START@UA Application Period: December 12, 2024 – January 8, 2025 (closed)
Postgraduate Applications:
February – March 2025 (closed)
June – July 2025
September – October 2025
The University of Aveiro’s 2024/2025 intakes include the START@UA program starting February 10, 2025, postgraduate courses with intakes in February, June, and September, and undergraduate intake dates provided upon application.
The University of Aveiro (UA) is a prestigious public research university in Aveiro, Portugal. It hosts over 14,000 students, including 2,000+ international students from more than 90 countries, and is known for its interdisciplinary teaching and state-of-the-art campus design.
UA is a hub for innovation and applied research, investing approximately €130 million (INR 115.70Cr) annually in R&D projects. It has a strong reputation in engineering, marine sciences, education, and sustainability, making it a top choice for students seeking future-ready academic training.
This blog will explore the admission process and programs at University of Aveiro and the career opportunities available to graduates in Portugal and abroad.
After a quick overview of the University of Aveiro, let’s explore its performance in different rankings.
University of Aveiro Rankings
The University of Aveiro has improved its global standing, ranking 359th in the 2025 QS World University Rankings, up from 370th in 2023.
THE (Times Higher Education) ranks UA consistently within the 601–800 band, while U.S. News placed it at 549th in 2025, up from 570th in 2023. These rankings highlight the university’s continuous growth and strengthening academic reputation.
Here’s how the University of Aveiro has changed over the years:
Ranking Agency
2023
2024
2025
QS World University Rankings
370
365
359
Times Higher Education (THE)
601–800
601–800
601–800
U.S. News & World Report
570
560
549
Note: Rankings are based on the most recent data from each ranking body.
After reviewing the University of Aveiro over the years, let’s check out its subject-wise ranking performance.
Subject-wise Rankings of the University of Aveiro
The University of Aveiro stands out in subject-wise rankings, especially in Chemical Engineering, ranked 201–250 by QS in 2025. Fields like Social Sciences rank lower, in the 601–800 band per THE. These stats reflect UA’s strength in STEM and ongoing growth in other disciplines.
Below is a breakdown of the subject-specific University of Aveiro rankings across different agencies:
Note: Rankings are based on the most recent data from each ranking body.
After reviewing the academic performance across various University of Aveiro programs, let’s examine the University's acceptance rate.
University of Aveiro Acceptance Rate
The University of Aveiro (UA) has a moderate overall acceptance rate of around 60%, making it reasonably accessible to international and local students. Acceptance rates vary by program, with more competitive fields like medicine and engineering admitting fewer applicants.
Here's a breakdown:
Program Area
Estimated Acceptance Rate
Notes
Engineering & Technology
50%
Competitive due to high demand and rigorous academic requirements.
Here’s an overview of the University of Aveiro’s intake sessions and application deadlines for undergraduate and postgraduate programs for the 2024/2025 academic year.
University of Aveiro Intakes and Deadlines
The University of Aveiro offers multiple intakes yearly, with undergraduate applications for international students opening March 15, 2025 (closed), and postgraduate deadlines from February 2025 to January 2026. This system supports over 15,000 students.
Below is a detailed table outlining the intake seasons and application deadlines for different course types at the University of Aveiro.
Course Type
Intake
Application Deadline
Postgraduate
Spring
February 3–13, 2025 (closed)
Summer
April 15–June 6, 2025 (closed)
Autumn (Fall)
September 2–5, 2025
Winter
January 2–9, 2026
Undergraduate
Autumn (Fall)
March 15, 2025 (closed)
After understanding the intake seasons and application deadlines, let’s explore the various admissions requirements and academic programs offered at the University of Aveiro.
University of Aveiro Admissions and Programs
The University of Aveiro (UA) offers a structured admissions process for international students at the undergraduate, master's, and doctoral levels. As of the latest data, UA has a total enrollment of approximately 13,000 students, with around 1,523 internationalstudents constituting about 11% of the student body.
