About Study Abroad in Lisbon, Portugal – Spring 2027 Program
Spend a semester studying in Lisbon, one of Europe's most vibrant and affordable capital cities, where you'll live and learn alongside international students from around the world. You'll enroll at Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE), a prestigious public university with over 15,000 students and an international community representing 117 countries. The institution's business school holds both AACSB and AMBA accreditations, and you'll have access to a wide range of English-taught courses across Business, Finance, Accounting, Management, Marketing, Economics, Anthropology, Sociology, History, Political Science, Psychology, Computer Science, Data Science, and more. With a minimum 2.75 GPA and sophomore standing or above, you can take up to 15 U.S. semester credits (30 ECTS credits) through five courses during your spring semester.
Lisbon itself is your classroom beyond the university. The city is famous for its sunny weather, colorful buildings, iconic bridges, and the haunting melodies of traditional Fado music. You'll explore UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Jerónimos Monastery and Tower of Belém, wander through neighborhoods paved with distinctive black-and-white Portuguese pavement, and discover a thriving student culture with some of Europe's best nightlife. The cost of living is significantly lower than other major European capitals, allowing your student budget to stretch further while you enjoy fresh seafood, traditional stews, and the legendary Pastéis de Nata.
The AIFS inclusive program fee covers tuition, housing in a student residence with other international and AIFS students, welcome and farewell meals, and a robust calendar of cultural activities and excursions. You'll participate in guided city tours, visit São Jorge Castle, take a Tagus River boat tour, and learn tile painting from local artisans. Weekend excursions are included to Porto—one of Portugal's most picturesque cities with its iconic Douro River—and to the scenic Arrábida Natural Park and coastal town of Sesimbra with a winery tour. Optional excursions to Lagos (the Algarve's charming coastal destination with stunning beaches) and Sintra (a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its fairy-tale palaces) are also available.
You'll receive comprehensive support throughout your journey. A dedicated AIFS Abroad Program Director—in this case, Sabrina Azevedo, who has lived abroad for eight years and in Lisbon for five—provides academic guidance, cultural mentorship, and insider tips for making the most of your experience. The program includes 24/7 emergency support, comprehensive health insurance, airport transfers, visa processing assistance (for those who enroll by the visa deadline), and access to the Clifton StrengthsFinder assessment and alumni network for personal and professional development. Whether you're interested in business, social sciences, or a diverse mix of humanities and STEM courses, this semester abroad offers a transformative experience in one of Europe's most welcoming and dynamic cities.