Carlucci American International School of Lisbon vs St. Julian's School

	C Carlucci American International School of Lisbon Lisbon, Portugal	S St. Julian's School Lisbon, Portugal
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €12,128 - 23,532	Fees / year €12,384 - 29,097
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum, IB (DP)	Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, Pearson Edexcel IGCSE, IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme)
Pupils	Pupils 739	Pupils 1,200
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 21
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English, Portuguese
Opened	Opened 1956	Opened 1932
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Rua António dos Reis 95, Linhó, Sintra 2710-301, Portugal. Linhó is in the Sintra municipality near Lisbon. CAISL operates an extensive bus service serving Cascais and Lisbon, with routes designed around major metro and train corridors; the fleet includes large 50-seat buses and smaller vans, and bus service carries an additional fee.	Location St. Julian's School is in Carcavelos, in Greater Lisbon, Portugal. It sits between Carcavelos beach and historic Lisbon. The campus is centered on an elegant 18th‑century palace surrounded by gardens, sports facilities, woodland areas and sea air. The location blends natural beauty with urban convenience.
Stages	Stages EC3 through High School	Stages The school is organized into four divisions: Pre-Prep Ages 3-4; Prep Ages 5-10; Secondary Ages 11-18; and Bilingual Ages 6-14. This structure supports continuity from early years through to secondary education.
School type	School type Non-profit, non-denominational, college-preparatory day school offering an American program (EC3–12) and the IB Diploma.	School type British international school. For ages 3-18.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Learning Support; English as an Additional Language (EAL); Foundations of English Language (FoE); Counseling; Enrichment/Extension programs; Educational/Health Plans as needed.	Additional learning support —
Country affiliation	Country affiliation United States (CAISL is supported by the U.S. Office of Overseas Schools and offers an American curriculum).	Country affiliation UK-affiliated.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Non-denominational	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure A typical school day starts at 8:20 and finishes at 3:45.	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details CAISL offers an extensive bus service serving Cascais and Lisbon, with routes designed around major metro and train corridors. The fleet includes large 50-seat buses and smaller vans; buses pick up students at home when possible. The service carries an additional fee.	Bus service details Bus service with partner F-Irmãos, providing door-to-door transport. Morning collections aim for arrivals between 8:00 and 8:10am; afternoon collections run 3:15pm (Nursery–Year 2 and 1º ano) or 4:05pm (all other students) Monday–Thursday, and 2:00pm on Fridays, with return journeys typically 30–35 minutes. Zones are defined by an interactive map; enrolment is for the full academic year; buses are certified by the IMT and drivers licensed. Fees are per term or per year by zone, and there are sibling discounts.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details One‑time fees (charged on application/enrolment) - Application fee: EUR 100. - Registration fee (one‑time, mandatory, non‑refundable): EUR 600 per child. - Building fee (mandatory, non‑refundable while payable): EUR 1,953 per year; payable annually for the first five years a student attends (begins in Grade 1 unless payment is requested earlier in writing). Once payment begins the amount is fixed for the five years it is due. Tuition fees (Quarterly or Annual options) - Early Childhood (EC3 & EC4) and Kindergarten: Quarterly EUR 3,032; Annual EUR 12,128. (These Early Childhood / Kindergarten figures include lunch.) - Grades 1–2: Quarterly EUR 3,515; Annual EUR 14,060. - Grades 3–5: Quarterly EUR 3,908; Annual EUR 15,632. - Grades 6–8: Quarterly EUR 4,439; Annual EUR 17,756. - Grades 9–12: Quarterly EUR 5,883; Annual EUR 23,532. Optional and ancillary fees (Quarterly or Annual options where shown) - Lunch (Grades 1–12): Quarterly EUR 303; Annual EUR 1,212. Lunch for Early Childhood and Kindergarten is included in tuition. Lunch fees, if purchased, are billed with tuition invoices and cancellations must be made in writing and become effective