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Portugal has become a top choice for expatriates and international families looking for a safe environment, strong lifestyle benefits, and high-quality education. As more families relocate, the demand for international education has grown steadily, leading to a diverse and well-established network of international schools in Portugal. These schools cater to a wide range of nationalities and offer curricula such as British, American, International Baccalaureate, and other international programmes.
Best Schools in Portugal
Choosing the best school in Portugal is not an easy answer, as it depends heavily on your family’s priorities, location, and language preferences. Portugal offers a strong mix of public and private education, but the right option can look very different from one family to another.
When considering public education, the best school in Portugal can often be linked to the area where you decide to live. Public schools generally provide good academic standards, but teaching is in Portuguese. This means that the quality of schools can vary by region, and choosing the right neighborhood can have a direct impact on accessing a stronger public school for your children.
If your goal is international education, many families find that the best school in Portugal is more likely to be a private international school. These schools teach in English and follow British, American, or International Baccalaureate curricula. The strongest concentration of international options is found in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, where demand from international families is highest.
For expatriate families, the best school in Portugal is often one that offers continuity with their home education system, smaller class sizes, and strong university pathways abroad. Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve consistently stand out for the range and quality of international schools available.
International Schools in Portugal
There are currently 58 international schools in Portugal, spread across seven districts, giving families plenty of choice depending on where they choose to live. The Greater Lisbon area has the highest concentration, with 34 international schools located in and around the capital. This makes Lisbon and its surrounding suburbs especially attractive for families prioritising access to education.
The Algarve, well known for its coastal lifestyle and strong expat community, is home to 13 international schools, many of which follow the British curriculum. In the north, Porto offers four international schools, serving families who prefer a more traditional Portuguese setting combined with international education standards.
English Schools in Portugal
Types of International Schools in Portugal
The country offers a wide range of international schools in Portugal, each designed to meet the needs of families from different countries and educational backgrounds. Here they are:
British Curriculum: Follows the English National Curriculum and leads to IGCSEs and A-Levels. A popular choice for families aiming for universities in the UK or other English-speaking countries.
American Curriculum: Based on the U.S. education system, offering a flexible structure and pathways like AP courses. Ideal for students considering future studies in the United States.
International Baccalaureate (IB): A globally respected programme focused on critical thinking, research skills, and international-mindedness. Recognized by universities worldwide.
French Curriculum: Follows the French national curriculum and leads to the French Baccalauréat. Strong choice for families seeking a francophone education.
German Curriculum: Based on the German national system and prepares students for the Abitur. Known for academic rigor and strong STEM focus.
Dutch Curriculum: Offered in a few schools, following the Dutch national structure and providing continuity for Dutch-speaking families.
Christian Schools: Some institutions integrate Christian values while following international curricula such as the American system or IB.
Best International Schools in Portugal
Best International Schools in Portugal are one of the main reasons families choose the country for relocation. Portugal offers an excellent range of well-established international schools with globally recognised curricula, located across Lisbon, Cascais, Oeiras, Porto, and the Algarve, making it easy for families to find strong academic options close to where they live.
Some of the Best International Schools in Portugal include:
- St. Julian’s School (Carcavelos)
- The British School of Lisbon
- Nobel Algarve British International School
- Carlucci American International School of Lisbon (CAISL)
- International Christian School of Cascais
- Oeiras International School (OIS)
- St. Dominic’s International School (Lisbon)
- International Sharing School (Oeiras/Cascais)
Map of International Schools in Portugal
Best International Schools in Portugal, Lisbon
- The Lisbon International School – Alcântara
- The British School of Lisbon – Santo António
- Lycée Français Charles Lepierre Lisbonne – Campolide
- PaRK International School – Avenidas Novas
- Redbridge School – Campo de Ourique
- Astoria International School – Alvalade
- Cesário Verde International School – Parque das Nações
- Deutsche Schule Lissabon – Lumiar
- United Lisbon International School – Parque das Nações
- L’École Trilingue – Belém
- The Lisboan – Alcântara
Map of International Schools in Portugal, Lisbon
The British School Lisbon
The British School Lisbon is an international school in central Lisbon offering an English-language education for students aged 3 to 18 under the British National Curriculum.
