1. About the special opportunity for applications to university for students affected by the war in Ukraine.  

I am a refugee from the war in Ukraine, and I would like to pursue higher education in Portugal at Iscte - University Institute of Lisbon. How do I get started?  

Refugees from the war in Ukraine and any other international students affected by the state of emergency can benefit from a special application process through the International Student Application [note].  

The admission of a candidate through this program grants access to resident benefits, including scholarships and exceptional equivalence to the status of Portuguese citizens for the purposes of payment of tuition fees, school fees, and stipends.  

An application through this special opportunity must be accompanied by a previous manifestation of intent to apply directly to the university through the General Attendance Center (NAG) and include documentation proving that the candidate qualifies for this special status. The NAG team makes an initial assessment through an interview. The interview evaluates the candidate's eligibility, academic background, the existence of supporting documentation, and expectations regarding admission to the Iscte. This first step allows us to understand who the candidate is and which course best suits them.  

Under the terms of the law, candidates who cannot provide proof of their academic qualifications may be subject to other verification methods adopted by Iscte in articulation with the respective course directors.  After this interview, candidates are notified that they can proceed with the online application in Fénix and are given a statement proving this first analysis for application on the platform.  

For more information, contact admissions@iscte-iul.pt 

[note]: According to Decree-Law No. 28-A/2022, refugees from the war in Ukraine have temporary protection from the following special conditions:  

- They are not subject to quantitative limitations due to the number of vacancies for a specific degree course.  

2. About the temporary protection title issued by SEF  

How can I apply for the temporary special protection title?  

The temporary special protection title can be granted to citizens, foreigners, stateless persons, and their family members that have been displaced due to the war in Ukraine, who wish to come or are already in Portugal. The application must be requested directly through the Foreigners and Border Services (SEF). Those over the age of 18 can submit their request online through the Diplomatic Portal or by using the SEF online platform. Those under 18 must do it in person at SEF.  

Those with temporary protection titles have automatic access to their Tax ID, Social Security, and National Health Service and can immediately access various public services and enter the labor market without restrictions.  

For more information, consult this website: https://portugalforukraine.gov.pt/pedido-online-de-protecao-temporaria-sef/  

Before admission to the course, any Iscte candidate eligible for special protection status may request support from the International Relations Unit to obtain this title: iro@iscte-iul.pt 

3. About access to scholarships or other financial and social support for students affected by the war in Ukraine admitted to Iscte courses  

How can I apply for a scholarship or learn about what other financial and social support opportunities are available?  

Students admitted to Iscte with refugee status from the war in Ukraine can apply for a scholarship or other financial and social support with the help of the Social Action Service (SAS).  

Prior to admission to the course, any applicant in this situation can request additional information, or support, from this service: sas@iscte-iul.pt. 

4. About accommodation for students affected by the war in Ukraine that have already been admitted to Iscte 

How can I apply for housing at Iscte?  

If necessary, students admitted to Iscte with refugee status from the war in Ukraine can apply for accommodation at the Iscte Lisbon Residence, subject to availability. 

The housing application should be sent after the course application to iro@iscte-iul.pt  

5. About learning Portuguese  

How can I take Portuguese courses at Iscte?  

Students admitted to Iscte with refugee status from the war in Ukraine may apply for admission to Portuguese courses, regardless of if they have previously attended degree courses in Portuguese or English.  

The application should be addressed to iro@iscte-iul.pt.     

6. Useful links