International Student Guide

Transcription

International
Student Guide
ECTS Practical Guide
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Title
ECTS Practical Guide
Publication of
University of Aveiro, External Relations Services
Design and Preparation
Office for Image and Design
João Jacinto Magalhães Foundation
Photography
Artur Lopes, Multimedia and Distance Learning Centre,
Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering,
Jorge Pandeirada, Jorge Vidal,
Miguel Lacerda, Nuno Marques, Pedro Lobo, Rota da Luz,
External Relations Services
Edition
University of Aveiro
2003
Printed by
Marca - AG
2500 copies
Acknowledgements
The editors gratefully acknowledge the collaboration of all the services and units of
UA in providing information and photographs and to the students and teaching
staff that contributed to the publication
Disclaimer
The content of this brochure is correct at the time of going to print and subject to
alterations without prior notice.
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Contents
The University of Aveiro ............................................................................................. 4
Map of the University Campus ................................................................................... 6
Aveiro ......................................................................................................................... 8
Studying at UA ........................................................................................................ 12
How to reach UA ..................................................................................................... 14
Academic Calendar .................................................................................................. 16
Registration .............................................................................................................. 18
General student administration matters ................................................................... 20
Fees and Funding .................................................................................................... 22
Scholarships ............................................................................................................ 24
Assessment and Grades .......................................................................................... 28
Language of instruction ........................................................................................... 30
Learning resources .................................................................................................. 32
Study Visa and Residence Permit ............................................................................ 36
Accommodation ....................................................................................................... 38
Health Care .............................................................................................................. 42
“Food glorious food” ................................................................................................ 44
Sport ........................................................................................................................ 46
Money Matters ......................................................................................................... 48
Transport and Communication ................................................................................. 50
Additional Information .............................................................................................. 52
Support services for International Students ............................................................. 54
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The University of Aveiro
Who are we?
The University of Aveiro (UA) is a public
institution with a mission to provide and
develop graduate and postgraduate
education, research and cooperation with
society. Founded in 1973, it quickly became
one of the most dynamic and innovative
Universities in the country.
Determined not to be left behind in
development (social, technological and
scientific), the University of Aveiro has always
positioned itself at the forefront of innovation.
Not just by providing degree programmes in
advanced scientific and technological areas
and developing modern infrastructures and
sophisticated equipment, but also investing in
the training and recruiting of teachers and
researchers with proven track records in the
development of research projects and in
terms of close relations with the worlds of
business and industry
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Today UA is a key partner for many
companies, providing services, know-how and
highly qualified graduates and participating in
numerous research projects in the
development of new products. The excellence
of its research is the trademark of this
institution, with 70% of its research units
having been classified as “very good” and
“excellent” in recent external evaluations.
Education and Research at UA
Attended by some 11000 undergraduate
students, the University of Aveiro offers a vast
range of 58 “bacharelato” and “licenciatura”
degree programmes (http://acesso.ua.pt), in
such diverse areas as engineering, science
and technology, health, economics,
management, accountancy, planning, art,
humanities and education.
As well as the undergraduate students, there
are some 1300 postgraduates attending the
various postgraduate programmes offered at
UA (www.posgrad.ua.pt), taking postgraduate
diplomas, master and doctoral degrees in a
wide range of areas of knowledge.
To the quality of its teaching programme, the
University allies a research programme of true
excellence in intense cooperation with the
world of business (www.ii.ua.pt). UA has 17
Research Units (2 of which have the status of
Associated Laboratory) with laboratory,
computing and bibliographic resources that
permit the creation and development of
scientific, technological and artistic knowledge
of the highest calibre.
Cooperation and exchange
National and international cooperation are key
areas for the University of Aveiro, taking place
through participation in numerous European
education and research programmes as well
as on a bilateral and multilateral basis with
partners throughout the world. Cooperation
with society is developed through the
promotion of knowledge, technology and
innovation transfer, the provision of continuing
education and training programmes as well as
the promotion of cultural and artistic events
locally and nationally.
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The university campus:
a small city within a city
With the exception of the Águeda Higher
School of Technology and Management
(located some 20 km from Aveiro) and a few
student halls of residence dispersed
throughout the city, the University of Aveiro is
mainly concentrated in the Santiago University
Campus, a large area located between the
salt mines of the Aveiro delta and the busy
city centre of Aveiro.
The open plan campus is a mini city with
grassy lawns among the 40 buildings that
make it up: academic department buildings,
administration buildings, student halls of
residence, canteens, bars and restaurants,
athletics track, gymnasium, laundries, post
office, bank, University shop, libraries,
bookshops, photocopy centre, conference
halls, galleries and crèche.
With buildings designed by the best
Portuguese architects, the Santiago University
Campus is, in itself, an exhibition of modern
Portuguese architecture, visited each year by
thousands of architects and architecture
students from all over the world.
Special physical mobility requirements
Students with special mobility requirements
are invited to contact the International Office
in advance of their stay with information about
the ways in which we could help to meet their
special needs.
Most of the University buildings are equipped
with ramps affording wheelchair accessibility
to laboratories, class-rooms etc. If special
circumstances arise, extra ramps will also be
fitted to meet students’ needs. In addition,
almost all of the University Departments have
elevators.
Facts and Figures
Founding of UA: 1973
Undergraduate students: 11015
Female undergraduate students: 54%
Postgraduate students: 1310
Female postgraduate students: 61%
International students: 300
UA students studying abroad: 180
Teaching staff: 885
Non-teaching staff: 507
Buildings on campus: 40
Total surface area of campus: 921500 m2
Academic departments: 17
Polytechnic Schools: 4
Research units: 17 (2 of which are
“Associated Laboratories”)
Internaional Student Guide ECTS Pratical Guide 5
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1 Business Incubator; CEMED - Multimedia
and Distance Learning Centre; João
Jacinto de Magalhães Foundation; UNAVE
– University of Aveiro Association for
Professional Training and Research; Child
Day Care Centre
2 Department of Languages and Cultures
3 School of Health Sciences; Department of
Health Sciences
4 Department of Electronics and
Telecommunications
5 CIFOP – Integrated Centre for Teacher
Training; Department of Didactics and
Educational Technology; Multimedia Library
6 Canteen; Social Support Services;
shopping area (bank, ATM, post-office,
computer shop, kiosk, photocopy centre,
launderette, snack-bar); Students Union’s
front desk
7 Department of Environment and Planning
8 Department of Biology
9 Department of Ceramics and Glass
Engineering
10 Department of Economics, Management
and Industrial Engineering
11 Department of Mathematics
12 Department of Social, Legal and Political
Sciences
13 Department of Physics
14 Central Analysis Laboratory
15 Department of Chemistry
16 Department of Geosciences
17 Main Library; Documentation Services;
Exhibition Room
18 Department of Educational Sciences
19 IT – Institute for Telecommunications
20 IEETA – Institute of Telematics and
Electronic Engineering of Aveiro
21 Department of Communication and the
Arts
22 Department of Mechanical Engineering
23 Pedagogical, Scientific and Technological
Complex
24 Bookshop; Exhibition Room
25 Rectorial building: Rectory; Academic and
Administrative Services; Administration;
External Relations Services; Financial and
Property Services; Higher Education
Institute; International Office; Pedagogical
Council; Pedagogical Office; Postgraduate
Studies Institute; Research Institute;
Scientific Council; Technical Services; other
services
26 Students Union
27 Canteen; Snack-bar
28 ISCA-UA – Institute of Higher Education for
Accountancy and Administration
29 Computation Centre
30 Department of Civil Engineering
31 Technological Laboratories Centre
A IDAD – Institute of the Environment and
Development
B University Residential Complex
C Academic staff residence
D Training field
E The Aristides Hall Gymnasium
F Canteen; University restaurant
G Child Day Care Centre
H Photocopy centre
I Students Union Theatre Group – GRETUA
J Water Tower
K Athletics track
L Footbridge over the São Pedro Creek
M Meteorological station
P Parking
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Aveiro
The salt pans that reach the city, the river
canals that blend with the streets, the
‘moliceiro’ boats and the ‘ovos moles’ (the
best kept secret in local sweet deserts), are
the usual references when talking about
Aveiro. But there’s much more to the city than
its traditional symbols.
Aveiro is a dynamic medium size city that
offers its inhabitants much of what big city life
has, but without the urban chaos and without
diminishing the quality of life. The focal point
of an industrially developed region, Aveiro
today is also a city of commerce and services
and a growing centre of leisure and culture
offering cinema, theatre, music, arts, sport
and night life.
It is impossible to speak of Aveiro without
making a special note of the water that so
characterises it. The “ria” (inland waterways
replenished from both the sea and the river)
surrounds and penetrates the city and the
extensive stretches of beach just a few
kilometres away make the city very attractive
for nature lovers and water sport enthusiasts.
The delta plane of the city lies in contrast to
the beautiful mountainous region to the inland
areas of the district which are dominated by
the mountain ranges of Caramulo and Freita.
In this latter can be found the ‘Frecha da
Mizarela’, Portugal’s highest waterfall. In these
and in other places in the region it is possible
to appreciate the unspoilt natural beauty by
hiking along the walk ways, taking in the
views and stimulating the adrenaline with
adventure sports.
Location
Located in the central area of the Portuguese
coast, 70 km south of Porto and some 250
km north of Lisbon, Aveiro is served by
excellent road, rail and sea connections. The
city is linked to Spain by the IP5 and to the
main cities of Portugal by the A1 motorway.
For those who prefer to travel by train, Aveiro
has good connections to most parts of
Portugal, with Lisbon just 3 hours away and
Porto 45 minutes.
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Focus of development
Aveiro, the city and the district, is one of the
most entrepreneurial regions of the country
with an enviable level of development and
quality of life. Fishing, maritime commerce,
boat construction and salt mining, the
traditional activities that formed the basis of
the Aveiro economy for centuries, have long
since given way to a new economic reality.
Today the city and the region have important
industries and a diversified business structure.