Accredited by COBIS and a member of ECIS, the school combines strong academics with sports, arts, and community activities.
- Address: Rua de S. Paulo 89, 1200-427 Lisboa
- Curriculum: British
- Languages: English
- Ages: 3 to 12
- Annual Fees: €11,300 to €14,535
Lycée Francais Charles Lepiérre Lisbonne
Lycée Francais Charles Lepiérre Lisbonne is a French international school in Lisbon offering a French-language education for students aged 3 to 18, following the French national curriculum.
Accredited by the French Ministry of Education and part of the AEFE network, the school offers strong academics along with sports, music, art, and theater.
- Address: Av. Eng. Duarte Pacheco 32, 1070-112 Lisboa
- Curriculum: French
- Ages: 3 to 18
- Languages: French
- Annual Fees: €4,710 to €5,952
Redbridge School
Redbridge School is an international school in Lisbon offering an English-language education for students aged 3 to 18. It follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, known for its focus on critical thinking, creativity, and global understanding.
Accredited by the Council of International Schools and part of the IB Organization, Redbridge provides strong academics along with sports, music, drama, and community activities.
- Address: Rua Francisco Metrass 97, 1350-164 Lisboa
- Curriculum: International, Portuguese, French
- Languages: English, Portuguese, French
- Ages: 3 to 15
- Annual Fees: €7,472 to €11,150
Deutsche Schule Lissabon
Deutsche Schule Lissabon is a German international school in Lisbon offering a German-language education for students aged 3 to 18, following the German national curriculum.
Accredited by the German government and part of the Association of German International Schools, the school combines strong academics with sports, music, art, and theater.
- Address: Largo Willy Brandt, 1600-891 Lisboa
- Curriculum: German
- Languages: German
- Ages: 3 to 18
- Annual Fees: €6,900 to 7,090
United Lisbon International School
The United Lisbon International School is a relatively new international school that opened its doors in September 2020. It offers education to students from preschool to grade 12 and follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum.
The school is located in central Lisbon and boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a science lab, art studios, a music room, and a gymnasium.
- Address: Av. Mar. Gomes da Costa No 9, 1800-255 Lisboa
- Curriculum: IB, American
- Languages: English
- Ages: 3 to 18
- Annual Fees: €9,947 to €20,909
Park International School
The Park International School is a private international school in Lisbon offering an IB education for students aged 3 to 18, with a community representing over 40 nationalities.
The school focuses on academic excellence, personal growth, and global citizenship, and offers a wide range of activities including sports, music, drama, and community service.
- Address: Rua da Indústria, 15 2610-088 Amadora
- Curriculum: IB. British, Portuguese
- Languages: English, Portuguese
- Ages: 1 to 18
- Annual Fees: fees not public
International Schools in Portugal: Greater Lisbon Area
Best International Schools in Portugal, Cascais and Estoril
- IPS Cascais British International School – Cascais
- St. James’ Primary School – Cascais
- International Christian School of Cascais – Cascais
- St. George’s School – Cascais
- Lisbon Montessori School – Cascais
- King’s College School Cascais – Cascais
- Greene’s College Oxford, Estoril – Estoril
- St. Dominic’s International School – São Domingos de Rana
- Aprendizes – Cascais
- Santo António International School (SAIS) – Estoril
- Kairos Montessori – Cascais
- Brave Generation Academy – Cascais
- St. John’s School – Cascais
List of Best International Schools in Portugal, Oeiras and Carcavelos
- Oeiras International School – Oeiras
- International Sharing School Taguspark – Oeiras
- St. Julian’s School – Carcavelos
- Svenska Skolan – Carcavelos
- Jill’s Place – Carcavelos
List of Best International Schools in Portugal, Sintra
- Sintra International Christian Academy
- Carlucci American International School of Lisbon
- Prime School
- TASIS Portugal
Best International Schools in Portugal, Greater Lisbon Area
Carlucci American International School of Lisbon
The Carlucci American International School of Lisbon is a long-standing private school in Portugal’s capital, offering an American-style education from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. Founded in 1956, it’s accredited by the Middle States Association and the Council of International Schools.
