PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Experience Lisbon’s blend of old-world charm and modern energy! One of the oldest cities in Europe, Lisbon invites you to explore its colorful historic streets, savor its diverse food scene, and enjoy easy access to the Sintra mountains and beaches along the Atlantic coast.

• Join one of Portugal’s highest-ranking universities with courses in both the College of Human Sciences and College of Business, with many taught in English. UCP’s business programs are internationally acclaimed, holding Triple Crown accreditation (AACSB and EQUIS), and ranking #25 on the Financial Times Business School list. 

• Take advantage of UCP’s central location in Lisbon, with metro access across the city, and join a diverse student body—26% of UCP’s students come from around 110 countries, with half of all business students being international. UCP’s mission prioritizes helping you feel at home and fully integrated into the Lisbon community.  

• Study and live in one of Europe’s most student-friendly cities! Affordable Lisbon offers strong English language integration and convenient access to the rest of Europe, making it a top destination for students from across the globe. 

LIFE ABROAD 

Renowned for its warm hospitality and rich history, Lisbon will make you feel right at home. With 290 days of sunshine a year, mild temperatures, and unforgettable cuisine, life in Lisbon is as easygoing as it is exciting. Wander through cobblestone streets lined with pastel-hued historic buildings, discover Fado, Portugal’s soulful national music, and soak in the vibrant energy that courses through the hilly city. Mainland Europe's only city along the Atlantic coast, Lisbon offers easy access to Portugal's diverse beach towns, whether you are seeking energetic nightlife or slow-paced seaside relaxation.

LIVE 

Live in modern apartments in the heart of Lisbon, with easy access to campus via tram. Each student has their own room with a private bathroom, shared with a mix of international students from across the city and locals. Enjoy access to full kitchens, workout facilities, and social areas that make it easy to invite friends for dinner. Weekly cleaning, 24/7 reception, and on-site laundry ensure a convenient and comfortable living experience. 

DINE 

Prepare meals in your room’s kitchenette or in the fully equipped chef’s kitchens available in your apartment building. UCP offers affordable, subsidized meals when dining on campus, and the surrounding neighborhood is packed with a wide variety of dining options. Whether you’re trying Portugal’s famous seafood or cooking up a meal with fresh ingredients, the culinary possibilities are endless. Make sure to sample essential Lisbon dishes such as  Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts), Bolinhos de Bacalhau  (codfish dumplings), and grilled sardines fresh from the coast, often available at local cafés for under 10 euros. 

EXPERIENCE 

Your UCP program is filled with ways to explore and experience Lisbon like a local. Kick off the semester with a week-long orientation, enjoy welcome and farewell dinners, and take part in two excursions outside Lisbon, plus a local day trip. Cruise the Caparica Coast by bike after hopping on the ferry, or take in the sights aboard the iconic Yellow Tram 28E, Lisbon’s famous vintage electric tram that has crossed historic neighborhoods since 1901. With UCP’s proactive, student-centered approach—including a buddy program, local connections, and support—you’ll feel right at home. 

EXPLORE 

Discover Lisbon, a welcoming and vibrant city where you can visit the UNESCO-listed 1495 Monastery of Belem, explore colorful tile-making workshops, and experience the soulful sounds of live Fado performances. Wander through Lisbon, considered to be Europe's 2nd oldest capital after Athens, and take in breathtaking views from the city’s iconic seven hills. With over 250 music festivals each year, 59% renewable energy use, and easy train and air connections to the rest of Europe, Lisbon blends culture, sustainability, and unforgettable old-world, maritime charm.

See ISEP Direct budget and estimated expenses

Program Website

Course Description

UCP offers a robust set of courses specifically designed for study abroad students in English through their College of Human Sciences and College of Business. Additional courses are available for those who want to study in Portuguese, including content courses and Portuguese language courses.

Students can view courses available to study abroad students in the College of Human Sciences for Fall and Spring semesters. Students interested in studying business can view available business courses here.

Credits Earned

The courses listed in the links above are open to local and study abroad students, and are offered in English and Portuguese. Courses at UCP vary in credit amount, from 3.5 to 7.5 ECTS (Generally, 2 ECTS = 1 US credit). Courses in the College of Human Sciences are generally 5 or 6 ECTS (3 US credits). Credit amounts in the College of Business vary. Students can take up to 5 courses (30 ECTS, 15 US credits), and must enroll in a minimum of 4 courses.

Students may enroll in a Portuguese Language Course (beginner or intermediate) during the semester for 6 ECTS (3 US credits) at no additional cost. Students will complete a language evaluation upon their arrival at UCP for placement in the correct language level.

