Language + Culture
Your Destination
The western tip of Europe is steeped in ancient history, creating a rich base to launch your study of the Portuguese language and culture. Spend the semester immersed in Portuguese culture at CIEE Lisbon while taking courses in English or Portuguese at CIEE and CIEE’s partner schools, NOVA FCSH (Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Humanas - Universidade Nova de Lisboa) and ISCTE-IUL (Instituto Superior de Ciências do Trabalho e de Empresas-Instituto Universitário de Lisboa). All courses are complemented with CIEE co-curricular activities and excursions beyond the city to enhance classroom learning and provide intercultural understanding.
The Culture
EXCURSIONS & ACTIVITIES
- Visit stunning medieval walled towns like Óbidos and Sintra.
- Get to know Setúbal, a town south of Lisbon, known for its beautiful coast and wonderful cuisine.
- Explore a Romanesque cathedral and gilded Baroque altarpieces during a tour of Évora, a historical center surrounded by 16th-century walls.
- Get into campus life by joining a student association or sports team.
- Take advantage of Lisbon’s vibrant theater and historic opera house, plus concert venues, galleries, and a dynamic cinemathèque.
PROJECTS
Volunteering. Students who want to share their time and gain practical skills can connect with a range of organizations throughout Lisbon that need support.
Peer support. Connect with Lisbon Buddies – students from FCSH – to discover local culture, routine student life, and practice Portuguese.
LOCAL ENGAGEMENT
- Meet local students who will be your CIEE Buddies during your semester abroad. Take the opportunity to deepen your learning of the language and the culture by participating in our weekly Conversation Groups organized by the local buddies.
- Volunteer in local organizations: students who want to share their time and gain practical skills can connect with a range of organizations throughout Lisbon that need support.
- Take our semester academic internship class! This way you will be able to become familiar with the local professional community and strengthen your experience in areas such as Art, Communications, or Entrepreneurship. Students applying for an internship are required to submit additional materials during the course selection process.
Program Blogs
3 Lessons Learned from Studying Abroad
By: Josephine White #1: Do the Homestay, Seriously. When I say do a homestay, I mean it with every fiber of my being. Study abroad isn’t just about traveling and... keep reading
Reconnecting with My Portuguese Roots
By: Madison Dias The most meaningful experience I’ve had during this trip has been the redefining of my relationship with Portugal and my Portuguese heritage. I grew up two blocks... keep reading
Medieval Cities in Portugal: A Journey Through Time
When we think of Portugal, the first things that come to mind are usually the beautiful beaches, the breathtaking landscapes of the Douro Valley, or the colorful streets of Lisbon... keep reading
HOUSING & MEALS
HOUSING
CIEE Lisbon offers diverse housing options to ensure you're comfortable in your home away from home. From homestays to residence halls, we will try our best to meet your accommodation preferences. Additionally, all housing options are located in neighborhoods with convenient access to public transportation, shops, cafés, and eateries.
Standard Housing: Includes a single room at a homestay or a single room at a student residence hall located under 45 minutes from CIEE Lisbon. Homestays feature a kitchen, living room, and bathroom shared with a host family. Dorm rooms have private bathrooms, do not include A.C., and boast kitchens, common areas, and laundry facilities shared with other students.
Select Housing: Includes a private room with A.C. and an en-suite bathroom at a residence hall located under 15 minutes from CIEE Lisbon. Select housing boasts kitchens, common areas, and laundry facilities shared with other students. Select housing requires an additional fee.
A note: The default criterion to assign housing is first-come, first-served; however, other factors may also be considered. If we cannot accommodate your first housing choice, we'll let you know before you arrive. Non-standard housing options require an additional fee that can be found in the program Dates and Fees.
MEALS
Homestay: Breakfast and dinner (seven days a week) provided. Dietary needs may be accommodated.
Residence Hall: Meals not included; communal kitchen available.
All students have access to the subsidized cafeteria on campus.
Academics
Students of all Portuguese language levels can dramatically increase their knowledge of the Portuguese language and culture while taking business, social sciences, and humanities courses at CIEE partner schools, NOVA FCSH and ISCTE-IUL. Students begin the Language and Culture Program with a two-week intensive Portuguese class and then continue their studies throughout the semester. Language placement is determined by a language placement exam upon arrival.
