Reasons for Portugal becoming an attractive expat destination extend beyond its warm climate, rich culture and history, and affordable cost of living. Portugal has become a world-class tech and business hub, attracting families to its shores with the opportunity to live a prosperous and high-quality life.Â
In addition to being the 7th safest country in the world according to the 2024 Global Peace Index (GPI), education in Portugal is of a high quality. The country offers a large selection of Portuguese universities and other levels of public and private education options for expats to consider, including 51 international schools.
In this Portugal schooling guide, we will unpack the important details about the Portuguese education system. We will discuss the structure of education in Portugal, the accessibility and costs of education on all levels, and everything else expats need to know about the Portuguese educational system to ensure you have all the information you need within reach.
Understanding the Portuguese Education System
Over the past few years, Portugal’s education system has become known for producing top-quality Portuguese schools. Early childcare institutions, primary schools, secondary schools, higher education institutions, and other basic education centers are located across the country, especially in major cities like Lisbon, the country’s capital, Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, and the popular Algarve region.
In 2023, Portugal ranked 8th 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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
In the sections below, we will discuss more aspects of the education system in Portugal, including how education is governed and organized, exploring reforms put in place to overcome challenges, and the role educators play in primary, secondary, and tertiary education in Portugal.
The governance and organization of the Portuguese education systemÂ
The education system in Portugal is governed by the Ministry of Education (Direção-Geral da Educação – DGE). The DGE regulates schools from preschool education through to secondary education.Â
The DGE works with local municipalities to allocate funding, define the curriculum in public schools, and ensure educational standards are met and upheld. The Portuguese Ministry of Science, Technology, and Higher Education (Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior—MCTES) oversees budgets and policies for tertiary education institutions.Â
Expats and Portuguese residents can enroll their children in public, private, or international schools. Most Portuguese families opt for public schools that offer the Portuguese National Curriculum and mainly teach lessons in Portuguese.Â
Many expat families choose to enroll their children in private schools and international schools as these schools will offer curricula and courses such as the International Baccalaureate and the British curriculum and instruct lessons in English or the foreign language of their choice.
The Structure of the Education System in Portugal
Portugal’s education program is mandatory for children between the ages of 6 and 18. After these education phases, students can pursue a university degree through one of the many private or public Portuguese universities.Â
To help your child integrate into Portuguese society better and navigate schools in Portugal with ease, it is recommended that you enroll them in Portuguese language classes offered by a number of public and private Portuguese institutions across the country. For this reason, many expats opt for international schools that teach an international curriculum in English and other languages.Â
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:Â
- Preschool education: Pre-primary school 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.
In the sections below, we will explore the educational structure that schools in Portugal follow in more detail.Â
Pre-school education in Portugal
Governed by the Ministry of Labour, Solidarity, and Social Security (MTSSS), pre-school education in Portugal is an optional phase for children aged three to six and is provided by public early childhood education centers and private schools in Portugal.Â
Although the pre-primary education phase is not mandatory, attendance is beneficial in preparing students for primary education and serves as social and educational support for working parents. As we previously mentioned, in 2022, the Portuguese government introduced the Happy Creche program, which offers free enrollment and education for children born on or after 1 September 2021 at public education centers.Â
This Happy Creche initiative covers basic education, including school meals, insurance costs, and physical education, without charging Portuguese school fees.Â
Parents also have the option of paying private school tuition fees and enrolling their pre-primary children in private pre-schools and international school options that offer Montessori and Waldorf-style education in Portugal.Â
Basic education in Portugal
Basic education in Portugal, also known as primary education, is free for Portuguese residents and a mandatory phase that consists of nine years of schooling for children aged 6 to 15.Â
Primary school or basic education consists of three cycles. The first cycle consists of the first four years (grades one to four), the second cycle covers the next two years (grades five and six), and the third cycle is a form of lower secondary education (grades seven to nine).Â
Core subjects are taught throughout these cycles to ensure that students acquire the fundamental knowledge and skills needed for further study. While many Portuguese families opt to enroll their children in a public school that offers the Portuguese national curriculum, Portugal also provides an excellent selection of private primary schools and international schools, which often charge higher tuition fees.Â
For parents seeking a British or American international school experience, there are a number of options available across the country, especially in popular areas like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Regardless of the type of school, each curriculum is designed to provide a world-class primary education to all students.