Here is the Admissions Process Overview:
Requirement
Details
Academic Requirement
Undergraduate: Secondary education diploma
Master’s: Bachelor’s degree
Doctoral: Master’s degree and research proposal
Exchange: Nomination by home institution and Learning Agreement
Statement of Qualification
Academic transcripts, diplomas, and, for doctoral applicants, a detailed research proposal
Language Requirements
Undergraduate: Portuguese proficiency at B1 level (e.g., CAPLE DEPLE)
Master’s/Doctoral: English proficiency at CEFR B2 level. Accepted tests include:
First semester: Nomination by May 15 (Closed), application by May 31
Second semester: Nomination by October 30, application by November 15
Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you navigate the admission process and programs at University of Aveiro.
Admission Process and Programs at University of Aveiro
Applying to the University of Aveiro follows a straightforward, step-by-step process designed to help students from all backgrounds guide admissions smoothly. Whether you’re pursuing undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies, knowing the key steps will make your application easier and more efficient.
Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Choose Your Program
Explore the wide range of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs offered at UA and decide which one fits your academic and career goals.
Step 2: Check Admission Requirements
Review the specific entry requirements for your chosen program, including academic qualifications, language proficiency (Portuguese or English), and any additional documentation.
Upon acceptance, confirm your place by completing enrollment formalities. International students should apply for their student visa and arrange accommodation.
Step 7: Prepare for Arrival
Attend orientation sessions, connect with international student services, and prepare to start your academic journey at UA.
Now, let’s have a look at popular programs at the University of Aveiro.
Popular Programs at the University of Aveiro
The University of Aveiro offers more than 12 programs across various fields to meet its students' academic and professional goals. UA is known for combining innovation with quality education at the undergraduate and doctoral levels.
Here’s a look at some of the most popular courses offered.
1. Master’s Programs (2nd Cycle)
Sustainable Energy Systems: Addresses the development and implementation of renewable energy technologies and sustainable practices.
Clinical Bioinformatics: Combines healthcare and data science to analyze biological data for medical applications.
Publishing: Prepares students for careers in the publishing industry, covering aspects of editorial work, design, and digital publishing.
Computational Engineering: Integrates engineering principles with computational techniques to solve complex problems.
Marketing and Strategy: Focuses on strategic marketing, consumer behavior, and business development.
2. Undergraduate Programs (1st Cycle)
Biomedical Sciences: A comprehensive program focusing on the biological and medical sciences, preparing students for careers in healthcare and research.
Environmental Sciences: This program emphasizes the study of ecological systems and the impact of human activities on the planet.
Communication and Media Studies: This program offers insights into media production, communication strategies, and the role of media in society.
Computer Science: Equips students with software development, data analysis, and IT management skills.
Marine Biology: Focuses on studying marine organisms and ecosystems, preparing students for marine research and conservation careers.
3. Doctoral Programs (3rd Cycle)
Materials Science and Engineering: Offers advanced research opportunities in developing and applying materials.
Advanced Materials and Processing: Focuses on the processing and characterization of advanced materials for various applications.
Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies: Explores the manipulation of matter at the nanoscale for innovative technological solutions.
Chemical Engineering: Provides in-depth knowledge of chemical processes, design, and optimization.
Understanding the costs and financial support options is crucial for planning your studies. Let’s explore the tuition fees at the University of Aveiro and the scholarships available to help ease the financial burden.
University of Aveiro: Fees and Scholarships
The University of Aveiro offers competitive tuition fees ranging from €3,500 to €5,000 (INR 3.12L - INR 4.45L) per year, depending on the program. Merit-based scholarships provide up to €1,000 (INR 89K) tuition fee reductions for high-achieving international students.
In addition to tuition, students should budget for living expenses like accommodation (€250–€400 ( INR 22.25K - INR 35.60K)/month), meals, and transportation. These affordable costs make UA an attractive option for quality education in Europe.
