DEAEPP - Applications

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Applications for the Doctoral Program in Engineering and Public Policy are submitted online through the platforms indicated by Técnico and the Postgraduate Area. Applications are accepted continuously but are only evaluated during the defined review periods.

The program operates in two formats: the IST/CMU dual degree, in partnership with Carnegie Mellon University (CMU-Portugal program), and the track entirely at IST. The application process differs depending on the desired format.

Admission Requirements

The program is preferably intended for holders of training in engineering, and relevant professional experience is valued. Candidates from other areas may be accepted, provided they demonstrate a solid foundation in science and technology. Candidates considered must have excellent knowledge of quantitative methods.

The evaluation and ranking of the application considers:

  • the candidate's CV, training, and professional experience
  • the quality of the institution where the master's degree was obtained
  • the motivation letter
  • the scientific and personal quality of the candidate
  • the research plan, if any

In the case of the IST/CMU dual degree, candidates must be admitted by both institutions, apply directly to the EPP program at Carnegie Mellon University, and typically present recent results from the GRE and TOEFL exams. The final classification of these candidates is determined by a Joint Selection Committee.

Application Process

The application must be instructed according to the guidelines of the Postgraduate Area. Only complete applications, administratively validated and with the respective fees paid, are evaluated.

The evaluation process generally takes place in two phases:

  1. evaluation of the candidate's previous education, including scientific affinity, academic path, and the degree-awarding institution
  2. evaluation of motivation, suitability for the program, and capacity to conduct research

Candidates can apply with or without a defined supervisor. When a student enrolls without a supervisor, they can start the curricular component while identifying and formalizing scientific supervision.

Application Documents

According to the public information of the program and the Postgraduate Area, the application may include:

  • application form
  • identification document
  • tax identification number, when applicable
  • curriculum vitae
  • qualifications certificates
  • motivation letter
  • recommendation letters
  • acceptance letter from the supervisor or co-supervisors, if supervision is already defined
  • research plan, if it already exists
  • results of the GRE and TOEFL exams, in the case of application to the IST/CMU dual degree
  • proof of payment of the application fee

Always consult the updated list of documents in the Postgraduate Area.

Application and Review Periods

The program generally has application periods associated with entry in the 1st and 2nd semesters.

Applications to Doctoral Programs (3rd cycle) are submitted entirely online through the Connect admissions platform, managed by the Postgraduate Area.

The platform allows the continuous submission of applications throughout the year. However, it is important to note that applications are only reviewed and evaluated during specific periods defined for entry in each semester:

  • Entry in the Spring semester: December to early January
  • Entry in the Fall semester: June to early July

After submission, your application will be analyzed by the Scientific Committee of the Doctoral Program during the cut-off dates. The committee is responsible for evaluating your academic and scientific path to determine the suitability of your profile for acceptance into the program. Applications submitted outside these evaluation windows will remain in the system until the next review phase.

To submit your application, access the platform, and confirm the exact dates of the review periods for the current academic year, please consult the following official links:

Scholarships and Funding

Candidates should consult available funding opportunities through competitive scholarships, research projects, research center competitions, and national programs. In particular, the CMU-Portugal program provides funding that allows the completion of the dual degree doctorate.

Useful sources:

Awards

Contact for Applications

For administrative questions regarding applications, enrollment, and document validation, please contact the Postgraduate Area:

For scientific framing, supervision, and research topics, consult the program coordination and the faculty of the Department of Engineering and Management.