Daydreaming of sunshine, the sea, and cobblestone streets (also known as “Portuguese Pavement”) lined with historic landmarks? Our newest Partnership Program in Lisbon, Portugal may be exactly what you’re seeking! Lisbon is perfect for students looking to live in a bustling capital city filled with art, culture, and history while studying at a top university. It’s also one of Europe’s least expensive capital cities, so you can find plenty of opportunities to explore your new home city as well as the surrounding bucket list-worthy areas, such as Spain, France, England, and Germany, without breaking the bank.
As an added bonus, we’re offering a $500 discount to the first 10 students to enroll in the Fall 2021 Lisbon program! So, wanna know how to study abroad in Lisbon in 2021? Read on for some program highlights.
About the City
Lisbon is the biggest city in Portugal, one of the oldest cities in the world (it’s said to be at least 2,700 years old), and it’s one of the least visited of the European capitals — meaning less tourists and more authenticity. The population of Lisbon is approximately 505,000 people (similar to that of Atlanta, Georgia), making it a cultural hub and prime location for events and travel to the rest of Europe.
You might already know that city is set along the coast, so you’ll spend lots of time on the beach, but did you know that it was built on seven hills? These hills — Castelo, Graca, Monte, Penha de Franca, S.Pedro de Alcantara, Santa Catarina and Estrela — are each home to unique neighborhoods where you’ll find plenty of shops, restaurants, and landmarks to explore. You’ll never grow tired of searching for the best Pastel de Nata (a traditional Portuguese pastry) or discovering new designs in the Portuguese Pavement (walkway art that Portuguese cities are known for… if you know, you know).
Host University & Academics
You already know you’ll be spending lots of time during your study abroad exploring Lisbon’s neighborhoods and relaxing on the beach, but you’ll also find yourself at home on the host university campus of Universidade Catolica Portuguesa’s (UCP). USAC students can take courses in culture, social sciences, business (AACSB accredited), politics, philosophy, and economics. You will also develop your Portuguese language skills, but there are no language requisites required.
USAC has partnered with the UPC’s Global Education Office, which acts as a liaison between all departments on UPC campus and international students. The GEO provides support services for international students, including housing, insurance, pre-travel and on-site orientation, internship placement , and more. They will be your one-stop-shop for any questions or support you could need during your study abroad.
Field Trips & Activities
While we have no doubt that you will love spending your days exploring your new city, we know you’ll want to do some adventuring, too! USAC students can attend at least two free field trips during their semester in addition to activities around the city through classes and the GEO.
You’re are also welcome and encouraged to participate in university activities, join student organizations and sports, and a variety of social events during your stay. There is always something exciting happening on UPC’s campus and getting involved in student life is a great way to make friends with local students, immerse in the culture, and practice your Portuguese!
Program Highlights
So, are you intrigued? Then what are you waiting for? There are a few important details to keep in mind as you plan your study abroad in Lisbon.
- Open Terms: Semester or full academic year (summer coming in 2022)
- Application Deadlines:
- Fall and Yearlong 2021: May 15, 2021
- Spring 2022: Oct. 15, 2021
- Living Accommodations: USAC students are housed with international students in downtown Lisbon. These typically include a shared kitchen and bathrooms by gender but private bedrooms.
- Program Fee:
- Fall 2021 and Spring 2022: $11,980 (housing included)
- Yearlong 2021-22: $23,960 (housing included)
- Scholarships: USAC Lisbon students are eligible for a variety of scholarships and discounts, including the Europe Regional Scholarship,
- Program Discount: The first 10 students to enroll in the Fall 2021 session will receive a $500 discount
