Overview of the Education System in Portugal

Structure of the Education System

1. Levels of Education:
   • Pre-School Education: For children aged 3 to 6. Not mandatory but widely attended.
   • Basic Education: Compulsory for ages 6 to 16, divided into three cycles:
     • 1st Cycle: 1st to 4th grade (ages 6-10)
     • 2nd Cycle: 5th to 6th grade (ages 10-12)
     • 3rd Cycle: 7th to 9th grade (ages 12-15)
   • Secondary Education: Optional for ages 15 to 18, covering 10th to 12th grades.
   • Higher Education: Universities and polytechnic institutes offering bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.

National Regulations

• Compulsory Education: Enforced from ages 6 to 16.
• Curriculum: Governed by the Ministry of Education, focusing on core subjects like Portuguese, Mathematics, Sciences, and foreign languages.
• Assessment: Regular evaluations, with national exams at the end of the 9th grade and for secondary education.

Enrollment Procedures

1. Pre-School: Enrollment typically occurs in the spring for the following academic year. Documentation required includes proof of age and residence.
2. Basic and Secondary Education:
   • Public Schools: Enrollment is generally automatic based on residence. Parents must register their children at the local school.
   • Private Schools: Enrollment involves application processes, which may include interviews and entrance exams. Fees vary widely.
3. Higher Education: Admission is based on national exams (Exames Nacionais) and previous academic performance. Applications are submitted through the national online platform (Candidatura).

Costs

• Public Education: Generally free for basic and secondary education, with minimal costs for materials and extracurricular activities.
• Private Education: Tuition fees vary significantly, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand euros per year.
• Higher Education: Public universities charge tuition fees, typically between €1,000 and €3,000 per year for EU students, and higher for non-EU students.

Considerations for Visitors and Immigrants

• Language: The primary language of instruction is Portuguese. Some international schools offer programs in English or other languages.
• Integration: Schools may offer support for non-Portuguese speaking students, including language classes.
• Cultural Norms: Education is highly valued in Portuguese society. Parental involvement in school activities is encouraged.
• Special Needs Education: Available in public schools, with specific programs and resources for children with disabilities.

Additional Resources

• Ministry of Education: Ministério da Educação
• National Agency for Qualification and Vocational Education: Provides information on vocational training and qualifications.

This overview provides a structured understanding of the education system in Portugal, focusing on essential aspects for visitors and immigrants.