Apply now
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • youTube
  • TikTok
  • Linkedin
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • youTube
  • TikTok
  • Linkedin
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • youTube
  • TikTok
  • Linkedin
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • youTube
  • TikTok
  • Linkedin
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • youTube
  • TikTok
  • Linkedin
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • youTube
  • TikTok
  • Linkedin
Apply now

For admitted students

for-admitted-students

Welcome to our exclusive page for admitted students! Here, you’ll find everything you need to know to prepare for your journey at Forward College starting this September. Explore essential information: Student Testimonials; Academic Calendar; Accommodation in Lisbon; European Health Insurance Card; Visa Application for Non-EU Students; Contacts.

Welcome from Boris Walbaum, Forward’s Founder

Dear students,

By choosing to join Forward College, you are making an ambitious choice that honors you. You have decided to embrace a new way of learning that will open up much broader horizons and equip you for tomorrow.

Better than anyone, you know how challenging these times are. It is in these times that ambition matters most. These times are about making real choices. It is no longer about following a set path, as generations before you have too often done. You have to invent, you have to act, you have to shake things up. It’s a challenge, it’s a responsibility, it’s also a tremendous opportunity.

Forward’s mission is to support this ambition: to help you decipher the world through your bachelor’s degree, but also through the discovery of the three countries in which you will live and the more than 30 nationalities that make up your class; to help you face the challenges of concrete action through your projects; to help you get to know yourself better, to grow your personality and to find your path thanks to our personal development programme.

Forward is a demanding adventure. It will be challenging at times and in ways that are very different from what you have experienced so far. But it is also an adventure in which you are closely accompanied. Forward College is a close knit community of individuals – students and teaching fellows alike – who want to make a difference and not fit in. We know this is demanding, We are here to support you as each of you will also have the opportunity to support your peers.

For all these reasons, we are all highly excited to welcome you to Lisbon and go forward with all of you.

Boris Walbaum

Forward College Founder & President

for-admitted-students
for-admitted-students
for-admitted-students
for-admitted-students
for-admitted-students
for-admitted-students

Our Students

Théo, Class of 2025

France

Choosing a university wasn’t easy – I had offers from the Sorbonne, Leiden, and UvA, but what drew me to Forward College was its international approach. Studying International Relations while living in multiple countries felt like the most authentic way to understand global issues. I wanted to be in an environment where international perspectives weren’t just in the curriculum, but part of daily life through classmates from different backgrounds and the experience of adapting to new cultures myself. The academic model also stood out. I was looking for something more engaging than traditional lectures, and Forward’s active learning and small-sized classes really appealed to me. Overall, Forward offered the combination I was looking for: strong academics, international exposure, and a learning environment that encourages curiosity and debate.

Our Students

Naia, Class of 2025

Spain

I have always been a person moved by experiences and passion. Forward’s fresh perspective and motivational program inspired me to apply. I saw it as a great opportunity to grow both personally and academically, while also having the chance to live in three different countries and immerse myself in their cultures. The academic program was exactly what I was looking for: complete, dynamic, and aligned with the kind of adventure I wanted both inside and outside the classroom. Before choosing Forward, I explored several other options. I had the possibility to attend both private and public universities in Spain. I also applied to a number of universities in the United States, as my initial plan was to pursue my bachelor’s degree there. I was accepted to some institutions, including Hofstra University. However, their programs lacked the dynamic, international approach I was seeking. Ultimately, I chose Forward because it brought together everything I was looking for — strong academics, international exposure, a vibrant and supportive community, and a unique experience.

Our Students

Sasa, Class of 2026

Montenegro

Had I stayed in my home country, I don’t think I would have experienced the same level of personal and academic growth. At Forward, I’ve had the chance to meet people from all over the world, each bringing their own unique perspectives and experiences.What sets Forward apart, though, is the sense of openness and support. It’s a place where curiosity is encouraged, and where you genuinely feel comfortable approaching your professors: whether it’s to ask a question, share an idea, or simply have a conversation. That kind of learning environment is rare, and it’s made all the difference for me.

Our Alumni

Zsanett, Class of 2025

Hungary

Master’s in Management at HEC Paris

HEC_Paris.svg
I grew so much as a person through working on international projects with my peers, living independently in a foreign country and learning to juggle studies, work and free time.