NOVA FCSH - Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Humanas - Universidade Nova de Lisboa was founded in 1977 and is now one of the highest-ranking social sciences and humanities schools in Portugal. It is dedicated to education, scientific research, and cultural creation. Courses are taught in Portuguese. The school hosts more than 2,800 undergraduate students and 16 research centers and is located in the heart of Lisbon.
Instituto Superior de Ciências do Trabalho e de Empresas - Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL) is a public university established in 1972, pursuing teaching, research, and community service activities with scientific and pedagogical expertise. The strategic objectives of ISCTE-IUL are innovation, quality, internationalization, and the development of an entrepreneurial culture. ISCTE-IUL offers a range of courses taught in English from areas such as business and economics to political science and psychology. ISCTE-IUL has been recognized by highly reputed foreign agencies and associations. For instance, ISCTE Business School is an AACSB-accredited institution and is considered one of the best Portuguese business schools and a reference both nationally and internationally in several programs. It is located in the business center of Lisbon.
Arizona State University: Enhance your international academic coursework with optional online courses that best align with your degree requirements and interests. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar, so you can study abroad with CIEE while continuing to meet all your academic goals.
Course Information
Course Notes
NOVA FCSH courses are typically taught in Portuguese
- Permission to enroll in NOVA FCSH courses is based on academic background and the results of the language placement exam. The final decision rests with the CIEE Center Director and the University.
- ISCTE-IUL business courses are typically taught in English. Other area studies are typically taught in Portuguese with a range of courses being offered in English. CIEE students may enroll in up to two courses taught in English at ISCTE.
- ISCTE courses end later than other classes and exams are held in the month following the end of classes. The exam schedule is not available until after arrival. Center staff will determine if students can take a proctored exam. Home school approval is required.
Academic Projects
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Engineering and Engineering Technologies
History, Philosophy, Religion
Languages and Cultural Studies
Social Sciences
Visual and Performing Arts
Agriculture
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
Psychology
Academic Projects
Biological and Physical Sciences
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Engineering and Engineering Technologies
History, Philosophy, Religion
Languages and Cultural Studies
Social Sciences
Visual and Performing Arts
Agriculture
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
Psychology
NOVA FCSH COURSES
CIEE students have the option to take up to four courses from any of the 14 social science departments at the Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Humanas - Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA FCSH). NOVA FCSH courses are typically taught in Portuguese for 3 semester credits each.
The courses listed below are representative of courses historically available at FCSH-UNL but CIEE cannot guarantee specific courses are offered each semester. Visit the website for information on departments and classes available. Course registration occurs on-site.
Anthropology
Anthropology and Colonialism
Anthropology of the Family and Relatives
Anthropology and Human Rights
Anthropology of Religion
Anthropology of Space
Contemporary Portuguese Anthropology
Economic Anthropology
Ethnicity and Nationalism
History of Anthropology
Political Anthropology
Urban Anthropology
Archaeology
Industrial Archaeology
Medieval Muslim Archaeology
Modern Archaeology
Roman Imperial Archaeology
Art History
Culture and Contemporary Art
History of Colonial Art
History of Gothic Art
History of Non-Western Art
Introduction to Museology
Communications
Communications and Social Science
History of Media
Sociology of Communications
Theory of News
Geography
Climatology
Geography of Rural Space
Geomorphology
Human Geography
Physical Geography of Portugal
Urban Geography
History
Contemporary History
History of Contemporary Portugal
History of Medieval Portugal
History of Modern Portugal
History of Portuguese Expansion
International Relations/Political Science
Contemporary International Politics
History of the Idea of Europe
History of Political Ideas
History of Portuguese International Relations
History and Theory of State in Portugal
Political Systems
Portuguese Political Thought
Security Studies, International Institutions
Language, Literature, and Culture
Brazilian Literature
English
French
German
Portuguese Culture
Portuguese Language and Culture
Portuguese Linguistics
Spanish
Music History/Ethnomusicology
Ethnomusicology
History of Music in Portugal
Music and Information
Musical Cultures of the World
Philosophy and Music
Philosophy
Philosophy and Culture in Portugal
Sociology
Class and Social Structure
Contemporary Social Themes
Translation
History of Translation
Introduction to Terminology in the Social Sciences and Humanities
Linguistic Diversity in the Iberian Peninsula
ISCTE-IUL COURSES
Students have the option to take up to two courses taught in English at ISCTE-IUL, which are typically 3 semester credits each. Visit the website and click on the appropriate semester. CIEE cannot guarantee that all classes will be offered every semester. Course registration occurs on-site.