Among the most dynamic industrial sectors
there are the metallurgy, chemical, ceramics,
paper, agro-food, shoe and wood industries.
The museums and art galleries of the city
permanently host painting, sculpture,
photography and other exhibitions of artistic
expression.
Podium of culture
For a city of its dimension, Aveiro has an
appreciable range of cultural activities.The stages of the city host theatre from the
large national theatre companies as well as
local theatre, including GRETUA – the
Experimental Theatre Group of the University
of Aveiro. Concerts and dance shows are
regularly held on the Aveiro stages too.
With regards to the “7th art”, fans of
Hollywood have two seven-screen cinemas in
town. For those who prefer alternative
cinema, there is one showroom for
independent cinema (mainly European
cinema) as well as film showings by the City
Youth Centre and at the city’s Culture Centre.
When speaking of the cultural panorama of
Aveiro, it is not possible to leave out the role
of the University of Aveiro, a major promoter
of culture in the city.
Shopping
For those who cannot resist a seductive shop
window, Aveiro is ideal. There is no shortage
of places to shop. In the city there are various
shopping centres, three hypermarkets, lots of
supermarkets and a plentiful supply of
traditional commerce along the streets of the
city centre. Right in the centre of the city
there is a unique shopping centre, with open
air shopping galleries covered by gardens on
the roof. Here you will find a 7-screen cinema
and dozens of shops and restaurants,
including most of the international brand
names.
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Eating out
From restaurants specialising in regional
cuisine to the main international fast-food
chains, the culinary choices of the city do not
disappoint. Those who enjoy more exotic
food may also find what they like here,
including African, Brasilian, Chinese, Israeli,
Italian, Mexican and Venezuelan. To top off
your meal, nothing better than tasting the
famous ‘ovos moles’ (egg and sugar paste) or
any of the other deserts from the rich local
tradition.
Whether you prefer the dance floor, the gypsy
student bands or the intimate setting of a jazz
bar, there’s always something going on.
The beginning of the year is marked by the
Feast of Saint Gonçalinho – a curious
celebration where local people carry out a
promises to the Saint (in return for miracles)
by throwing hundreds of kilos of ‘cavacas’ (a
traditional biscuit) from the top of the chapel
to the crowd below in the streets of BeiraMar, one of the oldest parts of the city. It
might seem dangerous (cavacas are quite
hard), but it really is a spectacle not to be
missed!
The festive city
Throughout the year, Aveiro is infected with a
smile brought on by the various festivities and
local traditions, making it seem as if the city
was always partying.
Each year the Aveiro Exhibition Park is
transformed into a fairground for one month.
It is the March Fair, showplace for commerce,
industry and entertainment which has been
running each March since 1434.
Nightlife
The nightlife in Aveiro does justice to the city’s
status as a University town. The Fish Market,
and indeed the surrounding Beira-Mar area in
general, with dozens of bars and restaurants,
is the obligatory stopping point for students
and anyone looking for a fun night out.
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In May the City Festival takes place, with a
programme including numerous concerts,
street parties and cultural, sport and religious
events.
On the threshold of the future…
In the coming years, Aveiro will undergo
significant developments in infrastructures and
facilities.
May is truly a month of parties, since it’s also
the time when student week takes place,
during which the students of the University of
Aveiro bid adieu to yet another academic year
with live concerts, sport and cultural events
and lots of Portuguese “academic spirit”.
The city is one of the stages for the Euro
2004 Football Championship in the brand
new city stadium built for the occasion. The
stadium is part of a major sport complex with
tennis courts, swimming pools, bowling, ice
rink, radical sports centre, equestrian centre,
golf course hotels and shopping facilities.
In the summer (July/August), the city
celebrates the ‘Festa da Ria’, the high point
of which is a ‘moliceiro’ regatta and traditional
boat races through the canals of the river.
In terms of town planning, the ‘Polis’ urban
regeneration programme is having a major
impact on many areas of the city, providing
parks, pedestrian pathways and new public
facilities like a theme park with key buildings
of Europe for kids as well as museums and a
new youth hostel.
Facts and Figures
Population of Aveiro: 75000
Area of Aveiro: 199,7 km2
N.º of community parishes: 14
Founded in: 1759
Official city holiday: 12 May
Distance in Kilometres between Aveiro and
Porto (70); Coimbra (60); Lisbon (250); Viseu
(95); Atlantic Coast (6)
Lenght of the Aveiro Delta: 45 km
Surface Area of the Aveiro Delta: 11000
hectares
Per capita purchasing power index for
Aveiro: 126,29 (Portugal = 100; Source: INE
2002)
Further information:
www.cm-aveiro.pt (City hall website)
http://mapguide.cm-aveiro.pt/mapa_ic/
(interactive map)
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Studying at UA
Higher Education in Portugal
Portuguese higher education is divided into two subsystems: university education and polytechnic
education.
The university education sector aims to provide
scientific and cultural education and training as well
as technical training that qualifies students for
professional and cultural activities and that promotes
competencies in conception, innovation and critical
analysis.
The polytechnic education sector offers solid
practical and theoretical higher level education and
training in order to develop the students’ capacities
of critical analysis for practical applications in the
professional market place.
While University studies take place at
Universities, higher polytechnic education is
delivered at schools of higher education,
polytechnic colleges and other non-university
institutions of higher education.
However, in some cases, both higher education types
take place at Universities, which is the case of the
University of Aveiro, where the polytechnic schools
are integrated into the overall University body.
While both Universities and Polytechnics confer
‘bacharel’ and ‘licenciatura’ degrees, Master and
Doctoral degrees are conferred by University
institutions only.
Further information about the higher education
system in Portugal:
http://www.eurydice.org/
http://www.desup.min-edu.pt/naric.htm
http://www.des.min-edu.pt/estia/edu/eduindex.html
Courses at the University
of Aveiro
Undergraduate Degree Programmes
Excellent study and working conditions, highly
qualified teaching staff and a teaching
programme with strong practical and
experimental components give UA graduates
a leading edge in the market place. Many
programmes include internships in industry
and schools (for students of the education
programmes) and final year projects deal with
real problems in professional contexts.
The minimum entry requirement is the
Portuguese secondary school certificate (12th
grade) or an equivalent qualification. Detailed
course information and application procedures
can be found on the website at http://
acesso.ua.pt (this site also contains the
University’s undergraduate study prospectus
in Portuguese, in PDF format).
Postgraduate Degree Programmes
UA offers a wide range of postgraduate
programmes for fresh graduates wishing to
follow a professional or academic career, for
professionals in mid-career who wish to
deepen or update their knowledge through
advanced education and training
programmes, for researchers interested in
developing specialised research in scientific
areas being developed by the UA research
units, for teaching staff of the University
who wish to progress in their academic
careers or people who are simply
interested in their own personal
development and who at the same time
want to contribute to the advance of
knowledge.
For detailed course information and
application procedures, please see the
Postgraduate Studies Institute (IFPG) website
at www.posgrad.ua.pt (this site also contains
postgraduate studies prospectus in PDF
format).
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Postgraduate Diplomas (CFEs) The
postgraduate diploma (CFE) takes the format
of formal postgraduate curricular activities.
Successful candidates are awarded a
certificate or diploma (not an academic
degree) confirming the achievement of
advanced knowledge in a specific
disciplinary or interdisciplinary area as well
as a high capacity for critical analysis and
innovation.
Courses can be of three types depending on
the number of credits taken – short, medium
or long term courses – and can be linked
indirectly to other postgraduate programmes
taking place at the University of Aveiro,
particularly Master and PhD degree
programmes.
The minimum requirement for admission to a
Postgraduate Diploma course is a
‘Licenciatura’ in an appropriate area.
Applications take place in May of each year
and classes begin in the following October or
February.
Master Degrees The University of Aveiro
confers Master degrees in areas of study
which are closely allied to the main research
areas developed at the University.
A Masters programme has a maximum
duration of 4 semesters, the first two of which
correspond to a taught programme. After
these four semesters, the student must
present an original dissertation related to the
study and research developed during the
course of the programme.
Masters programmes start either in the first
semester or in the second semester. The
announcement for applications will be
published in May or in October, respectively.
Candidates must be holders of an
“licenciatura” degree (or equivalent) with a
final classification of at least “Good”.
Exceptionally candidates with a final
classification inferior to “Good” may also apply
as long as their CV demonstrates suitability.
PhD The PhD degree acknowledges the
accomplishment of an innovative and original
contribution to the progress of knowledge and
an aptitude to perform and supervise
independent scientific work. Candidates must
be holders of a graduate degree with an
overall classification at least 16/20 or must be
holders of a Master’s degree.
Non-Degree Postgraduate research It is
possible to apply for a postgraduate research
assignment (involves tuition fee) as part of the
University’s postgraduate research training
programme. For information on the research
interests of the various research groups of the
University of Aveiro, see http://www.ii.ua.pt.
Applications are subject to previous
acceptance on the part of a research
supervisor who will back the project, while the
formalities for applying are handled at the
Postgraduate Office ( http://www.sac.ua.pt/
sec_graus_tit.asp).
Non-Degree Post-doctorate research
Advanced scientific research assignments are
available for holders of doctoral degrees and
are carried out within the context of the
Research Institute’s R&D programme. For
further information, contact the Institute via
http://www.ii.ua.pt.
There are no deadlines for the presentation of
applications for PhD studies at the University
of Aveiro but the applications procedure is
preceded by contacts with a qualified
member of the University’s academic staff
who will act as supervisor for the project.
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How to reach UA
By road
From the north using the A1 motorway or
from the east using the IP5
Take the A1 motorway in the direction of
Lisbon. Exit the A1 in the direction of Aveiro
and take the IP5. From the IP5 there are two
exits to the city, first “Aveiro-Norte” and then
some kilometers later there is “Aveiro”. This
second exit is used for reaching the University
of Aveiro. (The University is near the hospital).
