A guide to education in Lisbon (international schools, best public and private universities, and more)

Welcome to our guide to education in Lisbon! Whether you're looking for information on international schools Lisbon, the best private and public schools in Lisbon for international students or other educational opportunities, we've got you covered.

In our guide you'll find everything you need to know about education in Lisbon, either for yourself or for your children.

• Education system
• International schools
• Public universities
• Private universities
• Language schools
• Student accommodation

Portugal education system

In Portugal, you can choose between private and public schools. If you opt for private, ensure it's certified by the relevant ministry.

Both public and private Lisbon schools follow the same structure:

• Pre-school education (Educação Pré-escolar): Ages 3 to 6
• Primary education (Ensino Básico): Ages 6 to 15
• Secondary education (Ensino Secundário, equivalent to high schools in Lisbon): Ages 15 to 18
• Higher education (Ensino Superior): Ages 18 and above

School is compulsory from ages 6 to 18. After that, students can decide on university. Even in international schools, learning Portuguese is encouraged. Free language courses and support are available to help children become familiar with Portuguese early on.

Lisbon international schools

International schools are popular among expats in Lisbon because they provide a multicultural setting where students can learn in their native languages. They offer global skills and exposure to diverse cultures and are particularly great for those who prefer English schools in Lisbon. 

Parents can select from British, American, French, and German schools, catering to those who want their child to learn in their home language or follow a familiar curriculum. Additionally, there are adaptive learning schools and various schooling options to accommodate different preferences.

Find perfect apartments for rent in Portugal

Lisbon international school fees

The fees for international schools in Portugal are quite reasonable compared to those in other European countries, starting at approximately €5,000 per year.

Top Lisbon international school institutions

These are some of the best international schools in Lisbon:

• United Lisbon International School
• The Lisboan International School
• St. Dominic's International School

American schools in Lisbon, Portugal

If you are specifically looking for an American school in Lisbon, this is the right educational institution for you:

• Carlucci American International School of Lisbon

Best public schools in Lisbon, Portugal

Want to know the top public universities in Lisbon? The following are regarded as the best in the Portuguese capital

• Universidade de Lisboa (also known as ULisboa, University of of Lisbon, and Lisbon University)
• Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (NOVA University Lisbon)
• ISCTE – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa
• Politécnico de Lisboa (Polytechnic Institute of Lisbon)

Best private schools in Lisbon

If you are planning to study abroad in Lisbon, it is good to familiarize yourself with the best private universities. These are some of the best private universities in Lisbon for international students that you should consider:

• Catholic University Portugal Lisbon (Universidade Católica Portuguesa)
• Lusiada University
• European University of Lisbon (Universidade Europeia)
• ISEC Lisboa – Higher Institute of Education and Sciences
• IPLUSO Ensino Politécnico da Lusofonia - IPLUSO

Want to know more about other Portuguese cities?

You can discover travel guides and details about destinations across Portugal, beyond Lisbon, on our website.

• Porto
• Braga
• Faro (Algarve)
• Funchal (Madeira)
• Coimbra
• Aveiro
• Évora
• Cascais
• Sintra

Portuguese language schools in Lisbon

Portugal offers various options for learning Portuguese, catering to different preferences and needs. Here are some key options:

Language schools:

• Alliance Française: Offers Portuguese courses in Lisbon, Porto, and Faro for expats.
• Cambridge School: Provides official certification and exam preparation in cities like Lisbon, Coimbra, Porto, and Funchal (Madeira).
• Home Language International: Offers immersive experiences with accredited teachers in Lisbon.
• Lusa Language School: Provides part-time, intensive, and online courses in Lisbon.
• Portuguese Connection Language School: Offers online and in-person courses with individual or group options in Lisbon.

University courses:

• Many universities in Lisbon offer courses for foreigners interested in learning Portuguese.

Government-supported programs:

• The Portuguese government provides free Portuguese Host Language (PLA) courses under the Português para Todos program.
• • To enroll in PLA courses, individuals can contact local institutions, the Portuguese Language Learning Promotion Office (GLPt), or the Migrant Support Line for registration information. Applicants typically need a resident permit or specific documents, such as proof of a visa request or a Social Security Identification Number (NISS).PLA courses offer certification from A1 to B2 levels and are available to individuals aged 16 or older.

  Would you like to find out more about Portugal?

  On our website, you can explore a range of subjects concerning Portugal, including:

  • Portugal weather
  • Portugal education system
  • Portugal accommodation
  • Portugal renting tips
  • Portugal tax
  • Portugal things to do
  • Portugal best places
  • Portugal cost of living
  • Portugal advice
  • Portugal FAQs
  • Portugal visas
  • Portugal residency

  Find perfect apartments for rent in Lisbon
  

  Student accommodation in Lisbon

  In Portugal, students typically choose between living in on-campus dormitories or off-campus shared or private apartments or houses for housing options.

  If you’re looking for accommodation in Lisbon or other Portuguese cities, check out the listings on Flatio. We’re a rental platform available in over 300 destinations across Europe and beyond.

  In Portugal, you can find listings in popular destinations like:

  • Funchal
  • Porto
  • Madeira

  We focus on monthly stays (rooms, flats, and houses), but short-term rentals are also possible from 5 days. No deposit is required for stays under 180 days unless local laws require otherwise.

  Utilities and Wi-Fi are included in our lease agreements, which can be used for visa purposes and as proof of address. We offer a secure payment system, including a Bitcoin option, and daily customer service, including a 24/7 emergency line.

  Happy renting! Happy studying!