The Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), a part of the University of Porto, is a unique and multidisciplinary medical school. It is distinguished by its "One Health" philosophy, which integrates human medicine, veterinary medicine, and environmental sciences into a single educational and research framework.
Established: 1975 (inspired by the thoughts of physician and artist Abel Salazar).
Location: Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira n.º 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
Programs:
Integrated Master’s in Medicine (MIM): A 6-year program (360 ECTS).
Other Degrees: Also offers Integrated Masters in Veterinary Medicine and degrees in Aquatic Sciences, Biochemistry, and Bioengineering.
Language of Instruction: Primarily Portuguese.
Note: While some postgraduate courses may be in English, the medical degree requires fluency in Portuguese. International mobility students are specifically required to have at least A2 level Portuguese proficiency for clinical contact.
Accreditation: Accredited by the Portuguese Agency A3ES and recognized globally, including eligibility for the USMLE (USA) and PLAB/UKMLA (UK).
Multidisciplinary Approach: ICBAS is not a traditional medical school; it shares its campus with several other life science disciplines, fostering a highly collaborative research environment.
Facilities: Modern laboratories, advanced simulation centers, and a large medical library. The school is known for its strong emphasis on Biomedical Research and "One Health" integration.
Integrated Training: The curriculum balances solid basic science training with early clinical exposure, often collaborating with the Faculty of Sciences for shared courses like Biochemistry.
Leading tertiary care hospital attached to the institution
ICBAS has a deep-rooted partnership for clinical teaching:
Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto (CHUP): Also known as the Hospital de Santo António. This is the primary teaching hospital, located within walking distance of the school.
Clinical Rotations: Students gain experience in one of the busiest and most technologically advanced hospitals in Portugal, covering all major specialties.
Research Affiliations: Strong links with the i3S (Institute for Research and Innovation in Health), the largest health research institute in Portugal.
State University Affordability
Tuition at public universities in Portugal depends on the student's nationality status:
National/EU Students: Approximately €697 per year.
International Students (Non-EU): For the Integrated Master's in Medicine, the fee is approximately €16,500 per year.
Note: Other degrees like Veterinary Medicine are lower (approx. €7,000/year).
Payment: Can be paid in full at enrollment or in 10 monthly installments.
Lifestyle: Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal, famous for its historic "Ribeira" district, wine cellars, and vibrant student life.
Transport: Excellent Metro and bus systems. A monthly student pass is around €30 (or free for those under 23 in certain conditions).
Safety: Very safe for international students, with a high standard of living.
Accommodation: University of Porto (SASUP) residences are available, costing roughly €150–€350 per month, but spots are highly competitive.
Private Housing: Most students live in shared apartments in Porto.
Shared Room: €400–€600 per month.
Private Studio: €750–€1,000 per month.
Dining:
SASUP Canteens: Offer complete meals for approximately €2.80–€4.50.
Location Advantage: The campus is in the city center, surrounded by affordable cafes and supermarkets.
Entrance Exams: Admission is based on the National Access Contest (for EU) or the International Student Statute.
Required Subjects: High school exams in Biology & Geology, Physics & Chemistry, and Mathematics.
International Applicants: Must follow the specific deadlines for international students, usually starting in March/April 2026.
NEET (For Indians): Mandatory qualification is required if you plan to return to India to practice.
Well-equipped Library
Experienced Faculty
Computer Lab
Sports Activities
Heritage Campus