Portugal is known for more than its incredible climate, with incredible summers and mild winters, low cost of living compared with other European countries, and high-quality healthcare system. The country is also known for offering local and foreign residents top-quality education through the Portuguese education system and 51 international schools across the country.
If you are planning on relocating to the country’s cosmopolitan capital city of Lisbon, finding the best international schools in Portugal for your child’s education is an important step in your relocation journey. There are 30 international schools in Lisbon and the city’s greater metropolitan area to choose from.
In this guide to finding the best international schools in Lisbon, we will explore the current state of education in Lisbon and introduce you to a few schools that typically follow an
international curriculum, including United Lisbon International School and the Oeiras International School.
Understanding Education in Lisbon
Portugal recently ranked 25th in the world according to the U.S. News World Report on the 2024 Best Countries for Education. The rankings are drawn from an international survey of nearly 17,000 people and highlight countries according to whether a country has a well-developed public education system, whether respondents would consider attending university there, and if that country has a reputation for top-quality universities.
As mentioned before, many of the best international schools in Portugal are located in Lisbon. Each modern and innovative school focuses on providing children living in Portugal with exceptional personal and professional development through its international curriculum – with many of the international schools well known for empowering both local and global communities.
Before deciding on an innovative school providing education, it is essential to understand the different international curricula available at Portugal international schools in Lisbon, which we explore in more detail in the Portugal schooling sections below.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
The International Baccalaureate Diploma, or IB program, is a globally recognized curricula known for its high academic standards and focus on critical thinking and global awareness. These schools are ideal for families who are global citizens and looking for a challenging and internationally respected education for their children within an international community. Each stage aims to enhance students’ academic and personal lives, and once completed, young adults possess an IB diploma.
American International Schools and Advanced Placement (AP)
American international schools in Lisbon, such as Carlucci American International School, offer rigorous academic programs that emphasize academic achievement and excellence. These private schools provide a curriculum rooted in the American education system, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education.
A key component of this approach is the inclusion of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, which prepare students for SAT exams and university admissions in the United States. As
the only school option for some families seeking an American education abroad, these international schools in Lisbon uphold high academic standards and offer an environment where students can excel and reach their full potential.
British Curriculum (IGCSE, A-Levels)
A British school focusing on the English national curriculum or British curriculum offers students a solid foundation for academic excellence. This is particularly true for those aspiring to pursue higher education in the UK or other Commonwealth countries. The school curriculum offers a supportive and challenging environment focused on academics. Core subjects include English, math, and science, and additional subjects like social studies, humanities, computing, arts, music, languages and physical education.
German Curriculum (Abitur)
The German curriculum leading to the Abitur (final examinations) is an international education form that is highly respected for its rigorous academic standards and holistic approach to education. Schools offering this curriculum in Lisbon provide well-structured programming focused on critical thinking and problem-solving and a wide range of courses in sciences, humanities, and languages.
French Curriculum (Baccalauréat)
The French curriculum follows the programming of the International Baccalaureate Organisation. It is well-known for its well-rounded education system that promotes analytical and critical thinking skills. International schools in Lisbon that offer this curriculum provide a comprehensive program that includes literature, mathematics, sciences, history, and languages.
How to Choose an International School in Lisbon
Choosing an international school in Lisbon requires careful consideration of multiple factors to ensure the best fit for your child’s education and future aspirations. One of the most important aspects is the curriculum and academic programs.
If your child has a specific university they aim to attend, selecting a school that offers the appropriate curriculum is essential. For instance, if you choose to move back to the UK, attending a British school will help your child adapt easier to the education system in the
UK. Additionally, researching the faculty, the surrounding community, and the school’s reputation among expats can provide valuable insight.
Class sizes are another significant factor. International schools typically have smaller class sizes than public institutions, which is beneficial for students who need a more personalized learning environment. If your child thrives with individualized attention or struggles in large group settings, a school with smaller classes may be ideal.
The language of instruction and language support is also crucial. Many international schools offer multilingual education, allowing students to continue learning in their native language while gaining proficiency in Portuguese. This bilingual approach helps ease their transition into a new country and fosters integration into the local community.
Beyond academics, extracurricular activities, and facilities play an important role in a child’s development. Opportunities in sports, music, and drama allow children to form friendships and cultivate their talents in an engaging environment.
Finally, location should be a consideration, though proximity is not the only factor. Lisbon’s safe and reliable public transport system enables older children to commute independently. Some schools even provide transportation services, making daily commutes more convenient for families living in Portugal’s capital, one of the most desirable locations in Portugal.
