Discover Top International Schools in Portugal: Golden Visa Reviews
Welcome to my blog, fellow travelers! As a seasoned expat and a parent, I understand the challenges of finding the right education for your children while living abroad. Today, we’re going to take a deep dive into a topic that is crucial for expat families in Portugal: International Schools.
When I first moved to Portugal with my family, we struggled to find a school that met our expectations. We wanted a school that offered high-quality education in English and a welcoming community. After months of research and visits to numerous schools, we finally found the perfect fit for our kids.
But what exactly is an International School? Well, these are schools that follow a curriculum based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) system or other international education systems. They offer education in English or other languages, and students come from diverse backgrounds, often including expat families.
The benefits of attending an International School are numerous. Firstly, it provides a smooth transition for children who may have already attended schools in other countries. Secondly, the IB curriculum is well-regarded and recognized globally, providing students with an education that is highly valued in the international job market. Finally, attending an International School allows children to make new friends from all over the world, learn about different cultures, and gain a broader perspective on life.
Portugal has a significant number of International Schools located in various cities, including Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. These schools offer a wide range of programs, from preschool to high school, and cater to different needs and budgets.
In the following posts, we will explore the different International Schools in Portugal, their programs, and what makes them unique. I will also share my personal experiences and insights, as well as practical tips to help you make an informed decision when choosing the right school for your children.
So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and join me on this exciting journey of discovering International Schools in Portugal.
Are international schools in Portugal free?
If you’re considering moving to Portugal with your family, one of the most important things to consider is education. As an expat, you may be wondering if it’s possible to enroll your children in international schools in Portugal, and if so, how much it will cost.
The short answer
Unfortunately, international schools in Portugal are not free. Like most private schools, they require tuition fees to be paid by the parents or guardians of the students. However, the cost of tuition can vary greatly depending on the school, so it’s important to do your research before making any decisions.
Understanding the education system in Portugal
Before we dive into the specifics of international schools, it’s important to understand the general education system in Portugal. In Portugal, education is compulsory from ages 6 to 18, and is divided into three stages:
- Basic education (ages 6-15)
- Secondary education (ages 15-18)
- Higher education (university level)
Public schools are free in Portugal, but they are taught in Portuguese and may not be a good fit for expat children who don’t speak the language fluently. This is where international schools come in.
Types of international schools
There are several types of international schools in Portugal, each with their own unique characteristics:
- British schools: These schools follow the British curriculum and are accredited by the British government.
- American schools: These schools follow the American curriculum and are accredited by the US government.
- International Baccalaureate (IB) schools: These schools offer the IB program, which is recognized worldwide.
- Religious schools: These schools have a religious affiliation and may follow a specific curriculum.
Tuition fees
As mentioned earlier, international schools in Portugal require tuition fees to be paid by the parents or guardians of the students. The cost of tuition can vary greatly depending on the school, with some schools charging upwards of €20,000 per year.
It’s important to note that tuition fees do not include additional costs such as uniforms, textbooks, transportation, and extracurricular activities. These costs can add up quickly, so it’s important to factor them into your budget.
Financial aid and scholarships
Some international schools in Portugal may offer financial aid or scholarships to students who demonstrate academic excellence or financial need. It’s worth checking with each individual school to see if these options are available.
Final thoughts
While international schools in Portugal are not free, they can provide a great education for expat children. When considering which school to enroll your child in, be sure to do your research, factor in all costs, and consider all available options such as financial aid and scholarships.
Remember, the education of your children is important, and investing in their education can pay dividends in the long run.
Are there English speaking schools in Portugal?
If you are planning a move to Portugal with your family, one of the most important considerations will be your children’s education. As an expat, you may be wondering if there are English speaking schools in Portugal that can provide your child with a quality education while they adapt to their new environment. The good news is that there are several international schools in Portugal that offer English language instruction.
International schools in Portugal
International schools in Portugal are designed to cater to expat families and provide education in English or other languages. These schools follow an international curriculum, typically the International Baccalaureate (IB) or the Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) program, which allows students to seamlessly transition from one country to another without losing academic progress.
English speaking schools in Portugal
There are several English speaking schools in Portugal, located in cities such as Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. These schools offer a range of educational programs, from preschool to high school, and provide a nurturing and supportive environment for students to learn and grow.