Below you will find a sample course list of ISCTE-IUL courses recommended for study abroad students.
Business School
Marketing Management
Fundamentals Finance
Taxation for Non-Residents
Business Law
Human Resources Management
International Human Resources Management
Management in International Organizations
Comparative International Management
Marketing Services
Applied Corporate Finance
Health Economics
Game Theory and Economic Applications
School of Social Sciences
Crisis and Catastrophe - Anthropological Readings
Colonization and Decolonization: XIX-XX Centuries
Crisis and Catastrophe - Anthropological Readings
Minorities of Southeast Asia
Understanding Culture: Readings in Art and Fairytales
Europe and the World in the Nineteenth Century
History of Portuguese Expansion
Israel/Palestine: History, Anthropology, Politics
Portuguese History and Culture
Psychopathology
School of Sociology and Public Policy
Public Policies of Culture
Social Movements in the Digital Era
Sociology of Law
Using Graphic Methods in the Social Sciences
World Economy XIX and XXth Centuries
CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.
CIEE and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.
Check the CIEE Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program!
Search ASU Online Courses BROWSE FAQs for more INFO
Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.
Discover Internship Opportunities
We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.
Explore Industry Options
Lisbon is a burgeoning tech hub, home to numerous startups and coworking spaces that foster creativity and collaboration. This city is ideal for entrepreneurs and established businesses alike. Beyond work, the city’s beautiful weather, rich culture, and affordable living make it an attractive place to reside.
Business Management and Administration
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Education and Training
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Health Science
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Marketing, Sales and Service
Explore global market dynamics, cross-cultural consumer engagement, and sales techniques in firms, agencies, and companies.
Browse Internship Opportunities
Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.
Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.
Scholarships & Grants
CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.
Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:
- Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
- Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
- CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
- MSI Grant
To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.
Dates & Fees
You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Fees & Housing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Fall 2025 15 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Fees & Housing $19,950 |
| Program Academic year 2025-2026 | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date * | End Date TBD* | |
| Program Spring 2026 15 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * |
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
| Participation Confirmation | $300 * |
| Educational Costs | $15,206 ** |
| Housing | $4,250 *** |
| Insurance | $194 |
| Total Fees | $19,950 |
Optional Housing
CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee. Housing is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis; however, other factors may also be considered.
| Select Housing Fee | $2,250 |
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
| Meals not included in program fee | $1,050 † |
| International Airfare | $1,100 †† |
| Local Transportation | $120 ††† |
| Books & Supplies | $50 |
| Visa Fees | $150 |
| Personal expenses | $220 †††† |
| Total Costs | $2,690 |
*non-refundable fee
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals (breakfast and dinner). For students in residence halls/apartments, you should budget approx. $300 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.
††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure
†††Student transportation card
††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
What's Included
Tuition
Housing
Pre-departure Advising
Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
Orientation
Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city
On-site Staff
Full-time program leadership and support in your city
Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities
Excursions and/or Study Tours
Travel Protection
CIEE iNext travel protection
24/7 emergency on-site support
Our Staff
Joana Almeida
Center Director
Joana has been working with CIEE Lisbon since 2011. She holds a B.A. in Art History, an M.A. in Social Sciences, and a Ph.D. in Historical Sociology.
Sara Cunha
Operations Manager
Sara has been working for CIEE Lisbon since 2014. She holds a Ph.D. in Management with a specialization in Strategy and Entrepreneurship. She has studied and lived abroad in Spain, Hungary, Sweden and Brazil.
Get Started
1
2
Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.
3
Contact CIEE
We're here to help! Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.
4
Interested in an optional internship?
After being accepted to this program and submitting the required internship documents, work with CIEE staff on your internship goals and select which positions to interview for. CIEE will reach out to companies that would be a good fit for you, your interests, and your qualifications. Finalize your internship placement upon arrival!
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