The number of international schools in Portugal has grown steadily in response to the country’s appeal as a destination for expat families. New arrivals are drawn by the high quality of living, Mediterranean climate, and ample business and work opportunities. This influx of families from diverse backgrounds has created demand for schools offering globally recognised curricula.
Many expats relocate to Portugal for work – often for multinational companies or diplomatic missions, frequently on a temporary basis, while others may simply be looking for a lifestyle change. For these families, international schools provide continuity, allowing children to follow familiar educational systems such as the British, German, or International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes.
A variety of international schools catering to the growing expat population can be found across Portugal, particularly in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, giving parents a broad selection of options to suit their children’s academic needs and cultural preferences.
Below are some of the most popular international schools in Portugal.
International schools in Portugal
Prime School International Lisbon
Prime School International Lisbon is the city's second-oldest international school. Five core values – excellence, integrity, community, respect, and innovation – guide students on their journey through the Cambridge International Curriculum, culminating in the Cambridge IGCSE and A-Levels. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: British (Cambridge International Curriculum including IGCSE and A-Levels)
Ages: 3 to 18
Prime School International Estoril
Prime School International Estroil lies nestled between the Atlantic coastline and the Sintra mountains, providing an ideal location for students to thrive in academics, sports, and creative and performing arts. Leveraging the highly-regarded Cambridge International Curriculum, the school aims to develop its students into responsible, successful global citizens. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: British (Cambridge International Curriculum including IGCSE and A-Levels)
Ages: 3 to 18
Prime School International Sintra
Prime School International Sintra offers the Cambridge International Curriculum in combination with multilingual teaching (English, German or French, and optional Portuguese), to create the perfect environment for children from around the world to thrive and grow. Class sizes are kept small, and diverse extracurricular activities are on offer. Read more
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: British (Cambridge International Curriculum)
Ages: 3 to 13
The British School of Lisbon
The British School of Lisbon is located in the heart of Portugal’s capital, and offers students a dynamic learning environment in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. The school provides a strong academic foundation based on the English National Curriculum while encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and global awareness.
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: British (English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, and A-Levels)
Ages: 3 to 15
Deutsche Schule Algarve
The Deutsche Schule Algarve emphasises multilingual learning, academic rigour, creativity, and personal growth. The school offers the German curriculum, culminating in the Abitur Certificate. The school's location in the scenic town of Silves and its commitment to small class sizes create the ideal conditions for students to blossom.
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: German
Ages: 6 to 18
United Lisbon International School
Creativity, ambition, and independence are the core tenets of United Lisbon International School, while its internationally-focused curriculum leading up to the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme aims to shape students into truly global citizens.
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Early Years, Primary, and Middle Years (IEYC, IPC, and IMYC) and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 18