One example of an English speaking international school in Portugal is St. Julian’s School in Carcavelos, near Lisbon. This school has been serving the international community for over 70 years and offers an IB education to students from preschool to grade 12. Another option is the International School of Porto, which offers an IB program for students from preschool to grade 12.
Practical considerations
When choosing an international school in Portugal, it’s important to consider practical factors such as location, fees, and admission requirements. Some schools may have waiting lists, so it’s important to apply well in advance to secure a spot for your child.
It’s also important to consider the language of instruction and the level of support provided for non-native speakers. While English is widely spoken in Portugal, it’s still important for your child to learn Portuguese to fully integrate into the local culture and community.
Final thoughts
By choosing an international school, you can ensure a seamless transition and provide your child with the tools they need to succeed in a globalized world.
How much does it cost to go to international school in Portugal?
If you’re an expat family moving to Portugal, one of the most important considerations for your children’s education will be the cost of international schools. Fortunately, Portugal has a number of excellent international schools to choose from, but the cost can vary significantly depending on the school, location, and age of your child.
Factors that Impact the Cost of International Schools in Portugal
There are several factors that can impact the cost of international schools in Portugal. Here are some of the main ones to consider:
- Location: Schools located in popular areas such as Lisbon, Cascais, and the Algarve tend to have higher tuition fees than those in less popular areas.
- School reputation: Schools with a strong reputation for academic excellence and extracurricular activities may charge higher fees.
- Age of your child: Tuition fees for younger children tend to be lower than those for older children.
- Curriculum: Schools that offer a wider range of subjects or specialized curriculums may charge higher fees.
Cost of International Schools in Portugal
The cost of tuition fees for international schools in Portugal can range from €7,000 to €25,000 per year. Some of the most popular international schools in Portugal include:
- The British School of Lisbon: Offers education for children aged 3 to 18. Annual tuition fees range from €11,250 to €19,000.
- International Preparatory School: Offers education for children aged 4 to 14. Annual tuition fees range from €7,000 to €10,000.
- Nobel International School: Offers education for children aged 3 to 18. Annual tuition fees range from €7,500 to €16,500.
- St. Julian’s School: Offers education for children aged 3 to 18. Annual tuition fees range from €10,100 to €16,100.
It’s important to note that tuition fees are not the only cost to consider when sending your child to an international school in Portugal. You’ll also need to factor in the cost of uniforms, textbooks, transportation, and extracurricular activities.
Can American children go to school in Portugal?
If you’re considering a move to Portugal with your American children, one of your top priorities will be ensuring they have access to a quality education. Luckily, Portugal is home to several international schools that cater to the needs of expat families.
International Schools in Portugal
International schools follow an international curriculum, often in English, and are designed to accommodate the needs of expat children from various countries. These schools provide a smooth transition for children from one country to another, without interrupting their education.
Portugal has several international schools that offer a quality education to expat children, including American children. Some of the most notable international schools in Portugal include:
- Carlucci American International School of Lisbon
- International Preparatory School
- St. Dominic’s International School
- Oporto British School
Admissions Process
Enrolling your American children in an international school in Portugal is a relatively straightforward process. Most international schools have an admissions team that can guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
The admissions process typically involves completing an application form, providing documentation such as school transcripts, and attending an interview.
Cost
The cost of international schools in Portugal varies depending on the school and the age of the child. Some schools offer scholarships or financial aid to families who demonstrate financial need.
It’s important to note that the cost of an international school in Portugal may be higher than that of a public school. However, the quality of education and the ease of transition may be worth the investment for expat families.
Final Thoughts
The admissions process is straightforward, and the cost may be higher than that of a public school, but the quality of education and the ease of transition may be worth it for expat families. By choosing the right school and following the admissions process, your American children can receive a quality education in Portugal while living abroad.
international schools in Portugal offer a unique opportunity for expat families to provide their children with a top-quality education while immersing them in a new cultural experience. From the bustling streets of Lisbon to the peaceful shores of the Algarve, there are plenty of options to choose from. As an expat who has lived in Portugal for several years, I can attest to the welcoming nature of the Portuguese people, the rich cultural traditions, and the endless investment opportunities across the country. Whether you are a young family looking to start a new life abroad or a seasoned expat seeking a change of pace, Portugal offers a wealth of opportunities to explore. With a deep understanding of the local customs, cultural events, investment opportunities, and legal aspects of visas, citizenship programs, and golden visas, expats can make a smooth transition to life in Portugal and enjoy the many benefits it has to offer.
