Study abroad
Study in Cabo Verde
Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.
About studying in Cabo Verde
Higher education in Cabo Verde, an island nation off the coast of West Africa, gives international students a chance to study in a new academic and cultural setting. Universities and other institutions offer programmes at different levels, from first degrees to postgraduate study, across subjects such as business, engineering, health, science and the humanities.
The economy has strengths in tourism, maritime trade and conservation, which is reflected in many study options. The main language is Portuguese; the availability of English-taught programmes varies between institutions. Start with the subjects available here, then compare institutions, costs and application steps.
Why study in Cabo Verde?
Students choose Cabo Verde for different reasons: a particular course, a university’s reputation in a field, the language, the location or the chance to experience life off the coast of West Africa. The right decision depends on your subject, budget, preferred city and long-term plans.
- Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Hospitality, Tourism & Events, Maritime & Shipping and Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, with options differing between universities.
- Industry context: Tourism, maritime trade and conservation matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
- Cities and campus life: Praia, Mindelo and Santa Maria each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
- Culture and language: living in Cabo Verde means everyday contact with Portuguese and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.
Compare the structure of each programme, how it is assessed and what support is available for international students before you decide.
Top subjects to study in Cabo Verde
If you are not sure where to start, these areas connect well with Cabo Verde’s economy and higher-education offer. The list is a starting point rather than a ranking.
- Hospitality, Tourism & Events
- Maritime & Shipping
- Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
- Business & Management
- Education, PGCE & Teaching
- Computing & Information Technology
Links to tourism, maritime trade and conservation mean that related courses may include practical projects or industry examples, although this varies by institution. Each subject has its own page for Cabo Verde on this site, with its specializations.
Before settling on a subject, compare a few programmes side by side: their modules, how they are taught and assessed, and the options they open up after graduation.
Universities in Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde has only a few higher-education providers, so compare what each offers with regional and international alternatives. Institutions include:
- University of Cabo Verde
This is not a ranking or a complete list. When comparing universities, look at the content of the specific programme, entry requirements, the language of teaching, location, support for international students and whether the qualification is recognised where you plan to work.
Some institutions offer preparatory or foundation courses, placements or joint programmes with partners abroad; these can change the length and cost of your studies.
Scholarships to Study in Cabo Verde
Some international students in Cabo Verde receive scholarships or grants, but availability depends on where you come from and what you plan to study.
- government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Cabo Verde
- universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
- foundations, charities and international organisations
- research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students
Eligibility, the amount of support and deadlines vary, and competition can be strong. Apply to several suitable options and confirm what each award covers. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.
Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.
Intakes to study in Cabo Verde
Academic calendars in Cabo Verde differ between institutions and programmes, so there is no single start date that applies everywhere.
Because deadlines differ between universities, keep a simple timeline for each application: when it opens, when it closes, when decisions are expected and how long the visa process may take. Leave room for delays in obtaining documents.
Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.
A simple planning checklist:
- shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
- prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
- apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
- allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation
Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.
Cost of studying in Cabo Verde
Tuition in Cabo Verde varies widely: public and private institutions, subjects and study levels can all have different fees.
When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:
- application and registration fees
- course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
- health insurance and any visa or permit costs
- accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme
Check the latest fees on each institution’s website and confirm whether they can change during your course.
It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.
Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.
Student visa requirements to study in Cabo Verde
Before you travel, check what kind of study permission Cabo Verde requires for your nationality and course.
Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:
- an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
- a valid passport and passport photos
- evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
- health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
- proof of language ability or previous qualifications
Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. The embassy or consulate of Cabo Verde in your country, and its official immigration authority, are the right places to confirm what applies to you.
Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.
Cost of living in Cabo Verde
Planning your living budget for Cabo Verde early helps you avoid surprises during your first months. Costs in Praia can differ noticeably from those in Mindelo or Santa Maria and smaller towns.
The main costs to plan for are:
- Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
- Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
- Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
- Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
- Insurance and health: any required health cover
- Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life
On islands and in remote areas, imported goods can raise everyday prices. Ask your institution for its estimate of student living costs and plan for some extra money for arrival and emergencies.
Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.
FAQs about studying in Cabo Verde
What are the advantages of studying in Cabo Verde?
It depends on your goals. Cabo Verde offers programmes across many subjects, a location off the coast of West Africa and study in Portuguese (with some English-taught options). Students interested in tourism, maritime trade and conservation may find the local context especially relevant.
What subjects can I study in Cabo Verde?
Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Hospitality, Tourism & Events, Maritime & Shipping, Agriculture & Environmental Sciences and Business & Management. The subjects page for Cabo Verde lists every subject available here with its specializations.
When do courses start in Cabo Verde?
Start dates vary between institutions. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.
How much does it cost to study in Cabo Verde?
Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.
Do international students need a visa to study in Cabo Verde?
Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources and the embassy or consulate of Cabo Verde.
Are scholarships available for international students in Cabo Verde?
Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.
Which cities are popular with students in Cabo Verde?
Praia, Mindelo and Santa Maria are among the places students often consider. Living costs, housing and the student experience can differ between cities, so compare them alongside your course options.
Can I study in English in Cabo Verde?
Many courses are taught in Portuguese. Some institutions offer English-taught programmes, but availability varies, so check the language of instruction and language requirements for each course.
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