With its sunny climate, rich history, and high standard of living, Portugal has become an increasingly popular destination for expats and their families. Beyond its appeal as a world-class business hub, Portugal offers a welcoming environment for families, where quality of life is prioritized, and education is of a high standard.
Parents moving to Portugal will find a variety of schooling options, from public institutions following the national curriculum of the Portuguese education system to private international schools offering globally recognized programs such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) and the British curriculum.
In this comprehensive guide, we will share an overview of international schools in Portugal. Whether you are seeking a private preschool, a well-ranked secondary school, or a prestigious institution for higher education, this guide will simplify your search and provide the essential information you need.
How to Choose an International School in Portugal
International schools cater to diverse linguistic and educational preferences and provide excellent academic programs, a multicultural learning environment, and opportunities for students to continue their studies anywhere in the world.
There are 51 international schools in Portugal, and choosing the right international school for your children can be easier if you know where to start and what to look out for. Here are some tips to help you make the best Portugal schooling option for your children:
- Accreditation: Ensure the school is accredited by recognized organizations like CIS, NEASC, or IBO, guaranteeing high standards in curriculum, teaching, and facilities.
- Curriculum: Based on your child’s needs and aspirations, consider the offered curriculum, whether the IB diploma or the North American style education.
- Location: Think about the school’s proximity to your home or workplace and access to public transportation for easy commuting.
- Extracurricular activities: Explore the range of extracurricular offerings, such as sports, music, and drama, to help your child make friends and develop new skills.
- Teacher qualifications: Verify the teachers’ qualifications and experience, as they are vital to your child’s learning experience.
Types of International Schools in Portugal
When moving to Portugal, you will discover a wide variety of international schools to choose from, especially in some of the most desirable locations in PortugalРLisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. You can find international schools in Lisbon in various regions, including Cascais, Estoril, Sintra, Oeiras, and Carcavelos. Meanwhile, the Algarve region offers international schools in Faro, Almancil, Lagoa, and Portiṃo.
Other Portuguese regions, such as Porto, Braga, Madeira, and Leiria, also have a handful of international schools. Below, we will discuss the types of international schools that you will come across in Portugal.
British Curriculum
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, as well as additional subjects like social studies, humanities, computing, arts, music, languages, and physical education.
German curriculum
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 Portugal provide well-structured programming focused on critical thinking and problem-solving and a wide range of courses in sciences, humanities, and languages.
American curriculum
American schools in Portugal, 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.
French curriculum
The French curriculum follows the programming of the International Baccalaureate Organization while remaining based on French history and tradition. It is well-known for its well-rounded education system that promotes analytical and critical thinking skills.
International schools in Portugal that offer this curriculum provide a comprehensive program that includes literature, mathematics, sciences, history, and languages.
What can international schools in Portugal offer my child?
International schools in Portugal prepare students for academic success and a globally connected future, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to thrive in an international setting. These schools cultivate a multicultural learning environment where students engage with peers from diverse backgrounds, promoting openness and cultural awareness.
A strong emphasis is placed on multilingual education, ensuring children gain language proficiency alongside their academic studies. The holistic curricula prioritize academic excellence while nurturing critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Many institutions follow well-established international frameworks, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or the British curriculum, which are widely recognized for their rigorous educational approaches.
Additionally, several schools offer qualifications like the Cambridge International Examinations, enhancing students’ prospects for university admissions worldwide. Extracurricular activities play a crucial role, allowing students to explore various talents, whether in STEM fields, the arts, or collaborative projects.
Some schools focus particularly on curiosity-driven learning, while others specialize in scientific disciplines or artistic development. With a broad selection of English-speaking international schools across Portugal, families can choose from various curricula tailored to different educational philosophies.
The Difference Between International Schools and Public Schools in Portugal
Public schools in Portugal are well-regarded for their adherence to national curriculum standards and affordability. They are funded by the government and also provide world-class education. These schools are fully taught in Portuguese, except for foreign language subjects like English, French, or German.
