Barbara Queiróz Updated: February 3, 2026
Are you moving to Portugal with children, but don’t know which international school or curriculum is the best choice? You are in the right place!
Our team at Goldcrest compiled a comprehensive guide for international schools in Portugal, including average fees, top locations, and tips for choosing the best school for foreigners.
This article includes a full list of international schools in Portugal, from the prestigious options in Lisbon to the top institutions in Porto and family-friendly campuses in the Algarve. You can compare the types of curricula available for your children and plan your finances.
Stick around to read about:
Key Takeaways about International Schools in Portugal
- According to the International School Database, there are 77 international schools in Portugal, of which 36 are in Lisbon, 8 in Porto, and 15 in the Algarve.
- Portugal is the 29th best country for education in the world, based on the latest US News and World Report.
- The University of Lisbon is one of the best and largest universities in Portugal, ranking #236 in the 2026 Best Global Universities list.
- The average tuition fees for international schools in Portugal vary from €7,000 to over €22,000 per year, with schools in Lisbon and Cascais charging the highest prices.
The Portuguese Education System
Portugal has a mix of private and public schools. The Portuguese education system is regulated by the Ministry of Education. Institutions offer schooling from pre-primary (kindergarten) to higher education. It is mandatory for children to go to school from 6 to 18 years of age, or until they finish 12th grade.
Public education is free for all foreign residents and Portuguese citizens, except at universities, where students pay a relatively affordable fee. Many of the universities in Portugal, such as the University of Lisbon, the University of Porto, and NOVA University Lisbon, are recognized in the QS World University Rankings.
The school year begins in mid-September and ends in June. Each school year has three school terms with breaks for the holidays. The first term lasts from September to December with a two-week break for the New Year and Christmas. The second term begins in January and ends two weeks before Easter. The third and final term starts after Easter and runs until mid-June.
According to the European Commission, the education system in Portugal is separated into three levels: pre-school, basic, and secondary education. Nursery and kindergarten are not compulsory in Portugal, but are often recommended and subsidized.
School level | School year | Age |
Nursery (Infantário) | – | 0–2 |
Kindergarten (Jardim de Infância) | – | 3–5 |
Basic education, 1st cycle (Ensino Básico, 1º Ciclo) | 1st | 6–7 |
2nd | 7–8 | |
3rd | 8–9 | |
4th | 9–10 | |
Basic education, 2nd cycle (Ensino Básico, 2º Ciclo) | 5th | 10–11 |
6th | 11–12 | |
Basic education, 3rd cycle (Ensino Básico, 3º Ciclo) | 7th | 12–13 |
8th | 13–14 | |
9th | 14–15 | |
Secondary education (Ensino Secundário) | 10th | 15–16 |
11th | 16–17 | |
12th | 17–18 |
The grading system in Portugal
Schools in Portugal use different grading systems based on the type of education and the student’s age.
Basic education, for students between 1 and 9 years of age, uses a 5-point percentage-based grading system:
- 90 to 100 percent: Very good (Muito bom)
- 70 to 89 percent: Good (Bom)
- 50 to 69 percent: Satisfactory (Suficiente)
- 20 to 49 percent: Unsatisfactory (Insuficiente)
- 0 to 19 percent: Fail (Mau)
Children require a minimum passing grade of 50 percent, which falls into the satisfactory category.
Secondary education, for students between 10 and 12 grades, as well as higher education, uses a 20-point grading system:
- 5 to 20: Excellent (Excelente)
- 5 to 17.4: Very good (Muito bom)
- 5 to 15.4: Good (Bom)
- 5 to 13.4: Satisfactory (Suficiente)
- 5 to 9.5: Unsatisfactory (Insuficiente)
- 0 to 3.4: Fail (Mau)
With this grading system, any grade with 0.5 or higher is rounded up to the next whole number. For example, a 9.5 is rounded to 10, which is the minimum passing grade.
Is education free in Portugal?
