Most Expensive International Schools in Lisbon 2026
Most Expensive International Schools in Lisbon 2026
Lisbon has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade. From a relatively quiet European capital, it has become one of the continent’s most sought-after destinations for international families, digital nomads, and high-net-worth individuals — driven in significant part by Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime and its later replacement, NHR 2.0.
The influx of international families has transformed Lisbon’s international school landscape. Established schools have expanded capacity and improved facilities; new schools have entered the market. Demand remains high and waiting lists are the norm at premium schools.
Premium International Schools in Lisbon: Fee Overview
| School | Curriculum | Annual Fees (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Carlucci American International School of Lisbon (CAISL) | American/IB | ~€18,000–€28,000 |
| St Julian’s School | British/IB | ~€16,000–€26,000 |
| Nobel International School | IB | ~€15,000–€24,000 |
| Oeiras International School | IB | ~€14,000–€22,000 |
| CLIP (Colégio Luso-Internacional do Porto — Lisbon campus) | British/IB | ~€12,000–€20,000 |
Fees are indicative for 2025/2026. Confirm directly with each school.
Carlucci American International School of Lisbon (CAISL)
CAISL is Lisbon’s most prestigious international school and one of the oldest — founded in 1956 to serve the American diplomatic and business community. Today it serves over 900 students from 50+ nationalities.
CAISL offers both the American curriculum (with AP courses) and the IB Diploma, giving families flexibility. WASC accreditation and strong US university placement make it the natural choice for American families.
Annual fees are approximately €18,000–€28,000 — the highest in Lisbon. The school is located in Linho, near Sintra, in a large green campus setting.
St Julian’s School
St Julian’s is Lisbon’s leading British school, offering IGCSE and A-Level alongside IB options. Founded in 1932, it has an exceptionally long history serving the British and international community in Portugal.
Annual fees are approximately €16,000–€26,000. The school is located in Carcavelos, near Cascais, in a campus with strong sports facilities. Popular with British and Commonwealth families and those targeting UK universities.
Nobel International School
Nobel is a growing IB school in the Lisbon area, offering the full IB continuum. It has attracted significant numbers of the NHR-visa families who have relocated to Lisbon over recent years.
Annual fees are approximately €15,000–€24,000.
Oeiras International School
Oeiras (OIS) is a well-regarded IB school near Oeiras — conveniently positioned for families in the Oeiras/Estoril corridor west of Lisbon. It offers PYP, MYP and Diploma Programme.
Annual fees are approximately €14,000–€22,000.
CLIP
CLIP has campuses in both Porto and Lisbon and offers IGCSE and IB qualifications through its bilingual (English-Portuguese) model. For families who want their children to develop Portuguese language skills alongside an internationally recognised qualification, CLIP is a distinctive option.
Annual fees are approximately €12,000–€20,000.
What Drives High Fees in Lisbon?
NHR-driven demand. The NHR tax regime attracted a significant wave of international families from 2012 onwards. This sustained demand for English-medium international schooling has pushed fees up across the Lisbon market.
Limited supply. Despite new entrants, Lisbon’s international school capacity has not kept pace with demand. Premium schools consistently operate at or near full capacity.
International teacher costs. Recruiting experienced international teachers to Lisbon requires competitive packages, particularly given the city’s rising cost of living.
Apply Well in Advance
Lisbon’s premium international schools — particularly CAISL and St Julian’s — have significant waitlists. Families planning a Portugal relocation should apply as soon as the plan is confirmed, ideally 12–18 months in advance.
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