the following quarter. - Transportation (per route): One‑way Quarterly EUR 454; One‑way Annual EUR 1,816. Round trip Quarterly EUR 908; Round trip Annual EUR 3,632. Occasional ridership charged at EUR 17 one way. Transport is charged per route and cancellations or route changes require advance notice; cancellations become effective the following quarter. - After‑Hours Care / After‑School Childcare (Grades EC3/4–5) — Quarterly / Annual options: - 1 day/week: Quarterly EUR 85; Annual EUR 340. - 2 days/week: Quarterly EUR 156; Annual EUR 624. - 3 days/week: Quarterly EUR 217; Annual EUR 868. - 4 days/week: Quarterly EUR 264; Annual EUR 1,056. - 5 days/week: Quarterly EUR 300; Annual EUR 1,200. Occasional use (drop‑in) = EUR 30 per day. Cancellations must be made in writing and take effect the following quarter. - Required instructional books and sports uniforms for team sports are included in tuition; some optional school store purchases, specific musical instruments beyond those provided, and optional extracurricular activity fees may incur additional charges billed separately. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition may be paid quarterly or annually. Tuition is invoiced as follows: - For new students: the 1st quarter (or the quarter in which the student enters) is invoiced at the time of initial registration; subsequent quarters are invoiced approximately one month before the due date. - For returning students: re‑registration and initial payment deadlines are set in the re‑registration schedule (example dates in the schedule show re‑registration forms and a June payment deadline for the 1st quarter/annual option). Subsequent quarter due dates are published on the annual schedule. - Specific quarter due dates shown in the published schedule include (examples for the year shown): 2nd Quarter due November 6; 3rd Quarter due January 29; 4th Quarter due April 23. Failure to pay the 1st quarter by the deadline cancels the reserved place and invoiced amounts remain due. Individual payment plans may be arranged with the Accounts Manager. - Discounts: 3% reduction on tuition paid in full by the published early‑payment deadline (example: on or before June 15 in the schedule) and 3% reduction on the building fee if paid with the annual tuition by that date. Sibling discounts apply: 15% reduction on Tuition & Building Fee for a third concurrently enrolled child, and 25% reduction for a fourth and subsequent concurrently enrolled child (applied to the youngest children). Early payment discounts are not refundable. Refunds, cancellations, early withdrawal and related policies - The First Quarter fees (Tuition and Building Fee, if applicable) of attendance are owed as a condition of registering or re‑registering and are not refundable under any circumstances. Failure to pay the 1st quarter by the due date results in loss of the child's place while the invoiced amounts remain due. - Late admission (entry during a quarter): the fee to reserve the place is the full quarter's tuition plus the Registration Fee and the full year's Building Fee if applicable. - Early withdrawal: written notification of intent to withdraw must be given by the published deadlines approximately one month before the next quarter's payment date; failure to provide required written notice results in the full next quarter's fees being due. Any attendance during a quarter results in that full quarter's fees being due. Example deadlines from the schedule are Oct 2 (for 2nd quarter), Dec 18 (for 3rd quarter), and Mar 25 (for 4th quarter). - Refunds for early payments (including discounted annual payments) are not provided; early‑payment discounts will not be refunded under any circumstances. Payment method and billing contact information - Payments are requested in Euros by bank transfer to the school's bank. Bank details published for payments include: Bank: Caixa Geral de Depósitos (CGD); IBAN: PT50 0035 0786 0006 6142 5304 8; NIB: 0035 0786 0006 6142 5304 8; SWIFT CODE: CGDIPTPL. - Individual payment plans and questions about invoicing, late payment, or discounts are handled by the Accounts/Business Office; account contact details are provided with the fee schedule and billing information. Boarding - Boarding is not applicable; no boarding fees are listed. Notes on inclusions and obligations - The published tuition amounts indicate items included in tuition such as technology and online learning resources, Portuguese and English language support, a personal laptop beginning in Grade 1, many extracurricular activities, required instructional books and sports uniforms for team sports, art supplies and most musical instruments. Additional optional items and services are billed separately per the schedule.	