Yes, Portugal provides free public education for all children aged 6 to 18. To qualify for free education, the parents must be legal residents or Portuguese citizens. After the Creche Feliz law was implemented in 2022, a network of specific nurseries (for children up to age 3) was also made available free of charge.
However, public universities in Portugal are not free. They charge tuition fees that are much cheaper than in the United States. For example, the annual tuition fees for higher education vary from €1,000 to €12,500, making it one of the most affordable in the European Union.
How to choose the right international school?
To choose the best schools in Portugal, think about the institution’s curriculum, location, accreditation, and extracurricular activities. Make sure the teacher’s qualifications are up to standard with your child’s preferred learning experience.
“As someone who has helped expat families buy property in Portugal, I’ve learned that the best international school isn’t always the most expensive or the most famous one. What matters is class size and how well the school supports children on a daily basis. Parents should bear in mind the location of the school they wish their child to go to when choosing where to live, as long daily commutes can become tiring over time,” explains Bárbara Queirós, Head of Operations at Goldcrest Real Estate.
International schools in Portugal for foreigners offer the following curriculum:
International Baccalaureate (IB)
The International Baccalaureate (IB) program provides a well-rounded approach for improving critical thinking, developing skills, and helping students find a sense of purpose. The IB curriculum is recognized by universities worldwide and is best for expat families who move frequently.
British curriculum
British international schools often have a UK national curriculum. IGCSEs prepare students for A-levels, which is highly beneficial for students who prefer to continue their studies at a British university. The British curriculum is best for students whose first language is English.
American curriculum
The American curriculum is the educational program used in the United States. Students can often specialize in certain areas or take advanced courses, such as Advanced Placement (AP) classes. It is best for students who prefer a flexible grading system that includes grades, projects, quizzes, exams, and participation.
French curriculum (Baccalauréat)
International schools that follow the French national curriculum offer a smooth transition to French universities. Students often study in a bilingual environment. The French curriculum is best for students whose first language is French.
German curriculum (Abitur)
The German national curriculum leads to Abitur, which is a university entrance diploma. Studies focus on core subjects, such as German language and literature, mathematics, natural sciences, and art. It is best for German-speaking students who prefer an exam-heavy grading system.
Check our guide to international schools in Lisbon
Public Education in Portugal
The Portuguese public education system is free and universal from the age of 4 to the final years of pre-school. Education is compulsory for 12 years, from age 6 until students complete upper secondary education at 18.
Those who can access free public schools in Portugal are Portuguese citizens and legal residents. Public education is divided into pre-school (3 to 5 years), basic education (6 to 15 years), and secondary education (15 to 18 years). The public system is best for native Portuguese speakers.
Although the tuition is free in public schools, families pay for books, supplies, meals, and extracurricular activities, which can cost €1,000 to €3,500 per year. Public universities in Portugal are not free, but they come at relatively affordable costs.
Private and International Schools in Portugal
International and private schools in Portugal are a popular alternative to the public system, especially for expat families seeking specific curricula, language instruction, or smaller class sizes.
If you are interested in a specific location, such as Braga and nearby areas, check our article on international schools in Braga. With that in mind, here is how to compare international vs private schools in Portugal:
- Private schools (escolas privadas) follow the Portuguese national curriculum, but they work independently of the state. They teach mainly in Portuguese and sometimes in bilingual studies. However, they follow the Portuguese Ministry of Education guidelines. They have smaller classes and average tuition fees of €4,000 to €10,000 per year.
- International schools (escolas internacionais) cater to expat families and international students. Classes are taught in English, German, French, or other foreign languages. They follow curricula such as the British (IGCSE & A-Levels), International Baccalaureate (IB), American curriculum, French Baccalauréat, or German Abitur. Portuguese international schools focus on critical thinking, global mobility, and project-based learning. The average fees vary from €8,000 to €25,000 and over per year.