Post-secondary higher education
The Portuguese education system offers post-secondary education in the form of non-tertiary options that offer higher education pathways that lead to NQF level 5 qualifications. These qualifications are for students 18 and over who have completed the mandatory education levels.Â
These courses are designed to facilitate seamless entry into the job market or further studies, this education typically spans one year and can be pursued through various avenues. These include specialized technological courses (STC), apprenticeship programs combined with courses, certified modular training, and the recognition, validation, and certification of competencies.Â
Vocational education in Portugal is diverse, covering fields such as technology, health, agriculture, and tourism. Students engage in a curriculum that blends theoretical learning with practical experience, often through internships or work placements. Available at both secondary and post-secondary levels, these programs prepare students for specific professions, offering them tangible skills and qualifications.
Higher education in PortugalÂ
The Portuguese higher education system operates on a binary model, consisting of universities and polytechnic institutes. Higher education in Portugal is highly regarded internationally. Seven universities regularly feature in the QS World University Rankings, including top-ranked institutions like the University of Porto and the University of Lisbon.Â
Universities in Portugal offer a range of degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with a strong emphasis on theoretical education and research. These institutions provide solid scientific training, integrating the efforts and competencies of teaching and research units to prepare students for academic and professional careers.
Polytechnic institutes in Portugal focus on providing undergraduate and master’s degree programs that are specifically tailored to vocational and profession-based education. These institutions are renowned for their practical, hands-on learning approach, particularly in fields such as engineering, nursing, and design.Â
Polytechnic education is structured to ensure that students receive technical training and preparation that qualifies them for professional life while fostering their ability to innovate and apply critical analysis. Both universities and polytechnics in Portugal adhere to the principles of the Bologna Process, ensuring that their educational offerings meet international standards and support students’ cultural, scientific, and professional development.
Adult education and trainingÂ
In Portugal, there are a number of opportunities for individuals to enhance their skills and develop professionally throughout their lives and careers. Lifelong learning is a key concept in this context, promoting continuous personal and professional growth.Â
Various modes of adult education and trainings exist, targeting specific groups with different needs. A significant component of this system is the recognition, validation, and certification of skills acquired throughout life.
For example, the Portuguese government supports the Qualification and Vocational Education Centres (CQEPs), which offer a pathway to legally equivalent qualifications to those from universities and polytechnic institutions.Â
These centers provide vocational courses, specialized counseling, and guidance to adults, particularly those who have only completed mandatory education levels. Such initiatives ensure that adults have access to education and the opportunity to advance their careers, contributing to a more skilled and adaptable workforce.
Public versus Private Education in Portugal
In Portugal, public schools offering basic education are tuition-free for Portuguese citizens and legal residents, while international and private schools will charge tuition fees, which will vary depending on the school.
However, it is important to note that both private schools and public schools offer their own unique advantages. In the sections below, we will briefly explore the differences between the curriculum and quality of education in private and public schools in Portugal. Â
Public schools in PortugalÂ
The public primary school system in Portugal offers a well-rounded curriculum that lays a solid foundation in essential subjects, including mathematics, science, history, geography, and English, which is mandatory for all students.Â
Public secondary schools build on this foundation, offering students the choice between vocational and science-humanities streams. In the vocational stream, students focus on achieving trade qualifications that provide direct access to careers in areas such as IT, design, and hospitality. Alternatively, the science-humanities stream allows students to delve deeper into academic subjects like visual arts, sciences, and humanities.Â
A third option exists for students interested in creative careers, where they can pursue specialized artistic courses. The national curriculum’s consistency across all public schools, coupled with the mandate for students to learn additional foreign languages like French or Spanish from Grade 7, ensures a high standard of education. This consistency and focus on multilingual education contribute to Portugal’s strong reputation in Europe for English proficiency.Â
Public universities in Portugal also benefit from this innovative secondary education system, as students enter higher education with a strong academic background. While public schools are the preferred choice for most Portuguese families due to their free tuition and quality of education, international students may face challenges if they do not speak Portuguese. Therefore, expat parents might consider either learning Portuguese themselves or exploring international school options to ensure their children’s academic success in Portugal.
