The 8 Best International Schools in Lisbon for Expat Families

When my parents put me in an international school in Lisbon, in 2004, I wasn’t expecting much of it. Plus, my English skills were pretty much non-existent, making it even scarier to go through such an abrupt change. Now? I cannot thank my parents enough for making this huge investment. Why? Let me explain. 

International schools in Lisbon are more than just a place to learn algebra and perfect your grammar. They’re a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and opportunities that can shape your life in ways you’d never imagine. From the lifelong friends you make from all over the world to the chance to become fluent in multiple languages without even realizing it, these international schools offer so much more than academics. 

 So, whether you’re a parent considering this path for your child or just curious about what makes these schools so special, let me take you through my journey and show you why international schools in Lisbon are worth every bit of the hype. 

What You Should Know About International Schools in Lisbon

Sending your children to international schools in Portugal is not an easy decision to make. It will affect your child’s education and life. That’s exactly why we want to help you!  

We will answer every question all parents might have regarding international schools in Lisbon to put you at ease and to see the true benefits of the decision. Let’s start with the different types of curricula and learning approaches you’ll find in the best international schools in Lisbon.  

Types of International Schools in Lisbon

Of course, with international schools come international curriculum options and learning approaches. One of the great things about international schooling in Lisbon is that it caters to so many different learning styles from around the world. Here are the international curriculum options you’ll have to choose from: 

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Think of the IB as the world traveler of curricula. It’s all about developing well-rounded, globally-minded students who can think critically and adapt to any situation. Expect a supportive and challenging environment, plenty of essays, and a focus on big-picture learning. It’s perfect if you want your child to be the next UN Secretary-General—or just someone who knows their way around multiple cultures. 

British curriculum

The British Curriculum is quite a structured and academically rigorous approach. These international schools in Lisbon cater to families who want the familiarity of English schools in Lisbon while enjoying life in sunny Portugal. Known for its “Key Stages” and the all-important GCSEs and A-Levels, the British curriculum is like a dependable guidebook for education. It’s great for families who appreciate a traditional approach with a dash of Shakespeare and a firm grasp on the sciences. This is a great option for those whose goal is to pursue higher education back in the UK or one of the other Commonwealth countries.  

American curriculum

If you’re dreaming of a little slice of the US in Lisbon, you’re in luck. The American curriculum is as flexible and diverse as the country itself. It offers a broad education with plenty of opportunities for extracurriculars and personal interests. You’ll hear about GPA, SATs, and prom season—yep, just like the movies!  

Advanced Placement (AP) courses are also usually available to help students prep for SATs and stay ahead of the curve. It’s a fantastic choice for families who like a balance between academic and personal lives, and a slice of teenage Americana.   

French curriculum (Baccalauréat)

Bonjour, rigor! The French schools in Lisbon deliver l’éducation à la française with precision. The French curriculum focuses on structured academics with an emphasis on critical thinking and cultural heritage.  

Students follow the baccalauréat path, which is intense but incredibly rewarding. If you want your child quoting Molière and analyzing Voltaire while excelling in math, this is the way to go. Plus, they’ll master the art of le débat (the debate), a quintessential French skill.  

German curriculum (Abitur)

Efficiency, precision, and high standards—that’s the German curriculum for you. Centered around core subjects with a strong emphasis on STEM programs (more about this later) and logical thinking, it’s all about preparing students for success. Whether they go down the Gymnasium route or take the dual education path, they’ll learn to tackle challenges head on. 

Portuguese curriculum

Rooted in tradition, the Portuguese curriculum is a blend of foundational learning and cultural appreciation and is used in traditional public and private schools in Portugal. Students tackle everything from Portuguese literature to math and sciences, often capped off with the national exams. The Portuguese education system is a solid choice for families looking to stay connected to (or integrate into) local culture while offering a robust education. And let’s not forget—this curriculum comes with an insider’s pass to understanding Portugal’s rich traditions and identity.  

Montessori Method

The Montessori Method is like the free spirit of education. Forget rigid desks and fixed schedules—this approach lets kids learn at their own pace, guided by curiosity. It’s all about hands-on activities, independence, and fostering a love for lifelong learning. If you want your child to think outside the box (or even question why the box exists), Montessori is calling. 