Criteria | Private schools in Portugal | International schools in Portugal |
Curriculum | Portuguese national curriculum | International curricula (IB, British, American, French, German, etc.) |
Language of instruction | Mainly Portuguese (some bilingual options) | Mainly English or another foreign language |
Oversight | Regulated by the Portuguese Ministry of Education | Regulated by international boards and local authorities |
Class size | Smaller than public schools | Small, with strong student-teacher ratios |
Teaching style | More traditional and exam-focused | More flexible, project-based, and skills-oriented |
Tuition fees | €4,000–€10,000 per year | €8,000–€25,000+ per year |
Best for | Portuguese speakers | Expat families or international students |
Exploring the Best Schools in Portugal
Various international schools are highly regarded for their linguistic diversity and well-rounded education.
The best international schools in Portugal are:
- CJD International School: Located in Porto, CJD is a British international school that focuses on innovation and creativity. Their studies are designed for ages 5 to 19, with yearly fees from €9,300 to €11,000. For a detailed analysis of the Porto area, check our full list of international schools in Porto.
- United Lisbon International School: Located in the country’s capital city, this school focuses on IB curricula, entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation. It enrolls students from 3 to 18 years with yearly fees of €11,800 to €24,000
- The Lisboan International School: Located in Lisbon, this school follows the British curriculum with a strong focus on the philosophy of life. Their studies are for students between 3 and 18 years with yearly fees of €11,950 to €21,950.
- The British School of Lisbon: Located in Lisbon, this school focuses on the British curriculum for students aged 3 to 15. The average tuition fee costs between €13,110 and €21,375 per year.
- Bright International School: Located in the Algarve region, this school combines technology, personalized learning, and creativity to create a dynamic educational experience. It is based on the British curriculum for students between 3 and 16 years. Tuition costs range from €8,470 to €16,200 per year.
- James’ Primary School: Located in the capital city, this school combines the British and Portuguese curricula. It offers small classes for students between 6 and 10 years with yearly fees of €8,300.
- Prime School International: Located in Sintra, Lisbon, and Estoril, this school follows the Cambridge curriculum, which is best for British and American students. The studies are available for those between 3 and 18 years with annual tuition fees of €11,885 to €22,760.
- Dominic’s International School: This highly regarded international school is located in the capital city. It offers an IB curriculum for students between 3 and 18 years. The annual rates vary from €11,500 to €22,000.
- Oeiras International School (OIS): OIS is a respected school with the IB curriculum offering a variety of learning styles. It is designed for students between 5 and 18 years with annual tuition fees of €13,547 and €21,713.
- Oporto British School: Located in Foz do Douro in the Porto region, this is the oldest British school in Continental Europe. The studies are meant for students between 3 and 18 years with yearly fees of €9,690 to €17,280.
- Julian’s School: This respected institution offers a diverse student body, thanks to the mix of IB, British, and Portuguese curricula. It is for students between 3 and 18 years with yearly fees of €12,384 to €29,097.
What are the best international schools in Portugal by region?
Wondering how many international schools are in Portugal? According to the International School Database (ISD), Portugal has 77 international schools across different cities and regions. There are 36 international schools in Lisbon, 8 in Porto, and 15 in the Algarve.
Below are the top international schools in Portugal for 2026, based on ISD rankings.
List of international schools in Lisbon
- James’ Primary School
- Prime School
- Dominic’s International School
- United Lisbon International School
- Oeiras International School
- The Lisboan International School
- The British School of Lisbon
- Redbridge International School
- IPS Cascais British International School
- International Christian School of Cascais
These are the top international schools in Lisbon, ranked by ISD and 4-5-star reviews. For more information on the complete list of international schools in Lisbon, see our ultimate guide.
