Primary, secondary education in Portugal for international students

Getting a secondary education in Portugal is a good investment for foreign students. Local educational centers, schools and colleges provide high-quality world education, taking into account mandatory European standards. At the same time, Tuition fee here is lower than in other countries that are popular for learning English abroad (for example, in Britain or America).

Studying in Portugal is a useful and unforgettable experience for foreign students for several reasons:

• Communicative experience in an international environment;
• The opportunity to make new acquaintances;
• Full immersion in the culture and language of another country.

All these factors create a favorable environment for the development of children and youth and they will help them in the future when studying abroad and building a successful career.

Portugal's education system has witnessed a surge in popularity, reflecting the growth and advancement of its secondary educational institutions. Schools in Portugal can be broadly categorized into:

• Public

• Private

• International

Stages of Secondary Education in Portugal

Secondary education in Portugal is mandatory, segmented into three distinct stages:

• Preparatory School (3-5 years)

• Middle Schools in Portugal (6-15 years old)

• High School (15-17 years old)

At the preparatory and middle school levels, students are exposed to comprehensive curricula encompassing various disciplines. They actively participate in sports, creative arts, and focus on personal, spiritual, and moral development. As they approach graduation (grades 10-12), students typically select from two pathways:

• General Education: Suited for those aspiring to pursue university studies.

• Technological Education: Ideal for teens looking to join the workforce post-graduation.

Private vs. Public Institutions

While public secondary schools in Portugal lay a strong educational foundation, the nation boasts a robust network of private and international schools. These institutions are often considered top schools in Portugal, offering distinct advantages such as:

• State-of-the-art facilities.

• Highly qualified teaching staff.

Many of these private institutions operate as boarding schools, where international students not only attain academic excellence but also hone their skills in sports, arts, and moral values. An added benefit for international students is that many boarding schools offer courses primarily in English, ensuring rigorous language training. Students get the opportunity to learn English, Portuguese, and other languages, providing them a holistic educational experience.

Secondary Schools in Portugal

Secondary school education commences around the age of 5-6, marking the onset of preschool preparation. This is followed by four years of primary education. For international students to acquire basic secondary education credentials, they must invest another five years post this phase.

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 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?

Mandatory Subjects:

• Information and Communication Technologies

• English Language and Literature

• Biology

• Physics

• Mathematics

Electives Include:

• Language studies (including options like French, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, German, and advanced English and Portuguese courses)

• Economics

• History

• Geography

• Chemistry

• Graphic Design

• Drama

• Business Studies

• Music

• Art

Upon completing the requisite coursework and successfully passing examinations, students earn the esteemed IGCSE diploma. This symbolizes their completion of secondary education. They then have the option to delve into more intricate programs such as the IB and A-level.

Specialization in Portugal

While Portugal's education framework follows the European model, it doesn't mandate early specialization at the secondary level. For deeper specialization, students often choose the higher secondary education, which spans three years, concentrating in:

• General Education

• Technology

• Professional Studies

Considering the diversity and comprehensive nature of schools in Portugal, the nation undoubtedly offers a conducive environment for both local and international students.

Securing a spot in the best schools in Portugal for international students is a competitive endeavor. Admission tests are a fundamental part of the application process to gauge the level of knowledge – a process identical to what local Portuguese students undergo. This includes the 'Concurso nacional' for public schools and 'Concurso local' for private institutions. One pivotal requirement is a proficient grasp of the Portuguese language since the curriculum, exams, and assessments are primarily conducted in the country's official language. Recognizing the linguistic challenges faced by international students, many schools in Portugal offer intensive Portuguese language courses. These programs aim to elevate students' language skills swiftly, ensuring they're well-prepared for their academic journey.

There are myriad reasons why international students flock to Portugal's top educational institutions:

• Competitive European Education: One of the main draws is the allure of obtaining a European education. Both private and state schools in Portugal offer education that is competitively priced when compared to countries like the UK or Germany, without compromising on quality.

• Pathways to Higher Education: After graduating from secondary schools in Portugal, students have an array of choices. They can transition to renowned programs like the Baccalaureate, IB, or even embark on a Master’s program within the country.

• Cost Structure: While private institutions might have slightly higher tuition – up to 1,500 euros annually – the cost for a Master's program across all universities ranges between 920 to 8,000 euros each year. These fees fluctuate based on the specific institution, academic discipline, and specialization chosen.

• Affordable Living: Beyond tuition, Portugal scores high on affordability when it comes to living expenses. International students can find comfortable apartments within the 300-500 euros monthly bracket. Additionally, transportation costs hover around 100 euros, with an estimated 200 euros earmarked for monthly groceries and dining. When juxtaposed with costs in the USA, UK, or countries like Austria and Switzerland, Portugal emerges as a significantly more budget-friendly option. This affordability, combined with a robust educational framework, amplifies Portugal's appeal to international students.

In summary, with its combination of competitive academic offerings, cultural richness, and cost-effectiveness, Portugal is undeniably a top contender for students seeking quality education in Europe.