Last Updated on November 15, 2023 by Maryam Siddiqui
Considering relocating to Lisbon might just be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make. A city full of diversity, tranquility, safety, and cultural beauty. A near to perfect place for your children to grow up with a high quality of life. Here’s a guide to finding International Schools in Lisbon for your child’s education.
Relocating to a new country with your family is a big step. We understand you might be concerned about the cultural differences and language barriers your child may face. However, we assure you, we’ve got you covered. Thanks to Lisbon’s economic revival, one-fourth of its residents are foreigners, just like you!
To help you narrow down schooling options, we’ve compiled a list of the best International Schools in Lisbon. Keep reading to know which school best fits your expat children.
What are the best international schools in Lisbon?
Lisbon is home to numerous outstanding international schools in Portugal. Here are the top five International Schools in Lisbon that expats love:
- The British School of Lisbon
- Park International School
- German School of Lisbon
- Lycée Français Charles Lepierre
- International Sharing School Taguspark
These institutes are treasured for various reasons. Some focus on academic excellence and co-curricular activities, while others have an eye for creativity and innovation.
As an expat family living in the capital, you’re bound to love the streets and culture of Portugal.
Read our article Living in Lisbon – to virtually experience what it’s like to live there.
International schools in central Lisbon
These schools have extensive curriculums to aid your child’s academic excellence and various extra-curricular activities to boost character development.
The British School of Lisbon
Chartered by a UK school governance body, The British School of Lisbon ensures the highest standards. Their holistic focus on general well-being and academic pre-eminence has set them apart from major institutions. The historic campus, paired with a modern environment, allows students to explore their limitless potential.
- Ages: 3 to 12 years
- Curriculum: English National Curriculum (ENC)
- Tuition Fee (per annum): €11,300 to €14,535
Park International School
A school that values community building and nurtures individuality, Park International School, is dedicated to evolving your child’s schooling experience.
Their programs focus on dynamic educational curriculums to excel their student’s internal growth. In addition, Park International School has campuses all over the Lisbon district that cater to Early Learning and Senior School.
- Ages: 1 to 16 years
- Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Tuition Fee (per annum): €6,710 to €15,951
German School of Lisbon
The German School of Lisbon is known for its brilliant bicultural curriculum.
It’s the second-largest German school abroad and thrives on developing its students outside the classroom. Promoting communicative competence and civil courage skills is a core focus of their module, and they teach in German and Portuguese.
- Ages: 3 to 18 years
- Curriculum: German
- Tuition Fee (per annum): €6,700 to €7,600
Lycée Français Charles Lepierre
The Lycée Français Charles Lepierre is regarded as one of Portugal’s best French schools. They help your children have a firm grasp on fundamental learning through independent research, cultural plurality, and unique experiences.
- Ages: 3 to 17 years
- Curriculum: French National Curriculum
- Tuition Fee (per annum): €4,485 to €5,670
International Sharing School Taguspark
The International Sharing School Taguspark is a brilliantly innovative school located in Portugal’s first science and technology park.
That’s because they offer a multilingual academic curriculum, including diverse Mandarin, Italian, and Russian languages. Their main aim is to focus on science and philosophy.
- Ages: 1 to 18 years
- Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Tuition Fee (per annum): €9,900 to €25,190
International schools in the surroundings of Lisbon
Exceptional schooling isn’t just limited to within Lisbon. The quality of education is at par with European standards all over Portugal.
Additionally, you’ll find stunning bookstores and public libraries that’ll make you love this country even more. Roaming through the streets of Portugal, you can tell why people love being here. Expats experience a home, away from home.
International Preparatory School
International Preparatory School is a 37-year-old well-known primary school. They groom young minds to explore self-identities through creativity, music, and art.
- Ages: 3 to 11 years
- Curriculum: National Curriculum for England
- Tuition Fee (per annum): €9,670 to €13,690
Saint Dominic’s International School
Saint Dominic’s International School has become one of the most prestigious institutions in the country. That’s because their educational program focuses on broadening their students’ intellectual, social, moral, and spiritual characteristics.
