Campus Life

Campus Life in Cape Verde – LAGAI Institute

Studying abroad is not only about academics but also about experiencing a new culture, making friends, and feeling at home in a new country.

At LAGAI Institute, we ensure that international students enjoy a safe, supportive, and enriching campus life while studying in Cape Verde.

Student Arrival In Cape Verde

Pre-Arrival Support: From visas to travel essentials, we guide you every step of the way so your journey starts stress-free.

Airport Welcome Service: Our friendly student ambassadors greet you with a smile and ensure a smooth ride straight to campus.

Orientation Week: Dive into campus life, explore Cape Verdean culture, learn basic language skills, and discover all the student services that will make you feel at home.

Accommodation

At LAGAI Institute, we understand that a home away from home is essential for a fulfilling study experience. While we do not operate on-campus housing, our private student dormitories, managed in partnership with the Institute, offer:

  • Affordable and fully equipped living spacesjust minutes from campus.
  • A vibrant cultural experience, giving students the chance to immerse themselves in Cape Verdean life while forming lifelong friendships.
  • Personalized support from our International Office, helping students secure their accommodation before arrival and ensuring a smooth, stress-free transition.

Transportation

  • Public Transport: Reliable and affordable minibuses and taxis connect the campus to the city.
  • Airport Pick-Up: International students are welcomed at Nelson Mandela International Airport (Praia) by our student support team.
  • Student Discounts: Reduced fares on buses and shuttles for registered students.
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Sports & Recreation

  • Sports Facilities: Access to football, basketball, volleyball, and athletics.

  • Fitness & Wellness: Gyms and fitness centers near the campus.

  • Clubs & Activities: Join student clubs, cultural events, and community projects that foster teamwork and leadership.

  • Outdoor Adventures: Explore hiking trails, beaches, and water sports across Cape Verde.

Why Study in Cape Verde?

  • A welcoming and peaceful island nation.

  • Multicultural environment with students from across Africa and Europe.

  • English, Portuguese, and French student support.

  • Rich culture, music, and natural beauty to explore alongside your studies.

Campus Life in Portugal – LAGAI Institute

At LAGAI Institute, we believe that studying abroad is about more than just academics. It is also about cultural exchange, personal growth, and building global networks. After completing their first two years in Cape Verde, our students have the opportunity to continue their studies in Portugal, finishing the final two years of their BSc in a dynamic European environment.

In addition, students pursuing postgraduate studies can enroll in our MSc program, beginning with the first year at our Cape Verde campus and completing the final second year in Portugal, thereby earning a fully recognized international Master’s degree.

Arrival in Portugal

  • Pre-Departure Support: Assistance with visas, residence permits, and travel planning.
  • Airport Welcome Service: Partner institutions provide reception services at Lisbon, Porto, or Faro airports, with guidance on onward transport.
  • Orientation Week: A full introduction to campus facilities, Portuguese culture, academic expectations, and student services.

accomodation

While most Portuguese universities do not guarantee on-campus housing, students benefit from a wide range of options:

  • Student Residences:Affordable dormitories managed by partner universities.
  • Private Rentals:Shared apartments and studios close to campus.
  • Homestays:Live with Portuguese families to experience culture firsthand.
  • Support Service:The International Office helps students secure housing before arrival.

Transportation

Portugal’s modern transport network makes student life convenient:

  • Public Transport:Reliable metro, trains, and buses in major cities. Student passes offer discounted fares.
  • Biking & Walking:Safe urban spaces for cycling and walking near campuses.
  • Airport Access:Direct connections to international airports in Lisbon, Porto, and Faro.

Sports & Recreation

Portugal offers vibrant opportunities for physical and social activities:

  • Campus Sports Facilities:Football, basketball, tennis, swimming pools, and athletics tracks.
  • Fitness & Wellness:Gyms and wellness centers with student discounts.
  • Student Clubs & Societies:Join cultural associations, debating groups, music ensembles, and international student networks.
  • Outdoor Lifestyle:Portugal is famous for surfing, hiking, cycling, and beach activities.

Why Study in Portugal?

  • A safe, welcoming European country with a high standard of living.
  • Gateway to Europe with easy travel to other EU destinations.
  • A multicultural environment, with Portuguese as the main language, but English widely spoken in academia and urban centers.
  • Rich culture, music, and cuisine, with famous festivals and UNESCO heritage sites.
  • Internationally recognized degrees and exposure to global research networks.
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Cape Verde + Portugal: A Unique Academic Path

LAGAI Institute students benefit from a blended educational journey:

BSc Pathway:

  • Cape Verde: First two years build strong foundations in a supportive African context.
  • Portugal: Final two years broaden horizons, connect students with Europe, and provide internationally competitive qualifications.

MSc Pathway:

  • Cape Verde: First year focuses on advanced knowledge and research capacity-building.
  • Portugal: Second year deepens specialization, expands global networks, and culminates in a fully accredited Master’s degree.