The School of Medicine at the University of Minho (EM-UM) in Braga is highly regarded for its innovative, student-centered pedagogical model. It consistently ranks as one of the best medical schools in Portugal, particularly noted for the high success rates of its graduates in residency placement exams.
Established: 2000.
Location: Gualtar Campus, Braga, Portugal.
Program: Integrated Master’s in Medicine (known as MinhoMD). A 6-year program (360 ECTS) that integrates basic and clinical sciences from the start.
Language of Instruction: Portuguese.
International Students: Applicants must prove B2 level proficiency in Portuguese by the start of the 3rd year (clinical phase). For the 1st year, a minimum of A2 level or basic English is often required.
Accreditation: Fully accredited by A3ES (Portugal) and listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS). Graduates are eligible for global pathways like the USMLE (USA) and PLAB/UKMLA (UK).
Innovation (MinhoMD): The curriculum focuses on problem-based learning (PBL) rather than traditional memorization. It is highly customized, allowing students to define about 20% of their path through optional units in areas like Data Science, Management, or Research.
Research Hub: Closely linked to the ICVS (Life and Health Sciences Research Institute), a center of excellence for biomedicine and neurosciences.
Advanced Facilities: Home to the Clinical Skills Laboratory (LAC), an innovative space with high-fidelity simulators where students practice clinical procedures in a supervised, risk-free environment.
Leading tertiary care hospital attached to the institution
The School of Medicine benefits from a strong clinical network in Northern Portugal:
Hospital de Braga: The primary teaching hospital, located right next to the Gualtar campus.
Affiliated Units: Includes hospitals in Guimarães and Viana do Castelo, as well as several primary healthcare centers (ACES), ensuring students experience both specialized hospital care and community medicine.
State University Affordability
National/EU Students: Tuition is capped at the legal limit of €697 per year.
International Students: Approximately €18,000 per year for the Integrated Master’s in Medicine.
Payment: Usually paid in 10 installments throughout the academic year.
Application Fee: Approximately €100.
Vibe: Known as the "Youth Capital," Braga is a historic yet vibrant city with a large student population. It offers a high quality of life with a lower cost of living compared to Portugal's largest cities.
Safety: One of the safest cities in Europe.
Transport: Well-connected by the TUB bus network. Students under 23 often qualify for heavily discounted or free monthly passes.
University Housing (SASUM):
Cost: Roughly €125 – €170 per month (subsidized for scholarship holders; higher for non-scholarship students).
Notable Dorms: Prof. Doutor Lloyd Braga and Complexo de Santa Tecla.
Private Accommodation: Braga is more affordable than Lisbon or Porto.
Shared Apartment: €300 – €500 per month.
Private Student Residences: Modern "all-inclusive" residences (like micampus) range from €550 to €750.
Mess/Dining:
UMinho Canteens: A full meal (soup, main, drink, dessert) costs between €2.80 and €4.50.
Monthly Budget: Expect to spend €200 – €300 on groceries if cooking at home.
International Student Statute: Admission is based on academic merit. Non-EU students do not compete with local students for the same seats.
Admission Criteria:
High School Exams: Competitive scores in Biology & Geology, Physics & Chemistry, and Mathematics.
Interviews (MMI): The selection process for international students often includes Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI) to assess communication, motivation, and critical thinking.
NEET (For Indians): Mandatory qualification is required for Indian nationals planning to return to India to practice.
Well-equipped Library
Experienced Faculty
Computer Lab
Sports Activities
Heritage Campus