If you’re a family looking for boarding schools in Portugal, you’ll be pleased to know that there are several prestigious schools that offer a wide range of curricula. Each school is unique and caters to the diverse needs of students.
Top Boarding Schools Portugal 2026
-
Prime School International
Cascais, Lisbon •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 9,900 to 33,900 EUR
Foundation: 2006Nationalities: 40 different nationalitiesNr of students: 40 studentsExaminations: A Level - IGCSEThe aim of Prime School International is to promote well-being and personal fulfilment within the academic community.The Prime School International follows an International Curriculum that includes IGCSEs and A Levels with specialisation, providing students with a solid academic foundation and preparing them for higher education and professional success. As one of the first schools in Portugal to receive the Cambridge Curriculum certificate, alongside the teaching equivalence granted by the Portuguese Ministry of Education, Prime School has built a long-standing tradition of educational excellence. Since 2006, the school has been committed to this curriculum, which is widely recognised for its international prestige and student-centred approach. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and academic excellence while promoting global citizenship. The school values the importance ...Annual tuition fees at Prime School International range from EUR 9,900 to EUR 33,900, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
St. Peter's International School
Palmela, Portugal •Co-Education •- from 1
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB Curriculum - Portuguese CurriculumLanguage of instruction: English - German - Latin - Mandarin - Portuguese - SpanishYearly fee: from 7,500 to 37,620 EUR
Foundation: 1993Nationalities: 42 different nationalitiesNr of students: 42 studentsExaminations: Cambridge - IB Diploma - IGCSEFounded in 1993, SPIS is a top-ranked day & boarding school for students from 4 months to 18 years old. Portuguese National & International Curricula, including IGCSE & IB Diploma. An Inspired School.PRE-SCHOOLWe prepare our children for their future education. We encourage a strong relationship between the families of our young students and the school while focusing on developmental objectives and the individual needs of our young explorers. Nursery (from 4 months to 2 years old) Scientific research is clear that the benefits of excellent Early Years learning are transformative for later learning. An Early Years education does not just prepare children for primary years and beyond, it gives those children a significant advantage for accelerated future learning. Kindergarten (from 3 to 5 years old) In our bilingual Kindergarten, experienced and competent educators play a guiding role in the learning process as children gain emerging skills. They support the children’s interests and mot...Annual tuition fees at St. Peter’s International School range from EUR 7,500 to EUR 37,620, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition:
Why Choose to Study at a Boarding School in Portugal?
Choosing to send your child to a boarding school in Portugal offers a distinctive blend of high-quality education, rich cultural exposure, and a welcoming environment that nurtures both academic and personal growth. Portugal’s educational institutions are renowned for their rigorous academic standards and commitment to holistic development, making them an attractive option for families seeking a comprehensive educational experience for their children.
Academic Excellence and Innovative Learning Approaches
Boarding schools in Portugal are celebrated for their robust academic programs that not only meet but often exceed international standards. These institutions commonly feature bilingual curricula, with Portuguese and English as primary mediums of instruction, which prepares students for global opportunities. The schools are equipped with modern facilities and technology, and they employ innovative teaching methodologies that encourage critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. This educational approach ensures that students are well-prepared for higher education and professional challenges ahead.
Cultural Immersion in a Historic Setting
Portugal, with its rich maritime history and pivotal role in the Age of Discoveries, offers a unique backdrop for learning. Students at boarding schools in Portugal benefit from this historical and cultural richness daily. The country’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities provide a plethora of opportunities for educational excursions and cultural immersion. Learning extends beyond the classroom as students engage with local communities, participate in traditional festivals, and explore historical sites, enriching their educational experience and broadening their perspectives.
A Safe and Supportive Environment
The safety of students is paramount in Portuguese boarding schools, which boast secure campuses and a supportive atmosphere. The pastoral care in these schools is notable; staff are dedicated to supporting students in every aspect of their life, ensuring a balanced development of academic, emotional, and social skills. The close-knit community in boarding schools also helps students from around the globe feel at home, fostering friendships that last a lifetime and building a network of global contacts.
Preparation for Global Citizenship
Portugal’s boarding schools are truly international environments, welcoming students from various countries. This diversity exposes students to different cultures and viewpoints, equipping them with essential skills for success in a globalized world. The international nature of these schools also means that students often have opportunities to participate in exchange programs and international competitions, further enhancing their global perspective and competencies.
In conclusion, studying at a boarding school in Portugal offers a well-rounded educational experience in a nurturing, safe, and culturally rich environment. It prepares students not just academically but also develops them into capable, global citizens, ready to tackle the challenges of the future. This unique combination makes Portugal an ideal choice for parents considering boarding education for their children.
How much does it cost to attend Boarding Schools in Portugal?
The yearly tuition fees for Boarding Schools in Portugal generally range from $20,000 to $35,000 per year. This cost can vary based on factors like the curriculum, the quality of campus facilities, the standard of boarding, and the services – with some top-tier schools exceeding $40,000 annually.
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $20,000 | $35,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $1,665 | $2,920 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $500 | $1,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $400 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $1,500 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $22,200 | $37,900 |
Summary
Boarding schools in Portugal offer a rich blend of academic excellence, cultural immersion, and a supportive environment. Students benefit from bilingual education, exposure to a historical and vibrant culture, and a safe, international community that prepares them for global citizenship.