11-09-2025
Photo: João Lima/NOVA FCT
On September 8, NOVA FCT welcomed its international students in a session that began with a musical performance by anTUNiA, right outside the Grand Auditorium.
This semester, the School is hosting more than 300 students from 54 countries, confirming NOVA FCT's growing international recognition. Students’ choice is driven by several factors: academic and research excellence, modern facilities, and the unique environment of the Caparica Campus, marked by its proximity to Lisbon and the sea.
Among the new students is Isabel Meireles, who came from Brazil mainly motivated by the academic offer: “The programs at NOVA FCT in this area were more interesting for me,” she said.
Tuna Bal, 23, from Turkey, chose Industrial Engineering and Management. For her, “the School’s facilities and surroundings were the main reasons for choosing NOVA FCT.”
Meanwhile, Thomas Philipart, also 23 and from Belgium, opted for Environmental Engineering, highlighting lifestyle as a decisive factor: “The sun, the good weather, and the proximity to the beach motivated me to come to this Campus. I also want to learn Portuguese,” he added.
During the session, NOVA FCT’s Dean, José Júlio Alferes, recalled his own experience with academic mobility, describing it as one of the most remarkable moments of his life: “Make the most of this opportunity, it will certainly be one of the best experiences of your lives,” he encouraged.
Carla Quintão, Vice-Dean for the Pedagogical Council and Erasmus Program coordinator, also emphasized the importance of this experience: “We believe mobility contributes to broadening horizons, crossing cultural identities, and sharing values and experiences – enriching both personal growth and the development of our School.”
Students also had the opportunity to get to know NOVA FCT’s support services, such as the Psychological Support Office and the Library.
Photo gallery here. (Photos by João Lima/NOVA FCT)
