Located in the south western part of Europe, Portugal is a country which is known for its magnificent natural resources, a symbol of economic growth which is consistently increasing with the progress of time. Upon examining one will find that Portugal contributes immensely to the industrial production in the form of power and mineral resources, new communication tools, oil reserves, wine production etc. Therefore, it is evident that in order to achieve success in these various fields of activity, a country requires intelligent minds at work to give shape to this successful future. This is where the importance of education is manifold. Exposure to a sound and effective education system is essential for the shaping of the minds and personalities of future generations of eminent scholars, professionals and scientists.

If one moves back to the past through the pages of history, one will be aware of the fact that the earliest specimen of the existence of centers for education in Portugal can be traced back to the early 13th century. The ancient most Portuguese university was located in Lisbon before it shifted in Coimbra. All educational institutions and universities are registered under the Portuguese higher educational institutions. In fact in order to facilitate their higher education programs, Portugal has concluded agreements with several North American institutions and also the prolific MIT of the United States of America. Such associations are meant to improve the quality of education and also involve exchange programs which are immensely beneficial to the students.

Ample opportunity is also available for those interested in scientific research as well. Various institutions like the IPATIMUP, Instituto de Medicina Molecular, and the Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, the INETI - Instituto Nacional de Engenharia have their own research and development wings and encourage research work amidst the students.