Considering Special Education Needs in Lisbon
Considering special education needs in Lisbon, the Portuguese education system integrates special needs teaching into mainstream schools, ensuring inclusivity and high standards. Students are only referred to specialist schools if they cannot reach their educational goals within the mainstream system.
There are also a number of international schools in Lisbon that support special needs education. The International Christian School of Cascais, a small evangelical Christian school, has previously built a good reputation for helping children with special needs. The Carlucci American International School of Lisbon (CAISL), a nonprofit, coeducational day school, offers an American curriculum from early childhood through grade 12.
At the tertiary level, the Network of Support for Students with Special Educational Needs (SEN-ULisboa Network) provides critical assistance across the 18 schools of the University of Lisboa, Student Support Services (SASU Lisboa), and the University Stadium of Lisbon
(EU Lisboa). Their goals include identifying best practices, sharing resources, and improving academic success for students with special educational needs.
Pre-schools, Kindergarten, and Nurseries in Lisbon
Pre-school education in Lisbon is available for children aged three to six and is an optional but beneficial stage before primary education. Governed by the Ministry of Labour, Solidarity, and Social Security (MTSSS), early childhood education is provided by both public institutions and private schools.
Public pre-schools, which follow the Portuguese National Curriculum and primarily instruct in Portuguese, are the preferred choice for many Portuguese families. However, expat families and some Portuguese parents often choose private or international schools that offer alternative curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate or the British curriculum, with instruction in English or other foreign languages.
Additionally, many private pre-schools in Lisbon provide specialized educational approaches, including Montessori and Waldorf-style education, catering to diverse learning preferences. While not mandatory, pre-school attendance helps children develop social and academic skills, easing their transition to primary school.
It also serves as essential support for working parents by providing structured early childhood education. Whether public or private, Lisbon’s pre-schools, kindergartens, and nurseries offer various options to meet the educational needs of both local and international families interested in buying property in Portugal.
International Schools in Lisbon Portugal: Best Schools in Lisbon
Now that we have a better understanding of the various curricula offered by international schools in Lisbon, we will take a look at a few of the best international schools in Lisbon Portugal expats and local families enroll their children in to ensure they get the best international education for longtime success.
Carlucci American International School of Lisbon (CAISL)
Located in Linhó, Sintra, just outside Lisbon but still in the metropolitan area, Carlucci American International School of Lisbon (CAISL) offers an American-style education from Early Childhood through to high school. CAISL also offers the option of pursuing the
International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma in the final two years of secondary school. This international school is popular for its rigorous academic programs, diverse extracurricular activities, and supportive learning environment.
International Preparatory School
International Preparatory School (IPS) is a British International School located north of Cascais, still in the Lisbon metropolitan area. This international educational community is home to over 350 children of 40 nationalities. The school offers the National Curriculum of England from the foundation stage to secondary school. Throughout the curriculum, students work towards earning their iGCSEs, which they will undertake in Year 11 and A levels in Year 13.
St. Dominic’s International School Lisbon
Situated in São Domingos de Rana in the Cascais municipality of the greater Lisbon area, St. Dominic’s International School is the perfect international school for IB students looking to pursue primary and middle school education and eventually achieve their International Baccalaureate Diploma. St. Dominic’s International School Lisbon is popular for its commitment to bringing the best out in each student through its academic, performing arts, sports, and community and service programs.
St. Julian’s School
Established in 1932 in Carcavelos, St. Julian’s School is a prestigious international school offering a comprehensive curriculum that includes the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, British (IGCSE and A-Levels), and Portuguese sections. With its state-of-the-art classrooms, innovative science labs, sports fields, and art studios, St. Julian’s caters to a diverse student body of over 50 nationalities.
British School of Lisbon
Discover the British School of Lisbon (BSL), situated in Campo de Ourique. This prestigious international school follows the British National Curriculum and caters to students aged 3 to 13. As the school grows, it plans to expand its offerings for older students. The primary language of instruction at BSL is English, and Portuguese is taught as a second language to help ensure that international students are well-adjusted in Portugal.
International Christian School of Cascais
The International Christian School of Cascais (ICSC), founded in 1980, is located in Cascais. This Christian international school offers a comprehensive American-style curriculum for students from Pre-Kindergarten to year 12.
ICSC offers a complete, internationally recognized high school diploma program grounded in Christian principles and morals. The school’s mission is to educate future leaders by equipping them with fundamental knowledge in sciences, mathematics, social sciences, and languages.
Lycée Francais Charles Lepierre
Lycée Français Charles Lepierre (LFCL), founded in 1952, is a prestigious school located in Lisbon’s city center.
As part of the AEFE (Agency for French Education Abroad) network, LFCL follows the French national curriculum from kindergarten to graduation, ensuring high academic standards. The curriculum is primarily taught in French, with additional language support in Portuguese and English.