From the south using the A1 motorway
Take the A1 motorway in the direction of
Porto. Exit the motorway at “Aveiro-Sul/
Águeda” (exit 15) and follow the EN235
road directly to the University campus.
(The University is near the hospital).
By Air
The closest airport is Francisco Sá Carneiro
international airport in Porto, located some 80
km to the north of Aveiro. Portela
international airport in Lisbon is located
250 km to the south of Aveiro.
Transport from Lisbon Airport
The journey from Lisbon airport can be made
by train from the city centre or by car from
the airport.
By train: The train is the most practical means
of making the journey to Aveiro. The trip
between the airport and the railway station
(called Porto-Campanhã), which has direct rail
connections to Aveiro, can be made by taxi
for around 20! and takes around 30 minutes.
A less expensive alternative to reach the
station is to use AeroBus (a shuttle bus to the
city costing around 2!60), as far as Avenida
dos Aliados and then taking a train from São
Bento railway station in the city centre either
directly to Aveiro or with a change at PortoCampanhã. The train journey to Aveiro takes
between 40 minutes and 1h15, depending on
the type of train used. Information on train
prices and timetables are available at
www.cp.pt. There are regular trains to
Aveiro from Porto.
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By car: At the airport there are various car
hire agencies. Follow the signs for the A1
motorway in the direction of Lisbon (there is a
toll charge of around 2!70). Leave the A1 at
the exit for Aveiro and take the IP5. From the
IP5 there are two exits to the city, first
“Aveiro-Norte” and then some kilometers later
there is “Aveiro”. This second exit is used for
reaching the University of Aveiro. (The
University is near the hospital).
Transport from Lisbon Airport
The journey from Lisbon can be made by
train, car or bus.
By train: The simplest form of transport to
Aveiro is by train. From the airport to LisboaOriente railway station, the taxi ride takes
about 10 minutes and costs around 10!.
Alternatively there are buses (lines 5 and 44).
The ticket can be bought on the bus for
around 1!.
Given the distance between Lisbon and
Aveiro, it is best to use the fast train services
(Alfa or Intercidades). The journey will take
around 2h30 and a single ticket costs up to
about 20!.
Information on train prices and timetables are
available at www.cp.pt. There are regular
trains to Aveiro from Lisbon.
By car: There are various car-hire agencies at
the airport. From the airport, follow the signs
for the A1 motorway in the direction of Porto.
Leave the motorway at “Aveiro-Sul / Águeda
(exit 15) and take the EN235 directly to the
university campus (located just in front of the
hospital). The toll charge for use of the
motorway is around 15! and can be paid in
cash or with a debit card.
How to reach the University Campus from
the railway station in Aveiro
Aveiro railway station is located in the centre
of the city (see map of city) about 20 minutes
walking distance or 5-minute taxi ride from
the University Campus. To reach the campus
you can use any of the following means:
· minibus, taking the blue line outside the
railway station;
· taxi (the trip costs around 3!)
· use a BUGA (bike for public use)
By bus: The bus station, called Terminal
Rodoviário de Sete Rios, is located on Rua
Professor Lima Basto (near the Zoo).
Timetables and prices can be consulted at
www.rede-expressos.pt.
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Academic calendar
The academic calendar is divided into 2 semesters: 1st semester and 2nd semester. Classes
begin at the end of September and are interrupted for holidays like Christmas, carnival, Easter,
student week, open day as well as for exam periods.
Calendar for the Academic Year 2004/05
Undergraduate
1st Semester
Beginning of classes
13 September 2004
Christmas Break
22 December 2004 to 3 January 2005
Exam period
4 to 13 January 2005
Repeat exam period
19 to 28 January 2005
2nd Semester
Beginning of classes
31 January 2005
Carnival break
7 to 9 February 2005
Easter break
21 to 28 April 2005
Student week
2 to 6 May 2005
Exam period
31 May to 9 June 2005
Repeat exam period
15 to 24 June 2005
Special repeat exam period
11 to 22 July 2005
Postgraduate
1st semester
6 October 2004 to 28 January 2005
2nd semester
10 February 2005 to 3 June 2005
Apart from classes, exams and holidays, the
academic also includes some high points:
Welcome Week – week preceding the
beginning of 1st semester
Designed for new international students at
UA, Welcome Week aims to introduce
newcomers to the University and their host
City. The programme takes place during the
week preceding the 1st semester. Visits to the
campus are organised, with explanations of
how to use and benefit fully from the wide
range of student services available, as well as
meetings with Portuguese students and a visit
to the city. The programme is posted to all
new international students once they have
been formally accepted by the University.
Orientation Day – day preceding the
beginning of the 2nd semester
For students who are arriving only for the 2nd
semester “Orientation Day” is held, with the
same type of programme as Orientation
Week.
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Rector’s welcome dinner for new
international students – End of November
Each year the Rector of the University of
Aveiro invites the new international students
to dinner, giving them the chance to meet one
another and to chat with members of staff on
an informal basis.
Open Week of Science
and Technology – November
Experiments, exhibitions, guided tours,
seminars, field trips, project presentations,
theatre shows and films are just some of the
types of activity taking place during the Open
Week of Science and Technology. Over these
six days, the University is visited by thousands
of people from all over Portugal. A full
programme can be found at
http://event.ua.pt/semct
University Anniversary – 15th of December
In December of each year, the University
celebrates the anniversary of its foundation
with official ceremonies and concerts.
Job Fair – April or May
The job fair is organised by the University to
promote employment opportunities for final
year students, bringing student and potential
employers together. Further information can
be obtained through http://event.ua.pt/
feirademprego/.
Student Week – May
In other Portuguese cities, the students call
student week “Queima das Fitas” (the burning
of the ribbons). In Aveiro it’s called “Semana
do Enterro” (burial week), when the students
bid adieu to yet another academic year, and
have a last bash before the final exams. The
students parade through the streets with a
symbolic coffin, to bury the year. There are
concerts, discos, class dinners, sports events
and lots more. And no classes!
Open Day – End of May
Open day provides an opportunity for the staff
and students of the University to present their
work to the whole community; primary and
secondary school students, business and
industry, scientists, researchers and the
general public. Details are available through
http://event.ua.pt/diaberto/.
University Day – End of May
On University Day, the graduate awards
ceremony takes place for new graduates of
the University of Aveiro.
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Registration
Registration is the act whereby students
choose the course units (subjects) they wish
to study. Only students who have been
formally accepted by the University are
entitled to register. Upon registration, students
are issued with a student card and number,
an e-mail address, a login and password for
use of PACO – the virtual secretariat – and a
library account.
How to register
Full-time students
The first time you register (i.e matriculation),
you must go to the Academic Services desk
on the ground floor of the Central Rectory
Building on the main Campus. For details
about the documents you will need to
present, please see www.sac.ua.pt or contact
academ@adm.ua.pt.
· A copy of your personal health insurance
form;
· Passport or ID Card
· 2 passport size colour photographs
Within 5 days after registration you will receive
a student card giving you access to the
University services (library, canteens etc.) as
well as to an e-mail account and Internet
access, which are free of charge.
Exchange students
The registration of Erasmus students takes
place at the International Office. Before
registration, you should meet your ECTS
Departmental Co-ordinator here to finalise
your study plan, and if necessary, amend your
ECTS Learning Agreement. For registration
you will need:
Postgraduate students and researchers
Registration takes place at the Postgraduate
Office. Once you have been admitted to a
programme of study or research, you will
receive a letter from the Postgraduate Office
describing the registration process. If in
difficulty, please contact academ@adm.ua.pt.
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General student administration matters
Throughout the year, matters relating to
matriculation, registration, attendance and
grades, fees, equivalence of academic titles,
issue of diplomas and certificates as well as
other student administration matters should
be dealt with at the Academic Services
each day from 09h00 to 16h00.
Many of these matters can be dealt with on
the web at the Virtual Secretariat located on
the PACO webpages (http://paco.ua.pt). By
using the pin number, issued by the
Academic Services, each student can monitor
his or her academic progress, check
registration, see grades, check registration for
exams and check their fee status. It is also
possible to register on-line, request
certificates and carry out other administrative
requests on-line.
Contact:
Divisão de Serviços Académicos
Edifício da Reitoria, piso 1
Tel: 234 370 347
Fax: 234 381 432
E-mail: academ@adm.ua.pt
Internet: www.sac.ua.pt
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Fees and Funding
Tuition fees
At the University of Aveiro, there are tuition
fees for undergraduate and postgraduate
degree programmes, as well as for
postgraduate research assignments. Postdoctoral researchers do not pay tuition
however.
Undergraduate Fees In Portugal, all
undergraduate students are expected to
collaborate with the State and with Public
Higher Education Institutions in the funding of
higher education, by means of payment of a
tuition fee. The value of the tuition fee is the
same for all students and is calculated
independently of the individual social and
economic circumstances of the students. The
annual fee, which fixed annually by the
University at a value of between 463 and 852
euros, is payable in two instalments, the first
upon the act of registration in September and
the second the following February. The fee
can be paid at any automatic teller machine
(ATM) or in person at the Academic Services
Desk on the ground floor of the Rectory
Building on Campus.
Postgraduate and Research Fees For
Postgraduate degree programmes and
research assignments, the tuition fees vary
according to the area of study/research. The
table below gives the annual value of the
tuition fees. Further details can be obtained
from the website of the Institute for Graduate
Education and Research. Fees are paid in
four annual instalments, the first of which is
required upon the act of enrolment at the
University.
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Area
PhD
Masters
Postgraduate
Diploma
Postgraduate
Research
Arts, Science, Engineering
2.750!
2.250!
150! per Credit Unit
230! per month
Economics,Management
2.325!
1.875!
195! per month
Mathematics,Education
Sciences
2.325!
1.875!
195! per month
Humanities,Social Sciences
2.000!
1.500!
167! per month
Notes:
At first time registration (only) there is a matriculation fee corresponding to 10% of the annual tuition fee,
payable in one instalment.
