is spotted with cobblestone alleyways, Gothic castles, and ancient ruins for students to explore. 

When you study abroad in Lisbon, Portugal, you’ll experience one of Europe’s political, economic, and cultural centers with cobble-stoned streets and a beautiful seaport. Located at the western tip of Europe, Lisbon offers a thriving young, multi-cultural environment with Portuguese as the local language.

where is lisbon portugal located
activities to do in lisbon portugal
excursions in portugal surfing

Every CIEE semester program has frequent cultural excursions and a multi-day study tour uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Lisbon, past study tours and excursions have included:

  • Day-trips to towns like Sintra, Mafra, and Óbidos
  • Go to concerts at Casa da Musica
  • Complete garden tours at Serralves
  • Tour Évora’s Romanesque cathedral and gilded Baroque altarpieces
  • Multi-day explorations of Porto or Coimbra

If you’re a student looking to go on excursions in Portugal and discover Lisbon’s history and culture, CIEE’s tours and excursions allow you to do just that! Whether you’re looking to learn Portuguese abroad, experience the top activities in Lisbon, or explore must-see sights, these trips offer something for everyone. 

lisbon portugal excursions

Where Students Study

CIEE Lisbon
CIEE Lisbon is conveniently located at the Universidade Nova de Lisboa School of Social Sciences and Humanities, just 1.5 miles from Aqueduto das Águas Livres and 2.5 miles from Convento do Carmo. 

Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL) - Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Humanas (FCSH)
Founded in 1977, NOVA FCSH is located in the heart of Lisbon and is one of the highest ranking social sciences and humanities schools in Portugal. Dedicated to education, scientific research, and cultural creation, NOVA FCSH offers courses in Portuguese and hosts more than 2,800 undergraduate students with 16 research centers.

Instituto Superior de Ciências do Trabalho e de Empresas (ISCTE-IUL)
Located in the business center of Lisbon and established in 1972, ISCTE-IUL is a public university that pursues teaching, research, and community service activities with scientific and pedagogical expertise. ISCTE-IUL offers a range of courses taught in English from areas such as business and economics to political science and psychology.

portugal excursions fish market

Internships & Volunteering

Depending on their program of study and availability, students may be able to participate in an internship or volunteer. For students looking to intern in Lisbon, they may participate in a Summer Global Internship where they can explore and build their professional skills in one of Europe’s most unique capital cities. 

Students interested in volunteering in Lisbon can share their time and gain practical skills at a range of organizations that need support.

Study Abroad Programs in Lisbon

Pocket Guide to Lisbon

  • Currency
    Euro

    Spoken Languages
    Portuguese

    Available Transportation
    Metro, bus, tram, feet

    Famous Local
    Saint Anthony of Lisbon – Franciscan preacher and teacher, known as the patron saint of lost and stolen articles

  • Climate
    Warm, dry summers; mild, wet, windy winters; mild spring and fall

    Did You Know?
    Founded in 1200 BCE, Lisbon is the oldest city in Western Europe

  • Airport
    Aeroporto Humberto Delgado (LIS)

    Social Norms
    Codfish is the main ingredient in many typical gastronomic delicacies of Portugal. Portuguese claim to have more than 365 recipes of cod!

    What to Pack
    Backpack, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, light sweater, water bottle, sunglasses

Frequently Asked Questions

WHY STUDY ABROAD IN LISBON

Click to Open

One of Europe’s oldest cities, Lisbon has a unique culture, history, and arts scene with top-tier universities. Lisbon is a great study abroad destination for students looking to enjoy pleasant year-round weather, explore Lisbon’s history and culture, and learn Portuguese abroad.

IS PORTUGUESE DIFFICULT TO LEARN

Click to Open

As with learning any language, students must be committed to practicing speaking, writing, and listening to Portuguese in order to improve their language skills. A romance language, Portuguese is widely spoken and considered easy for English-speaking students to learn and master.

IS LISBON, PORTUGAL, SAFE

Click to Open

Considered one of the safest capital cities in Europe, Lisbon has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe. As with any study abroad destination, CIEE recommends that students learn the city’s geography and take normal precautions with their personal belongings in busy tourist areas.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN LISBON, PORTUGAL

Click to Open

Available transportation in Lisbon, Portugal, includes the Metro, bus, tram, and walking. A relatively easy city to navigate, the best way to get around the city is by tram or on foot, just remember the city is quite hilly so expect to get a workout in!

WHAT IS DIVERSITY LIKE IN LISBON

Click to Open

In order to ensure our students feel welcomed, supported, and empowered while studying abroad, CIEE staff completes comprehensive diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) training. Staff provide students with advice, resources, and ongoing support both before and during their study abroad program in Lisbon.
For more detailed information on diversity in Lisbon, visit our Diversity in Lisbon page.

Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants

lisbon study abroad students smiling

APPLY IN 1,2,3!

You may be wondering if there are any scholarships to study in Lisbon. CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Lisbon to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through 3 simple steps:

  1. Search for and apply to your dream program
  2. Review all available funding opportunities
  3. Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application

summer in portugal

STUDY ABROAD SCHOLARSHIPS

NEED-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS

Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible. 

MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS

Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible. 

OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS

Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status. 

VIEW OUR SCHOLARSHIPS & GRANTS

TALK TO A STUDENT WHO'S LIVED IT...

Ask an Ambassador

Reach out to one of our Student Ambassadors to learn what CIEE Study Abroad is really like from alums who've lived it! Address any questions you may have about Lisbon, from your academic interests and travel planning to housing and cultural differences. 

CONNECT WITH AN AMBASSADOR

@cieelisbon on Instagram

 
 

Study Abroad in Lisbon Reviews

  • "This program well planned and the staff are so nice and helpful. This program is small and you really get a chance to meet new people."

    Greta L.,
  • "It's a very well-organized program in a very vibrant and lively city where you can learn lots of things inside and outside the classroom."

    Romina V., Macalester College