Moving to Portugal - Finding a School

Pre-school education is not compulsory and is reserved for children aged between 3 and 6 years.

There are private and state-owned pre-schools.

Elementary education is universal and compulsory and comprises three sequential cycles in a total of nine years (from 6 years old until 15 years old). Also at this level is possible to choose between the public schools (free of charges) and private ones. Private international schools are also available.

Secondary education is organised in two sectors:

• the secondary schools
• and the professional schools

Both types allow for entrance to university, although the professional schools are more oriented to the practical aspects of working life.

In relation to higher education it is possible to choose between the universities (between 4 and 6 year courses) and polytechnics with courses more oriented to professional careers.

Public Schools

The first enrolment is made to the schools in the area of parents' residence or employment; the following enrolments are merely 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).

Here is a list of documents usually need for enrolment (these may vary from school to school, so check it in advance):

• Registration papers (you can get them at the school)
• Document proving your scholarship level
• Health bulletin
• 3 small photos
• ID card

15 July is usually the final date for enrolment (check this in advance because this date may vary between schools). There is no enrolment date limit for students that came from a foreign school, however you should contact the School Management Council for more details.

The school year breaks at Christmas, Carnival and Easter. Summer vacations are during July and August.

Private Schools

Private schools have the same requirements as the public ones; the difference is that they are quite expensive.

Make sure that the the Private School that you have selected is certified by the Ministry of Education.

German, French, Spanish and English International Schools are available in Lisbon, Oporto and Algarve, but they are expensive and have restricted admission. You should contact your embassy to find out more details such as: where are located, school levels available and enrolment procedures.

Useful references:

• Ministério da Educação
  Avenida 5 de Outubro, 107
  1069-018 Lisboa
  Tel: 21 793 16 03
  Fax: 21 796 41 19
  Website
• CIREP – Centro de Informação e Relações Públicas
  Avenida 5 de Outubro, 107, R/C
  1069-018 Lisboa
  Tel: 21 781 16 90
  Fax: 21 797 80 20
• INFOCID – Sistema Interdepartamental de Informação ao Cidadão
  Tel:213 605 300
  Fax:213 605 395

Text last edited on: 01/07/2003

Source: European Union
© European Communities, 1995-2007
Reproduction is authorised.