In 2010, 77.800 people graduated from Portuguese universities, 30% of whom in technological areas. In secondary education enrolment, the Global Competitiveness Report 2011-2012 (World Economic Forum) ranks Portugal 13th out of 142 countries.

Portuguese students have an excellent knowledge of foreign languages. English is mandatory in primary school since 2009. According to the National Statistics Institute (INE), 20% of highly qualified Portuguese workers have foreign languages degrees. English, French, Spanish, German and Italian are the top five foreign languages studied in Portugal.