Higher Education: Second placement phase results in more students placed
Following the trend of the first phase, the second phase of national higher education placements has resulted in a higher number of students being accepted into universities.
Following the trend of the first phase, the second phase of national higher education placements has resulted in a higher number of students being accepted into universities.
This update is from Bica
Your quick shot of what's changing in Portugal and affecting your status, your home, your money, and whatever might disrupt your day. Short and clear updates, gathered from Portuguese sources.
It's free, with no signup and no app to download.
Read today’s briefing
A total of 1,168 new students were admitted in the third phase of the national higher education admissions process, bringing the total for the 2026/2027 academic year to 52,008 students across three phases. Overall, 92.5% of the 56,228 available slots have been filled, with universities reaching a 97.2% occupancy rate compared to 86.2% for polytechnic institutions.

The national higher education admissions process has concluded with 52,008 students placed across three phases, representing a 14.8% increase compared to the previous academic year. While 92.5% of the 56,228 available spots were filled, 2,103 vacancies remain. Students placed in the third phase have until Tuesday, 20 October, to complete their enrollment.

The Minister of Education announced a push to inform students about social support schemes for higher education, including state scholarships and housing subsidies, as early as the 9th grade. The goal is to prevent students from choosing study paths based on financial fears, particularly regarding mobility and living costs for displaced students. He also stated that tuition fees for non-scholarship students will be updated in the 2027/2028 academic year to reflect inflation.