Fee details Application & admission fees - Application fee: EUR 250 (payable at submission; non‑refundable). - Registration fee: EUR 750 (payable on acceptance to secure a place). - Capital levy (one‑off): EUR 5,000 (payable on acceptance). Tuition fees — annual and per term (fees shown in EUR) For each year group the table below shows the published annual tuition and the equivalent per‑term amount (school operates over three terms per academic year). Per‑term = Annual ÷ 3. - Kindergarten / Age 3 (Kindg. 1): Annual EUR 12,384 — Per term EUR 4,128. - Kindergarten / Age 4 (Kindg. 2): Annual EUR 12,384 — Per term EUR 4,128. - Kindergarten / Age 5 (Kindg. 3): Annual EUR 14,868 — Per term EUR 4,956. - Grade 1 / Age 6: Annual EUR 14,868 — Per term EUR 4,956. - Grade 2 / Age 7: Annual EUR 15,786 — Per term EUR 5,262. - Grade 3 / Age 8: Annual EUR 15,786 — Per term EUR 5,262. - Grade 4 / Age 9: Annual EUR 16,707 — Per term EUR 5,569. - Grade 5 / Age 10: Annual EUR 17,907 — Per term EUR 5,969. - Grade 6 / Age 11: Annual EUR 18,579 — Per term EUR 6,193. - Grade 7 / Age 12: Annual EUR 18,579 — Per term EUR 6,193. - Grade 8 / Age 13: Annual EUR 18,579 — Per term EUR 6,193. - Grade 9 / Age 14: Annual EUR 22,809 — Per term EUR 7,603. - Grade 10 / Age 15: Annual EUR 22,809 — Per term EUR 7,603. - Grade 11 / Age 16: Annual EUR 29,097 — Per term EUR 9,699. - Grade 12 / Age 17: Annual EUR 19,134 — Per term EUR 6,378. Example — first year total for a child in Kindergarten 1 - Tuition (Kindg. 1): EUR 12,384 - Application fee: EUR 250 - Registration fee: EUR 750 - Capital levy (one‑off): EUR 5,000 - Total for the first year (example): EUR 18,384. Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoices are normally issued approximately 90 days prior to the start of each term. School fees for each term are due as cleared funds before the commencement of the term to which they relate. All invoices have a payment term of 30 days. - Parents may request an annual invoice or choose to pay monthly by direct debit in ten monthly instalments; the monthly‑instalment option is available only by direct debit and requires authorisation. Alternative payment‑in‑instalment agreements may be arranged in writing with the School. - Late or outstanding fees incur an administrative charge (7% of the outstanding amount) and interest as permitted under Portuguese law; prolonged arrears may result in suspension of services or withdrawal of the student's place. Boarding - St. Julian's School is a day school only; no boarding provision is offered. Other compulsory or common extra costs - School lunches: Yearly lunch plans are available. For 2025/26, lunch cost examples were EUR 1,209 per year for Nursery to Year 1 and EUR 1,410 per year for Year 2 (1.º ano) and above; a daily lunch pay‑as‑you‑go option is EUR 9.00 per day. - Uniforms: Uniforms are not included in tuition and are charged separately. - Examination / certification charges: Examination fees for external qualifications are billed in addition to tuition (example charges published for recent years include IGCSE and IB DP examination costs; sample figures previously published include IB DP Year 13 ≈ EUR 890 and IGCSE Year 11 ≈ EUR 785). - Some curriculum trips, external extracurricular activities run by third parties, transport to/from school, additional learning‑support costs, and certain special events are charged in addition to tuition. The tuition fee covers the majority of curriculum materials and most school‑arranged trips unless specifically notified. Discounts and concessions - Large‑family discount: a 15% discount is applied to the third child attending simultaneously and 25% for each subsequent child. If multiple discounts apply, the second discount is applied on the reduced fee after the first discount. - Staff discount: full‑time staff with at least two years' tenure may be eligible for a staff discount (commonly 25% per child, subject to conditions and the School's financial position). Refunds and leaving‑notice - Admission fees (application, registration and capital levy) are paid to secure a place and are not refundable. The school requires at least one term's written notice before removing a student; failing to give one term's notice will normally result in a charge equal to one term's fees in lieu of notice. Specific deadlines