University of Algarve adds nearly 300 student beds with two new residences – Portugal Resident

The University of Algarve (UAlg) is set to significantly expand its student accommodation capacity ahead of the new academic year with the opening of two new university residences, providing almost 300 additional beds at a time when affordable housing remains one of the biggest challenges facing higher education students in Portugal.

The new residences, located on the Gambelas and Penha campuses, are in the final stages of construction and are expected to welcome students when the next academic year begins, the university announced in a statement.

Together, they will add 298 beds, increasing the university’s total accommodation capacity from 539 to 837 beds – an increase of more than 55%.

As the university points out, the expansion comes at a time when prospective students are applying for places in higher education, with access to affordable accommodation continuing to be a major concern for students and their families.

The project forms part of the National Plan for Student Accommodation (PNAES) and is being financed through Portugal’s Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR).

Construction of the two new residences represents an investment of around €18 million, with more than €8.8 million being funded directly by the university.

The development follows the completion last year of an extensive refurbishment programme that saw seven existing university residences renovated, improving accommodation for 442 students through an investment of €8.3 million.

According to the university, the additional accommodation will help improve students’ integration into university life.

“The expansion of accommodation represents an important step in the institution’s strategy to make higher education more accessible, attractive and inclusive,” UAlg said.

Last week, Rector Alexandra Teodósio and members of the university’s leadership team visited both construction sites to inspect the progress of the works and ensure the residences are on track to open in time for the start of the academic year.