Portugal is a popular destination for expatriates and international families who are seeking a high-quality education for their children. As a result, there are many international schools in Portugal that cater to a variety of nationalities and offer curricula from different countries.
Currently, there are 51 International Schools in Portugal in 7 different cities, providing a range of educational options for families. Greater Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, boasts the highest concentration of international schools, with 30 schools located in and around the city. The Algarve region, a popular destination for tourists and expats, is home to 13 international schools, while Porto has four.
What to consider while choosing an international school in Portugal?
Choosing an international school 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.
Talk to Teachers
Talk to the teachers to get an idea of their teaching philosophy and methodology. Ask about their experience, qualifications, and training. You can also inquire about the teacher-student ratio, class size, and the level of support provided to students.
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.
You should also consider if the school offers bilingual or multilingual programs and if they have a strong focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) subjects.
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).
What as the most popular curriculums in Portugal?
International Baccalaureate (IB) Program
The IB program is widely recognized and is offered by many international schools in Portugal.
This curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and intercultural understanding, and is designed to prepare students for further education anywhere in the world.
British Curriculum
The British curriculum is also widely offered by international schools in Portugal and is based on the English National Curriculum.
It is recognized globally and prepares students for university studies in the UK and other English-speaking countries.
American Curriculum
The American curriculum is offered by some international schools in Portugal and is based on the U.S. education system.
This curriculum is well-regarded globally and prepares students for university studies in the US and other countries.
Other Curriculums
Some international schools in Portugal may also offer other curriculums such as the French, German, or Dutch curriculums.
Best international schools in Lisbon
The British School Lisbon
The British School Lisbon is an international school located in the heart of Lisbon, Portugal. It offers an English-language education to students from ages 3 to 18, and follows the British National Curriculum.
The school is accredited by the Council of British International Schools and is a member of the European Council of International Schools.
The British School Lisbon provides a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and community service. It also prepares students for IGCSEs and A-levels, which are internationally recognized qualifications that can help students gain entry to top universities around the world.
- 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 located in Lisbon, Portugal. It offers a French-language education to students from ages 3 to 18, and follows the French curriculum.
The school is accredited by the French Ministry of Education and is a member of the Agency for French Education Abroad. Lycée Francais Charles Lepiérre Lisbonne provides a range of academic and extracurricular activities, including sports, music, art, and theater.
It also prepares students for the French Baccalauréat, an internationally recognized qualification that can help students gain entry to top universities around the world.
- 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 located in Lisbon, Portugal that offers an English-language education to students from ages 3 to 18.
The school follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, which is a rigorous, globally recognized program that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and intercultural understanding.
Redbridge School is accredited by the Council of International Schools and is a member of the International Baccalaureate Organization. The school offers a range of academic and extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and community service.
- 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 located in Lisbon, Portugal. It offers a German-language education to students from ages 3 to 18, and follows the German curriculum.
The school is accredited by the German government and is a member of the Association of German International Schools. Deutsche Schule Lissabon provides a range of academic and extracurricular activities, including sports, music, art, and theater.
It also prepares students for the German Abitur, an internationally recognized qualification that can help students gain entry to top universities around the world.
- 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.
The school places great emphasis on personalized learning, with a low student-to-teacher ratio to ensure that each student receives individual attention.
- 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
Carlucci American International School of Lisbon
The Carlucci American International School of Lisbon is a private international school located in the capital city of Portugal, Lisbon. The school was founded in 1956 and provides an American-style education for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12.
The school is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the Council of International Schools.
The Carlucci American International School of Lisbon has a diverse student body, with over 30 nationalities represented.
The school has a strong focus on academic excellence, offering a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for university education.
- 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
Park International School
The Park International School is a private international school located in Lisbon, Portugal. The school provides an education for students aged 3 to 18 and follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and has students from over 40 different nationalities.
The Park International School is committed to providing a holistic education, focusing on academic excellence, personal development, and global citizenship. The school offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and community service.
The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
- Address: Rua da Indústria, 15 2610-088 Amadora
- Curriculum: IB. British, Portuguese
- Languages: English, Portuguese
- Ages: 1 to 18
- Annual Fees: fees not public
Best international schools in Cascais
St. Julian's School
St. Julian’s School is one of the oldest and most established international schools in Portugal. It was founded in 1932 and provides a British-style education to students from nursery to grade 12.
The school is located in Carcavelos, a coastal town near Lisbon, and has a diverse student body representing over 40 nationalities.
