We are ESN Porto.
A non-profit student organisation making Porto feel like home for thousands of international students, run entirely by volunteers.
Students Helping Students.
The Erasmus Student Network is one of the biggest student organisations in Europe: a non-profit, apolitical network present in over 40 countries and hundreds of universities, run by thousands of volunteers.
ESN Porto is the oldest section in Portugal. We are a team of volunteers who welcome around 4,000 exchange students every year, side by side with the higher education institutions of Porto, Gaia and Matosinhos. Our goal is simple: to make your time here as fun, enriching and welcoming as possible.
- 1989
ESN is born in Ghent, created by and for exchange students after the first Erasmus generation.
- 1991
ESN Porto is founded, the oldest section in Portugal.
- 2002
ESN Porto becomes an official section of the international network.
- Today
Around 4,000 international students welcomed every year, together with institutions across Porto, Gaia and Matosinhos.
Our six causes
Culture
We help you get to know Porto's traditions and share your own, because exchange works both ways.
Youth & Education
We organise non-formal education, workshops and youth development programmes for students.
Environmental Sustainability
We are committed to sustainable practices and environmental awareness in everything we organise.
Health & Well-being
We promote healthy lifestyles, sport and mental well-being through our activities.
Social Inclusion
We foster an inclusive environment where every student feels welcome and valued.
Skills & Employability
We help you build the skills and experience that make a difference in your future career.
Join the ESN Family
We do not want to sound cheesy, but we are like a family. Volunteering at ESN Porto is a rewarding and fun experience where you develop new skills, meet people from all over the world and help international students feel at home.
Join the teamFind Us
Rua de Olivença 27, 4000-231 Porto, Portugal
Opening hours
Mon–Fri: 10:00 – 13:00
Tue & Thu: 14:00 – 17:00