Reggio Emilia Approach

Reggio Emilia takes creativity to the next level. This approach sees kids as active participants in their education, with a focus on collaboration, exploration, and self-expression. Art, projects, and involvement in local and global communities are front and center. If your little one loves asking “why” and “how,” this approach will give them all the tools to keep exploring. 

Extracurriculars, special programs, and facilities offered at international schools in Lisbon

With international schools in Lisbon, learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door. These schools go all out to ensure students have a well-rounded experience, offering a wide range of extracurriculars, special programs, and top-notch facilities. If your child is a budding athlete, a young scientist, an aspiring artist, or simply curious about the world, there’s something here to spark their interests. 

Extracurricular activities

International schools in Lisbon take extracurriculars seriously. From robotics clubs to Model United Nations, there’s something for every interest. Whether your child wants to master chess, join a drama troupe, or volunteer for a local environmental project, they’ll find endless opportunities to explore their passions and make lifelong friends. 

Language programs

Living in Lisbon, it’s no surprise that Portuguese is often on offer, but international schools here go above and beyond. Students can pick up French, German, Spanish, or even Mandarin, depending on the school. These programs not only help kids become polyglots but also immerse them in diverse cultures—a handy skill for life in such a global city. 

Sports facilities

Sports aren’t just an afterthought—they’re a way of life at schools in Lisbon, where success is chased and encouraged. Between state-of-the-art gyms, swimming pools, and expansive fields, students are given so many opportunities to excel and can try everything from soccer to fencing. Some schools even offer competitive teams that travel across Europe, so your aspiring athlete might just score a goal in another country. 

Arts and music programs

Lisbon’s international education programs at schools celebrate creativity through well-rounded arts and music programs. Think pottery classes, orchestras, theater productions, and even photography clubs. Whether your child dreams of painting Lisbon’s sunsets or playing the guitar in a rock band, there’s a space for them to shine. 

STEM Programs

For the future tech innovators and scientists, STEM programs in Lisbon’s international schools are top-notch. Students can dive into coding, robotics, or advanced sciences using cutting-edge labs and resources. Some schools even partner with local universities and tech companies, giving kids a glimpse of Lisbon’s booming tech scene. 

Boarding facilities

While most families live locally, some schools offer boarding facilities for international students. These are more than just dorms—they’re home away from home, with cozy rooms, communal spaces, and a close-knit community feel. Plus, students get to experience independence while still being part of a supportive environment.  

Scholarship opportunities

To make quality education accessible, many international schools in Lisbon offer scholarships for outstanding students. These can be merit-based, need-based, or tied to special talents like sports or the arts. It’s worth exploring these opportunities, as they can open doors to a world-class education in Portugal. 

Special education services

Lisbon’s international schools are increasingly focused on inclusivity, offering tailored support for students with learning differences or special needs. With dedicated staff and resources like speech therapists, counselors, and individualized education plans, every child can thrive in a supportive and understanding environment. 

After-School care

For busy parents, after-school care programs are a lifesaver. These programs often go beyond basic supervision, offering activities like homework clubs, sports, and creative workshops. Your kids can stay engaged and productive while you wrap up your day—everyone wins. 

Top 8 international schools in (or near) Lisbon

Lisbon has so many wonderful options for international schools, each offering their own curricula, top-tier facilities, and after-school programs. Here are some of the top ones to consider, along with the Lisbon international school fees each institution charges: 

1. The British School of Lisbon

Founded: 2019 

Ages: 3–13 (expanding to higher grades in the future) 

Curriculum: British curriculum 

The British School of Lisbon is one of the city’s newer international schools, quickly making a name for itself with its focus on academic excellence and personalized learning. Centrally located in Cais do Sodré, the school combines a rigorous British curriculum with an emphasis on developing global citizens.  

Students benefit from small class sizes, a strong focus on core subjects, and a range of extracurriculars, including coding clubs and sports like football and swimming. Facilities include modern and innovative school classrooms, a dedicated STEM lab, and a well-equipped library. Annual fees range from €12,000 to €17,000, depending on the age group. 

