
Kevin Vrla
CIEE College Study Abroad
AlumniI wanted to experience a semester abroad to expand my educational background and to see more of the world.
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CIEE College Study Abroad
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CIEE offers the most extensive network of internship programs. Are you a U.S. college student looking to study and intern abroad? We have full-t...
See All 12 ProgramsAIFS Abroad
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Studying or interning abroad should be more than just exploring a new destination. With AIFS Abroad, you'll: - Earn academic credit - Gain real-world experience - Discover new interests - Build skills that can help you stand out in your future career Whether you choose a study abroad program, an i
See All 2 ProgramsUniversity Studies Abroad Consortium
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Lisbon (Lisboa in Portuguese) is the capital of Portugal. It is the biggest city in the country, one of the oldest cities in the world, and one of the least visited of the European capitals. That doesn’t mean it lacks exciting things to do, interesting history, or beautiful scenery. It boasts one of
SIT Study Abroad
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Explore Portugal’s approach to environmental justice and social equity, challenging conventional ideas about growth, technology, and sustainability. From Lisbon, study urban planning policies that provide equal access to parks, green spaces, and zero-carbon public transportation. Coursework uses a W
See All 3 ProgramsAcademic Programs International
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API offers students a wonderful opportunity to experience the Portuguese culture and way of life through study or internships abroad in Lisbon. With a spectacular Atlantic coastline, Portugal sits on the sunny southwest corner of Europe, but this tiny nation—a pioneer in maritime exploration—occupie
MEI Academy World High School
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Opening in Paris, The City of Light, gets this summer program started with a charge! We visit The Louvre, D'Orsay, and Pompidou museums and galleries that have stunned the wealthy and elite for generations. We climb the Eiffel Tower after a dinner at its base. Then after golden hour photos looking
See All 4 ProgramsWorldStrides
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Experience Lisbon, a vibrant coastal city where colorful architecture, rich history, and Portuguese culture come together. Wander cobblestone streets, explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and enjoy the city’s relaxed atmosphere, incredible food, and welcoming community. Study at Universidade Católic
International TEFL and TESOL
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Take advantage of our Super Sale! Choose from a selection of accredited online TEFL courses, with prices starting from €53. Our 60-hour, 120-hour, 180-hour, and level 5 online TEFL and TESOL courses will prepare you for teaching abroad in a classroom setup and teaching online from the comfort of you
Berlin Sports Law Summer School in Sports Law and Football Management
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One-Week Immersion in Sports Law and Football Management The Berlin Sports Law Summer School is a one-week, experience-based programme offering direct exposure to the professional world of the sports industry. CONCEPT A day in the life of… Each day is structured around the professional reality of
Asia Exchange
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Join over 200 international students and study at the most attractive destination in Portugal! Gain international experience, boost your career, and dive deep into the country's culture in some of the most popular study abroad programs in Europe! Your dream semester in Portugal is closer than you t
iXperience
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iXperience Lisbon is an intense six-week, six-credit*, career-acceleration program for ambitious students who wish to learn industry-relevant skills, and boost their CVs with an impactful internship, all while exploring one of Europe's best-kept secrets. iXperience in Lisbon offers three course-int
Soccer Camps International
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Elevate your game at the Official Benfica Elite Training Camps in Lisbon, hosted by the club recognized globally for having one of the world's best youth academies. This intensive program is designed for competitive, licensed club players (ages 13-18) who want to experience the professional methodol
Santa Barbara City College
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Come experience the allure of Lisbon, Portugal with Santa Barbara City College in Summer 2027! While not as fabled as “The Eternal City” of Rome or Paris, “The City of Light,” Lisbon is older than Rome and casts its own storied, silky, stunning light, illuminating the city as a captivating, many-lay
StudyAbroad.com
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Located in the vibrant city of Lisbon, Universidade Europeia offers an exceptional study abroad experience that combines academic excellence with Portugal’s rich cultural heritage. The university is renowned for its innovative teaching methods, international focus, and practical, career-oriented pro
Studying abroad in Lisbon means more than riding trams and sipping espresso by the river. Setting a few clear goals will help you go deeper into the culture, language, and city life.