Our Alumni

Daniel, Class of 2024

Hungary

Junior Consultant at EY

EY_logo_2019.svg (1)
Forward gave me the skills and international experience to start my career at Ernst & Young, while feeling my degree was truly valued.

Our Alumni

Luca, Class of 2025

Italy

Investments Analyst at Orbis

Orbis_Investment_Management_Logo.svg
Going to Forward was one of the best decisions I could have made for my career. Along the way, I made so many friends, learned so much and I will cherish the moments I had for the rest of my life.
for-admitted-students

WhatsApp Groups

By joining the group you will be able to connect directly with other admitted students, just like you, and current Forward College student ambassadors.

Join our WhatsApp community

for-admitted-students

Academic Calendar

Discover the key dates for the 2026–2027 academic year in Lisbon

For University of London degrees:

Download the calendar

For the Open Bachelor’s:

Download the calendar

Book your accommodation

Forward College has a special agreement with Xior Benfica, which ensures a certain number of rooms are reserved exclusively for Forward College students before sales open to students from other universities. As a result, your room reservations are processed differently and manually by Xior.

Please note that your accommodation is guaranteed, and booking should be done as soon as possible. 

 The available room options are: 

  • Good Suite – from 750€
  • Super Suite – from 770€
  • Boss Suite – from 800€
  • Studios – from 900€
  • Boss Studio – from 1040€

Please find more details on each room type here.

To book a room at the Student Residence Xior Benfica, please follow the following procedure:

1. Forward College students will need to create a customer account at https://backoffice.xior.pt/user/register and complete it with their personal information. This will allow Xior Benfica to register Forward College students’ details in their system prior to the reservation process.

2. Students must send an e-mail to [email protected] including the following information:

  • You are a Forward College student
  • The username you chose when creating your customer account
  • The email address associated with your customer account
  • The type of room you wish to book
  • The rental period (11 or 12 months)

Once Xior associates your reservation with your customer account, you will receive an email with a link to proceed with your reservation and payment.

To secure your reservation, you will need to pay two months’ rent (the first and last months) as well as a security deposit equivalent to one month’s rent. The security deposit will be refunded at the end of your stay, provided the room is left in good condition. Once the payment is made, you will receive a booking confirmation via email. Before your arrival, Xior Benfica will also send you an email with check-in instructions.

Should you have any questions or need any assistance with this process, please contact [email protected], Lisbon Campus Manager.

for-admitted-students

European Health Insurance Card (for EU students)

As an EU national, you should have an European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This is a free card that gives you access to medically necessary, state-provided healthcare during your stay under the same conditions and at the same cost (free in some countries) as citizens who live in Lisbon, Paris or Berlin. EHICs are issued by your national health insurance provider. To find out how to apply from your country of residence, click on this link and follow the directions to order your card. 

However, if you want to have private insurance coverage, you can apply in your home country for private health insurance that has coverage in Portugal. This is probably the best option as it avoids facing bureaucracy when you get to Portugal. Although this is not compulsory, we strongly encourage Forward College students to apply, so please check with your private insurance.

But of course, you can also apply for private health insurance in Portugal, even though you will need to take care of some mandatory (and bureaucratic) steps before applying, such as getting a tax number in Portugal, for example. The cost is around EUR 30 monthly but it may vary depending on coverage).

All non-EU students must apply for private health insurance (they will need it for their Visa application). See more information about this below under the tab ‘Visa application for non-eu students’

Please contact Lisbon’s Campus Manager Eduardo Guerreiro (eduardo.guerreiro@forward-college.eu) if you would like further advice.

Visa Application

for Non-EU students

As a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, you will need to apply for student visas and residence permits as you move across the Forward Campuses in the EU. The information below will help you navigate through the visa application process, but keep in mind that the process varies a lot across different countries and that you will need to follow through most of the steps by yourself, using the documents provided.

Citizens of all countries must apply for a visa before coming to Portugal, except for:
➔ Citizens of the following EU countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of
Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece,
Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland,
Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.

➔ Citizens of the European Economic Area: Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway.

➔ Citizens of the following countries: Principality of Andorra and Switzerland.

➔ Citizens of Non-EU/EFTA countries, who hold a valid residence permit of a Schengen
country. Such citizens must request a residence permit for Portugal. If they have the
option to apply for a visa it is recommended.

Procedure for obtaining a student visa for Portugal

As a non EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, you will need to apply for Student Visas and Residence Permits
as you move across the Forward Campuses in the EU.

