Working out international school fees in Lisbon is an essential early step for families relocating to Portugal's capital. Lisbon has become one of Europe's most popular destinations for expat families, drawn by the climate, safety and lifestyle, and its international schools offer strong programmes at fees that remain lower than in London, Geneva or many Asian hubs. This 2026 cost guide sets out realistic tuition ranges at leading schools, the one-off and recurring charges to plan for, and practical budgeting advice.
How international school fees work in Lisbon
Most international schools in Lisbon publish an annual tuition figure billed across three terms or in monthly instalments. Alongside tuition you should budget for a non-refundable application or registration fee, an enrolment fee once a place is confirmed, and sometimes a capital or building levy. Fees rise as children move up the school, with the two IB Diploma or senior years typically the most expensive.
Curricula and how they affect cost
Lisbon offers British schools leading to IGCSE and A Levels, IB World Schools delivering the full Diploma, American programmes, and Portuguese-international hybrid schools that combine the national curriculum with international qualifications. Programmes with smaller cohorts and specialist provision, such as the IB Diploma, tend to sit at the higher end of the fee range.
International school fees in Lisbon by school
The schools below are active partner schools listed on ISA. Figures are indicative annual tuition ranges for 2026 in euros; always confirm current fees directly with each school.
St. Dominic's International School
A well-established IB World School in the greater Lisbon area, St. Dominic's International School delivers the IB continuum in English. Annual tuition typically ranges from around €13,000 in the primary years to roughly €22,000 for the IB Diploma.
Greene's College Oxford
Greene's College Oxford brings a British tutorial-style education to central Lisbon, focusing on personalised learning and preparation for A Levels and university entry, with fees reflecting its small-group model.
Colégio Monte Maior
Colégio Monte Maior combines the Portuguese curriculum with international provision north of Lisbon, offering a more accessible fee point for families who want a bilingual, internationally minded education.
Colégio Vasco da Gama
Colégio Vasco da Gama offers programmes from early years through secondary in the Sintra area, blending Portuguese and international pathways with a broad co-curricular offering.
One-off and recurring extras
Beyond tuition, plan for a registration or application fee, often €500 to €2,000 and usually non-refundable, plus an enrolment fee when your place is confirmed. Some schools charge a one-off capital levy. Recurring costs include lunches, school transport, uniforms where required, technology levies, trips and examination entry fees for IGCSE, A Level and IB. Ask each school for a complete schedule so you can compare total cost, not just headline tuition.
Practical budgeting tips
Request a full written fee schedule covering every charge for the year, and confirm whether payment plans or sibling discounts are available. If your employer offers an education allowance, clarify what it covers and whether it is paid directly to the school. Apply early for competitive year groups, and factor in an annual increase of roughly 3 to 5 percent when planning a multi-year budget.
Compare Lisbon's top schools
Ready to compare fees, reviews and rankings? Explore the best international schools in Portugal guide from International School Advisor to shortlist campuses in and around Lisbon.
Frequently asked questions
How much do international schools in Lisbon cost in 2026?
Annual tuition at leading international schools generally ranges from around €8,000 at more accessible schools to roughly €22,000 or more at premium British and IB schools, plus one-off registration and enrolment fees and recurring extras such as transport and exams.
Are there fees beyond tuition?
Yes. Expect a non-refundable registration or application fee, an enrolment fee once your place is confirmed, and sometimes a capital levy, along with recurring costs for lunches, transport, uniforms, technology and examinations.
Is Lisbon cheaper than other European cities for international schooling?
Generally yes. Lisbon's international school fees are typically lower than comparable schools in London, Geneva or Zurich, which is part of the city's appeal for relocating families, though premium IB and British schools still command higher fees.