Lisbon is a student-friendly capital with the perfect blend of affordability, vibrant academics, and creative energy.
A few practical things can make your Lisbon experience even smoother.
Lisbon is a solid choice for students in a range of majors. The city blends old-world heritage with a creative, forward-thinking energy that makes learning feel connected to real life.
Lisbon wears its history on its sleeve. You’ll walk past Moorish castles, colonial-era buildings, and resistance-era graffiti on your way to class. It’s a great place to study topics like empire, revolution, or European identity with the city itself as a case study.
Lisbon’s startup scene is one of the fastest growing in Europe. If you're studying business, marketing, or entrepreneurship, you’ll find plenty of local events, international companies, and coworking spaces to tap into. It’s hands-on and current.
Portuguese language programs here are immersive without being overwhelming. You’ll pick up vocabulary from daily life, like ordering coffee, riding the metro, or talking with neighbors. Many classes are designed for international students, whether you’re a beginner or already conversational.
Planning your study abroad trip to Cancún might feel overwhelming, but breaking it into steps makes everything easier, and way more exciting.
1. Get matched
If scrolling through endless programs feels overwhelming, try the GoAbroad Online Advisor. It’ll match you with options that fit your plans in just a few clicks.
2. Choose a program
Use MyGoAbroad to line up your top picks and get a clear look at what each one offers. It’s helpful for sorting out what matches best with your goals.
3. Decide when to go
Lisbon is great year-round, but the best timing depends on your academic calendar and weather preferences.
4. Funding & scholarships
Finances can be a hurdle, but GoAbroad offers a whole section of scholarships and deals you can apply for. It’s worth checking early in the process.
5. Apply
Once you’ve found a program, hit “Apply Now” or “Inquire Here.” A program coordinator will follow up with everything you need to know about next steps, requirements, and how to get started.
6. Get your essentials
Don’t forget to verify your passport dates and visa needs (many programs help with this). Settle your travel insurance, student housing, and it’s best to book your flight a few months in advance to save.
Hear what past participants have to say about their experiences
Program: SIT Study Abroad: Portugal: Sustainability & Enviro Justice
SIT Portugal was a great study-abroad opportunity, where I was able to further my academics, gain cultural experiences, and explore new places. The support provided by SIT was wonderful! They were accessible and always answered questions, whether it was about needing help with school assignments or trying to find a doctor. Some of my favorite experiences abroad were the excursions within Portugal, to Porto (and the Douro Valley), São Miguel, and Alentejo. These trips included trying new foods, going for hikes, and exploring scenic areas. The trips were always well organized and action-packed. SIT Portugal also gave me so many wonderful friends; the cohort system allows you to live and go to classes with all of the people in your program. Making it easy to commute, grocery shop, and cook together. I truly felt that SIT Portugal provided us with all the tools to feel comfortable living in another country, making it enjoyable to try new things and explore. For example, in the first week we did a Portuguese cooking class, which helped us work on our cooking skills and learn to make traditional Portuguese food. The academics abroad were serious, but the amount of structured class time forced you to stay organized and plan activities, which I found incredibly beneficial. Additionally, the ISP period (Independent Study Project) is about the last month of the program, during which you have no classes. This period was great for so many reasons; first, it taught you how to manage your time on your own. It was also a great time to take a longer trip or travel to a couple of places since there was less structure (though you have to make sure you plan time to work as well!). Also, the project is completely your own, and you are able to research something that interests you. Overall, I found that SIT Portugal provided me with a wonderful abroad experience where I learned a ton, travelled, and had enough balance to do social things and explore.
