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Portugal higher education enrollment surge
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2026-08-08 01:03 UTC → 2026-08-13 06:53 UTC ·
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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. These developments illustrate By mid-August, officials noted that higher education placements are expected to increase following a sustained 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 demand specific courses could leave some vacancies unfilled. Results for Portuguese higher‑education places and the rollout first phase of innovative programmes aimed at enhancing graduate employability. the national competition are scheduled for release on August 23.
Versions
- 2026-08-13 06:53 UTC Portugal higher education enrollment surge
- 2026-08-08 01:03 UTC Portugal higher education enrollment surge
- 2026-08-06 07:24 UTC Portugal higher education enrollment surge
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