There is a lot of buzz around this school, as it has become quite popular in the short amount of time it’s been open. The school has even launched a new second campus with state-of-the-art facilities in the Restelo neighborhood in Lisbon. You can see some of the gorgeous pics on their website.  

2. Deutsche Schule Lissabon (German School of Lisbon)

Founded: 1848 

Ages: 3–18 

Curriculum: German curriculum (Abitur) 

One of Lisbon’s oldest international schools, Deutsche Schule Lissabon, offers a well-established academic program rooted in German educational principles. With a campus in Lumiar, the school is known for its strong focus on STEM, German language mastery, and extracurriculars like chess, drama, and music.  

Students also enjoy access to excellent sports facilities, including a large gymnasium and outdoor fields. Annual fees range from €7,000 to €8,000, making it an affordable option for many families seeking high-quality education. 

3. Lycée Français Charles Lepierre

Founded: 1907 

Ages: 3–18 

Curriculum: French curriculum (Baccalauréat) 

This school is a top choice for families seeking a French-language education in Lisbon. Located in Amoreiras, Lycée Français Charles Lepierre offers a well-crafted French national curriculum with a focus on academic excellence and cultural enrichment. 

Students here are immersed in the French language and culture, while also engaging in activities like theater, debate, and sports. The school boasts modern facilities, including science labs, a large auditorium, and spacious sports grounds. Annual fees range from €6,000 to €9,000. 

4. St. Julian’s School

Founded: 1932 

Ages: 3–18 

Curriculum: British Curriculum and IB Diploma 

Located in Carcavelos, just outside Lisbon, St. Julian’s is one of Portugal’s most prestigious international schools. It offers a dual curriculum, allowing students to follow the British system or transition to the International Baccalaureate in later years.  

Known for its vibrant local and global communities, St. Julian’s offers a rich extracurricular program that includes music, drama, sports, and community service. The school’s sprawling campus features state-of-the-art science labs, art studios, and extensive sports facilities. Annual fees range from €12,000 to €22,000. 

5. United Lisbon International School

Founded: 2020 

Ages: 3–18 

Curriculum: American curriculum and IB Diploma 

United Lisbon International School is one of the city’s most modern schools, with a strong focus on technology and innovation. Located near Lisbon’s Expo district in Parque das Nações, it offers a cutting-edge learning environment with interactive classrooms, a tech hub, and digital arts studios.  

The school’s curriculum combines the flexibility of the American system with the globally recognized IB Diploma. Students can participate in robotics clubs, performing arts, and competitive sports. Annual fees range from €11,000 to €23,000. 

6. Carlucci American International School of Lisbon (CAISL)

Founded: 1956 

Ages: 3–18 

Curriculum: American curriculum and IB Diploma 

CAISL is a longstanding favorite among expat families, offering both the American educational system and IB Diploma. CAISL is the oldest American school in the Iberian Peninsula, and the only school in Portugal sponsored by the US State Department. 

Situated in Sintra, the school has a diverse student body and places a strong emphasis on fostering creativity and critical thinking. Extracurriculars include theater productions, sports teams, and environmental clubs. Facilities are top-tier, with science labs, a performing arts center, and extensive athletic fields. Annual fees range from €10,000 to €22,000. 

7. St. Dominic’s International School

Founded: 1954 

Ages: 3–18 

Curriculum: IB (Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma programs) 

Located in Cascais, St. Dominic’s is an IB World School offering all three stages of the IB curriculum. The school is known for its inclusive community and emphasis on holistic education.  

Students can engage in activities like Model United Nations, visual arts, and competitive sports. The campus features modern classrooms, a library, and excellent sports facilities. Annual fees range from €11,000 to €21,000. 

8. Redbridge School

Founded: 2017 

Ages: 3–17  

Curriculum: English and Portuguese with Montessori and Reggio Emilia influences 

Redbridge School stands out as an innovative school providing education that is unique and effective, blending bilingual learning with Montessori and Reggio Emilia philosophies. Located in Campo de Ourique, the modern and innovative school emphasizes creativity, sustainability, and a student-centered approach. Facilities include outdoor learning spaces, art studios, and a sensory garden. Annual fees range from €7,000 to €18,000. 

