The education system in Portugal: a guide for American expatriate parents

Portugal, with its sunny landscapes, mild climate and affordable cost of living, is attracting more and more American expatriate families. If you're thinking of moving to Portugal with your children, it's important to familiarise yourself with the local education system.

Structure of the education system

The Portuguese education system is similar to that of many other European countries. It is divided into three cycles:

Pre-elementary education (3 to 5 years): this is not compulsory, but is widespread. Children learn to socialise, develop their motor skills and prepare for primary school.

Primary school (ages 6 to 12): Primary school is compulsory for all children aged 6 to 12. Children learn to read, write, count and develop their general knowledge.

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Secondary education (aged 13 to 18): secondary education is divided into two cycles: the basic cycle (3 years) and the higher cycle (3 years). Pupils can choose between a general stream or a technical and vocational stream. Click here to discover out more about moving to Portugal.

Types of school

There are three types of school in Portugal:

state schools: these are free and open to all children;
public schools: these are fee-paying, but often offer a wider range of options and programmes;
international schools: these offer a curriculum in line with international standards, usually in English.

Choosing a school

Choosing a school for your child depends on a number of factors, such as your budget, your location, your educational preferences and your child's particular needs. It's important to visit several schools and talk to teachers and parents before making a decision.

School registration

To enrol your child in school in Portugal, you'll need a number of documents, such as their birth certificate, vaccination certificate and proof of address. You can obtain more information about the enrolment process from the school or the Ministry of Education.

Assessment system

Portuguese students are assessed throughout the school year by means of tests, homework and projects. Marks are expressed on a scale from 0 to 20, with 20 being the best mark.

Educational assistance

The Portuguese government offers a number of education support programmes for disadvantaged families. These programmes can include study grants, tuition fee subsidies and free meals.