Applications for international students are now open
The Faculty of Education and Psychology of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa (FEP-UCP), in Porto, welcomes students from different countries every year who choose Portugal to begin their academic journey in Psychology. Melany Guamán and Joaquín Espinoza, both from Ecuador and currently in the second year of the Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, share how their international experience has shaped their personal, academic and professional development.
An experience that shapes the academic journey
For Melany,studying at FEP-UCP has been “fundamental to my personal and academic growth”. As an international student, she acknowledges that the process involves challenges, but believes it is precisely these challenges that make the experience “more enriching and meaningful”.
Throughout the degree, Melany has discovered new areas of interest, highlighting Neurosciences as one of the most defining experiences of her journey. “Although it is a demanding course unit, it allows us to acquire in-depth scientific knowledge about cognitive and brain processes,” she explains. She also emphasises the opportunity to take part in the Human Neurobehavioral Laboratory, where she has engaged with research projects developed by the university’s team: “It has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.”
On a social level, Melany encourages future international students to embrace new experiences. “Contact with other cultures and ways of learning broadens perspectives and enriches how we understand others. It was this desire to be a constant learner that brought me to the Universidade Católica in Porto.”
Close relationships with lecturers and practical opportunities
For Joaquín, the close relationship with lecturers is what most distinguishes FEP-UCP. “What I have appreciated most on this journey is the way lecturers support us. They are highly qualified and always available to help,” he says.
According to the student, the subjects become particularly engaging thanks to the way each lecturer “brings the content to life”, making it easier to discover the areas students feel most motivated by. In Joaquín’s case, this has also been Neurosciences, which he describes as “the passion that has grown the most”, especially because learning integrates theory and practice from the very first semester.
“It is rare to find universities that offer practical opportunities so early in the academic journey. This comprehensive approach prepares us better for the future,” he adds.
Applications open for international students
The bachelor’s degree in psychology at FEP-UCP is open to international students seeking a humanistic, rigorous education focused on the integral development of the individual.
International applications take place in the following phases:
1st phase
- 2 December 2025 – 15 January 2026
- Results: 12 February 2026
- Enrolment: 18 – 20 February 2026
2nd phase
- 23 February – 7 April 2026
- Results: 28 April 2026
- Enrolment: 5 – 7 May 2026
3rd phase
- 11 May – 11 June 2026
- Results: 2 July 2026
- Enrolment: 9 – 13 July 2026
For more information about the application process for international students, please visit this page.