Tuition Fees for the University of Aveiro
The University of Aveiro (UA) offers competitive tuition fees for international students. Undergraduate programs have fees ranging from €3,500 to €5,000 (INR 3.12L - INR 4.45L)per year, while master's programs typically cost the same as undergraduate programs.
Here is a breakdown of the tuition fees for various programs at the University of Aveiro:
The University of Aveiro offers scholarships to support international students by reducing tuition fees and rewarding academic excellence. For the 2024/2025 academic year, UA provides an incentive scholarship that reduces the tuition fee for master's programs. This typically ranges between €3,500 and €5,000 (INR 3.12L - INR 4.45L), to €1,000 ( INR 89K).
Below is a summary of key scholarships available at the University of Aveiro, including their fully funded scholarships, types, eligibility criteria, and benefits:
Scholarship Name
Type
Eligibility and Benefits
Merit-Based Tuition Fee Reduction
Internal
Eligibility: International students with an application score of 14 or higher (UG) or 15 or higher (Master's)
Benefits: Up to €1,000 ( INR 89K) reduction in tuition fees
University of Aveiro PhD Scholarships
Internal
Eligibility: Candidates with a minimum overall grade of 16 (weighted average of Licenciatura and Master's degrees)
Benefits: Monthly stipend plus tuition fee coverage for up to 4 years
FCT-ECIU Doctorate Grants
External
Eligibility: Applicants to the ECIU Doctoral Programs, in collaboration with UA
Benefits: Research funding and tuition support
Research Fellowships (Bolsas de Investigação)
Internal
Eligibility: Master's and doctoral students engaged in research projects
Benefits: Monthly stipend and access to UA research facilities
Sports Merit Scholarships
Internal
Eligibility: Students demonstrating outstanding performance in sports while maintaining academic standards
Benefits: Financial support to balance athletic and academic commitments
Beyond academics, the University of Aveiro offers a vibrant campus experience with numerous opportunities for students to engage, grow, and enjoy their time on and off campus.
Student Life at the University of Aveiro
The University of Aveiro (UA) offers a unique campus life, establishing a balanced environment that integrates academic rigor with extracurricular engagement. With approximately 13,600 undergraduate and 3,800 postgraduate students, UA provides diverse clubs, societies, and recreational activities to enrich the student experience.
Here is the breakdown.
Category
Description
Cultural Events
Over 80 intercultural events are organized annually to encourage diversity and student interaction.
Erasmus Life Aveiro
Organizes social events, trips, and provides discounts through the Erasmus Card for exchange students.
ESN Aveiro
Provides support for exchange students via buddy programs, language exchanges, and cultural activities.
Student Associations
48 active student groups under AAUAv, including academic, cultural, and recreational organizations.
VOL Store (Volunteering)
Campus hub for volunteering, offering training and community engagement opportunities.
Sports Facilities
It includes a multipurpose sports complex, athletic track, football fields, a swimming pool, and a gym.
Martial Arts & Yoga
Regular judo, karate, taekwondo, and yoga classes for student wellness and fitness.
Outdoor Activities
Facilities include rugby fields and running tracks for outdoor sports.
Graduating from the University of Aveiro opens doors to diverse career paths, supported by strong industry connections and a growing job market in Portugal.
Career Opportunities After Graduation from the University of Aveiro
Graduates from the University of Aveiro (UA) benefit from a strongemployability framework supported by strong industry partnerships and a focus on innovation. The university's emphasis on research and entrepreneurship has led to the establishment of over 35 companies by staff and students, with more than 60% still active.
UA supports professional integration through initiatives like the annual 5.0 Employment Fair, which links students with employers.
Below is an overview of popular career roles for University of Aveiro graduates and their average annual salaries in Portugal.
Note: INR values are approximate and based on a conversion rate of €1 ≈ INR 89.5.