The procedure described below might vary between countries, so make sure to also check the
procedure with your local visa authority.

Ideally, you should start your application process around six months in advance. The application
procedure takes from weeks to several months depending on where you come from and the
Consulate you are applying to. Therefore, we strongly recommend you submit your visa
application as soon as you enrol at Forward College.

Important: If you’re applying late and there is a chance that your visa won’t arrive on time for the
start of the semester, make sure to contact the campus manager Eduardo Guerreiro to discuss
your case.

Temporary Stay Visa (E6) – Study Purposes

The E6 visa is generally the most straight forward and recommended option for students coming to Portugal.

It allows you to stay in the country for up to one year without the need to convert your visa into a residence permit after arrival, which significantly reduces administrative steps and uncertainty.

Key advantages:

  • Simple and direct process
  • No need to deal with residence permit procedures in Portugal
  • Less bureaucracy and fewer delays
  • A more predictable and stress-free setup for your stay

Long-Stay Residency Visa (D4) – Study Purposes

The D4 visa is valid for entry into Portugal and is typically used for longer-term stays. After arrival, it requires an additional step of applying for a residence permit with AIMA, which replaces the visa.

It may be relevant in specific cases depending on the issuing consulate or individual circumstances.

Our Recommendation

In most situations, we strongly recommend the E6 visa, as it offers a smoother, more direct process with fewer administrative requirements.

The D4 visa is generally only relevant in cases where the E6 is not available through the local Portuguese consulate.

You can find more about different visa types here.

Here is an outline of how your application process is going to look like (once again, be aware
that this process varies according to your country, and therefore it is important to check your
official country specific information):

1. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (you cannot apply without it)

2. Find out where to submit your application on the official website

3. Follow the country-specific instructions given by the Embassy/Consulate to which you
are submitting your visa application

Usually the visa application steps will be:

4. Schedule an appointment/interview at the Embassy/Consulate

5. Compile the documents needed and pay the required fees

6. Attend the interview

7. Wait for your visa to be processed

A comprehensive list of documents can be found on the official website of the Portuguese
Ministry of Foreign Affairs for E-Type Visas and for D-Type Visas.

Clarification on important documents:

  • Proof of Acceptance in a Study Program
    This is your Confirmation of Enrolment provided to you by Forward College.
  • Proof of Accommodation
    This is the invoice of the reservation of your room at student residence Xior Benfica.
  • Travel Insurance
    You must be insured for the Schengen Area with a coverage of at least 30.000€.
  • Proof of means of Subsistence
    This is usually a bank statement, a proof of sponsorship from your parents/legal
    guardians and their bank statements, proof of scholarship, etc. See this link.

Residence Permits (for holders of D-Type Visas or holders of residence permits in other Schengen countries)

The information below only applies to holders of D-type Residence Visas or to non-EU/EFTA citizens who entered Portugal without a visa. Holders of a Temporary Visa (E6) do not need a residence Permit.

Holders of a residence D-Type Visa are only allowed two entries in Portugal during three months. During that period, the visa has to be replaced by a Residence Permit after an interview with the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA).

Under the Immigration Law, AIMA is now obliged to automatically book you an appointment for an interview, when a positive decision is made regarding a request for a residence visa. Once you receive your D-Visa make sure to take note of the date of the appointment for your residence permit request interview.

If you do not have a visa (eg. holders of other Schengen residence permits), or if you were not automatically booked an appointment when you obtained your visa, then upon your arrival in Portugal you must contact AIMA (only by phone) and request an appointment to apply for your residence permit. We recommend that you do this very soon after your arrival, rather than risk leaving it until near your expiry date, as there is a long waiting time of up to three to four months.

For more information about Visas:

Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA)
[email protected]
(+351) 217 115 000
(+351) 965 903 700

Official Visa Issuing Authorities per Country

For assistance related to visas:
Eduardo Guerreiro
Lisbon Campus Manager
[email protected]

Schengen Travel Insurance (for non-EU students)

If you need a visa to travel to Europe, you will have to get travel insurance. This is a mandatory part of the visa application process. If you do not have a valid travel health insurance policy, the Embassy will automatically reject your request for a visa.

