Relocation guide
IB, British, American or Portuguese — which is right for your family? Answer 4 questions to get a recommendation, then dive into the full comparison.
Question 1 of 4
| Curriculum | Annual fee | Language | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| IB | €15k–€25k | English (+ languages) | International families, flexibility |
| British | €10k–€18k | English | UK-bound families |
| American | €12k–€22k | English | US-bound families |
| Portuguese private | €3k–€8k | Portuguese | Long-stay, cost-conscious |
| Portuguese state | Free | Portuguese | EU residents staying long-term |
Yes — the IB Diploma is recognised by Portuguese public universities via DGES (the university admissions authority). IB students apply alongside Portuguese Ensino Secundário students using equivalent grade calculations.
Yes, but it requires equivalency assessment through the Ministry of Education (DGES). The process involves submitting prior school records and receiving a grade equivalency. It can take several months.
Yes — most US universities accept A-Levels. Top schools may require SAT/ACT scores in addition. Students with strong A-Level results (A*AA+) are typically competitive for selective US colleges.
As of 2024, there are approximately 10–15 IB World Schools in Portugal, concentrated in Lisbon, Cascais and Porto. Most offer the IB Diploma Programme; some also offer PYP and MYP.
Portuguese state schools are free for EU residents and legal residents. Private Portuguese-curriculum schools cost €3,000–€8,000/year. Both can provide an excellent education; the main tradeoff is language of instruction (Portuguese).
Ready to find a school?
Browse and compare schools across Portugal — filtered by curriculum, language, fees and commute.