If I could go back and do this program over and over again I totally would. My advisors were so helpful and welcoming and we really bonded. They took us out to dinners and on group trips and answered any questions I had. I never felt like I was alone there and when you arrive, you’re introduced to all the students in the program with you, creating a friend group right off the bat. The dorms are single rooms with bathrooms in them which is amazing. The only downside is the shared kitchen as some students have different cleanliness standards. The dorm is extremely secure with a security guard outside of it and someone constantly at the front desk buzzing people in. The dorm is directly next to a metro stop, a mall, and the Benfica stadium and is only two metro stops away from the University. I loved this program and would recommend it to anyone.
It was a fun experience and both teachers and classmates were fantastic. I got the chance to meet inspiring people and hava a good time. I really got the chance and time to make the most out of the experience and I saw the best of Lissbon.
Program: API: Experience Lisbon, Portugal (Scholarships Available)
Studying Abroad In Lisbon Portugal through API, I was able to immerse myself in the rich culture of Lisbon. Through API my housing located a ten minute away from ISCTE, the institute I studied at truly made me feel at home and made the transition to study abroad feel swift and comfortable. The experiences offered through the program to Lagos was an unforgettable experience and my advisor Carlos could not have been more amazing and helpful in the process with any question I could have had, I could not recommend Lisbon for a unique study abroad experience and through API who will alway have your back.
Program: CIEE Summer in Lisbon, Portugal
I have already done the refer a friend program and referred my friend to study in Lisbon this summer. She was inspired by the amazing experience that I have had and I have shared with her how interactive and caring the staff is. I am so grateful for my experience and thankful for the CIEE staff making me a part of their family!
My semester studying abroad in Lisbon was an incredible experience that I'll never forget. Lisbon is such a beautiful city, with its historic architecture, colorful tiles, and stunning views from its many hilltops. One of the best parts was how affordable everything was compared to other European capitals, from meals out to transportation. While my accommodation was about 30 minutes by train from downtown and 20 minutes from campus, which wasn't ideal, the apartment itself was very nice and comfortable. Despite the commute, I was able to make the most of my time exploring the city and getting to know the local area. One of the highlights of my experience was taking classes alongside European students. It gave me a unique perspective and helped me form friendships with people from different countries and backgrounds. The cultural exchange in the classroom added so much depth to my learning experience. Overall, I highly recommend studying abroad in Lisbon. Between the city's charm, affordability, and the opportunity to study with international students, it was an enriching experience that helped me grow both academically and personally.
I absolutely loved my time in Lisbon! The advisors were extremely supportive, open, and welcoming and I met so many amazing people. I will say most of my friends from study abroad are other Europeans who I met, not many Portuguese (I am an American) but I still loved every minute of Lisbon. The beaches are wonderful, the professors were kind (in my experience), and the architecture was beautiful. The living accommodations were really great, I loved having my own room and the location is really central and walkable. I genuinely met people who I hope to stay connected with for life and actually plan to return to Europe next summer to visit some of the friends I made. I am also working on a giant Portugal Vlog which I will upload on my personal youtube soon but for now I have included a vlog I made of my trip to Madeira (an island in Portugal) during my time abroad.


I would be likely to recommend CIEE to a peer because I think all of the program advisors were super helpful and kind. The program seemed pretty organized and I enjoyed my housing. I also like the CIEE excursions. However, I think the lack of support during the visa process pre-departure was concerning.
Studying abroad in Lisbon, Portugal, was an absolutely incredible experience! From day one, the city’s vibrant mix of history and modernity captivated me. Being so close to the coast was a game-changer; I got to enjoy fresh seafood, stunning ocean views, and unforgettable sunsets right at my doorstep. Lisbon offered the perfect blend of cultural immersion and adventure. I dove into the local traditions, picked up Portuguese phrases, and connected with the warm and friendly locals. The city’s lively atmosphere, with its colorful streets and historic landmarks, made every day exciting and new. The best part? Lisbon’s location allowed me to explore Portugal’s stunning coastline effortlessly. I traveled to charming coastal towns and picturesque cities, each with its unique vibe. From the historic charm of Porto to the sun-soaked beaches of the Algarve, every place I visited enriched my understanding of Portuguese culture and lifestyle. The entire experience was more than just academics; it was about living a dream, discovering new horizons, and making lifelong memories. Lisbon was the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable journey, combining cultural richness, coastal beauty, and endless opportunities for exploration.