Private schools in PortugalÂ
Private and international schools in Portugal offer a unique educational experience that sets them apart from public institutions. Private secondary schoolsare known for their smaller class sizes, personalized attention, and access to modern resources.Â
These institutions often provide a more tailored academic environment where students benefit from individualized learning plans and state-of-the-art technology. Religious schools, a subset of private education, emphasize moral and religious teachings alongside core subjects, offering students an in-depth understanding of their faith and its cultural significance. Many parents choose these schools not only for their strong academic record but also for the comprehensive moral and religious education they provide.
Alternatively, international schools in Portugal cater predominantly to expat families, offering curricula from various countries such as the UK, the US, France, and Germany. These private schools provide a multicultural environment where students can study in their native language while interacting with peers from diverse backgrounds. The curriculum in these schools is designed to prepare students for higher education on an international level, with a strong emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and global awareness.
Both private and international schools in Portugal offer a wider range of extracurricular activities, modern facilities, and, in some cases, boarding options, creating an all-inclusive educational experience. While private schools focus on personalized education and moral development, international schools provide a globally recognized curriculum that prepares students for a future in an increasingly interconnected world.
Exploring the costs and accessibility to education in Portugal
Public schools in Portugal are free, making them the preferred choice for most Portuguese families. Parents only need to cover minor costs such as books, school meals, and occasional field trips. The consistent national curriculum includes subjects like Portuguese, mathematics, science, history, geography, and English, which is mandatory.Â
This consistency contributes to Portugal’s ranking among Europe’s top ten English-speaking countries. Despite the high regard for public schools, international students who do not speak Portuguese may face challenges, leading expat parents to consider international schools, which come with additional costs.
In higher education, school fees apply to institutions and private primary and secondary schools with international curricula. Full-time Portuguese citizens and legal residents pay fees ranging from €495 to €697, with most paying the maximum.Â
Part-time students’ fees are proportionate to their study load. International students face higher costs, starting at €495 without a maximum limit. To support students, needs-based and merit-based scholarships and financial aid are available to full and part-time Portuguese citizens and legal residents.Â
According to Eurydice, need-based grants are awarded for 10 months, while merit-based grants are given all at once. These financial aids make education more accessible, especially for those who might otherwise struggle with the costs.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Curriculum at International Schools in Portugal
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is an internationally recognized pre-university education curriculum available in Portugal, offering students a comprehensive and well-rounded education. Taught primarily in English, the IB is offered at both public and private secondary schools, including 12 institutions that provide the Diploma Program.Â
This two-year program, pursued during the final years of secondary education, emphasizes critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and independent research. Students who graduate with an IB diploma are well-prepared for higher education, with the curriculum serving as an alternative to traditional national education systems and being globally acknowledged by universities.
Popular international schools in PortugalÂ
There are 51 excellent international schools in Portugal. Thirty of these international schools are in the Greater Lisbon Area, and eight of the thirty are in the heart of the Portuguese capital city. A few of the most prominent international schools in Portugal include St. Julian’s School in Carcavelos and the Oporto British School.Â
Most of these schools are concentrated in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Below, we have made a list of the best international schools to consider in Lisbon:
- The British School of Lisbon – Misericórdia
- Lycée Français Charles Lepierre Lisbonne – Campolide
- PaRK International – Benfica
- United Lisbon – Marvilla
- Redbridge School – Campo de Ourique
- L’Ecole Trillingue – Belem
- The Lisboan – Alcantara
- Deutsche School – Lumiar
This International Schools in Portugal guide by our migration and residency partner, Global Citizen Solutions, offers more insight into international school options in the country.
Current challenges and reforms for education in Portugal
As in every country, all stakeholders in the Portuguese education system engage in ongoing collaboration and innovation to put reforms into place to overcome challenges facing the early childhood, primary, and secondary education system, university institutions, and even international schools in Portugal.Â
Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) reforms
One of the challenges the education system in Portugal faces is ensuring there are enough spots for pre-primary education students. Children younger than 3 years old in need of Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) often have trouble finding spaces in public schools in Portugal.
