Study at Nova SBE (Lisbon)
Nova School of Business and Economics, Portugal’s leading business school, in Lisbon
Nova SBE
Nova School of Business and Economics (Nova SBE) is Portugal’s leading business school and one of the most respected in Europe. Founded in 1978 as part of Nova University Lisbon, it moved in 2018 to a striking purpose-built campus in Carcavelos, on the coast just west of Lisbon, facing the Atlantic. It holds the “Triple Crown” of international accreditations (AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS), held by only around 1% of business schools worldwide.
Nova SBE has built its reputation on international, English-taught programmes, a strong research faculty and close ties to companies across Europe, and the Financial Times has ranked it among the top business schools in Europe.
Official website: novasbe.unl.pt
Programmes
At undergraduate level, Nova SBE offers Bachelor’s degrees in Economics, Management and a joint Economics & Business programme, all taught in English over three years and open to international students. The curriculum mixes quantitative rigour with practical, project-based learning and exchanges with partner schools worldwide.
Nova SBE is best known for its Master’s programmes, including Finance, Management, Economics, International Management and Business Analytics, and for The Lisbon MBA, run jointly with Católica Lisbon and ranked among the world’s best. Its executive education is ranked #1 in Portugal and among the strongest globally for custom programmes.
How do I apply?
What the application includes
Applications are made online. A typical file includes your academic transcripts, a CV, a motivation letter and proof of English (IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent). Some Master’s programmes also ask for a GMAT or GRE score, and competitive programmes may include an interview. Bachelor applicants should check the specific entry requirements and any required entrance exams for their country.
Selection criteria
Nova SBE is selective and weighs your academic record, the strength of your quantitative background, and the clarity of your goals. For Master’s and MBA programmes, work experience, test scores and a focused motivation letter all matter. Demonstrating international ambition and fit with the programme is key.
Tuition fees and living costs
As an international business school, Nova SBE charges tuition well above Portugal’s public universities, though typically lower than top schools in the UK or US. Lisbon’s cost of living is among the more affordable in Western Europe, which is part of the school’s appeal. Confirm current tuition, scholarships and living-cost estimates on the official Nova SBE website before applying.
Why students choose Nova SBE
Students choose Nova SBE for its Triple Crown reputation, its international classroom, its spectacular oceanfront campus and its strong career outcomes. Graduates are recruited by consulting firms, banks, multinationals and start-ups across Europe. For students who want a top European business education in an affordable, fast-growing city, Nova SBE is a compelling choice.
Campus, location and student life
The Carcavelos campus is one of the most distinctive in Europe : modern, open architecture a few steps from the beach, with the train into central Lisbon taking around half an hour. Lisbon itself is sunny, safe and increasingly international, with a thriving start-up scene and a low cost of living for a Western European capital. Campus life is highly international, with active student clubs and sport.
When should I start preparing?
Begin 12 to 18 months before your intended intake. That leaves time to sit any required tests (English, and GMAT/GRE where needed), prepare a strong motivation letter and meet application rounds, which often fill on a rolling basis. Early preparation also lets you strengthen your profile : the support Your Dream School specialises in.
Ready to apply to Nova SBE?
Whether you are just starting to explore your options or already preparing your file, our admissions coaches can help you build a competitive application. Get in touch with Your Dream School for a first conversation about your project.
A few key figures about Your Dream School
- 1,000+ students supported into top universities and business schools worldwide.
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- Founded in 2018, with coaches who studied at the world’s leading institutions.
- Personalised, one-to-one guidance : from school choice to final acceptance.
Our Google reviews
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