- Ages: 3 to 18 years
- Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Tuition Fee (per annum): €10,500 to €19,200
Oeiras International School
Oeiras International School is one of the few schools with an enormous campus and a farm. Their faculty gives more one-on-one attention to students, having a ratio of one teacher for every six students.
- Ages: 6 to 18 years
- Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Tuition Fee (per annum): €10,500 to €18,060
Carlucci American International School of Lisbon
If you’re an American expat looking for American education, Carlucci American International School of Lisbon is a superb option. Their campus is only a few minutes away from central Lisbon, convenient if you’re residing within the capital.
- Ages: 3 to 18 years
- Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (IB) and American
- Tuition Fee (per annum): €9,144 to €19,372
International Christian School of Cascais
The International Christian School of Cascais is near Oeiras, less than half an hour away from Lisbon. They have an approach to meet academic objectives with constructive questioning, responsibility, and creativity.
- Ages: 3 to 18 years
- Curriculum: American and International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Tuition Fee (per annum): Not Public
St Julian’s School
St Julian’s School is well-known near Carcavelos, esteemed for its inclusivity. They have been offering high-quality education since 1932, focusing on community service and co-curricular activities.
- Ages: 3 to 18 years
- Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (IB), National Curriculum for England, and Portuguese
- Tuition Fee (per annum): €10,236 to €15,818
Prime School International
The Prime School International is a favorite amongst British expats located in Portugal. Their Cambridge curriculum helps British students feel connected to their origins. Therefore, students are encouraged to participate in science experiments, gardening, robotics, cooking and many other projects as part of their modules.
- Ages: 3 to 18 years
- Curriculum: National Curriculum for England
- Tuition Fee (per annum): €7,990 to €16,500
When does the school year start in Portugal?
Generally, the academic year in Portugal begins in September and goes on till mid-June. A set of holiday dates is constant for the entire country; however, some private schools have different holiday schedules.
Students get four breaks during the year; Summer break between June-September, two-week holidays for Christmas and Easter each, and a few days off for the Mardi Gras Carnival in February/March.
There are a lot of fun activities for expats in Lisbon during these holidays. Academia Dos Miudos, Campo Aventura, and Nomad Surfers are a few providers that offer summer camps and productive workshops.
Why choose these schools over the public Portuguese system?
The common question of deciding between Portuguese public schools and the International Schools in Lisbon can get confusing. So, are state schools good enough, or should you enroll your child at a private school? Here are a few things you should consider:
- Language barriers
- Level of facilities and extra-curricular activities
- Adaptability mid-way of education
All public education is conducted only in Portuguese language, understandably. If your children are young, they will most likely adapt to the language quicker.
The Portuguese curriculum is designed to prepare students for university. If you’ve planned to stay in Portugal, enrolling them in a public school would be a good decision.
Private schools in Lisbon have a variety of curriculums and languages that are different from Portuguese public systems. It’s essential that your children feel like part of the community. When children feel a sense of belongingness, it aids adaptability, academic performance and social skills. Enrolling them in a school that doesn’t speak their language would hinder their performance.
While private schools might be more costly, they focus extensively on extra-curricular activities that help your child excel tenfold. If your child is already halfway done with their schooling, it’d be best to enroll them in a familiar environment.
Top-quality education isn’t the only reason why people love this place. Read why Portugal has become so popular over the last few years.
What about pursuing higher education in Portugal?
If you’re looking for colleges and universities in Portugal, ten excellent globally ranked options are available. Read our complete guide on the best universities in Portugal to narrow down your options and learn how to apply.
Every year, hundreds of international students enroll in Portuguese universities to get a high-quality education at low rates. Undergraduate programs last for nearly three years, with tuition fees ranging between €2,000 to €10,000 per annum.
Do you need help bringing your family to Lisbon?
Don’t know where to start? We’ve got you covered. Join our Facebook group to connect with fellow expats who are having the time of their lives in Lisbon.
Viv Europe helps you every step of the way. Whether you need help with your Portuguese Golden Visa, enrolling your children, or looking for a residence. Viv Europe is at your service!