for giving notice are set against the academic calendar. Accepted payment methods and practical rules - Accepted payment methods: bank transfer, direct debit and cheque. Cash payments in excess of EUR 100 are not accepted; any banking charges incurred by the School (for returned cheques, etc.) will be added to the amount due. - For families requesting instalment plans or special payment arrangements, agreements must be made in writing and signed by both parties. Payments received are allocated to the oldest outstanding debts first. Notes and practical points for parents (factual) - Tuition is billed by term; the School operates on a three‑term academic calendar. Per‑term figures above are the annual tuition divided by three. - Some items typically excluded from the tuition fee are: admission fees, uniforms, certain school meals and transport, some school trips and exam fees, external extracurricular providers, and specialised learning support.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Not offered.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement There is no school uniform.	Uniform requirement The Uniform policy reflects a shared sense of community. There are summer and winter uniforms; the clothing is practical and distinctive, and wearing uniform is a great equaliser.
Food options	Food options CAISL is served by an on‑campus kitchen with a catering partner, Thomas Franks, and offers three daily lunch options: a main dish, an international dish, and a vegetarian option (the main dish alternates between meat and fish). Lunch is included for Early Childhood and Kindergarten; from Grade 1, lunch is optional with an additional fee. A snack bar provides light meals and beverages.	Food options The School offers a lunch service with hot and cold options. Menus are designed by a nutritionist and prepared in partnership with Thomas Frank, a trusted supplier. For the 2025/26 school year, lunch costs €1,209 for Nursery to Year 1 and €1,410 for Year 2 and above; students may also purchase lunch daily for €9.00. Secondary students can also buy food from the Soft Rock Café, which offers warm and cold takeaway options.
House system	House system —	House system Our house system assigns all students and staff to one of four houses: Bucknall, Franklin, Etherington-Smith (ES) and Russell. These foster community and cross-year friendship; a variety of sporting, academic, cultural and service activities are organised throughout the year, with house points and leadership opportunities such as House Captains.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership CAISL is governed by Fundação Escola Americana de Lisboa (FEAL), a not‑for‑profit foundation under Portuguese law.	Governance and ownership St. Julian's Association, established in 1938 as a not-for-profit cultural organisation dedicated to education, shapes the School's vision and reinvests all revenues back into the School. A Board of Governors oversees strategic planning, policy oversight and progress and appoints the Head and the Bursar, supported by subcommittees. The Chairman of the Annual General Meeting is Mr Filipe Lowndes Marques, and His Majesty's Ambassador to the Portuguese Republic is the Patron of the Association.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details CAISL teaches an American curricular program from EC3 through High School under a permanent license from the Portuguese Ministry of Education, including permission to award the American High School Diploma and the International Baccalaureate Diploma, both recognized worldwide. The program follows U.S. standards: English Language Arts and Math align with the Common Core, Science with the Next Generation Science Standards, and Social Studies with the C3 Framework. Portuguese is taught to all students from Grade 1 through Grade 9, with a Native/Fluent Speakers track aligned to the Ministry curriculum and Portuguese as a Foreign Language designed for non-Portuguese speakers. CAISL follows American Education Reaches Out (AERO) resources to support curriculum development and uses frameworks across K–12 for English, Math, Science, Social Studies, Fine Arts, Information Technology, and Portuguese. Curriculum is organized by level: Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, and High School.	