Lisbon has quietly become one of the most popular destinations in Europe for international families. Mild winters, safe streets, an English-friendly population and a cluster of well established international schools make it an easy soft landing for expats. The flip side is that the most established schools have grown competitive, with limited spaces in the upper primary and lower secondary years. This 2026 admissions guide explains how to navigate the application process for international schools in Lisbon and the surrounding Cascais and Estoril coast, with a clear timeline, document checklist and tips that will save you time during your move.
The Lisbon school landscape in 2026
The Lisbon and Costa do Sol area hosts more than fifteen international and bilingual schools, ranging from American, British and Portuguese-international hybrids to specialist IB World Schools. The biggest concentration of expat-friendly schools is in Cascais, Estoril and Sintra, with a smaller cluster in central Lisbon. Most schools follow either the IB continuum, the Cambridge International curriculum with IGCSE and A-levels, or the American curriculum with Advanced Placement. A few combine the Portuguese national curriculum with extensive English instruction, which is appealing if you plan a long term stay and want full integration into Portuguese society.
Top international schools in Lisbon and the Costa do Sol
Carlucci American International School of Lisbon (CAISL)
The longest established American international school in Portugal, CAISL offers a US accredited curriculum with Advanced Placement plus a strong IB Diploma in upper grades. The campus in Sintra has excellent facilities and a large alumni base across multinationals in Portugal. Demand is highest in grades 6 and 9. View the CAISL profile.
St. Dominic's International School
An IB World School in Sao Domingos de Rana running PYP, MYP and Diploma, with a long history of academic results and a community feel. Admissions are rolling, but secondary year groups can fill early. See the St. Dominic's listing.
St. Peter's International School
St. Peter's combines the Portuguese curriculum with a strong international stream and the IB Diploma, in a leafy campus in Palmela south of Lisbon. A good fit for families wanting a bilingual Portuguese and English experience. Read more about St. Peter's.
Redbridge International School
A British international school in central Lisbon with the Cambridge curriculum, IGCSE and A-levels. Smaller class sizes and a personal admissions process make it attractive to families relocating mid-year. Visit the Redbridge listing.
Prime School International Estoril
A modern Cambridge curriculum school on the Estoril coast, popular with families settling in Cascais. The school accepts new arrivals throughout the year subject to space and offers structured English support for non-native speakers. Check Prime School Estoril.
The Lisbon admissions calendar
Most international schools in Lisbon open their main admissions window in October for the following September intake. By February, popular year groups start showing limited availability, and by May the strongest names operate waiting lists. The school year runs from early September to mid June. If you are aiming for September 2026 entry, file your applications between October 2025 and January 2026 for the smoothest experience. Mid-year admissions for January or after Easter are possible at most schools, but options narrow quickly.
Documents you will need
Each school has its own pack, but the common list is similar. Expect to provide your child's last two academic years of school reports, ideally translated into English, a current teacher reference, the child's passport and birth certificate, vaccination records compliant with the Portuguese national plan, and a parent identification document. Schools usually ask for proof of residence in Portugal or a relocation letter from your employer if you are still abroad. Original Portuguese translations may be requested for residency or registration purposes, but most schools accept English language documents during the application phase.
Step by step admissions process
Step one is shortlist. Pick three to five schools that match your curriculum, location and budget. Step two is the inquiry form on each school website. Step three is the assessment. Younger children attend a short play-based observation, while older candidates sit English and maths assessments and an interview. Step four is the offer letter, usually issued within two to three weeks of completing the assessment. Step five is the registration fee and deposit, typically equal to one term of fees, applied against your first invoice. Step six is the formal enrolment, signing the contract and providing the final document set.
Fees and budgets you should plan for
International school fees in Lisbon are notably lower than in Paris, London or Madrid. In 2026, expect annual tuition between 11,000 and 22,000 euros depending on year group and school. The American and IB World Schools sit at the top of the range, with diploma year fees around 22,000 to 24,000 euros. Bilingual Portuguese-English schools sit between 7,000 and 14,000 euros. Add a one-off enrolment fee of 1,500 to 3,500 euros and a refundable deposit at some schools. Lunch, school bus and uniforms are billed separately and typically add 1,500 to 3,000 euros per year per child.
Language support for non-Portuguese speakers
If your child does not speak Portuguese, the international schools mentioned above provide structured Portuguese as an additional language, especially in primary years. Children typically reach conversational fluency within twelve months. If your child does not speak English, the bilingual options are a smoother route in. Be honest with the admissions office about your child's level so the school can place them appropriately and provide the right support.
Where families typically live
Cascais and Estoril are the classic expat coastal communities, with several international schools within a few kilometres and easy beach access. Sintra is greener and quieter, popular with families who prioritise nature. Central Lisbon suits families who want urban living with a short commute to a city school. Always factor in school bus routes when picking a neighbourhood, since traffic on the A5 motorway between Lisbon and Cascais can be heavy at peak hours.
Wider rankings
For a country-level view, browse the complete ranking of the best international schools in Portugal on International School Advisor.
Frequently asked questions
When should I start the application process for September entry?
Begin shortlisting in autumn the year before. File applications between October and January for the smoothest experience. Some schools accept applications up to a few weeks before the start of term if there is availability, but choice will be limited.
Are there waiting lists for international schools in Lisbon?
Yes, particularly in CAISL grades 6 and 9 and IB World Schools at MYP entry. Applying early is the most reliable way to avoid the waiting list. A strong second choice is essential.
Will my child need Portuguese to start school?
No. International schools in Lisbon are designed for newcomers and offer structured Portuguese language support. Children typically pick up conversational Portuguese within a year and become comfortable in two.