EDUCATION IN PORTUGAL

Pre-school education is not compulsory between the ages of three and six years, but there are public or state and private pre-schools, with private schools being more expensive.

Elementary education is compulsory and comprises three sequential cycles totaling nine years (from about 6 to 15 years old).  You can choose between the public schools (free of charge) and private ones. Private international schools are also available.

Secondary education is organised into two sectors: the secondary schools and the professional schools. Both sectors prepare pupils for university.
With regard to higher education it is possible to choose between universities (4 or 6 years courses) and polytechnics.

The first enrollment is made according to the area of residence or place of employment of the children’s parents; the subsequent enrollments are simply a renewal of the first one until the end of the secondary education.

To find which school to attend you can contact one of the schools in the area or the Regional Direction of Education (Direcção Regional de Educação).   A list of documents is usually required for enrollment (these may vary from school to school, so check in advance).  These are:
• Registration papers (available at the school)
• Document proving your scholarship level
• Health bulletin
• 3 passport size photos
• ID card / Passport.
Usually 15th July is the last day for enrollment (check this in advance because this date may vary from school to school). Students coming from a foreign school have no enrollment deadline date.  However, you should contact the School Management Council for more details.

There are school breaks for Christmas, Carnival and Easter. Summer holidays are during July and August.

Private schools have the same requirements as the public ones, but they are more expensive.  You should check that the private school you have enrolled your children at is certified by the Ministry of Education.

International Schools are available in Lisbon, Oporto and the Algarve where you can find English, German, French and Spanish international schools.