# Portugal higher education enrollment surge

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/portugal-higher-education-enrollment-surge
> Updated: 2026-08-13T05:42:27.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 3.

Portugal’s higher‑education system continued to attract unprecedented numbers of applicants in summer 2026. After the joint doctorate in Sports Science opened in late July, the first phase of the national access competition (CNAES) saw 51,480 candidates by mid‑July, 1,885 more than the previous year, prompting the Ministry of Education to extend the application window and resolve grading delays.

The University of Minho launched the country’s first public‑sector dual‑degree bachelor programmes, with almost 55,000 applications registered for combinations such as Economics‑Management and Physics‑Chemistry.

A week later, the Ministry reported a new record: 60,391 candidates applied in the first phase, the highest figure in three decades (excluding pandemic years) and a 22 % increase over 2025. An extra 10,796 students submitted applications before the deadline, and 1,330 of the 1,519 institution/course pairs opted for a single entrance exam, giving universities greater flexibility. The digitised process and the re‑evaluation of 20,000 exam papers were completed on schedule, underscoring the government’s push for a transparent assessment system.

By mid-August, officials noted that higher education placements are expected to increase following a reversal in access rules. While the nearly 22% surge marks a 30-year high, it follows a period of decline where applications fell below 50,000 due to demographic shifts, inadequate social action scholarships, and previous requirements for two entrance exams. Experts have warned that despite the spike, high concentration in specific courses could leave some vacancies unfilled. Results for the first phase of the national competition are scheduled for release on August 23.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-13: Portugal higher education applications reach 30-year high

Portuguese higher education applications have risen by nearly 22%, reaching a 30-year high, with first-phase placement results expected on August 23.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/portugal-higher-education-applications-reach-30-year-high

### 2026-08-05: Portugal higher education sees record applications and new dual-degree programmes

Portugal records a surge to 51,480 first‑phase university applications amid grading delays, while the University of Minho introduces public dual‑degree bachelor programmes to boost employability.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/portugals-higher-education-sees-surge-in-applications-and-launches-dualdegree-programs

### 2026-07-24: Portuguese Sports Science Doctorate Program Receives 71 Applications for 20 Slots

Portugal’s first joint Sports Science doctorate, offered by six polytechnics, attracted 71 applicants for 20 places, filling all slots in the first round.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/portuguese-sports-science-doctorate-program-receives-71-applications-for-20-slots

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Cite as: Portugal higher education enrollment surge. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/portugal-higher-education-enrollment-surge