Established in 1979, Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra (Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra) is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Coimbra (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants). This institution also has a branch campus in Oliveira do Hospital. Officially recognized by the Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior, Portugal (Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education of Portugal), Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra (IPC) is a large coeducational Portuguese higher education institution. Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra (IPC) 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 80-90% making this Portuguese higher education organization a least selective institution. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. IPC 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, as well as administrative services.