Schools with American Curriculum in Portugal

Several international schools in Portugal follow the American curriculum, making them ideal for American expats. These schools provide education in English and offer a curriculum that aligns with the U.S. education system, often including Advanced Placement (AP) courses and U.S. high school diplomas. Here are some notable options:

1. Carlucci American International School of Lisbon (CAISL)

Location: Sintra (Greater Lisbon area)

Overview: CAISL is the only school in Portugal accredited by the U.S. State Department's Office of Overseas Schools. It offers a rigorous American curriculum from Pre-K to Grade 12 and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, making it an excellent option for students who want to pursue higher education globally.

Facilities: CAISL offers modern facilities, extracurricular programs, and a focus on academic excellence.

2. Oporto International School (CLIP)

Location: Porto

Overview: While primarily offering the IB program, CLIP follows an educational framework resembling the American curriculum. The school emphasizes creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking, offering opportunities for AP courses and an equivalency to an American high school diploma.

Extracurriculars: CLIP offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and arts.

 3. International Christian School of Cascais

Location: Cascais (near Lisbon)

 Overview: This school follows a U.S. curriculum, providing Kindergarten through high school education. It focuses on a Christian-based, American curriculum and aims to foster a strong sense of community and moral values.

Unique Features: Small class sizes and personalized attention are vital to school characteristics.

 4. St. Julian's School

Location: Carcavelos (between Lisbon and Cascais)

Overview: Although St. Julian’s is a British international school, it offers a pathway that aligns with the U.S. education system, including courses leading to an IB diploma. Many American families choose this school for its international environment and strong academic reputation.

Extracurriculars: The school provides various sports, music, arts, and other activities.

 5. United Lisbon International School

Location: Lisbon

Overview: This is a relatively new international school in the heart of Lisbon. It offers an American curriculum for elementary and secondary students. The school emphasizes technology-driven learning and provides both U.S. and IB curriculum options.

Modern Facilities: United Lisbon has a state-of-the-art campus, making it a popular expat choice.

 6. Nobel International School Algarve

Location: Lagoa (Algarve)

Overview: Nobel International offers British and American curricula, catering to a diverse international student body. It provides education from early years to secondary school and gives IB and American-style high school diploma options.

Setting: Located in the sunny Algarve, this school is ideal for families who prefer a southern lifestyle.

Things to Consider:

- Accreditation: Make sure the school you choose is accredited by U.S. educational authorities, especially if your children plan to return to the U.S. for higher education.

- Extracurricular Activities: American curriculum schools often have vital extracurricular programs, including sports, arts, and technology clubs.

- School Fees: Tuition can vary significantly between schools, and American international schools tend to be more expensive due to their specialized programs and facilities.

These schools offer American expats the chance to give their children a familiar educational experience while living abroad in Portugal.