- Address: R. António dos Reis 95, 2710-144 Sintra
- Curriculum: IB, American
- Languages: English
- Ages: 3 to 18
- Annual Fees: €9,144 to €19,372
St. Julian's School
St. Julian’s School is one of Portugal’s oldest international schools, founded in 1932 and offering a British-style education from nursery to grade 12. Located in Carcavelos, near Lisbon, it has a diverse community with students from more than 40 nationalities.
- Address: Quinta Nova, Carcavelos
- Curriculum: IB, British, Portuguese
- Languages: English, Portuguese
- Ages: 3 to 18
- Annual Fees: €11,286 to €26,523
International Christian School of Cascais
The International Christian School of Cascais is a private Christian school in the coastal town of Cascais, offering education from kindergarten through grade 12. It provides a faith-based learning environment that integrates Christian values throughout the curriculum.
- Address: Av. de Sintra 1154, Alcabideche
- Curriculum: American, Christian
- Languages: English
- Ages: 3 to 18
- Annual Fees: fees not public
IPS Cascais British International School
IPS Cascais British International School is a private international school in Cascais offering a British-style education for students aged 3 to 13. The school follows the National Curriculum for England and Wales, enriched with international elements and Portuguese language and culture. IPS Cascais is accredited by COBIS and is a member of the Association of Portuguese Independent Schools.
- Address: Rua da Lagoa 171, Bicesse, Alcabideche
- Curriculum: British
- Languages: English
- Ages: 3 to 13
- Annual Fees: €10,564 to €14,929
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International Schools in Portugal, Algarve
- Montalvo International School – Loulé
- Barlavento International Primary School – Lagos
- Educan, Algarve – Lagoa
- Colégio Santiago Internacional – Faro
- Aljezur International School – Aljezur
- Eden Montessori International School – Loulé
- Deutsche Schule Algarve – Silves
- Nederlands Onderwijs Algarve Portugal – Loulé
- Algarve International School – Lagoa
- Nobel Algarve British International School – Lagoa
- Eupheus International School Algarve – Loulé
- Vilamoura International School (CIV) – Loulé
- Colégio Bernardette Romeira – Olhão
- Vale Verde International School – Lagos
Map of International Schools in Portugal, Algarve
Best Internationals Schools In Portugal, Algarve
Montalvo International School
Montalvo International School presents itself as a centre of excellence for iGCSEs and A Levels. Its small class sizes coupled with personalized study plans, qualified teachers and a supportive learning environment aim to help committed students in their academic endeavours.
- Address: Avenida Marçal Pacheco, 37 8100-567 Loulé
- Curriculum: International British Curriculum by Pearson Edexcel
- Languages: English
- Ages: 13-18+
- Yearly Fees: €13,255.00-€14,400.00
Educan
Educan is a private co-educational school in the Algarve offering a bilingual Portuguese-English education for students aged 3 to 18. The school combines the Portuguese national curriculum with the International Baccalaureate, giving students a balanced and globally focused education.
- Address: R. de Portugal 3, Loulé
- Curriculum: British
- Languages: English
- Ages: 5 to 16
- Yearly Fees: €5,740 to €7,574
Nobel Algarve British International School
Nobel Algarve British International School is a private co-educational school in Lagoa, offering a British curriculum for students aged 3 to 18. The programme is taught by experienced international teachers and prepares students for both the International Baccalaureate and British A-levels.