They are an excellent choice for families prioritizing accessibility or those on a tight budget. In contrast, international schools cater to foreign residents and international students by offering a diverse student body and tailored curricula. They provide rigorous academic programs with smaller class sizes and more individualized teacher attention.
Additionally, international schools typically offer a broader range of extracurricular activities, allowing students to explore their interests beyond the classroom. For families relocating to Portugal, especially with children aged 12 and above, international schools provide a smoother transition, as older children generally require more time to learn Portuguese.
The international setting fosters an environment where students from different backgrounds can integrate more easily and form friendships. While public schools provide a strong, structured education in Portuguese, international schools offer a globally oriented approach with a focus on adaptability and cultural diversity, making them an appealing option for expat families.
School fees in Portugal
In Portugal, public schools do not charge tuition for citizens and foreign residents up to a certain education level. However, private schools charge tuition payments, which can range from €400 to €500 per month for primary through high school. International schools tend to have higher fees, with monthly tuition averaging around €800.
The minimum tuition for private and international schools starts at approximately €40 per month but can rise to €1,800, depending on the school level. When planning for private or international education costs, be sure to account for extra expenses such as uniforms, books, and other supplies.
The Portuguese Education System
In 2024, Portugal ranked 6th in the Education First (EF) global ranking of countries and regions’ English proficiency survey, proving to be more English proficient than South Africa, Germany, and Croatia. In early 2024, business magazine CEO World conducted a survey of 93 countries to find the best-performing education systems in 2024.
Researchers analyzed and compared the quality and opportunity indicators across the education system of each country. The quality index indicators included taking the public education system, willingness to attend university, number of research institutions, university funding and endowment, specialization expertise, industrial linkage, academic educational professional effectiveness, institutional output by research, and how higher education institutions perform in the various global rankings into account.
The opportunity index indicators included adult literacy rates, graduation rates, primary school completion rates, secondary school completion rates, high school completion rates, collegiate-level school completion rates, and government expenditure on education in Portugal into account.
The Portuguese education system ranked 34th in the survey, ranking above Italy at 43rd, Spain at 45th, and Malta at 60th position. According to the European Union’s Eurydice network, education in Portugal is split into three levels, namely pre-school education, basic education, and upper secondary education. The education system is further structured in the following phases, whether you enroll in a private or public school in Portugal:
- Preschool education: Pre-primary school is for children aged 3 to 6 years old.
- Primary education: The first cycle of mandatory primary school lasts 4 years and is for children aged 6 to 10. The second cycle consists of an additional 2 years and is for students aged 10 to 12.
- Secondary education: The secondary school system also consists of two cycles. The first three-year cycle is for students aged 12 to 15, and the second secondary education period, referred to as upper secondary education, consisting of the 10th, 11th, and 12th grades, is for students aged 15 to 18.
- Higher education: Once students aged 18 and above have completed these phases, they can choose to study further through Portuguese universities or polytechnic institutions.
The Portuguese grading system
In Portugal, high schools use a 20-point scale system to grade students, while middle school uses a five-scale grading system that consists of the following categories:
- Fail
- Unsatisfactory
- Satisfactory
- Good
- Excellent
Best International Schools in Portugal
There are a number of top international schools in Portugal which are renowned for their academic excellence and diverse international curriculum. The best schools include but are not limited to:
St. Julian’s School
A well-established school that offers an international program based on the English National Curriculum, with access to the Portuguese national curriculum.
Carlucci American International School of Lisbon
This is the only school in Portugal recognized by the US Department of State and is located just outside Lisbon.
St. Dominic’s International School
Located in Cascais, just a 30-minute drive from Lisbon, St. Dominic’s International School offers religious education with a regular curriculum, including diploma, middle, and primary programs.
Prime School International
This international school has locations in Cascais, Estoril, Lisbon, and Sintra. It offers the Cambridge Curriculum in English for ages 3 to 18, with options for native Portuguese speakers to take classes in both languages.