Students benefit from modern facilities, including science labs, sports fields, and art studios. LFCL also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, such as music, performing arts, sports, and clubs, creating a well-rounded educational experience.
Oeiras International School Oeiras International School
Oeiras International School (OIS), located in Oeiras within the metropolitan area of Lisbon, was founded in 2010 to introduce a fresh approach to independent education. Since its inception, the school has evolved from a small community into a leading institution in the region, known for its blend of academic excellence and a beautiful learning environment.
OIS follows the IB program at all levels, preparing graduates for top universities worldwide. With an average class size of 16, teachers can engage with students individually, recognizing their unique learning styles and providing personalized support to enhance their educational experience.
PaRK International School
PaRK International School in Lisbon, Portugal, provides a world-class private education for students aged 1 to 18 across three purpose-built campuses in prime locations. The school offers an innovative and challenging international curriculum that integrates technology while emphasizing academic excellence, creativity, and critical thinking.
In the early years, students receive a strong bilingual foundation in Portuguese and English. From Grade 5, they progress to the Cambridge International Pathway, which includes IGCSE, A Levels, and the IB Diploma Programme.
With outstanding facilities, a focus on arts, sports, and social skills, and additional language options like French and Spanish, PaRK International prepares students for global opportunities.
Prime School
Prime School International, with campuses in Estoril, Lisbon, and Sintra, is a member of the Cambridge International network and delivers top-tier education across 160 countries.
At the forefront of innovation, it employs the PRIME Scientific Method®, emphasizing Personalized Learning, a Resear
St George’s School
St. George’s School, located in Cascais, offers a curriculum supported by the English National Curriculum, to foster individual development. In collaboration with St. James’s Primary School, it has designed a specific educational framework that promotes bilingual proficiency in English and Portuguese.
The curriculum emphasizes Mathematics and Sciences while incorporating Global Perspectives, French and British History, History, Economics, Business Studies, Computing, Art, and Physical Education. By blending humanistic culture with scientific,
technological, and artistic knowledge, St. George’s School ensures that students grow into well-rounded individuals and responsible citizens of the future.
St James’s Primary School
St. James’s Primary School was established to accommodate the growing demand for St. George’s School, which has been in operation since 1960 in Cascais. Following the same principles and ethos as St. George’s, St. James’s serves children aged 6 to 10.
The school offers a bilingual education, with pupils being taught in both English and Portuguese by qualified staff, ensuring an equal balance between the two languages and curricula.
With small class sizes, individual attention is prioritized, and discipline is maintained through a system that fosters enthusiasm and teamwork. After Year 6, students continue their education at St. George’s until Year 10.
TASIS Portugal
The American School in Portugal (TASIS) is an American international school located in Sintra, a picturesque town just 30 minutes from central Lisbon and 15 minutes from Cascais.
As part of the TASIS family of international schools, it welcomes students of all nationalities into a community that fosters excellence, mutual respect, and understanding.
The school offers a strong academic program, including the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), Core Knowledge curriculum, Singapore Math, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP).
TASIS Portugal holds accreditations from Cambridge Assessment International Education, is a Core Knowledge School of Distinction, and an IB World School.
United Lisbon International School
United Lisbon International School, located near the scenic Parque das Nações in Lisbon, provides a cutting-edge educational experience for students from kindergarten to grade 12. Following an American curriculum and offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, the school emphasizes technology, global citizenship, and entrepreneurial skills.
With state-of-the-art equipment, a modern campus, and excellent facilities, it ensures a dynamic learning environment. Students benefit from a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, gymnastics, and entrepreneurship programs.
Find Your Dream Property with BE Global
BE Global Properties is the discerning property investors’ gateway to meticulously curated properties that transcend ordinary listings. Look no further when searching for your next dream home or investment property in the Portuguese luxury real estate market.      Â
Explore our exclusive listings and work with our experts who offer market insights for smart investment choices and exceptional customer service to find the property investment perfectly tailored for your lifestyle. Â
Contact BE Global Properties today and start your journey to discover the property of your dreams.
Frequently Asked Questions about International Schools in Lisbon
How many international schools are in Lisbon?
There are 30 international schools in Lisbon and the city’s greater metropolitan area.
How much is international school in Lisbon?
]The average annual fee for one child to attend an international school in Lisbon can range between €5,000 and €14,000 per year, depending on the level of education your child requires and the school you enroll your child in.
Are there free international schools in Portugal?
Public schools are generally free for Portuguese citizens and residents. However, international schools generally charge annual school fe
Can American kids go to school in Portugal?
Yes, American children with a residence permit in Portugal can attend public schools, private schools, and international schools in Portugal.
