Founded in 1979, Instituto Politécnico de Castelo Branco (Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco) is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the large town of Castelo Branco (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants). This institution also has a branch campus in Idanha-a-Nova. Officially recognized by the Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior, Portugal (Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education of Portugal), Instituto Politécnico de Castelo Branco (IPCB) is a small coeducational Portuguese higher education institution. Instituto Politécnico de Castelo Branco (IPCB) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor degrees, master degrees in several areas of study. This 42 years old Portuguese higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic record and grades. The admission rate range is 70-80% making this Portuguese higher education organization a somewhat selective institution. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. IPCB also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.