- Address: Barros Brancos, EN125, Lagoa
- Curriculum: British, Portuguese
- Languages: English
- Ages: 3 to 18
- Yearly Fees: €5,622 to €17,790
Eupheus International School Algarve
Eupheus International School Algarve is a well-regarded international school in the Algarve, offering a strong academic programme from kindergarten through high school. Alongside its curriculum, the school provides a variety of extracurricular activities that support personal growth and development.
- Address: Parque Industrial de Loulé
- Curriculum: British
- Languages: English
- Ages: 3 to 14
- Yearly Fees: €6,450 to €13,500
International Schools in Portugal, Porto and Braga
- CLIP Oporto International School
- Lycée Francais International Porto
- Oporto British School
- Deutsche Schule zu Porto
- CLIB – The Braga International School
CLIP Oporto International School
CLIP Oporto International School is a private, co-educational school in Porto offering a bilingual Portuguese–English education for students aged 3 to 18. The school follows a British-based international curriculum, adapted to meet Portuguese educational requirements, with a strong focus on academic rigor and global citizenship.
- Address: Rua de Vila Nova, 1071, Porto
- Curriculum: British-based international curriculum
- Languages: Portuguese and English
- Ages: 3 to 18
- Yearly Fees: €7,900 to €11,900 (depending on year group)
Lycée Francais International Porto
Lycée Francais International Porto is a private co-educational school in Porto offering a French education for students aged 3 to 18, following the French national curriculum.
Taught by qualified, experienced teachers, the programme prepares students for the French Baccalaureate while also promoting bilingualism through Portuguese and English.
- Address: Rua Gil Eanes 27, Porto
- Curriculum: French
- Languages: French
- Ages: 3 to 18
- Yearly Fees: €4,491 to €5,460
Best International Schools in Portugal, Other Regions
- International School of Palmela – Setúbal
- Seixal International School – Setúbal
- St. Peters International School – Setúbal
- CLIC – Colegio Luso-Internacional de Centro – Leiria
- The International School of Madeira
- International Sharing School Madeira
The Portuguese Education System
Education in Portugal is structured in clear stages that guide students from early childhood through to university. The system is designed to support gradual academic, social, and personal development, starting with early learning in preschool and progressing toward more specialized studies in secondary school and higher education.
- Preschool education (Educação Pré-escolar): ages 3 to 6
- Primary education (Ensino Básico): ages 6 to 15
- Secondary education (Ensino Secundário): ages 15 to 18
- Higher education (Ensino Superior): ages 18 and above.
School Fees in Portugal
Private school fees in Portugal usually range from €400 to €500 per month, depending on the school, location, and services included.
International schools tend to have higher tuition, typically starting at around €800 per month, not including extras like transport, meals, sports, or after-school activities. At the upper end, the most well-known international schools can reach up to €1,800 per month.
How to Choose an International School in Portugal
Choosing international schools in Portugal is an important decision that requires careful consideration. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting an international school for your child:
Visit the School
The best way to get a feel for an international school is to visit the campus. This will give you the opportunity to meet with the school administration, faculty, and staff, and to observe the classroom environment. You can also get a sense of the school’s culture, values, and overall atmosphere.
Curriculum
Choose a school that offers a curriculum that aligns with your child’s needs and future goals. Some popular curricula include the International Baccalaureate (IB), the British National Curriculum, and the American Curriculum.
Cost
Consider the cost of tuition, fees, and other expenses associated with attending the school. Make sure you understand what is included in the cost, such as meals, transportation, uniforms, and extracurricular activities. Some schools may also offer financial aid or scholarships, which can help offset the cost.
Extra Curriculum Activities
Look for schools that offer a wide range of extracurricular activities such as sports, music, drama, and art. These activities can help your child develop their talents, build social skills, and make new friends.
Reputation and Accreditation
Research the school’s reputation and accreditation. Look for reviews from other parents and students, and check if the school is accredited by reputable organizations such as the Council of International Schools (CIS) or the International Baccalaureate (IB).