List of international schools in Porto
- CJD International School
- Tickles International School
- Oceanus International School
- Deutsche Schule zu Porto
- Brave Generation Academy, Porto
- Lycée Français International Porto
- Oporto British School
- CLIP Oporto International School
List of international schools in the Algarve
- Vilamoura International School
- Aspire International School
- Nobel Algarve British International School
- Aljezur International School
- Barlavento International Primary School
- Deutsche Schule Algarve
- Colégio Bernardette Romeira
- Bright International School
- Vale Verde International School
- Montalvo International School
List of international schools in Setúbal
- Colégio do Vale
- Foz School
- Seixal International School
- Peters International School
- International School of Palmela
List of international schools in Braga
- João Paulo International School
- Brave Generation Academy, Braga
- Brave Generation Academy, Ofir
- CLIB – The Braga International School
List of international schools in Madeira
- Brave Generation Academy, Madeira
- The International School of Madeira
- International Sharing School Madeira
For individual information on these institutions, check our complete list of international schools in Madeira.
Other locations
- International School Torres Vedras
- Brave Generation Academy, Leiria
- Leiria International School
- Brave Generation Academy, Caldas da Rainha
- Brave Generation Academy, Fundão
- Brave Generation Academy, Ericeira
Planning to move to Portugal? Check our ultimate guide to buying property in Portugal?
How much do international schools cost in Portugal?
Tuition fees vary from €7,000 to over €22,000, depending on the school, grade level, and curriculum. There are also additional fees for registration, meals, transportation, and extracurricular activities.
The average annual tuition fees include:
- €7,000 – €12,000 for kindergarten
- €8,300 – €18,330 for primary school (ages 5 to 11)
- €9,300 – €20,850 for middle school (ages 11 to 14)
- €9,690 – €26,000+ for secondary or high school (ages 15 to 18)
The most expensive schools in Portugal are in Lisbon and Cascais. For example, the International Sharing School Taguspark is one of the most recognized institutions in the Greater Lisbon area, with some of the highest rates ranging from €11,400 to €26,760 per year. If you are interested in a specific area, such as Cascais, check our complete list of international schools in Cascais.
However, expats can find more affordable rates in Porto and smaller towns. For example, one of the cheapest international schools in Portugal is Deutsche Schule zu Porto, with yearly rates from €4,860 to €5,910.
Do I choose the property or school first?
In most cases, people choose the school first, then the property. But, this will vary based on your situation. Here are a couple of tips that can help you decide.
When school comes first:
- The school has limited quotas and long waiting lists. This is very common for top schools in Lisbon, Cascais, and the Algarve. If you are targeting the Algarve region, check our complete list of international schools in Algarve.
- Commute matters to you. For example, you don’t want to spend 45 to 60 minutes in traffic in Lisbon or Cascais because the school is 15 km away.
- Desirable neighborhood. If you are planning to search for property in a specific area, the school can narrow your options.
When property comes first:
- If the property you buy is purely for investment, such as rental yield or resale value.
- If the area you choose has several good international schools nearby, you can focus on the property while still exploring the options for education.
- If you are renting an apartment or a house in the short term.
For more information about Portugal’s education system, check the International School Guide of Portugal by Global Citizen Solutions. It provides a detailed checklist of which school to choose and how to find the top international schools in Portugal.
Post-Secondary Education in Portugal
Post-secondary education in Portugal is excellent and affordable by European standards. There are two main types:
- Public universities (Ensino Universitário): They are best for academic and research-focused careers. They offer a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and PhD. Their strongest fields include IT, engineering, medicine, business, law, and architecture. Some of the most well-known public universities include the University of Lisbon, the University of Porto, and the University of Coimbra.
- Polytechnic institutes (Ensino Politécnico): These are more practical, career-oriented institutions. They offer 2-year short-cycle technical programs and bachelor’s degrees. In some cases, they also provide a master’s degree. Their strongest fields are tourism, hospitality, business, and management.
Graduating in Portugal
Overall, Portugal is an excellent choice if you are planning to graduate. You get access to an affordable, EU-recognized education system in one of the safest countries in the world. Schools provide strong programs in STEM, business, tourism, and health.
According to the World Population Review in 2026, Portugal ranks in the 25th education rank with a 95.9 percent total population literacy rate.
The University of Lisbon (Universidade de Lisboa) is one of the best universities in Portugal, ranking #236 in the 2026 Best Global Universities list, published by the US News. It is one of Europe’s leading and largest universities in the heart of the capital city.