Oporto British School
Founded in 1894 in Porto, this is the oldest and largest British international school in mainland Europe. It follows a British curriculum through IGCSE and is the only International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB) school in Northern Portugal.
St. Peter’s International School
St. Peter’s International School is a premium private international school in Setúbal, Palmela. It offers national and international programs, including Cambridge IGCSE and the IB Diploma.
Greene’s College Oxford
With locations in Estoril and Lisbon, Greene’s College Oxford offers online tuition for International A Levels, A Level Retakes, and Foundation Years using an Oxford-style tutorial method.
International Preparatory School (IPS)
Located in Porto, IPS serves children ages three to eleven, providing an international environment with a multinational student and teacher body.
Map of International Schools in Portugal
International Schools in Lisbon
List of international schools in Lisbon
Below, we have listed the international schools in Portugal that you will find in Lisbon:
- The British School of Lisbon – Misericórdia
- Lycée Français Charles Lepierre Lisbonne – Campolide
- PaRK International – Benfica
- United Lisbon International School – Marvila
- Redbridge School – Campo
- L’Ecole Trillingue – Belem
- The Lisboan – Alcantara
- Deutsche School – Lumiar
International Schools in the Greater Lisbon Area
List of international schools in Cascais and EstorilÂ
Below, we have listed the international schools in Portugal that you will find in the Greater Lisbon Area:
- St George’s
- Brave Generation Academy
- IPS Cascais
- International Christian School of Cascais
- St Dominic’s
- St James Primary School
- Aprendizes
- Kairos Montessori
- St John’s School
- Kings College
- Santo Antonio International School
- Greene’s College Oxford
- Lisbon Montessori School
List of schools in Sintra and OeirasÂ
- Oeiras International School – Oeiras
- International Sharing School Tagus Park – Oeiras
- Carlucci International School of Lisbon – Sintra
- Prime School – Sintra
- TASIS Portugal – Sintra
List of schools in CarcavelosÂ
- St Julian’s
- Svenska Skolan
International Schools in the Algarve
List of international schools in the AlgarveÂ
Below, we have listed the international schools in Portugal that you will find in the Algarve region:
Lagos:
- Barlavento International Primary School
- Vale Verde International School
- Nobel Algarve British International School
Silves:
- Nederlands Onderwijs Algarve Portugal
Olhão:
- Colégio Bernardette Romeira
Loulé:
- Educan, AlgarveÂ
- CIV – Vilamoura International School
- Eupheus International School Loulé – Algarve
- Algarve International School
Tavira
- Colégio Santiago Internacional
Aljezur
- Aljezur International SchoolÂ
Albufeira
- Eden Montessori International School
International Schools in Other Regions
List of international schools in other regions of PortugalÂ
Below, we have listed the international schools in Portugal that you will find in other regions of Portugal:
Setúbal Region Palmela
- St Peter’s International School Seixal:
- Seixal International School
Central Portugal: Marinha Grande
- CLIC – Colégio Luso-Internacional de Centro
North Portugal, Porto
- CLIP Oporto International School
- Oporto British School
- Lycée Français International de Porto – LFIP
- Deutsche Schule zu Porto Braga:
- CLIB – The Braga International School
Wrapping up International Schools in Portugal
Portugal has a diverse selection of international schools catering to different educational backgrounds and preferences. Families can choose from British schools following the British curriculum or institutions offering American or German teaching methodologies.Â
These schools provide high-quality education, emphasizing personal and professional growth through strong academic foundations, foreign language support, critical thinking, and various extracurricular activities.Â
Additionally, they offer recognized certifications and thorough university preparation. Whether parents seek an excellent education for their children or students desire a transformative learning experience, international schools in Portugal present outstanding opportunities for academic and personal development in schools that have a global outlook.
For a closer look at all the international schools available in Portugal, our migration and residency partner Global Citizen Solutions provides a list of international schools in Portugal.Â
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Frequently Asked Questions about International Schools in Portugal
What is the cheapest international school in Portugal?