There are no fees for post-doctoral research
Exemption from Tuition Fees Under the
terms of some of the University’s bilateral and
multilateral agreements with institutions of
higher education outside Portugal,
undergraduate and postgraduate students
and researchers might be exempt from tuition
fees at UA (although they may still be required
to pay tuition fees at their home institution).
Those in doubt about whether or not they
are required to pay tuition fees at UA
should contact the International Office for
advice.
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Scholarships
Searching for a Scholarship
All students and researchers are ultimately
responsible for their own funding
arrangements. Candidates should be aware
that many countries have research institutes,
private enterprises, state and semi-state
bodies or local authority / government
departments who can offer scholarships and
grants. Those searching for grants may find
help from websites or publications such as
these:
IEFA – International Education Financial Aid.
The website http://www.iefa.org contains a
searchable database of scholarships
worldwide
UNESCO The website (http://
www.unesco.orgb) contains information on
Educational, Scientific and Cultural
programmes (including some information on
funding) organised by UNESCO
Study Abroad, A directory of scholarships
published by UNESCO, containing countryby-country lists of grants for studying all over
the world.
The Grants Register, published by Macmillan,
includes information on a variety of
scholarships, fellowships and research grants,
exchange and vacation study opportunities,
professional and vocational grants.
University of Aveiro Scholarships and
Grants
The University of Aveiro offers a very limited
number of scholarships for postgraduate
study and research. International students are
eligible to apply. The application process
takes the form of an open competition held
annually at the Academic Services of the
University. Further information can be
obtained through the Graduate Studies
Institute of the University of Aveiro (website
http://www.posgrad.ua.pt/en_intro.asp) and
the Research Institute of the University of
Aveiro (website http://www.ii.ua.pt).
The University of Aveiro may offer limited
financial assistance to exchange mobility
students in cases where there are previously
defined funding arrangements set out in the
inter-institutional protocols and agreements.
Information about these arrangements should
be requested at the home institution of the
candidate.
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Government Sponsored Scholarships
and Grants
Ministry of Education Students from
countries outside Portugal can apply for a
national maintenance grant only if their
country offers reciprocal possibilities to
Portuguese students applying abroad (please
contact Portuguese Embassy in your country
for information about eligibility to apply for one
of these grants). The application for a
maintenance grant is made directly to the
Social Services of University of Aveiro. For
information about applications, see the Social
Services website at www.sas.ua.pt (click on
“bolsas de estudo”). Note that these grants
are destined for students coming from lower
income groups.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The Portuguese Institute for Development
Support (IPAD) (website http://
www.ipad.mne.gov.pt/inicio.htm) coordinates
the distribution of study scholarships for
students of African Countries where the
Official Language is Portuguese as well as
students from Timor. These scholarships are
awarded only to candidates for full-time
studies at Portuguese Universities who gain
admission to University by means of the
Special Regimes for Access to Higher
Education. The application process is
conducted in the candidate’s home country.
Interested persons should contact the
Portuguese diplomatic authorities in their
home countries for information on how to apply.
In addition, the Camoes Institute (website
www.instituto-camoes.pt) promotes a
scholarship programme to support studies
and research in Portuguese Language and
Culture. Lists of programmes and eligible
countries is available on the Institute’s
website.
Ministry of Science and Higher Education
The Foundation for Science and Technology
(FCT) of the Ministry of Science and Higher
Education hosts competitions for research
scholarships and fellowships and distributes
information about scholarships from other
institutions. All of the necessary information is
available on the website
(http://www.fct.mct.pt/)
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Non-Government Sources of Funding
in Portugal
The Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation The
Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation (see http://
www.gulbenkian.pt/fundacao/fundacao.asp)
has scholarship programmes for international
students and / or researchers including: a
Scholarship Programme for Cooperation and
Development” (for students from African
Countries where the Official Language is
Portuguese); Scholarships for Postgraduate
Training and Research; Study Scholarships for
Armenian citizens pursuing their studies in the
Middle East, Europe, Latin America, Canada
and Australia. The regulations and application
forms for these and other scholarship
programmes are available from the
Foundation’s website.
European Union Funding for Study
and Research
The European Union provides various forms
of financial support for study and research
within the member states. Most countries
have national contact points where
information on eligibility and applications can
be obtained. Some of the EU funding
programmes are targeted at students already
enrolled in a University and who wish to
spend a short study period in a HEI of a
member state. The main funding
programmes are:
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Programme
Type of funding for studying abroad available through this programme
Where to find information at the European
Commission http://europa.eu.int/comm
Alban
Postgraduate study and research grants for students from 18 countries in Latin
America to achieve a degree title in one of the EU Member States.
External Relations DG (EuropeAid
Co-operation Office)
Alfa
Funding for PhD students from Latin America to complete part of their
programme at a Higher Education Institution in the European Union. Must be
within the framework of a previously approved network. Candidates must be
registered at one of the participating HEIs.
External Relations DG (EuropeAid
Co-operation Office)
Tempus
Funding for undergraduate and postgraduate students from various countries in
central and eastern Europe, the Western Balkans and the Mediterranean
Countries to undertake studies within the framework of a previously approved
joint project involving a network of Higher Education Institutions. Candidates
must be registered at one of the participating HEIs.
DG for Education & Culture
Socrates/
ERASMUS 2
Funding for undergraduate and postgraduate students from the European Union
and a restricted number of associated countries to participate in bilateral student
exchanges. Candidates must be registered at one of the participating HEIs.
ERASMUS
Mundus
Postgraduate study grants for students from countries worldwide to achieve an
EU supported Joint Masters Degree in two European HEIs.
EU-US
Cooperation
Possibilities for funding for European and US students to participate in various
forms of student mobility within the framework of previously approved joint
projects involving networks of Higher Education Institutions. Candidates must
be registered at one of the participating HEIs.
EU-Canada
Cooperation
Possibilities for funding for European and Canadian students to participate in
various forms of student mobility within the framework of previously approved
joint projects involving networks of Higher Education Institutions. Candidates
must be registered at one of the participating HEIs.
VI Framework
Programme
Funding for the mobility of young researchers.
Research DG
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Assessment and grades
Assessment Types
There are various forms of assessment used
for degree programmes at the University of
Aveiro and its Polytechnic Schools. These
include continuous assessment, periodic
testing, assignments, final exams, or
combinations of these. The assessment
methods to be used are chosen by the
teacher, who provides details during the first
week of classes. Full details about
assessment procedures and methods are
available in the individual course regulations.
Grades
The final classification for any given discipline is expressed on a scale of 0 to 20, where a
student must obtain a minimum of 10 in order to pass the course. The grading scale can be
roughly defined as follows:
Repeat Examinations
Undergraduate students who are
unsuccessful in examinations have a chance
to repeat exams during an exam period which
takes place shortly after the final exam period.
Note that teachers may refuse to allow
students to repeat their exams if they achieve
a very low grade (i.e. a grade which is below
the so-called “minimum classification”) first
time round.
Students may also postpone up to a
maximum of 4 exams of any given academic
year, by taking exams in June. (an “annual”
course unit examination counts as 2 exams)
Grading Scale
Definition
19
Excellent – outstanding performance with only minor errors
17
Very Good – above the average standard but with some errors
15
Good – generally sound work with a number of notable errors
13
Satisfactory – fair but with significant short-comings
11
Sufficient – performance meets the minimum criteria
8
Fail – further work required before the credit can be awarded
Note that some teachers may chose to evaluate theoretical and practical work separately,
setting a minimum pass mark in each component in order for credit to be awarded. For
example, in an examination where the teacher sets the minimum pass mark for the theoretical
exam as 9, a student who gets 8 in the theoretical part of the examination is not awarded
credit, even if his/her average for the theoretical and practical components combined is above 10.
Attendance at classes
Undergraduate students are generally obliged to attend “practical” classes. Those who miss
more than one third of the practical classes will automatically fail the course unit and are not
allowed to participate in repeat examinations during the same academic year. In addition,
student enrolled in 1st year university courses are obliged to attend at least two thirds of tutorials
(different rules may apply to the courses at UAs polytechnic institutes). Attendance at theory
classes is not obligatory.
Attendance at classes for postgraduates is not compulsory as a general rule. Individual
professors will set the standards they require.
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Credit System
Credit Units (UC) All courses at UA are
organised according to a credit unit system
(always referred to as “UC”). The credit unit
system limits the number of course units (i.e.
subjects) for which a student can register as
well as the number of course units which a
student can postpone taking exams until a
later date as he or she progresses from year
to year. The credit units also affect the final
average grade of the student. This is because
the grade given for any subject is calculated
in accordance with its weighting in terms of
credit units.
ECTS Credits The European Union promotes
interuniversity cooperation as a means of
improving the quality of education for the
benefit of students and higher education
institutions, and student mobility is a
predominant element of that interuniversity
cooperation. The Erasmus programme clearly
demonstrates that studying abroad can be a
particularly valuable experience as it is not
only the best way to learn about other
countries, ideas, languages and cultures;
increasingly it is also an important element in
academic and professional career
development.
The recognition of studies and diplomas is a
prerequisite for the creation of an Open
European Area of education and training
where students and teachers can move
without obstacles. That is why the European
Credit Transfer System (ECTS) was developed
in a pilot scheme established within the
Erasmus programme as a means of improving
academic recognition for study abroad. The
external evaluation of ECTS has
demonstrated the potential of the system and
the European Commission has decided to
include ECTS in its proposal for the Socrates
programme, in particular in Chapter 1 on
higher education (Erasmus). The ECTS
system is now moving from its restricted pilot
stage towards a much wider use as an
element of the European dimension in higher
education.
education. The ECTS system is based on
three core elements: information (on study
programmes and student achievement),
mutual agreement (between the partner
institutions and the student) and the use of
ECTS credits (to indicate student workload).
The ECTS Information Pack and
Application Forms
The web based version of the University of
Aveiro’s ECTS information package is found at
http://acesso.ua.pt/ects/default_en.asp and
contains all of the course unit details
necessary for filling in the ECTS Learning
Agreement as well as the institutional
information necessary for filling in the ECTS
Application Form.