As it is required at embassies for the visa application, most insurance companies (e.g. MondialCare, AXA, Europ Assistance) offer policies designed specifically to meet the Schengen travel health requirements. When you apply for a visa, the Embassy will ask to see proof of a purchased Schengen travel health insurance plan. This usually goes by the name of “travel insurance certificate” and your insurance company will give it to you when you subscribe to one of their plans.

Your plan should cover these basic costs: cost of medical treatment (in-patient and out-patient medical treatment, doctor visits, hospitalisation, surgery, prescription medication, emergency dental care), cost of repatriation or evacuation (if you become gravely ill or get into a serious accident which requires medical attention from your home country, travel insurance covers the cost of repatriation). This is what a basic policy has to cover to be valid for a visa application.

Please note that some insurance companies offer additional, more comprehensive coverage, such as insurance for your trip or liability. The cost of travel insurance can vary greatly depending on your individual circumstances. The minimal coverage has to be for the whole Schengen area and have the mininum coverage of 30 Euros. A basic coverage plan for 1 year is estimated between EUR 200 and 500.

Please note that this requirement may be waived in the case of a Bilateral/International Agreement between Portugal and the country of origin concerning medical assistance that qualifies certain beneficiaries with recognized insurance, as for example in the case of Brazil (PB4) and the United Kingdom (S1). Reference

→ Find out more about the Schengen travel insurance below:

https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/schengen-visa-insurance/

https://visaguide.world/travel-insurance/europe/schengen-visa-insurance/

Hear from our students

Why did our students choose Forward College?

On the final day of induction week in Lisbon, we asked our first-year students to share where else they applied and why they ultimately chose Forward College. Let’s hear their stories!

Zsanett at HEC Paris

Forward College alumna Zsanett Frei shares her journey as a Master’s student in Management at HEC Paris, and how her experience at Forward College continues to support her in both her academic and professional path.

Learning at Forward

Small class teaching, personalised approach, and passionate professors…. Discover Forward College’s edge when it comes to the learning experience and the things that our students love most about studying with us.

Student life in Lisbon

We want our students to leave Forward having become the best version of themselves through broadening their views, developing their personal adaptability, and fostering their ability to engage constructively with cultural differences: discover what our students’ experience is like at our Lisbon campus, the first stop on their learning expedition.

Student life in Paris

The second city our students live in on their learning expedition is the French capital, Paris, where they live at Cité Internationale Universitaire. Find out first hand what life in Paris is like from some of our second year students and the many benefits of staying at CIUP. If you can see yourself in these stories and would like to know more about Forward, we’d love to hear from you.

Student life in Berlin

The third and final stop for our students on their journey is the “cool” capital, Berlin. Hear directly from some of our third-year students about their experiences living in Berlin and the array of advantages that come with studying in a co-work space. If these stories resonate with you and you’re curious to learn more about Forward, we’re eager to connect with you.

Daniel’s Consulting Role at EY

Forward College alumni Daniel Kondor shares his journey as a Junior Consultant at EY and how the skills he gained during his studies helped him thrive in the role. His manager, Paulovits Marton, also reveals why Daniel was selected for the position.

Conversation with Jana about cultural expedition

Forward student, Jana, talks about life at the university and unique opportunities that come with studying in three European capitals.

Emirhan Master’s at LSE

Our alumni, Emirhan, shares his experience of studying for a Master’s in Politics & Communication at LSE after graduating from Forward College. He reflects on how Forward College equipped him with the skills and confidence to transition seamlessly and thrive in his postgraduate studies.

Consulting for L’Oréal Paris

In the third year of their studies, our students pursuing our Bachelor’s in Business & Leadership consult for an external organisation. This year, some of them are working on resolving one of L’Oréal’s strategic challenges for its ‘L’Oréal for Youth’ initiative.

Student’s experience at Amazon

Join our third-year student, Timur Itek, as he takes us behind the scenes of his internship as a Business Development intern at Amazon during his third year of studies. Together with his manager, Jason Klauser, they share why Timur stood out and was chosen for the role.

Mentorship with Boston Consulting Group

Bogna, one of our third-year students pursuing a Double Bachelor’s in Psychology and Business & Leadership, is participating in a mentorship programme with Boston Consulting Group that prepares young adults for careers in consulting. Listen to what she has to say about her experience.

Any question? Book a conversation with our Admissions Team

Book a conversation
 

for-admitted-students
Is Forward for me?
for-admitted-students
Events