Curriculum details The school offers two learning pathways: English Curriculum and Bilingual Curriculum. The English Curriculum runs from Nursery through Year 13, follows the National Curriculum for England, leads to GCSEs in Year 11, and offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma or Career-related Programme in Years 12–13. Portuguese is a compulsory subject up to the end of Year 9. The Bilingual Curriculum teaches the Portuguese National Curriculum in both English and Portuguese from age 6 to 15 (1º–9º ano) and then integrates into the English curriculum with a bespoke foundation programme leading to GCSE examinations before joining the IB programme in Year 12. Parents can choose the bilingual pathway from Reception or Year 1; non-Portuguese-speaking parents can choose this option to accelerate language acquisition and build international networks.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio High School class sizes are small, with no more than 20 students per class. The High School includes Grades 9-12 with a maximum of 60 students per grade.	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results CAISL has been an IB World School since 2002. In 2025, IB results show an average DP score of 34.3 with a 98% pass rate, and 26 bilingual diplomas awarded from 58 candidates (57 awarded the IB Diploma). SAT results for 2025 show an average composite of 1267 from 58 test-takers (Reading & Writing 640; Math 627). MAP results indicate CAISL averages above U.S. and international comparison groups in Reading and Math.	Exam results IB Diploma Results – Class of 2025: 94 students earned the IB Diploma with an average score of 34.5, and 49% achieved 35 or higher. GCSE Results – Year 11 (2025): 98 students completed GCSE examinations with strong performance; the data show high attainment in core metrics. IB Diploma results over 2025–2020 show an average score of 34.5 with a Diploma pass rate around 97%; 2025 GCSE metrics include 6 or more A* to C at 97% and A-C at 97%; 52% achieved A/A. Portuguese National ExamsResults (2025): grade averages include Portuguese 3.7 and Maths 4.1, with top marks (5) in both subjects.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression College destinations for CAISL graduates include USA: Boston College, Georgetown University, Northeastern University, SUNY Binghamton University, Texas Christian University, and the United States Military Academy; UK: Goldsmiths, King's College London, Lancaster, Loughborough, University of Birmingham, University of Cambridge, University of Manchester, University of the Arts London, University of Warwick; Portugal: ISCTE, Univ. Católica, Univ. Lisboa, Univ. Nova de Lisboa; Netherlands: Amsterdam University College, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Leiden University College, Utrecht University, University of Amsterdam; Other: IE University (Spain), McGill University (Canada), RWTH Aachen University (Germany), Aarhus University (Denmark), Malmö University (Sweden).	Higher education progression Graduates have gained places at top universities worldwide, including Bath, Cambridge, City, Edinburgh, King's College London, Loughborough, Manchester, Oxford, Royal Holloway, St Andrews, UCL and Warwick; in the United States MIT and UCLA; international destinations including Amsterdam, Bocconi, Delft, IE and Maastricht; and in Portugal Católica and Nova SBE.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning CAISL provides counseling and guidance to support students' social and emotional development. The Counseling Department serves Grades 1–12 with a team of four counselors, including three certified clinical psychologists; counseling is available in individual and group formats and involves close collaboration with parents. Information is treated confidentially, and counselors help families access local resources when needed.	Social & emotional learning Health & Citizenship PSHE education promotes emotional literacy, personal resilience and respectful relationships.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) CAISL offers Learning Support for students with mild learning difficulties, with small-group instruction, regular progress monitoring, formal accommodations, executive functioning skills development, and literacy support. The program is designed for students who can function in a regular classroom setting; CAISL does not provide services for severe learning or behavioral problems. Educational/Health Plans are written when there is a relevant evaluation or medical condition and reviewed annually.	Special educational needs (SEN) A Dedicated Learning Support Team provides inclusive provision tailored to individual needs, including support for English as an Additional Language (EAL).