Top Recruiters Hiring Graduates from the University of Aveiro
The University of Aveiro collaborates with over 100 leading national and international companies, offering graduates valuable career opportunities across technology, energy, and consulting sectors. More than 70% of UA alumni find employment within six months of graduation, reflecting the effectiveness of these industry connections.
Below is a list of top companies hiring University of Aveiro graduates, along with their industries and typical roles offered:
Company Name
Industry
Common Roles Offered
Bosch Portugal
Engineering & Tech
Software Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, R&D
Critical Software
IT & Software
Software Developer, Systems Analyst
EFACEC
Energy & Engineering
Electrical Engineer, Project Manager
Novabase
IT Services
Data Scientist, Software Engineer
EDP (Energias de Portugal)
Energy
Data Analyst, Electrical Engineer
Farfetch
E-commerce & Tech
UX/UI Designer, Product Manager
Siemens Portugal
Technology & Engineering
Civil Engineer, Mechanical Engineer
OutSystems
Software
Software Engineer, Business Analyst
Accenture Portugal
Consulting & Tech
Project Manager, Business Analyst
Galp Energia
Energy & Oil
Mechanical Engineer, Electrical Engineer
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What is the average class size in core engineering courses?
At the University of Aveiro, core engineering courses typically maintain an average class size of 25 to 35 students. This relatively small class size provides an interactive learning environment, allowing for personalized attention and active participation. Laboratory sessions often have even fewer students, ensuring hands-on experience and close supervision.
Does the university participate in Erasmus+ or other exchange programs?
The University of Aveiro actively participates in the Erasmus+ program and has established partnerships with numerous institutions worldwide. Through these programs, students have opportunities to study abroad, engage in joint research projects, and experience diverse academic cultures.
Can students access research labs or facilities from the first year?
Yes, access to research labs at the University of Aveiro is generally structured to align with students' academic progression. While first-year students primarily engage in foundational coursework, opportunities to participate in research projects or lab activities may arise through specific programs or initiatives.
What are the average monthly living costs for a student in Aveiro?
The average monthly living cost for a student in Aveiro ranges between €500 and €800 ( INR 44.50K - INR 71.20K), depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices. This estimate includes expenses such as housing, food, transportation, and leisure activities; the city's affordability, combined with its quality of life.
Does the university offer career support or job fairs for international students?
The University of Aveiro provides comprehensive career support services for all students, including international attendees. The university organizes annual job fairs, such as the University 5.0 Employment Fair, which connects students with potential employers across various industries.
Are there any compulsory language modules for international students?
While not mandatory, the University of Aveiro offers Portuguese language courses tailored for international students to facilitate their integration into the local community. These courses enhance communication skills and cultural understanding, enriching the academic and social experience.
What is the teaching language for most master's programs at the University of Aveiro?
The University of Aveiro offers master's programs in both Portuguese and English, catering to a diverse student population. Several programs, particularly those in science, technology, and engineering fields, are available entirely in English to accommodate international students.
What are the visa and residence permit support services for non-EU students?
The University of Aveiro supports non-EU students navigating the visa and residence permit processes. This includes guidance on application procedures, documentation requirements, and compliance with Portuguese immigration laws.
How well-recognized is a University of Aveiro degree in Western Europe?
Degrees from the University of Aveiro are recognized throughout Western Europe, reflecting the institution's adherence to the Bologna Process and its commitment to academic excellence. The university's participation in international research collaborations and exchange programs further enhances the global credibility of its qualifications.
Is there academic support for students from non-technical backgrounds?
The University of Aveiro offers academic support services tailored to students from non-technical backgrounds. This includes preparatory courses, tutoring sessions, and workshops to bridge knowledge gaps and facilitate successful integration into technical programs.
Does the university offer startup or innovation support for students?
The University of Aveiro provides an entrepreneurial environment through initiatives like UACOOPERA, which connects students with industry partners and supports innovation projects. The university provides resources such as mentorship, incubation spaces, and funding opportunities to encourage student-led startups and research commercialization.
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