USAC’s Lisbon program is hosted at a small but excellent university. I was so lucky to be able to connect with a myriad of Erasmus students during my semester abroad thru the university, and I cherish the international friendships I was able to make! Lisbon is an amazing and diverse city with great food, nature and activities. Make sure to visit Sintra and Caiscais through the public transportation system that we got a monthly reloadable Navegante card for. Eu amo Lisboa!

Lisbon is a beautiful, vibrant city filled with culture and some of the most outgoing people you can find. Great food, conversations, and things to do at every turn. And it’s close to the beach. Academically, the program pushes you but leaves time to explore.
I personally tried to go abroad all 4 years of college, but was always getting turned down due to COVID. Finally during my senior year, I made the choice to go to Portugal rather than Australia, which was my dream before. I felt that Italy and Spain were flooded with Americans studying abroad, which wasn’t what I wanted. I picked Portugal on a slight whim, and I could not be more happy with the culture emersion and experience I left with.
The Portugal j-term trip was such a great experience! There were so many options for activities and cultural experiences organized by the University, but it’s also a great location to explore in smaller groups too. The University’s program included students from all over the world, which I thought added good depth to the class.
I had an amazing time in Lisbon, Portugal! Two months out I still feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to study abroad in such a beautiful and unique country! My program advisors were incredible and showed us so many hidden gems, allowing me to experience some of the most breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and lively events that I don't believe I would have discovered if I had traveled to Portugal on my own or in any other context.

Program: A World of Study Abroad & Internship Opportunities with AIFS
I had a lovely time here, although it was not without flaws. The amenities were not great especially considering how much we paid to be here. The company guilt tripped and body shamed us. But I made innumerable new friends and had experiences that I will cherish forever.
Program: A World of Study Abroad & Internship Opportunities with AIFS
Very nice experience, learned a lot. People I’ve met here are now friends I will still be in contact with. The internship was where I learned new skills and networked with people within the fashion industry and got inspired by being here abroad
Tremendous staff. Environment is like none other and they accommodate well. For Seville, the city has been tremendous and CIEE gives you a proper introduction to this magnificent city. Whether an intern or a student during one of the sessions, you can get along with everyone and overcome the anxieties of a new city
I would be very likely to recommend CIEE Study Abroad to a friend because this program gives you many opportunities to explore the city you are in as well as the surrounding areas. All of the employees are very kind people who will be their to uplift and support the students who are abroad.
Program: CIEE Summer in Lisbon, Portugal
I would recommend the CIEE study abroad to a friend because it’s structured to bring people together which I enjoy a lot. I wanted to study abroad to meet new people and explore the city and the activities we go on allow both of those things.
Program: Study in Lisbon, Portugal
First of all, I must state that the service provided was truly outstanding. The admission process was smooth and seamless, making it easy for me to select the destination and apply within only two weeks. The staff was helpful and efficient both before and after the departure. The exchange program has been an incredible opportunity to experience life in a new country, with different culture, in my case Lisbon, Portugal. The city is vibrant, the people are very welcoming, and the university taught me skills that I will cherish for the years upcoming. Overall, I would highly recommend Asia Exchange to anyone looking for a unique and enriching experience. Whether your aim is to learn a new language, explore a new culture or gain valuable skills for your future career and university curricula; the association will provide you with the guidance to fulfil your dreams! https://asiaexchange.org

Alumni and staff share what it's really like to go abroad

Kevin Vrla
CIEE College Study Abroad
AlumniI wanted to experience a semester abroad to expand my educational background and to see more of the world.
Read Full InterviewExplore the destinations and program types travelers search for most
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