Portugal ranks 6th in the 2025 EF English Proficiency Index, which means that a large percentage of the population speaks English. In other words, it is very easy for expats to integrate, especially from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
In Portugal, students can apply for scholarships and financial aid for post-secondary education. These programs are available for domestic and international students moving to Portugal.
Scholarship type | Who can apply? | What it covers? |
DGES State Scholarships | Portuguese/EU & cooperation country students | Monthly stipend, study costs |
Government Fully Funded Scholarships | International | Tuition + living stipend |
University Scholarships | All enrolled students | Tuition discounts, stipends |
Erasmus+ & EU Programs | Eligible EU/non-EU students | Travel + tuition + living |
FCT & Foundations | Mostly postgraduate | Research stipends, tuition |
How can Goldcrest help you?
Choosing the right school is one step of the journey, but if you are planning to buy property in Portugal, then a buyer’s agent like Goldcrest can make the process a lot smoother.
A buyer’s agent can provide a detailed analysis of the Portuguese real estate market. Whether you are interested in purchasing a house, apartment, villa, or holiday property, we provide access to off-market properties and negotiate prices on your behalf.
Why choose Goldcrest?
Our team has years of experience working with families seeking the best schools and properties at the same time. At Goldcrest, we can provide:
- Property search services
- Property management for long-term rentals
- Market research and analysis
- Network of local contractors, tax advisors, and real estate lawyers
Contact us today and let us help you find your dream home.
Frequently Asked Questions about International Schools in Portugal
What is the education system like in Portugal?
The Portuguese education system consists of pre-school education, from ages three to six, primary education, from six to 15 years old, and upper high school, for children aged between 15 and 18 years old. The school year starts in September in Portugal.
Does Portugal have good international schools?
Yes, Portugal has very good international schools with high standards. They follow respected global programs such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), British GCSEs & A‑Levels, or American curricula, and more.
Is higher education free in Portugal?
Tuition fees in Portugal are fairly affordable. Public universities typically charge under €1,200 annually for their bachelor’s and master’s programs, while some private universities may charge up to €30,000 per year.
Is education cheap in Portugal?
Education in Portugal is relatively affordable, especially compared to other Western European countries. Public universities charge moderate tuition fees, and there are various financial aids and scholarships available to support local and international students, making higher education accessible for many.
What are cheap schools in Portugal for international students?
Public universities with relatively affordable tuition for international students include the University of Porto, the University of Minho, and the Polytechnic Institute of Bragança. They cost about €1,000–€1,500 per year, excluding living expenses.
Is English taught in Portugal?
Yes, English is taught in Portugal from primary schooling upwards, and you will also find several private English-speaking schools in Portugal. There is also an increasing number of study programs offered in English, especially at the master’s level.
Does Portugal allow homeschooling?
Yes, homeschooling is legal in Portugal. The country has homeschooling laws that date back to 1949, but homeschooling became prominent around 2016.
Are international schools free in Portugal?
No, international schools in Portugal are not free, and they will charge tuition fees.
Can American kids go to school in Portugal?
American children can attend international schools in Portugal. But to make the enrollment process smoother, American families must first secure a residency permit.
Do they speak English in Portugal schools?
Most public schools in Portugal teach in Portuguese, and some offer English speaking international students Portuguese language support classes. For English speaking expats, international schools and private schools that offer English or bilingual tuition to students may be a better option.
How much does international school cost in Portugal?
The cost of Portugal’s international schools varies widely. Monthly fees are usually around €700 per month (the minimum that you would pay is €400), and prices can reach as high as €2,200 per month. Additional fees for registration, exams, and extracurricular activities may apply.
What are the top international schools in Portugal for expatriates?
Top international schools in Portugal for expatriates, and some of the best schools in Portugal, include St. Julian’s School, the United Lisbon International School, and the British School of Lisbon. These schools are renowned for their high academic standards and diverse communities.