As you can probably guess, this list isn’t exhaustive, and there are many other great options to choose from. Some other special mentions include Oeiras International School, PaRK International School, and International Sharing School. 

Other Important Information for Parents about International Schools in Lisbon

Now that you know the basics of what international schools offer in Lisbon, you probably have a few more questions if you’re seriously considering one of them for your family. Hopefully, this next section will answer most of your questions. 

Why should I choose an international school in Lisbon?

Firstly, choosing an international school for your children is a great way to ensure access to a high-quality curriculum and education. I have been to several job interviews for known international brands. This was one of the aspects of my educational path that interested them most. Maybe it’s because international schools are known for their excellence, inclusion and diversity. They are demanding but are also a good bet for success in the long term.  

These schools value and motivate creativity and individuality. During primary school, students are stimulated to explore their most imaginative sides and find what they are most passionate about. Whether that is arts and crafts, creative writing, sports, science, math, or even social skills, they will have a good chance to find out where they fit in best. 

I remember having special days where our parents paid a visit to our classrooms and made presentations about their jobs, having special talent shows, theatre plays, and all kinds of extracurricular activities and sports. At these schools, your child’s abilities will be valued and influenced. Everyone gets a chance to stand out and choose their own path.  

The capital city of Portugal is growing into one of the top international spots for all kinds of nationalities. It’s becoming a cosmopolitan center of diversity and entrepreneurship. More and more each day, it’s valuing any type of school or even start-up business in Portugal that encourages variety. This is why joining in on this culture from a young age will only benefit your child.  

Will my child’s work be recognized by other international schools and universities?

International schools are gateways to being accepted (or even invited through scholarships) to the best-known universities in Portugal and worldwide. Every year, universities such as Cambridge and Oxford accept students from international schools, who often find better success in their academics and extra-curricular activities.  

I have also had colleagues who were offered sports and performing arts scholarships from top-ranked universities worldwide, from scouts who were particularly interested in international school pupils.  

How can my child apply?

Every school has its own policies regarding application procedures. However, most of them require the same documents: 

• Previous academic reports 
• Passports and residence certificates 
• Application forms 

What are the factors that will influence whether my child is accepted or not?

This really does depend on lots of aspects. However, international schools in Lisbon usually look for children who: 

• Possess advanced language skills or are native speakers 
• Have a strong academic background
• Are family-linked to other students or staff members
• Are from different parts of the world, or are transferring from other international schools in Portugal  

Can my child apply from a different country?

Yes, they usually can. The guardians of the child will have to provide the school with the required documents digitally. However, this process might be easier inside Portugal, as some schools may ask for an assessment or in-person interview. 

Can my child apply if they have limited language skills?

It depends on the case. Usually, schools will not accept children who are older than 10 and have poor language skills. This is because their classmates are used to a better level of English, and people who are not used to the language are more prone to falling behind the class average.  

However, if your child is applying for primary school, having limited English knowledge will probably not be a weighty factor in their enrollment.  

Can my child apply throughout the entire school year?

This will also depend on the individual school policies. Some international schools in Lisbon will accept applications 365 days a year, but some do not. This is because they want everyone to adapt to this new environment at the same time.  

However, if an international school accepts your child in the middle of the year, professors will try their hardest to make the process easier for them, and your child will be included in every activity.  

Can my child ask for a school transfer?

Some international schools in Lisbon offer that possibility. For example, the British School of Lisbon facilitates transfers within the school group, since they have schools throughout the world.  

So, should I make this investment?

This is a big decision to make. However, for most parents who can do so, I would say: Yes!   

Your kids will most likely have to wear uniforms, and the academic schedule may be different than the traditional Portuguese one, but this is a huge opportunity for your children that will introduce them to a fantastic student-centered educational community and give them an advantage in their professional future.   

Being an international school student wasn’t easy all the time. It required discipline and a great ability to adapt. However, if it wasn’t for my parents’ decision at the time, I wouldn’t be writing this article right now, nor would I be enjoying the success I’ve had in my career.