University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering

Engineering excellence in the heart of Portugal’s mountain landscape.

📍 Covilhã, Portugal 🇵🇹

🏆 #8 in Portugal · THE World #601 · ARWU #901

Quick Facts about University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering

  • Type: Public
  • Students: 10,000
  • International: 21%
  • Campus: Urban
  • Tuition: $2,500 – $5,000/year
  • Language: Portuguese, English
  • Student-Faculty Ratio: 15.7:1
  • Intakes: September, February

About University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering

The University of Beira Interior (UBI) is a public university in Covilhã, Portugal, recognized both nationally and internationally. Established in 1979, UBI has grown to host over 8,000 students across its five faculties. The university is noted for its dynamic environment, commitment to research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, and its well-equipped laboratories and close teacher-student interaction.

Academics

The Faculty of Engineering at UBI offers a diverse range of programs, including Architecture, Aeronautical Engineering, Bioengineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electromechanical Engineering, and Electrotechnical Engineering. The university emphasizes innovative teaching methodologies and provides strong links to society and the business world. UBI is structured into five faculties, with the Faculty of Engineering specializing in areas like Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering. Research opportunities are abundant, particularly in fields such as textile engineering, health sciences, and sustainable technologies.

International Students

UBI is a popular destination for international students, with foreign students making up 21% of its student body, representing 79 countries. The university provides various support services, including an International Relations and Programmes Office, an Erasmus Student Network (ESN) with a "Buddy programme" for mentoring, and an Academic Association that organizes activities for students. While UBI offers a limited number of courses in English, Portuguese language courses are also available at different levels. The cost of living in Covilhã is significantly lower compared to larger coastal cities in Portugal, which is beneficial for international students.

Campus & Location

The university campus is well-integrated into the urban network of Covilhã, a city nestled in the Serra da Estrela mountain range in central Portugal. Covilhã is known for its historical significance in wool and textile production and offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. The city provides a vibrant arts and cultural scene, with UBI itself having a university theatre group, chorus, and several "tunas" (traditional student music groups). The campus facilities include well-equipped classrooms, laboratories, and libraries, with the main library open 24/7. Covilhã also serves as a gateway to the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, offering outdoor activities and being only 20 km from Portugal's only ski resort.

Career Outcomes

UBI aims to enhance student employability and provides support services like an Office of Student Support and an Office of access to higher education. The university fosters a dynamic interconnection between its academic programs and corporate needs through initiatives like Parkurbis, a Science & Technology Park in Covilhã, which is considered a top incubator for enterprises in Europe. UBI's strong emphasis on research and innovation, particularly in areas like textile engineering and sustainable technologies, contributes to graduates being well-prepared for various industries. The university's commitment to entrepreneurship and its engagement in research projects of national and international scope further enhance career prospects for its graduates.

Information for International Students at University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering

University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering in Covilhã, Portugal welcomes international students, with 21% of the student body coming from abroad.

  • 21% of students are international
  • Visa support available
  • On-campus work allowed
  • Student housing available (~$250/month)
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: Portuguese, English

Admissions Requirements for University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering:

  • GPA minimum: 3.25
  • Application fee: $15
  • Selectivity: Open (60%+)
  • Application deadline: March 8, 2026

Apply to University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering →

Scholarships & Tuition at University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering

Annual tuition for international students: $2,500 – $5,000/year

✅ University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering

  • National Ranking: #8 in Portugal
  • Times Higher Education (THE): #601
  • Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #901
  • Ranking tier: Unranked
  • Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • Disability support available
  • Campus type: Urban
  • Housing cost: ~$250/month

Key Highlights

  • Strong focus on aerospace engineering research
  • Located in the historic Covilhã region
  • High graduate employability in industrial sectors
  • Modern laboratories and technological research centers
  • Collaborative partnerships with international industry leaders
  • Diverse range of undergraduate and doctoral programs

Accreditation

  • Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior
  • Agência de Avaliação e Acreditação do Ensino Superior (A3ES)

Fields of Study at University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering

  • Engineering
  • Science
  • Technology
  • Design
  • Architecture

Notable Alumni

  • António José Seguro
  • Ana Catarina Mendes
  • Fábio Nunes

Frequently Asked Questions about University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering

What is University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering?

University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering is a public university located in Covilhã, Portugal. It has approximately 10,000 students, with 21% being international students.

How much does it cost to study at University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering?

Tuition fees at University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering for international students range from $2,500 – $5,000/year. Student housing costs approximately $250/month. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering?

GPA minimum: 3.25. Application fee: $15. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: March 8, 2026.

What language are courses taught in at University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering?

Courses at University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering are taught in Portuguese and English.

What is University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering ranked?

#8 in Portugal · THE World #601 · ARWU #901.

Does University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering offer scholarships?

Yes, University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Does University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering provide visa support?

Yes, University of Beira Interior - Faculty of Engineering provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.

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