How to Move to Portugal
EU Citizens
If you intend to stay in Portugal for more than three months, it is mandatory to apply for a registration certificate. The EU registration certificate (CRUE) can be submitted upon arrival at thh city hall of your residential area and is valid for up to five years.
Non-EU Citizens
If you’re a non-EU national planning to live in Portugal, you’ll need to apply for a residency visa before arriving. After entering the country, this visa is converted into a residence permit. Here are the most common options for those moving to Portugal:
Portugal D7 Visa
Portugal D7 visa, a popular choice for individuals and families with passive income who want a more affordable lifestyle and long-term residency in Portugal.
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa ideal for remote workers and freelancers who want to live in Portugal while maintaining employment or clients abroad.
D2 Visa Portugal
D2 Visa Portugal designed for entrepreneurs and business owners who want to build or invest in a company in Portugal and benefit from the country’s supportive business environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular international schools in Portugal?
Some top international schools include St. Julian’s School (Carcavelos), Carlucci American International School of Lisbon (CAISL), Oporto British School (Porto), Redbridge School (Lisbon), and Nobel Algarve British International School.
What curricula do international schools in Portugal offer?
International schools in Portugal offer various curricula, including the International Baccalaureate (IB), British (IGCSE and A-Levels), American, German, and French systems, catering to a diverse student population.
Are international schools in Portugal English-speaking?
Yes, most international schools teach in English, though some also offer bilingual options in Portuguese, French, or German, depending on the school.
Where are the majority of international schools located?
Most international schools are concentrated in Lisbon, the Algarve, and Porto, as these areas are popular with expats and offer thriving international communities.
What age groups do international schools in Portugal cater to?
International schools in Portugal generally accept students from pre-school (age 3) to high school (age 18), offering primary, secondary, and college-preparatory education.
How much do international schools in Portugal cost?
Tuition fees range from €8,000 to €20,000 per year, depending on the school, grade level, and facilities. Additional costs may include registration fees, uniforms, meals, and extracurricular activities.
Do international schools in Portugal offer extracurricular activities?
Yes, most international schools offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, music, robotics, and language clubs, helping students develop diverse skills.
Are international schools in Portugal accredited?
Yes, reputable international schools are accredited by recognized international bodies like the Council of International Schools (CIS), IB Organization, or national education authorities, ensuring quality education.
Is it easy to enroll children in international schools in Portugal?
Demand can be high, so it’s recommended to apply early. Schools typically require academic records, entrance assessments, and sometimes interviews as part of the admission process.
Do international schools in Portugal help with language integration?
Many international schools offer Portuguese language classes to help expat students integrate better into local life while maintaining their international education.
Does Portugal have good public schools?
Yes. Public schools in Portugal offer a solid academic foundation, especially at primary level. Education is compulsory and free, and schools follow a national curriculum. While teaching quality is generally good, classes are taught in Portuguese, which can be challenging for non-Portuguese-speaking children at first.
Is Portugal a good country to raise kids?
Portugal is widely considered a great place to raise children. It offers a high level of safety, a relaxed family-oriented culture, access to healthcare, outdoor lifestyles, and strong community values. Many international families choose Portugal for its balance between quality of life and affordability.
Are there English-speaking public schools in Portugal?
No. Public schools in Portugal teach in Portuguese. However, many children adapt quickly through language immersion. Families who want education in English usually choose private international or bilingual schools.
Which part of Portugal is best for kids?
Family-friendly areas include Lisbon and nearby Cascais and Oeiras, which offer excellent schools and activities, the Algarve for its outdoor lifestyle and international community, and Porto for families seeking a more traditional environment with good education options.
Can American kids go to school in Portugal?
Absolutely. American children can attend public schools, private Portuguese schools, or international schools, including American-curriculum schools. Many international schools in Portugal are well equipped to support students transitioning from the U.S. education system.
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