Summer school in Portugal gives students the opportunity to spend the summer at the western edge of Europe, on the Atlantic coast, in a country known for its sunny beaches, colorful cities and surf culture. Summer programs in Portugal combine language lessons with surfing, ocean activities, trips to historic cities and cultural experiences.
Portugal is not chosen for summer school by students from Turkey as often as England, Malta or Spain, but interest has been growing in recent years. Programs are usually organized as English and activity camps for young people, Portuguese courses, and university summer schools for participants over 18. For students looking for the ocean, sport and a different European culture all in one, Portugal is a notable option.
Attending summer school in Portugal offers students a range of benefits beyond language learning.
Portugal is a country in southwestern Europe, on the west of the Iberian Peninsula, and a member of the European Union and NATO. Its capital is Lisbon. The official language is Portuguese, and English is widely spoken, especially among young people and in tourist areas. The currency is the euro.
Portugal is known for its long Atlantic coastline, the rocky coves of the Algarve, the historic neighborhoods of Lisbon and Porto, and the Douro Valley. The weather in summer is sunny and dry; inland areas and the southern coast are hotter, while the Lisbon area and the northern coast are milder. There are direct and connecting flights from Turkey to Lisbon and Porto.
There are different types of summer programs in Portugal depending on the student's age and goals:
Summer schools in Portugal offer different options depending on students' interests:
At summer schools in Portugal, the daily schedule usually starts with morning lessons. Students study in small classes grouped by level. In the afternoon, there are surf lessons, beach activities, bodyboarding, kayaking, sports and city tours. In the evening, there are games, beach activities and social events.
At weekends, students go on full-day excursions to places such as Lisbon's historic neighborhoods and the Belém district, the palaces of Sintra on the UNESCO list, the seaside town of Cascais, the historic center of Porto, Coimbra, home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, and the rocky coves of the Algarve.
Applying to summer schools in Portugal usually does not require an advanced level of language. English and Portuguese programs accept students of all levels, and the student's level is determined at the start of the program. For programs that include surfing and ocean activities, students must be able to swim.
University summer schools usually require participants to be over 18 and to have sufficient knowledge of the language of the program. The application usually requires a student information form, a copy of the passport, health information and, for students under 18, a parental consent form.
Summer schools in Portugal are usually held in June, July and August. Youth programs are usually organized in sessions of one or two weeks, while Portuguese courses and university summer schools usually last two to four weeks.
Since surf programs and July sessions in particular are in high demand, it is advisable to apply at least three to six months before the program. Keeping in mind the visa process, it is very important to plan early.
Summer programs in Portugal are held in different cities and regions.
Summer programs for international students in Portugal are usually fee-paying. However, some programs offer various forms of support to participants who meet certain conditions.
Since the conditions for scholarships and discounts may change every year, it is important to follow the latest information. At NGGlobal, we keep you informed on this.
Summer school fees in Portugal vary depending on the length and type of program, additional activities and the accommodation option. Fees for youth programs usually cover lessons, accommodation, meals and activities. Programs that include specialized activities such as surfing are usually more expensive. Program fees in Portugal are generally lower than in many Western European countries.
When planning your budget, you should account for airfare, airport transfers, visa and travel health insurance costs and pocket money in addition to the program fee.
At NGGlobal, we share the current prices of our partner institutions with you and work with you to choose the program that best fits your budget and expectations.
The main accommodation options for students at summer schools in Portugal are:
Youth programs usually provide three meals a day. Portuguese cuisine stands out for its Mediterranean flavors, with plenty of fish and seafood; however, pork is also widely used. Vegetarian and pork-free menus can be provided if requested in advance.
Turkish citizens need a short-stay Schengen visa to attend summer schools in Portugal. Visa applications are made through Portugal's mission in Turkey or the authorized visa application center.
The application usually requires documents such as the school's acceptance and payment confirmation, proof of accommodation, a flight reservation, travel health insurance, proof of financial means, a student certificate and, for students under 18, a notarized parental consent form.
Since demand for visa appointments is high in the summer months, it is important to plan your application a few months before the program. At NGGlobal, we support our students and their families at every step of the visa process.
Portugal is among the safest countries in Europe. In youth programs, students are looked after by teachers and supervisors throughout the program. With curfews set by age and rules for free time, programs offer a safe environment for families.
Because the Atlantic's waters are wavy and cool, surf and ocean activities are carried out with licensed instructors, in conditions suited to the student's level and on beaches with lifeguards. Students are also given guidance on sun protection and drinking enough water. Many programs offer airport pick-up and an emergency line.
At NGGlobal, we offer free consultation to students who want to attend summer school in Portugal and to their families. By assessing the student's age, language level, interests and budget, we identify the most suitable program. Where needed, we also share alternative options in other European countries with you.
Contact us to build your summer school plan in Portugal together.
English and Portuguese summer programs in Portugal usually offer options for children and teenagers. University summer schools usually accept participants over 18.
No. Surf programs usually accept students from beginner level. Lessons are given by licensed instructors in conditions suited to the student's level. However, students must be able to swim.
The choice depends on the student's goals. English programs suit students who want to practice English in an international environment. Portuguese programs are ideal for students who want to learn a new world language and get to know Portuguese culture more closely.
Turkish citizens need a short-stay Schengen visa to attend summer schools in Portugal.
Yes. At the end of the program, summer schools give a certificate of attendance showing the program the student attended and the language level they reached. Some university summer schools may also award credits for their courses.
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