Education Minister Fernando Alexandre proposed a new legal framework (Regime Jurídico dos Graus e Diplomas) for university admission. Candidates would need to meet minimum levels in English, literacy, and numeracy to enter bachelor's or master's programs. Families with students should note that while the government aims to raise standards, student groups warn these requirements could exclude some applicants.
Higher education access to require English and numeracy proficiency
Friday, 27 March 2026AI summary
Context & Explainers
Fernando Alexandre is the Minister of Education, Science, and Innovation in Portugal's current government, which took office in April 2024. An economist by training, he previously served as a Secretary of State and is now responsible for managing the national school system and university funding. He recently sparked debate by suggesting that university tuition fees should be adjusted to account for inflation.
The Regime Jurídico dos Graus e Diplomas (Legal Regime for Higher Education Degrees and Diplomas) is the national law governing how academic titles are awarded in Portugal. The government is currently reviewing this regime to introduce mandatory proficiency standards in English and mathematics for student enrollment. Prospective university students should be aware that these changes may affect admission requirements in the near future.
Sources (3)
- Students concerned about mandatory minimum levels of numeracy, literacy, and English for higher education accessPúblico · 3:17pm, 27 Mar 2026
- Entering university may become more difficult: Government wants minimum levels of English, numeracy, and literacyCorreio da Manhã · 6:04pm, 27 Mar 2026
- Ministry wants to increase requirements for higher education access. Find out what the proposal saysExpresso · 5:43pm, 27 Mar 2026