ECTS provides an instrument to create
transparency, to build bridges between
institutions and to widen the choices available
to students. The system makes it easier for
institutions to recognise the learning
achievements of students through the use of
commonly understood measurements –
credits and grades – and it also provides a
means to interpret national systems of higher
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Language of instruction
With some exceptions, the programmes at
the University of Aveiro are conducted
through Portuguese. International applicants
will need good knowledge of the language in
order to follow the lectures, read the course
material and sit the exams.
The University of Aveiro is a national
examination centre for the official Portuguese
Language Certificate. Further information
about the certificate and the examinations can
be obtained through the Instituto Camões in
Lisbon.
International Students can obtain special
permission to carry out thesis work towards
Master or Doctoral Degrees in languages
other than Portuguese, typically English or
French.
Basic words and sentences in Portuguese
Although many young people in Portugal
speak English, it is useful to know some basic
words and expressions in Portuguese:
Learning Portuguese as a Foreign
Language
Language support is provided through
Portuguese language classes for beginners
and intermediate learners held at the
Department of Languages and Cultures. The
time-tables of the classes are quite flexible in
order to suit students’ needs.
An International Summer School in
Portuguese Language and Civilisation is also
held each summer at the Department of
Languages and Cultures, targeted at
intermediate and advanced learners.
Further information about language
preparation courses at UA can be found at
http://www.dlc.ua.pt/
Yes = Sim
No = Não
Thank you = Obrigado
You’re welcome = De nada
Please = Por favor / Se faz favor
Excuse me = Com licença
Hello = Olá
Goodbye = Adeus / Tchau
Good morning = Bom dia
Good afternoon = Boa tarde
Good evening = Boa noite
Good night = Boa noite
I do not understand = Não percebo
How do you say this in …? = Como é que se
diz isso em …?
Do you speak … ? = Fala …? / Falas…?
(informal)
English = inglês
French = francês
German = alemão
Spanish = espanhol
I = Eu
We = Nós
You (singular) = Tu (informal) / Você (formal)
You (plural) = Vocês / Vós
They = Eles(m), Elas (f)
What is your name? = Como é que se
chama? / Como é que te chamas? (informal)
Nice to meet you. = Muito gosto. / Prazer.
How are you? = Como está? / Tudo bem?
(informal)
Good = Bem
Bad = Mal
So so = Mais ou menos
Large = grande
Small = pequeno
Where is the bathroom? the toilet? = Onde é
o quarto de banho? a casa de banho?
University = universidade
Classes = aulas
Exam(s) = exame(s)
Grade(s) = nota(s)
Teacher = professor
Book(s) = livro(s)
To study = estudar
zero = zero
one = um (m), uma (f)
two = dois (m), duas (f)
three = três
four = quatro
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five = cinco
six = seis
seven = sete
eight = oito
nine = nove
ten = dez
eleven = onze
twelve = doze
thirteen = treze
fourteen = catorze
fifteen = quinze
sixteen = dezasseis
seventeen = dezassete
eighteen = dezoito
nineteen = dezanove
twenty = vinte
twenty one = vinte e um
thirty = trinta
forty = quarenta
fifty = cinquenta
sixty = sessenta
seventy = setenta
eighty = oitenta
ninety = noventa
one hundred = cem
one thousand = mil
one million = um milhão
How much does this cost? = Quanto custa?
What is this? = Que é isto?
Do you have … = O senhor tem …(formal) /
Tu tens? (informal)
Open = Aberto (m), Aberta (f)
Closed = Fechado (m), Fechada (f)
A little = Pouco (m), Pouca (f)
A lot = Muito (m), Muita (f)
To eat = comer
Food = comida
To drink = beber
Beverage = bebida
Breakfast = Pequeno-almoço
Lunch = Almoço
Dinner = Jantar
Bread = Pão
Coffee = Café
Tea = Chá
Juice = Sumo
Water = Água
Beer = Cerveja
Wine = Vinho
Meat = Carne
Fish = Peixe
Fruit = Fruta
Where is the (museum)? = Onde fica (o
museu)?
Left = À esquerda
Right = À direita
Straight = A direito
Up = Para cima; Acima
Down = Para baixo; Abaixo
Far = Longe
Near = Perto
What time is it? = Que horas são?
7:13 = Sete e treze
3:15 = Três e quinze / Três e um quarto
11:30 = Onze e trinta / Onze e meia
1:45 = Uma e quarenta e cinco / Um quarto
para as duas
Day = Dia
Week = Semana
Month = Mês
Year = Ano
Monday = Segunda-feira, Segunda
Tuesday = Terça-feira, Terça
Wednesday = Quarta-feira, Quarta
Thursday = Quinta-feira, Quinta
Friday = Sexta-feira, Sexta
Saturday = Sábado
Sunday = Domingo
January = Janeiro
February = Fevereiro
March = Março
April = Abril
May = Maio
June = Junho
July = Julho
August = Agosto
September = Setembro
October = Outubro
November = Novembro
December = Dezembro
Today = Hoje
Yesterday = Ontem
Tomorrow = Amanhã
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Learning resources
Library and reading rooms
Located at the heart of the university campus,
the main library of the University holds more
than 175 thousand books, 1400
videocassettes and hundreds of CD-Roms as
well as online publications and databases
(http://www.doc.ua.pt/).
Among the some 5000 periodicals that the
library receives, there are not only scientific,
literary and specialist artistic publications, but
also newspapers and magazines that can be
read at leisure in the comfortable informal
reading room overlooking the salt mines.
As well as hosting all the modern information
services necessary for study and research,
the library provides very comfortable reading
facilities. Designed by the internationally
acclaimed architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, the UA
library is an ex-libris of the campus, with 1000
study spaces divided among three reading
rooms as well closed reading rooms for group
work and use of audiovisual equipment.
Users can access the library catalogue (http://
www.doc.ua.pt/opac/) , reserve a document
or order photocopies online. For advanced
research there are dozens of on-line
databases available through the library
website as well as an advanced research
room hosting academic CD-Roms.
Other library resources and reading rooms
available include the Education Library for
book and non-book material mainly for
students of education, the library of the
Higher Institute for Accounting and
Administration (http://www.isca.ua.pt/html/
biblioteca.html), the reading room of the
Águdea Higher School of Technology and
Management and the 24 hour reading room
of the Pedagogical Complex.
Computing Facilities
The University has extensive computing
facilities both within each Department and
Polytechnic School and at the Computing and
Communications Centre (CICUA). Apart from
a wireless network on the main campus, there
is a campus-wide Gigabit and Fast Ethernet
based network linking the Departments, the
Library and the Administrative and Academic
Services, giving access to the Internet and
through it to services like the World Wide
Web. On the main Campus there is also a
fibre-optic Network providing for the
distribution of video and advanced data
communications facilities.
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Use of PCs The University has over 4000
PCs, of which around 2400 are exclusively for
student use.
in specific fields. Access is restricted to
students and researchers of the various
departments.
Each Department and Polytechnic School has
PC labs for student use (many with printing
facilities), which are linked to the University
network, as well as specialised labs providing
the software necessary for study and research
In addition, CICUA runs 3 open-access PC
Labs on the main University Campus for
student use, providing access to a range of
applications on a Windows operating system,
as well as scanners and printers.
Lab location
Opening hours
Scanner
CICUA
Mon-Fri09h00 – 20h00
14
1
1
-
Building 1
20
-
-
-
Pedagogical
Complex
20
1
1
-
PCs
Lamega ZIP
Printing services
E-mail All students and researchers registered
at the University of Aveiro receive a University
e-mail account, which is valid for their
registration period. The logins and passwords
are issued upon registration. General access
(and secure access) can be had via WebMail
(thus from any computer locally or remotely),
POP3 or IMAP4 servers.
Remote Access to the University network If
you have a private telephone line you can
request remote access to the University
network. Links via modem and/or ISDN make
it possible to work on the system as if
integrated locally and use the internet.
Remote access must be requested at CICUA.
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For those who already have internet access
from home, it is possible to request a VPN
service (Virtual Private Network). Once linked
via VPN, your remote system is virtually
transported, via internet, to within the
University’s system giving the impression that
there is a link to the local network and
providing access to the resources there,
including the virtual secretariat, shared
network resources (printers etc.) and the
“Web Knowledge” document base.
Wireless Network Users who have a portable
computer with a wireless network board can
read their e-mail or access the web from
numerous locations around the main Campus
without having to hook up their modems. Full
details on the requisites, operating systems,
necessary logins and configurations are
available at the website
http://www.wireless.ua.pt/ (Site in
Portuguese. If you need help to understand
the contents of the site, contact the
International Office staff).
Need Help? If you need help with using the
systems and services available on the
University networks, check the CICUA
webpage at www.cic.ua.pt. CICUA publishes
user manuals and offers advice and
instruction through its pages. Alternatively, you
can contact the Help Desk, which is open
from Monday to Friday from 09h00 – 12h30
and from 14h00 to 17h30.
Mail – helpdesk@cic.ua.pt
External Telephone number – 234 07 00 99
Internal Extension number – 22299
Personal web pages Anybody registered at
the University of Aveiro can store a personal
webpage on the “SWEET” server. Those
interested should contact CICUA for
authorisation.
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Web supported learning Many teachers at
the University use WebCT technology to
deliver course content and set coursework as
well as to facilitate on-line group work,
individual tutoring and even assessment. The
Centre for Multimedia and Distance Education
(CEMED) manages the servers and provides
the technical means for web supported
learning at UA, in a tailored programme called
“Ensino@distância” (located at
http://www.cemed.ua.pt/ed). Participation is
voluntary and the level and kind of web use is
the choice of the individual teaching staff.
International students should ask their
teachers about how to get involved.
To participate, students will need to have
some experience of using the world wide
web, e-mail and newsrooms. On the website,
there is a users manual (in English) for
students to learn more about how to work
with WebCT.
