Best boarding schools in Portugal 2024

Boarding Schools in Portugal. Full guide for international students

Portugal offers students an academic foundation that is revered globally. This vibrant, diverse, and welcoming nation presents international students with a rich cultural experience amidst stunning landscapes. Pursuing education in Portugal also grants access to its globally renowned universities.

Like many European countries, Portugal boasts a mix of public, private, and international boarding schools. It's crucial for foreign students to grasp the nuances of secondary education in Portugal, especially since a Portuguese diploma can also be earned at international schools. The compulsory secondary education system is segmented into three phases: preparatory school (ages 3-5), basic school (ages 6-15), and high school (ages 15-17). Portuguese high schools encompass a three-year curriculum spanning grades 10 to 12, emphasizing either a general program to prepare students for higher education or a vocational track for immediate employment post-graduation.

Why choose international schools in Portugal

One of the primary challenges for expatriate families is finding the ideal international school for their children. Thankfully, Portugal houses an extensive range of top boarding schools that primarily offer globally recognized curriculums such as the British Curriculum, American Curriculum, and the International Baccalaureate (IB).

Boarding schools in Portugal provide courses in both English and Portuguese, culminating in international, British, or Portuguese diplomas. It's vital to meticulously research the specifics of these schools. Also, when choosing a school in Portugal, considering its location is crucial. Typically, urban centers and expatriate-heavy regions house the best boarding schools. Furthermore, language barriers might arise as not all educators are proficient in English. Hence, it's vital to ascertain the language support and learning opportunities each school offers to its foreign students. Several boarding schools might even introduce supplementary courses in English or Portuguese.

Portugal, with its rich history, temperate climate, and stunning landscapes, has become a sought-after destination for international students looking to immerse themselves in European culture and education. Among the country's educational offerings are several prestigious boarding schools that cater to both local and international students.

The cost of attending a boarding school in Portugal varies depending on the reputation of the institution, the facilities it offers, and its location. On average, annual fees for international students can range from €10,000 to €30,000. This fee typically covers tuition, accommodation, meals, and some extracurricular activities. However, it's important to note that additional expenses, such as uniforms, books, trips, and other school-related items, may not be included in this estimate.

For international students, the appeal of Portuguese boarding schools is not only rooted in academic excellence but also in the opportunity to learn Portuguese, one of the most spoken languages in the world. Nevertheless, while considering Portugal as an educational destination, it is essential for prospective students and their guardians to research individual schools, understand all the associated costs, and perhaps visit the institutions to get a firsthand experience of the environment and facilities on offer.

Portugal mandates secondary education, offering both public and private boarding school options. With many international boarding schools eager to welcome students from around the world, the learning environment becomes richly diverse and engaging. Interacting with a multicultural student body provides an avenue to broaden horizons and establish valuable connections. Sports, particularly soccer, hold significant importance in Portugal. Enrolling your child in a Portuguese soccer academy can pave the way for them to become accomplished athletes who shine on global stages.

What you need to know about international boarding schools in Portugal

For foreign students, boarding schools in Portugal emerge as the most fitting choice. Such institutions solve the accommodation conundrum while also ensuring student safety under constant supervision. It's a common belief that boarding schools offer superior educational quality, given their tailored approach to each student's unique talents and inclinations, enriched with specialized courses and personal tutoring sessions.

Esther Diaz

Education specialist, career coach and consultant. She worked for Inspired Education Group and directed the admissions department at the International School san Patricio Toledo.

What would you say is the most important when choosing a Spanish school?

This is the quality of support and work of the management, the opportunity to study at IB, the prestige of the school and the percentage of successful completion of the diploma stage of IB, recommendations for further universities. It is worth considering the national "recruitment" of campus students, opportunities for extracurricular development and activities, the availability of medical services and consultations, opportunities for language immersion. Is education at the chosen school based on the values you share? Is the school a close-knit community? Is academic support good?

Predominantly, schools in Lisbon offer the globally accepted International Baccalaureate (IB Diploma Program). Upon completion, students can opt for higher education institutions worldwide. English programs, such as GCSEs and A levels in line with British educational standards, are also available. It's important to note that individual schools might have distinct admission requirements, making the enrollment process into Portuguese boarding schools crucial. Portuguese international schools prioritize a robust extracurricular schedule. The country's coastal beauty offers ample opportunities for water sports and other recreational activities. Studying in Portugal, especially at a boarding school, is as much about academic excellence as it is about experiencing the vibrant coastal life.

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