All international schools in Portugal are private institutions that charge tuition fees, but the costs vary depending on the institution and the level of education pursued.Â
What are the international schools in Lisbon?
There are 28 international schools in Lisbon and the Greater Lisbon Area, including The British School of Lisbon, Lycée Français Charles Lapierre Lisbonne, and PaRK International School.Â
What are the international schools in Porto?
There are six international schools in Porto, including CLIP Oporto International School, Oporto British School, and Lycée Français International de Porto.
What are the international schools in the Algarve?
The Algarve region is home to 12 international schools, including Aljezur International School, Educan, and Algarve Vale Verde International School.
What are the best international schools in Portugal?
Portugal has several top international schools offering diverse curricula. St. Julian’s School follows the English National Curriculum with a Portuguese section. Carlucci American International School of Lisbon, the only US Department of State-recognized school in Portugal, is just outside Lisbon. St. Dominic’s International School in Cascais provides religious education and diploma programs.Â
Prime School International, with campuses in Cascais, Estoril, Lisbon, and Sintra, offers the Cambridge Curriculum. Oporto British School, the oldest British school in mainland Europe, provides IGCSE and IB. St. Peter’s International School in Setúbal offers Cambridge IGCSE and IB, while Greene’s College Oxford delivers personalized tutorial-based education for students to meet their academic goals.Â
The International Preparatory School (IPS) in Porto serves younger students and provides an international environment with a multinational student and teacher body.
Are international schools free in Portugal?
No, all international schools in Portugal are private institutions that charge tuition fees, but the costs vary depending on the institution and the level of education pursued.Â
Are there English-speaking schools in Portugal?
Yes, Portugal has essential English-speaking schools, primarily in Lisbon, the Algarve, and Porto. Notable options include the Nobel International School, PaRK International School, Oeiras International School, Carlucci American International School, St. Dominic’s International, and the British International School of Lisbon. These institutions provide a range of curricula, including British, American, and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs.Â
How many international schools are in Portugal?
There are 51 international schools in Portugal.
How do international schools in Portugal differ from local Portuguese schools?
International schools in Portugal differ from local Portuguese schools in several key ways. Public schools, which are government-funded and provide world-class education, are well-regarded for their adherence to national curriculum standards and affordability.Â
These schools are fully taught in Portuguese, except for foreign language subjects like English, French, or German, making them ideal for families prioritizing accessibility or those on a tight budget.Â
In contrast, international schools cater to foreign residents and international students, offering diverse student bodies, tailored curricula, smaller class sizes, and more individualized teacher attention. They also provide broader extracurricular activities and smoother transitions for relocating families, especially with older children.
Can my child transition easily from an international school in Portugal to a school in another country?
Yes, the international curriculum offered by the international school of your choice ensures that your child will easily transition from a Portuguese international school to private schools offering the same curriculum in your home country or another country of your choice.Â
Do international schools in Portugal provide support for non-English speaking students?
Yes, international or private schools in Portugal do offer foreign language subjects like English, French, or German.
What extracurricular activities are available in international schools in Portugal?
International schools in Portugal provide a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and arts. Students can also join debate clubs, academic or interest-based clubs, and participate in cultural events. Additionally, some schools organize field trips and community service projects, offering diverse opportunities for engagement beyond the classroom.
Does Portugal have good international schools?
Yes, Portugal is home to a number of world-class international schools that offer high-quality education and a range of curricula.
How much do international schools cost in Portugal?
Monthly fees are usually around €800. The minimum you would pay at an international school in Portugal is €400, but prices can go as high as €1,800 a month.Â
Can American kids go to school in Portugal?
Yes, American children can attend school in Portugal.
Are international schools in Portugal open to both expatriate and local students?
Yes, international schools in Portugal are open to both expat students and local students.Â
Is English taught in schools in Portugal?
Yes, English is taught as a second language in both private and public schools. However, the main language of tuition in public schools is Portuguese. You will be able to find private and international English speaking schools in Portugal.Â