Virtual Secretariat – PACO Standing around
in queues to register for courses is a thing of
the past. At UA, students register on-line
through the Virtual Secretariat
(https://paco.ua.pt). They can view their exam
results and check their credit accumulation.
Note however that first-time registrations are
carried out on paper. Upon first registration,
new students receive their username and
password for future use of PACO.
Off campus Internet access Throughout the
city there is an increasing number of internet
access points (internet cafés etc.) popping up
all the time. Particularly interesting is Aveiro’s
“Cidade Digital” project which offers public
internet access free of charge in a laboratory
in town just in front of the City Hall.
The Virtual Secretariat is the “virtual” face of
the Academic Services of the University.
Candidates for taught postgraduate degrees
can apply through the Virtual Secretariat.
Before filling in the application form on-line, it
is very important to read the public notice
(“edital”) of the call for applications, which is
available on the Academic Services
Homepage (http://www.sac.ua.pt) or posted
on the notice boards in the Academic
Services offices at the Central Rectory
Building on the main Campus.
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Study Visa and Residence Permit
Entering Portugal
To enter Portuguese territory, all students
must be bearers of a travel document i.e. a
valid passport. EU nationals may present their
national ID card.
Border controls are in place whenever
travelling directly from a country which is not
a signatory of the Schengen Convention. Visa
holders travelling to Portugal from outside
Schengen countries are required to have their
passports stamped at the Immigrations
Bureau within three days of their arrival in
Portugal.
Residing in Portugal
Portuguese law welcomes the free movement
of students between member states of the
European Union and the Schengen space as
well as the admission of students from other
countries in order to carry out study or
research.
What documents?
Study visa The study visa is necessary for all
students from countries outside the European
Union or Schengen space. There are some
exceptions however. For instance, Portugal
has agreements with some countries around
the world to exempt students from the need
to hold a visa (quite rare exceptions!).
The study visa can be obtained from the
Portuguese diplomatic representative of your
country (i.e. the Portuguese Embassy or
Consulate)
The visa is valid for multiple entries into
Portugal and is valid for a maximum period of
one year (it can be renewed while the visa
holder is in Portugal).
Family members of visa holders may
accompany the student for the period of stay
by requesting, before entry into Portugal, a
temporary visa at the Embassy or consulate
of the country where they reside.
Residence Permit All EU students and
students from Schengen countries, and any
accompanying family members should apply
for a residence permit within 90 days of entry
into Portugal.
Summary
Who needs one?
Passport
Everybody. However, EU nationals or nationals of countries that have signed the Schengen
agreement may use their national ID cards instead.
Study Visa
All students and researchers from countries that are not members of the EU or from any other
country that has not signed the Schengen agreement, unless the country has a special
agreement with Portugal to provide exemption from study visas.
Residence Permit
Students and researchers from EU countries or from countries that have signed the Schengen
Agreement should apply for one within 90 days after arriving in Portugal.
Temporary Residence Authorisation
Family members who want to accompany students and researchers on student visas for the
duration of the study period.
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Avoid misunderstandings
Here are some common misunderstandings regarding the question of visas…
“I can go to Portugal and apply for a study
visa when I arrive”.
False. The application must be made from your country of residence and the visa must be
attached to the passport before you travel to Portugal.
“When I get to Portugal I can take a bus to
Spain and make the Visa application from
there”
False. The visa application must be made from your country of residence. The Portuguese
Embassy and Consulates in Spain will not accept your application.
“I can go to Portugal for 90 days as a tourist
and then apply for a study visa”.
False. If you have been accepted to study or research at the University of Aveiro, then you are
not a tourist in the legal sense. You are a student. Therefore you need a student visa.
I have a study visa for 1 year but I’m staying
in Portugal for 3 years, so I can apply for a
residence permit”.
False. If your study or research position at the University extends beyond the period of the
validity of your visa, you must apply for a renewal of the visa before the visa expires. You can
apply at the immigrations bureau in Aveiro.
“My study visa gives me the right to move
freely within the European Union”.
False. The study visa for Portugal is valid for Portugal alone. If you want to travel to other
European countries, you must respect their national legal requirements for visas etc..
“I can get a work permit in Portugal”.
False. If you have been accepted to study or research at the University of Aveiro, then you are
not eligible for a work visa and therefore cannot be employed in public or private
establishments.
“The University of Aveiro is responsible for
making sure I have a valid visa or residence
permit”.
False. The student or researcher is ultimately responsible for ensuring that he/she has the
correct documentation. However we will provide as much information and advice as possible in
order to help students.
Portuguese Embassies and Consulates Worldwide
A full list of Portuguese embassies and consulates worldwide can be found at the website of
the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at http://www.min-nestrangeiros.pt/mne/estrangeiro/
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Accommodation
Accommodation request
The request for accommodation is made in the following way:
Exchange Students (Erasmus, ECIU, Campus
Europae, etc.)
Make the request using the Visiting Student
Application Form, available at
www.adm.ua.pt/sre/gri
Postgraduate and research students
Use the International Postgraduate Student
Application for Accommodation available at
www.adm.ua.pt/sre/gri
Full-time undergraduate degree students
Make the application directly to the Social
Services
Once your application is received by the
International Office, the request is sent to the
Social Services. Filling in the application form
for accommodation does not guarantee a
placement.
Although every effort is made to
accommodate international students at the
halls of residence, it is important to bear in
mind that the availability of this type of
accommodation is always inferior to the
demand. In any case, around 70% of
international students are housed at halls of
residence.
Types of accommodation
There are two types of accommodation: the
university halls of residence (on and off
campus) and private accommodation in town
(student flats).
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University halls of residence The following
paragraphs provide a brief description of the
halls of residence. For full details, students
should contact the Social Services of the
University, which is service that is responsible
for all matters regarding the management of
the University halls of residence:
Location
Social Services Building
Campus Universitário de Santiago
3810 Aveiro
General Enquiries
Tel. + 351 234 37 03 48
Fax. + 351 234 42 91 16
Mail: sas@ua.pt
Web: http://www.sas.ua.pt
Opening Hours
Monday – Friday, 09h00-16h00
(excluding holidays)
Halls of residence for undergraduate students
are separate from those for postgraduate
students. All of the halls of residence have
single or shared rooms with access to a
common kitchen and living room.
Prices and payment of halls of residence
Please note that the following prices are
based merely on approximate average prices.
Details are available from the Social Services
and are also provided when an offer is made.
The bedrooms are fully furnished and are
equipped with bed-linen and duvet as well as
hand towels and bath towels. The bathrooms
are shared. Linen and towels are changed
each week and all common living areas are
cleaned daily. The kitchen is equipped with a
fridge and a cooker, but not cutlery, crockery
or cooking utensils. Detailed information is
available on the webpage of the Social
Services.
For undergraduate students, the rent for
single room on campus is approximately
140! per month. Off campus the rent for a
shared room is approximately 120! per
month (there are no single rooms in the halls).
Postgraduate students and researchers will
pay around 150! for a single room on
Campus and approximately 210! for a single
room off campus. A shared room off campus
for a postgraduate student will cost in the
region of 180!.
All halls of residence are within comfortable
walking distance from the main University
campus.
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There are a limited number of one-bedroom
apartments available on Campus for
international PhD students and post-doctorate
researchers, starting from approximately 260!
per month.
All residents are required to pay a refundable
deposit at the beginning of the contractual
period. The value of the deposit is equal to
one month’s rent (this means that on the day
you move in you will pay the equivalent of two
months rent).
Payments are made on a monthly basis at the
Social Services buildings on Campus (by cash
or cheque only). All contracts run out at the
end of the academic year, when students are
expected to make final payments. It is not
possible to remain at the student residences
during the summer holidays.
Finding accommodation in the private
sector For students who do not live at the
University residences, there are other options.
Many students share flats nearby the campus
or in the city centre. The International Office
provides international students with contact
numbers for students who want to rent a flat.
Typical prices of private sector
accommodation: Generally speaking, the
rent does not include the costs of energy,
communications and water.
Single room
in a student flat
150!/ month / person
Double room
in a student
125! / month / person
Private apartment
400! / month
We gratefully acknowledge the kindness of
the many home students who volunteer to
assist new international students when they
are looking for a flat.
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Temporary Accommodation
Because we cannot book private sector
accommodation on behalf of students, it is
advisable to make a booking at a guesthouse
in town for the first few days of your stay
(around 18! per night for a single room is a
reasonable price by Aveiro standards).
Information on the various options available is
available from the tourist board’s website at
http://www.rotadaluz.aveiro.co.pt/ The
international office can also provide help and
advice with this matter. Just send us an email or a fax message.
Accommodation for your family
International students and researchers who
will be accompanied by family members are
advised to arrive in advance of their families in
order to search for suitable accommodation.
There is a limited availability of family type
accommodation at the University halls of
residence, therefore some families will need to
look to the private sector, whether it be
through advertisements in the local
newspapers or via estate agencies. Naturally
the International Office staff will provide
assistance with the search.
Change of accommodation
If for any reason you wish to move out of
privately rented accommodation before an
agreed date, you are required to give at least
4 week’s notice. This allows the owner of the
apartment time to find a replacement. In this
case you are entitled to a refund of any
deposit paid.
Students wishing to move out of University
residences must also give 4 weeks notice at
the Housing Sector office. Moving room within
a student residence block is possible, but
subject to availability.
In any case, if you are thinking of moving,
please seek advice from the International
Office staff before making arrangements.
Laundry Services
If you are living in an apartment with no
washing machine, you have the option to use
the University’s self-service laundry, which is
located on Campus. For a reasonably small
fee, clothes can be washed and dried any
weekday between 09h00 and 16h00.
Machines are operated by tokens which can
be purchased at the reception desk.
Most of the halls of residence have laundry
areas for hand washing and for drying. Ironing
boards and irons are generally available for
student use too.
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Health care
Where to go in case of illness?
