A degree programme designed to be taught as a Portuguese programme in other Portuguese Speaking Countries (PALOP) may be accredited by A3ES?

It is the understanding of the Ministry that oversees higher education that Portuguese HEIs wishing to offer degree programmes in the PALOP countries have two alternatives:

a) The programme is offered as a local programme, under the laws of the country where the programme is taught. In this case it does not require accreditation by A3ES.

b) The programme is offered as a Portuguese programme. In this case it requires the prior accreditation by A3ES and the existence of a bilateral agreement between the governments of that country and Portugal, which allows for an intervention of the Portuguese authorities in that country, for example at the level of the Inspectorate General of Higher Education and of the Agency.