Sample Classes Available

Communication and Cultural Sciences 

Political Science and International Relations 

Portuguese Language Program 

Business Management 

Entrepreneurship | Innovation 

Creative and Cultural Industries 

Comparative Politics 

Culture and Globalization 

Organizational Behavior 

Lean Management 

Integrated marketing Communication 

Politics and Development of Contemporary Portugal 

Portuguese Contemporary History 

Strategy 

Social Entrepreneurship 

Memory and Culture 

Economy, Moral and Politics 

Portuguese Language Course Beginner or Intermediate 

Corporate Social Responsibility and Purpose Driven Communication 

Humanity's Biggest Challenges: SDG 16 - Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions 

Investigative Journalism 

International Relations 

Language Histories 

The Sustainable Development Goals: Corporate Strategy from Micro to Macro Goals 

Entrepreneurship and Innovation 

Organizational Communication 

Macroeconomics 

Representation Theories 

Applied Problem Solving Techniques for Business Decision Making 

Creative Problem-Solving: the Path to New Products and Businesses

ISEP STUDENT SERVICES OFFICER Kira Hakanson 703-504-9991 | KHakanson@isep.org Thanks for your interest in ISEP Study Abroad! I’m your Student Services Officer and main point of contact here at ISEP. As you search for programs, I'll be available to answer any questions you might have. Feel free to contact me at any point in your search process for help, tips or advice.

Academics

Undergraduate
(in English)

*This program is OK for Sophomores

Fields of Study

  • Business:

    Accounting Business Management Economics Entrepreneurship Finance Marketing Organizational Behavior Studies

  • Communication:

    Advertising Digital Communication and Media Intercultural Communication Journalism Mass Communication/Media Studies Public Relations

  • English Language and Literature

  • Foreign Languages and Literatures

    Portuguese Language and Literature

  • International/Global Studies

    International Relations and Affairs

  • Natural Resources/Conservation

    Sustainability Studies

  • Philosophy and Religious Studies

  • Psychology

  • Social Sciences:

    Political Science and Government Sociology

Academic Requirements

  • U.S. GPA: 2.5 or higher
    *accepts lower GPA with explanation
  • LPR Writing Score: B2 - Intermediate High-Advanced
  • LPR Reading Score: B2 - Intermediate High-Advanced
  • LPR Listening Score: B2 - Intermediate High-Advanced
  • LPR Speaking Score: B2 - Intermediate High-Advanced

Special Application Instructions

Students are required to submit an internal application following their placement which is required of the host institution. Instructions will be sent by the ISEP Host Coordinator by email.

Passport All students must have a valid passport to participate in this program. If you do not have a valid passport, we suggest you start the application process as soon as possible. 

Visa/Residence Permit Students attending this program will be required to obtain a student visa. The student visa application process can take several months to complete, and students should begin the application process immediately after accepting their ISEP program. Depending on the consulate that services your jurisdiction, travel to and from the consulate may be required. For more information on the process, please review the ISEP Country Handbook.

Special Needs Support

  • Mental Health
  • Mobility
  • Visual
  • Learning

Other Academic Conditions

Students arrive: End of January (Spring), End of August (Fall)

Classes start: First week of February, First week of September

Classes end: Last week of May, Third week of December

Exams: Mid to Late May, Middle of December

Tips for Finding Courses

Students will take courses in the College of Human Sciences and in the College of Business. Students can take all or some of their courses in the College of Human Sciences, though students can only take a maximum of 2 courses in the College of Business. The College of Human Sciences offers business courses as well, such as Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and Mathematics for Business and Economics, as part of their Political Economy degree.

College of Human Sciences courses are available here. Select the semester you are interested in to see the full list of courses. Courses for 2025 - 2026 Academic Year will be updated in the previous Summer. Click on the name of the course in the linked PDFs for a course description and information on the professor. Students will enroll in at least 2 - 3 courses in the College of Human Sciences, or all of their courses, while at UCP.

College of Business courses are available here. Courses listed under the 1st semester are available in the Fall, and courses listed under 2nd semester are available in the Spring. If a course has a listed prerequisite, make sure that you've met that prerequisite with a course at your home institution. Courses for 2025 - 2026 Academic Year will be updated in the previous Summer. Students can only enroll in a maximum of 2 courses in the College of Business while at UCP.

When completing their course list, students must provide 7 - 8 course offerings they are interested in taking. This will help with flexibility of enrollment if there are timing conflicts with courses. Please balance courses between the Colleges according to the instructions above.

Please reach out to your Student Services Officer (SSO) if you have any questions about available courses.

Semester & Prices (based on your filters)

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ISEP Application Fee US$100

ISEP Acceptance Fee US$450




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