Public Health Clinic The Public Health Clinic
(“Centro de Saúde”), located 500 metres from
the University Campus, is run through the
National Health System in order to provide
general healthcare for the general public. In
case of sudden illness you should go to the
permanent attendance service (SAP).
Hospital Aveiro District Hospital is also run
through the National Health System and is
located across the road from the University
Campus. The emergency section of the
hospital is open 24 hours a day. Only in cases
of risk to life or real emergency should you go
to the emergencies section (“urgencies”).
Otherwise you should go to the “SAP” at the
nearest public health clinic.
University Medical Office The University
medical Office is located on Campus. The
service offers general practice, nursing and
gyneacology services for undergraduate
students only.
Private surgeries and clinics Apart from the
public services mentioned, there is a wide
variety of private medical care available in
Aveiro (general practice, dentists etc..) as well
as some private clinics for internment in more
serious cases.
Payments and healthcare insurance
Healthcare must always be paid for, either
directly by the patient or by means of a health
insurance policy. It is the student’s
responsibility to ensure that he/she has an
adequate health insurance policy.
information available at the Social Security
website (http://www.seg-social.pt/).~
Social Security System
Many students can benefit from the
international agreements in which Portugal
participates in order to gain access to the
Portuguese Social Security System, and through
it to the National Health System, particularly within
the framework of the following:
· At multilateral level, the Community
Regulations on Social Security, no. 1408/71
and no. 574/72, which include the member
states of the European Union as well as
Island, Lichtenstein, Norway, which are part
of the European Economic Area, as well as
Switzerland.
· At bilateral level, the conventions /
agreements celebrated with Andorra,
Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Cape Verde,
Canada, USA, Guine-Bissau, Marrocco,
Venezuela and Uruguay
For further information about these
conventions and agreements, students should
contact the social security services in their
home country before travelling to Portugal.
In addition, researchers who have research
grants from the Foundation for Science and
Technology (FCT) have the possibility of
enrolling voluntarily in the Portuguese Social
Security System. For further information,
please contact the FCT or read the
Reduced rates for students in private
sector healthcare
See the Social Services website for listings of
private surgeries and clinics where UA
students can benefit from reduced rates:
http://www.sas.ua.pt/nsas/saude_espec.asp
Pharmacies
Most pharmacies in Aveiro are open during
the week from 09h00 to 13h00 and from
15h00 to 19h00. On Saturday the opening
hours are from 09h00 to 13h00. They are
closed on Saturday afternoon and on Sunday.
Special 24-hour services are made available
by pharmacies on a rotation basis. The
addresses and telephone numbers of the
particular pharmacy on weekend and night
duty are provided in the local newspapers
and are listed in the front windows of all
pharmacies as well as on-line through the
local news sites like Aveiro
http://www.noticiasdeaveiro.pt
Vaccination
For the purposes of entering, residing and
studying in Portuguese territory, there are no
statutory requirements with respect to
vaccination. Nevertheless, the Portuguese
Ministry of Health highly recommends that all
citizens be vaccinated against tetanus, with a
maximum lapse of ten years between doses.
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Counselling Services
Specific problems related to study plan
(choice of subjects, need to repeat
examinations etc.)
Barriers to academic progress and difficulties
in meeting demands of academic life due to
problems of discrimination, depression and
others.
Who to contact
Exchange students and research students should talk to their appointed academic co-ordinator
or research supervisor. Full-time students should talk to their course director. More specific
information on who to contact can be obtained from the International Office.
Location
Gabinete Pedagógico Reitoria · Campus Universitário de Santiago · 3810 Aveiro
General Enquiries
Tel. + 351 234 37 02 06 · Fax. + 351 234 42 86 00 · Mail: gracinda@adm.ua.pt
Opening Hours
Weekdays, 09h00-12h30 and 14h00-17h00
Student Counsellor
Gracinda Martins
Appointments should be made in advance, via telephone or e-mail.
Psychological or psychiatric problems
Location
Social Services Building · Campus Universitário de Santiago · 3810 Aveiro
General Enquiries
Tel. + 351 234 37 03 48 · Fax. + 351 234 42 91 16 · Mail: sas@ua.pt
Opening Hours
One afternoon per week (to be arranged)
Appointments should be made in advance at the student reception desk.
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“Food glorious food”
Portuguese Cooking
Like many aspects of Portuguese society and
culture, Portuguese cooking is heavily
influenced by the travels of the Portuguese
people throughout the world, from India to
Newfoundland. While the Mediterranean
ingredients like olive oil, garlic, onions, lemons
and bay leaves have an essential role in
seasoning the main dishes, oriental spices
and north sea cod are equally characteristic
of the meals served in every home and
restaurant.
The meat is seasoned with spices and often
infused with wine, accompanied by potatoes,
rice and vegetables, and there are some
curious meat and shell-fish combinations. The
soups of Portugal can be light and nutritious
with vegetables and legumes, or made in a
heavier country style with broad beans, kidney
beans, chick peas or rice.
For those who enjoy the delicacies of a region
rich in sea-food, the eel and sea-food
chowders of Aveiro must not be missed. The
regions’ desserts originate from the old
convents; “ovos em fio” (sweetened egg in
strings), “pão-de-ló” (a typical sponge cake)
and “ovos moles” (a rich egg and sugar paste
used for cake fillings).
There are also a number of bars on Campus
which serve breakfast, coffee and snacks
each weekday between 08h30 and 17h30.
The University owned bars are subsidised,
while others on Campus are privately owned
and therefore not subsidised.
University Canteens and Bars
On Campus, meals can be taken at any of
the University canteens, which are open for
lunch and dinner every day of the week
(including weekends). The basic price is
1.75! for soup, bread, a main dish and a
piece of fruit. Payment is made using meal
tickets, which can be purchased from vending
machines at various points around the campus.
Shopping for International Food
Although there is no supermarket on the
Campus, there are a number of supermarkets
within easy reach where a wide variety of
international foods are available. In addition,
there are a number of health food shops in
town which sell a wide range of cereals as
well as some spices. Sweet potatoes, fresh
fruit and vegetables as well as fresh meat, fish
and eggs are available not only in the
supermarkets but also at the open market-place
just 5 minutes from the residential complex.
If you are worried about observing dietary
restrictions for religious or health reasons, you
can consult the weekly menus on the web
(http://www.sas.ua.pt/) or look up the list at
the canteen entrance. Vegetarian dishes are
always available at the self-service canteen,
located next to the residential complex.
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Sport
Sports Clubs
To benefit fully from their time at the University, students are encouraged to keep fit and healthy.
The Students Union, in close collaboration with the Social Action Services, organises a packed
schedule of individual and team sports, aerobics, dancing and much more, providing an
excellent opportunity for international students to get to know the Portuguese. The activities
organised include:
11-a-side Soccer
Basketball
Handball
Rugby
Tennis
5-a-side Soccer
Bridge
Horse Riding
Speleology
Water Sports
Athletics
Chess
Karate (Shotokai)
Swimming
Yoga
Badminton
Draughts
Karate (Shotokan)
Sub-Aqua Diving
Baseball
Gymnastics
Motor Sports
Table-tennis
Sports Facilities on Campus
The University boasts state-of-the-art indoor
and outdoor facilities. The indoor complex
consists of a fully equipped games hall for
indoor matches (with a viewing gallery), a
fitness centre for dance, aerobics and karate,
a weights room with multi-gym equipment,
two squash courts and a sauna. Close by
there is the University athletics track,
equipped for the full range of track and field
events.
Sports Facilities off Campus
In town, there are large swimming-pool
complexes with which the University has
special arrangements for students, details of
which can be obtained through the Students
Union. Aveiro also has health centres,
gymnasiums, tennis complexes and two
football stadiums. Information about access to
these facilities can be found on location or
through the Students Union Sports
Department.
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Money matters
Cost of living
Characterising the cost of living of any
country is naturally conditioned by two
factors: where you live and how you live.
Living in the city is clearly not like living in an
inland town, where income, the cost access
to facilities etc. are often very different. In
Portugal for example, the prices tend to be
higher in the coastal cities, especially Lisbon,
Porto and the towns of the Algarve area.
Generally speaking however, if we compare
with countries regions the United States, the
United Kingdom, Germany, France or Japan
(to mention just a few examples), the cost
of living in Portugal can be considered to
be lower.
As an estimate, an undergraduate student in Aveiro will need somewhere between 450! and
600! per month for accommodation, food, study material and other basic expenses.
Estimate of monthly costs (not including tuition fees)
Accommodation
150 - 250!
Food
200!
Other expenses
100 - 150!
Total
450 - 600!
Postgraduate students can expect to pay more for accommodation and other expenses. Most
postgraduate students and researchers find the need around 900! per month to cover their
monthly expenses.
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Notes and coins
In circulation since January 1st 2002, the
Euro (abbreviation; EUR, symbol: !) is the
currency of Portugal as well as a large
number of other European Union countries.
The different denominations of the Euro
include notes of 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10
and 5 Euros and coins of 2 and 1 Euros as
well as the 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cent coins.
Euro notes are identical in all the Euro Zone
countries while the coins have one face with a
common symbolic image and one face with
national symbol or figure. The notes and
coins circulate within the Euro Zone.
Currency Exchange can be carried out in the
banks (open Monday – Friday from 08h30 to
15h00), in foreign exchange bureaus or
using ATM machines (although only for
purchase of Euros)
Automatic Teller Machines
Portugal has an excellent national inter-bank
network of ATMs (Automatic Teller Machines).
Multibanco terminals are widely distributed
among shopping centres, petrol stations,
shopping areas and of course the banks.
Apart from providing cash withdrawals of up
to 200! per day, other services are available,
including bank transfers, bank statements,
payments for public and private services,
purchase of train tickets and even the
purchase of tickets for public events like
football matches and shows.
Bank Accounts
International students can open bank
accounts in most banks as long as they
intend to stay for more than 3 months. To
open the account, you will need to present
identification as well as a tax number.