St. Julian’s School offers a broad curriculum that includes academic subjects, sports, and the arts. The school has excellent facilities, including a swimming pool, sports courts, a theatre, and a music center.
- 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 that provides education to students from kindergarten to grade 12. The school is located in Cascais, a picturesque coastal town near Lisbon.
The International Christian School of Cascais offers a faith-based education that integrates Christian values into the curriculum. The school follows the American educational system and offers a range of academic programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses for high school students.
The school has excellent facilities, including a science lab, a computer lab, an art room, and a library.
- 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 located in Cascais, Portugal. The school offers a British-style education for students aged 3 to 13 years old, with a focus on developing critical thinking skills and a global perspective.
IPS Cascais British International School follows the National Curriculum for England and Wales, with additional elements of internationalism and Portuguese language and culture.
The school is accredited by the Council of British International Schools (COBIS) and is a member of the Association of Portuguese Independent Schools (APIS).
- Address: Rua da Lagoa 171, Bicesse, Alcabideche
- Curriculum: British
- Languages: English
- Ages: 3 to 13
- Annual Fees: €10,564 to €14,929
Best international schools in Setúbal
St. Peters International School
At St. Peter’s International School, who was founded in 1993, the goal is to foster the growth of all student’s unique talents and abilities, while promoting creativity, imagination, international-mindedness, and respect.
The school’s ultimate objective is to empower each student to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.
- Address: Quinta dos Barreleiros Volta da Pedra, Palmela
- Curriculum: IB, British, Portuguese
- Languages: English, Portuguese
- Ages: 1 to 8
- Annual Fees: fee not public
International School of Palmela
The International School of Palmela is a co-educational international school located in Palmela, Portugal. The school offers a comprehensive educational program from pre-school to grade 12 and follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum.
The International School of Palmela is committed to providing students with a holistic education, focusing on both academic and personal development.
The school has modern facilities, including science and computer labs, a library, and sports facilities, and offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and community service.
- Address: Av. Vila Amélia, Quinta do Anjo, Palmela
- Curriculum: British, Islamic
- Languages: English
- Ages: 5 to 18
- Annual Fees: fees not public
Best international schools in Porto
CLIP Oporto International School
CLIP Oporto International School is a private, co-educational school located in Porto, Portugal. The school offers a bilingual education in Portuguese and English to students from the age of 3 to 18.
The curriculum is based on the Portuguese national curriculum and the International Baccalaureate, providing students with a strong academic foundation while also emphasizing the development of critical thinking skills and intercultural competence.
CLIP Oporto is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and is a member of the Association of IB World Schools in Portugal.
- Address: Rua de Vila Nova, 1071, Porto
- Curriculum: British
- Languages: English
- Ages: 3 to 18
- Yearly Fees: €7,900 to €11,900
Lycée Francais International Porto
Lycée Francais International Porto is a private, co-educational school located in Porto, Portugal. The school offers a French educational programme to students from the age of 3 to 18, following the French national curriculum.
The curriculum is taught by a team of experienced, qualified teachers and is designed to prepare students for the French Baccalaureate. The school also emphasizes the importance of developing bilingualism, with students having the opportunity to learn Portuguese and English.
Lycée Francais International Porto is accredited by the Agency for French Education Abroad (AEFE) and is a member of the Mission laïque française.
- Address: Rua Gil Eanes 27, Porto
- Curriculum: French
- Languages: French
- Ages: 3 to 18
- Yearly Fees: €4,491 to €5,460
Best internationals schools in Algarve
Educan
Educan is a private, co-educational school located in the Algarve region of Portugal. The school offers a bilingual education in Portuguese and English to students from the age of 3 to 18.
The curriculum is based on the Portuguese national curriculum and the International Baccalaureate, providing students with a well-rounded education that emphasizes academic excellence, personal growth, and intercultural understanding.
Educan is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and is a member of the Association of IB World Schools in Portugal.
- 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 located in Lagoa, in the Algarve region of Portugal. The school follows the British national curriculum, offering a broad range of subjects to students from the age of 3 to 18.
The curriculum is taught by a team of experienced, internationally qualified teachers and is designed to prepare students for both the International Baccalaureate and British A-levels.
Nobel Algarve is a member of the Council of British International Schools (COBIS) and is accredited by the British Schools Overseas (BSO).