According to the European Union’s Eurydice network, only one out of every two Portuguese children aged under 3 is enrolled in state-funded pre-primary education institutions. To combat this issue, the Ministry of Labour, Solidarity and Social Security (MTSSS) introduced the Happy Creche program in 2022.Â
The program has since increased the number of young Portuguese citizens enrolled in public schools and has even offered financial school aid options enabling free attendance and childminding, including school meals, learning and play, and even extended hours.Â
Parents are also encouraged to register their children in the pre-school education system in advance, as early childcare institutions can fill up quickly.
Reforms in other education levels in Portugal
In addition to the reforms in the public pre-school education system in Portugal, the Portuguese Ministry of Education revealed that digital and tech innovations have been integrated into all academic subjects in Portugal’s primary and secondary education systems.Â
According to UNESCO, the Advisor to the Ministry of Education of Portugal, LuÃsa Ucha, shared that public school students are now given devices and access to digital tools. This innovation is preparing students to participate in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
In 2012, the Portuguese government introduced an additional pathway to education and obtaining a legally equivalent qualification to a degree from the university and polytechnic systems in Portugal. The inclusive educational system is run through the Qualification and Vocational Education Centres (Centros para a Qualificação e Ensino Profissional—CQEPs).Â
Similar to polytechnic institutions, which are professional schools that offer practical and applied education options, this program offers vocational courses, specialized counseling, and guidance to Portuguese residents over fifteen who have only completed mandatory education levels. The UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning can provide more information about this program.
The role of the teaching profession in the Portuguese education system
Whether teaching at private and international schools, public schools offering basic education, vocational schools, or higher education institutions in Portugal, the role of the educator is invaluable.Â
In addition to teaching the core subject in each school curriculum course, teachers offer educational support, help students achieve their learning goals, act as role models for students, assist with critical and creative thinking, teach communication and collaboration, and inspire each student to aspire to greater things.
According to Euro News, the Portuguese teacher’s union FENPROF has estimated that an average of 4,800 teachers will retire in the next few years. This means that by 2030, the country will need more than 30,000 new professional educators for public and private institutions.Â
In the meantime, the Portuguese Ministry of Education is investing in teachers working in Portugal’s growing education system. According to UNESCO, in addition to introducing digital and tech innovations into all academic subjects in Portugal’s primary and secondary education systems, teachers are also participating in training programs to empower them with the necessary digital and online teaching skills.Â
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Portugal Schooling System
What are the key stages of education in Portugal?
The education system in Portugal consists of three key stages: pre-school for children aged 3 to 6, the basic education stage for children aged 6 to 15, which is divided into primary and lower secondary, and upper secondary education for children aged 15 to 18. After completing these stages, students can pursue higher education at universities or polytechnic institutions.
Is education free in Portugal?
Public schools in Portugal are free for Portuguese citizens and legal residents. However, students attending higher education institutions or private schools with international curricula must pay fees.
What language is used in Portuguese schools?
In Portuguese public schools, lessons are primarily taught in Portuguese, following the national curriculum. This is the reason why many expat families often enroll their children in private or international schools, where instruction is provided in English or other foreign languages, depending on the curriculum offered, such as the International Baccalaureate or British curriculum.
Are there international schools in Portugal?
Portugal has 51 international schools, many of which are excellent and are located in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. 30 of these are located in the Lisbon and the Greater Lisbon Area, including notable institutions such as St. Julian’s School in Carcavelos and the Oporto British School.
What is the cost of private education in Portugal?
The cost of private education in Portugal varies by school, with international institutions starting at €495 and potentially reaching much higher amounts. Financial aid, including needs-based and merit-based scholarships, can help manage the costs for Portuguese citizens and legal residents, making private education more accessible.
How do Portuguese universities and polytechnics differ?
Portuguese universities offer courses based on theoretical education and research, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with a focus on academic and professional development. In contrast, polytechnic institutes prioritize practical, vocational training through undergraduate and master’s programs, focusing on hands-on learning in fields like engineering and nursing, and are designed for career readiness.