Students don’t pay tax in Portugal, but all
persons are issued with a tax number
anyway. To receive the tax number, you must
go to the Direcção Geral dos Impostos (i.e.
the tax office) located in at Loja de Cidadão
(the citizen’s service bureau, see
www.lojadocidadao.pt).
The ATMs can be used with Multibanco cards
issued by the banks. A wide variety of
international credit and debit cards are also
accepted (see www.sibs.pt).
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Transport and communication
Train
The national rail service, called Caminhos de
Ferro Portugueses, CP, offers five different
types of train services. The Alfa and
Intercidades services are the express
services, serving only the major cities, and are
the most expensive. The Inter-Regional and
Regional trains stop at smaller railway stations
as well as in the big cities. There are also
Suburbano trains, which cover short
distances in and around the main towns of
Portugal.
Aveiro city is located on the main northern
railway line known as Linha do Norte linking
Porto and Lisbon, thus it is a stop for a large
number of rail links. For information on prices
and timetables, consult the CP webpage at
http://www.cp.pt.
Express Buses
There are a number of private bus companies
running coach services between the major
cities in Portugal. Aveiro has no central bus
depot. Nevertheless, the largest companies
have regular services which stop at the bridge
in town centre and at the railway station.
Tickets for most destinations can be
purchased in Aveiro through a company
called Caima, located just 100 metres from
the railway station. It is best to buy tickets
one or two days in advance as there is
usually a high demand for places. Note that
you can get reductions with a EURO<26 card.
The national coach network, called Rede
Expresso, also runs services between Aveiro
and many cities throughout the country.
Timetables and price lists are available from
the website at http://www.rede-expressos.pt.
City Buses
The integrated city bus network is run by the
Urban Transport Services of Aveiro (TUA)
serving all parts of the town. Lines 5 and 7
serve the University.
Tickets can be bought in advance at any post
office or at the University Students Union. It is
also possible to pay the driver directly
although this is more expensive.
Minibuses Minibuses are a useful alternative
to city buses, travelling every twenty minutes
by two routes, the so-called “blue” and
“green” routes, between the railway station
and the University Campus. Ticket purchase
and prices are identical to the city bus
network.
Buga
A “Buga” is a bike which can be borrowed on
a casual basis for getting around Aveiro town
centre. There are bike parks situated
throughout the town, the largest (and most
dependable) one being located at the Forum
shopping arcade. Buga users simply insert a
50 cent coin in a slot and take a bike. The
coin is returned at any bike park (functions
like a shopping trolley system). Regular users
can join the “Friends of the Buga” club to
receive a key for using Bugas without coins.
For more information please go to
www.cm-aveiro.pt/buga/
Taxis
These can be called by telephone, at taxiranks or on the move. Most taxis are beige
and display the letter “A” on the car door.
Note that there are extra charges for luggage
transport. It is not necessary to tip the driver.
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Driving in Portugal
In Portugal we drive on the right and overtake
on the left. Headlights must be used during
heavy rain, fog and of course at night. On
some of the major roadways, the use of
headlights is obligatory at all times. At
crossroads, vehicles coming from the right
generally have right of way unless there are
signals to the contrary, while vehicles
circulating on roundabouts have the right of
way over vehicles waiting to enter.
Compulsory documents for anybody
driving a car in Portugal:
Valid identity card or passport
Valid drivers licence;
Insurance disc and certificate;
Car inspection disc and certificate;
Road tax disc and certificate;
Certificate of ownership (or rental contract)
Vehicle identification document (livrete)
Driving licences Driving licences issued in
other EU member states, EEA states as well
as Switzerland and Brazil are valid in Portugal.
Students intending stay longer than 185 days
can exchange their licence for a Portuguese
licence if theirs is not a standard Community
model. Other licences are generally not
recognised, although it is possible to apply to
have a foreign licence recognised if it was
issued in a country with which Portugal has
signed a bilateral agreement on the
equivalence and exchange of driving licences.
Telephone
In public buildings and on the streets there
are public telephone boxes that work with
telephone cards and/or coins. Telephone
cards can be bought in newspaper stands or
at the post office.
International driving licences purchased in
your home country are generally recognised in
Portugal.
In Portugal, all telephone numbers functioning
through the national network provider as well as
through the mobile operators have nine digits.
Bringing a car Students and researchers
from EU countries who are temporarily
residing in Portugal are allowed to bring a
foreign registered car for the duration of their
studies. When you arrive at the border, you
may be asked to fill in a “Temporary
Admission” form, in which you state the dates
of entry and exit from the country. Those
wishing to bring a car may request a letter of
acceptance from the University to support
their temporary admission application.
To phone to Portugal from abroad, dial:
(international access code) + (351) + (the nine
digit number)
To phone abroad from Portugal, dial:
(00) + (country code) + (region code) +
(telephone number)
Students and researchers from countries
beyond the European Union who intend to
reside temporarily in Portugal can also bring a
foreign registered vehicle to Portugal but must
register and tax it in Portugal within 185 days.
Postal Services
Post Offices are open Monday – Friday from
09h00 to 18h00. Regular stamped mail
(correio normal) can be dropped into the red
post-boxes for collection. Stamped express
mail (correio azu) can be dropped into the
blue post-boxes. Stamps can be purchased
at the post office, at many newspaper kiosks,
news agencies, bookshops and from stamp
vending machines in public places.
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Additional information
Paid Employment
Students should not anticipate financing their
studies by means of paid employment. Apart
from the fact that casual jobs are not easy to
get, they are likely to lead to conflicting
situations in terms of academic workload.
It is not permitted for students with study
visas to exercise professional activities in this
country unless the activity is an integral part
of the academic programme (e.g. a vocational
training programme). Students with residence
permits, however, are allowed by law to work
on a part-time basis. In this case, your
employer is obliged to send a copy of your
work contract to the Instituto de
Desenvolvimento e Inspecção dasn
Condições de Trabalho (IDICT)
Public Holidays
1 January (New Year’s Day)
Shrove Tuesday, Carnival (falls at the end of
February or the beginning of March)
25 April (Commemoration of 1974 Revolution)
Good Friday
1 May (Labour Day)
12 May (Municipal Holiday in honour of
Princess Saint Joana, the patron saint of
Aveiro)
Easter Sunday
10 June (National Holiday)
Corpus Christi (falls in June)
15 August (Assumption of the Blessed Virgin)
5 October (Republic Day)
1 November (All Saints Day)
1 December (Independence Day)
8 December (Feast of the Immaculate
Conception)
25 December (Christmas Day)
The weather
Many international students ask us about the
weather here, so that they can plan which
kinds of clothes they should pack. The
Portuguese climate can be described as
maritime temperate. It is cool and often rainy
in the north, warmer and drier in the south. In
Aveiro, average temperatures range between
8 and 14 degrees centigrade in January, while
August temperatures vary between 17 and 30
degrees centigrade. The periods of highest
rainfall are generally in March and April. Aveiro
enjoys the luxury of a cool sea breeze, even
at the hottest times of the year (August and
September). The best advice we can offer to
international students is to bring sun and rain
protection clothing and equipment.
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Places of Worship
Although a majority of Portuguese people are
traditionally Roman Catholic, the practice of
other religious cults is widespread. If you are
concerned about finding the community of
worship to which you belong, please contact
the International Office where the staff will
send you the information you need.
located next to the Campus and runs the
Centre for Faith and Culture, a drop-in centre
with a chapel, a coffee-bar, a mini library as
well as a number of conference and meeting
rooms. Apart from daily mass, there are
numerous social activities and bible / prayer
group meetings held as well as larger
conferences with guest speakers etc..
Roman Catholic Churches and chapels are
found in almost every village and town in
Portugal. In the larger villages and in all
towns, daily masses are said as well as the
Saturday night vigil mass and Sunday
masses. The Aveiro Diocesan Seminary is
Protestant Various Protestant Churches have
the places of worship in Portugal (mainly in
the larger towns). In particular it is possible to
find communities of the Adventist, Christian
Presbyterian, Pentecostal, Baptist, Lutheran,
Evangelical, German Evangelical, Anglican
and Assembly of God communities. A
Christian bible group organised by University
of Aveiro students also meets regularly.
Jewish There are two Synagogues in Lisbon
with open on Friday evenings and Saturday
mornings as well as on the feast days of the
Jewish calendar. There are also small Jewish
communities to be found in Oporto, Guarda,
Belmonte and Castelo de Vide.
Muslim Portugal’s largest Mosque is located
in Lisbon. There are also smaller mosques
throughout the country.
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Support Services for International Students
The University of Aveiro has a mixed and
exciting international community, composed of
around 300 incoming students and
researchers each year mainly from Europe,
Africa, Latin America, China, Japan, East
Timor and India.
It can be a very difficult thing to travel to a
new country, study in a foreign language,
make new friends and continue working to a
high standard. The University has created two
offices to assist students and researchers with
the initial challenges of settling in and
becoming acquainted with their new
environment.
The International Office
The role of the international office is to provide
technical assistance for international students
and for international research students from
abroad. The main function of the office is to
provide practical help at the applications
stage and to provide information and practical
guidance for those who have been selected
to study or do research here. The office also
liaises with the various services of the
University to ensure that the students benefit
fully from the wide range of services available.
Location
Central Rectory Building, 2nd Floor, Office 43
3810 Aveiro
General Enquiries
Tel. + 351 234 37 02 11
Fax. + 351 234 37 09 85
Mail: gri@adm.ua.pt
Web: http://www.adm.ua.pt/sre/gri
Opening Hours
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The International Cooperation Desk
The International Cooperation Desk is
dedicated to students from African countries
where the official language is Portuguese and
to students from East Timor, by assisting with
accommodation issues and working with
diplomatic representatives both in Portugal
and abroad to co-ordinate scholarship awards
and payments and by providing practical
guidance and support for students throughout
their academic careers at the University.
Location
Social Services Building
3810 Aveiro
General Enquiries
Tel. + 351 234 37 03 48
Fax. + 351 234 42 91 16
Mail: sas@ua.pt
Opening Hours
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International Student Guide

Transcription

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