- 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 highly respected international school located in the scenic Algarve region of Portugal. It offers an outstanding academic curriculum for students from kindergarten to high school, combined with a range of extracurricular activities that promote personal growth and development.
The school is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and commitment to providing a nurturing and supportive learning environment for students from diverse backgrounds and nationalities.
With a focus on academic excellence, character development, and global citizenship, Eupheus International School Algarve is an exceptional institution that prepares students for success in university and beyond.
- Address: Parque Industrial de Loulé
- Curriculum: British
- Languages: English
- Ages: 3 to 14
- Yearly Fees: €6,450 to €13,500
How is organized the education in Portugal
Education in Portugal is divided into several stages and in this article, we will take a closer look at each of these stages and what they entail.
- 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.
Pre-school education (Educação Pré-escolar)
Pre-school education in Portugal emphasizes play-based learning and the development of social skills, creativity, and independence.
Children are exposed to a variety of activities and experiences that help them develop their cognitive, emotional, and physical abilities.
Primary education (Ensino Básico)
During this stage, children receive a general education that covers subjects such as Portuguese, mathematics, science, history, geography, and physical education.
The curriculum is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in secondary education and beyond.
Secondary education (Ensino Secundário)
During this stage, students can choose to pursue either a general or technical education track.
The general education track prepares students for higher education and focuses on subjects such as Portuguese, mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, and history.
The technical education track prepares students for the workforce and focuses on practical skills and hands-on learning.
Higher education (Ensino Superior)
Higher education in Portugal is available to students who have completed secondary education and is divided into two main categories: academic and professional.
Higher education in Portugal is provided by universities, polytechnic institutes, and other higher education institutions.
Moving to Portugal with your family
EU Citizens
If you intend to stay in Portugal for more than three months, it is mandatory to apply for a registration certificate. The application can be submitted upon arrival in the country, and once approved, the certificate is valid for up to five years.
Non-EU Citizens
If you are a non-EU national planning to reside in Portugal, you must apply for a Portuguese residency visa before your arrival. After your visa expires, you will be required to obtain a residence permit. The most popular visas to move to Portugal:
Portugal D7 Visa
An attractive option for many families who have passive income and want to avoid the high costs of living in their home country is the Portugal D7 visa, which allows for living in Lisbon.
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
You can choose to live in Lisbon under the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa. It’s a popular route for many digital nomads and remote workers.
D2 Visa Portugal
You can live in Portugal and take advantage of a supportive ecosystem, as well as a range of qualified professionals in multiple sectors through the D2 Visa Portugal.
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Local Expertise
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Holistic Approach
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Frequently asked questions about International Schools in Portugal
What are international schools in Portugal?
International schools in Portugal are schools that provide an education that follows an international curriculum and is taught in English or another foreign language.
These schools are often attended by expatriate families who are living in Portugal.
What are some of the benefits of attending an international school in Portugal?
Exposure to different cultures, languages, and educational systems, access to high-quality facilities and resources, and the opportunity to earn international qualifications that are recognized by universities around the world.
How can I find an international school in Portugal?
Searching online, getting recommendations from friends or colleagues, or working with a reputable educational consultant who specializes in international schools.
What kind of curriculum do international schools in Portugal follow?
International schools in Portugal typically follow an international curriculum such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, the Cambridge International Curriculum, or the American curriculum.
These curriculums are designed to provide students with a well-rounded education that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
What kind of language instruction do international schools in Portugal offer?
International schools in Portugal typically offer language instruction in English or another foreign language such as French, Spanish, or German.
Many schools also offer language immersion programs that allow students to become proficient in a second language.
What kind of extracurricular activities do international schools in Portugal offer?
International schools in Portugal offer a wide range of extracurricular activities such as sports, music, drama, art, and community service. These activities are designed to help students develop social skills, leadership abilities, and a sense of community.
What are the admission requirements for international schools in Portugal?
Depends on the school. Generally, students will need to submit an application form, transcripts from previous schools, standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation.
Some schools may also require an entrance exam or interview.
How much do international schools in Portugal cost?
The cost depends on the school and the level of education. Generally, tuition fees for international schools in Portugal range from €10,000 to €25,000 per year.
Additional costs such as uniforms, textbooks, and extracurricular activities may also apply.
What kind of support do international schools in Portugal provide for students with special needs?
International schools in Portugal are required to provide support for students with special needs.
This support may include accommodations such as additional time for exams or specialized instruction. Parents should contact the school directly to discuss the specific needs of their child.