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English is the medium of instruction in all classes. English as a Language (EAL) classes are available in small groups to support students whose first language is not English; ESL can be delivered through immersion, sheltered classes, or monitoring. Admission testing is used for non-native English speakers, with progression plans and monitoring (including WIDA assessments) to move students to mainstream English instruction; high school entry for non-native speakers requires demonstrated English fluency.	English as an additional language EAL support includes individual learning plans; small-group and one-to-one lessons; IGCSE English as a Second Language option; Portuguese as a Foreign Language.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing CAISL offers personal counseling to support emotional and social well-being for students in Grades 1–12, with a team of counselors available for individual or group sessions. Counselors work with students to develop healthy strategies and maintain confidentiality while coordinating with families as needed.	Mental wellbeing Counsellors and wellbeing staff provide extra support when needed; wellbeing is central to school life; Health & Citizenship promotes emotional literacy and resilience.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding CAISL has a Child Protection Policy with annual staff training and a formal process for safeguarding students. Recruitment follows rigorous child-protection standards, including background checks and verification of criminal records for staff, contractors, and volunteers. A designated Child Protection Officer oversees safeguarding and there is a Child Protection Handbook and a formal reporting process for suspected abuse or neglect.	Safeguarding A comprehensive Child Protection Policy aligns with UK and Portuguese guidelines; safeguarding is everyone's responsibility; the Deputy Head (Pastoral) oversees welfare.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview CAISL's campus serves Pre-School through High School with dedicated classrooms, labs, and collaborative spaces designed to support academic and extracurricular programs. The space includes a Pre-School and Elementary area with age-appropriate classrooms and direct playground access, and Middle School and High School spaces with subject-specific classrooms, science labs, and student gathering areas. Outdoor athletics facilities include a professional-sized soccer field, two multi-purpose fields, three outdoor basketball courts, and track-and-field facilities, complemented by an indoor gymnasium and a smaller gym for younger students with a fitness room. The arts and music spaces feature dedicated art rooms and music classrooms, a theatre that seats over 400, a main library with extensive resources, and technology resources across the campus.	Facilities overview The school has an elegant 18th-century palace at the heart of a campus surrounded by gardens, sports facilities, woodland areas and fresh sea air, located between Carcavelos beach and Lisbon in Greater Lisbon, Portugal. The campus sits within extensive grounds that support a wide range of activities. A €50 million, five-year Second Century building project will add contemporary, specialised rooms, renovate historic buildings and enhance green spaces. Planning your visit is easy by car or rail from Carcavelos.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities CAISL offers extensive athletics facilities: outdoor spaces include a professional-sized soccer field, two multi-purpose fields, three outdoor basketball courts, and track-and-field facilities, plus a baby gym for preschool. Indoor spaces include a gymnasium configurable for two basketball courts or three volleyball courts, a smaller gym for younger students, and a fitness room with machines and free weights.	Sports facilities The sports program is broad and active, with surf, rugby, football, cricket, athletics and other activities supported by extensive after-school offerings. After-school sports run from 3:30–4:30 for younger pupils and 4:00–5:30 for older ones, with football, basketball and volleyball among the free activities. Students participate in fixtures and competitions with other international schools in Portugal and Europe. A Rugby Club is open to the community and affiliated with the Portuguese Rugby Federation, and the school offers a wide range of sports including swimming, golf, tennis, track & field, gymnastics, padel, and more.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Middle School and High School provide specialized classrooms, labs, collaborative spaces, and student gathering areas to support deeper learning and university preparation. Students have access to subject-specific classrooms, science labs, and central atriums serving as social hubs. Pre-School and Elementary spaces include dedicated classrooms with in-class bathrooms and direct playground access, with elementary students receiving Art, Music, and Physical Education instruction.	Academic facilities The Bilingual Curriculum enables dual-language learning across the school, with students from ages 6 to 15 enjoying bilingual education before progressing to IGCSEs and then to the IB, DP or CP. Across the entire school, core subjects such as Art, Music and Physical Education are taught in both Portuguese and English. The Bilingual Section is designed to complement the broader Prep School experience and ensures a seamless transition into later stages of education. The school offers pathways from early years through secondary with dual-language delivery at the core of the academic program.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities CAISL offers after-school activities and clubs across grades, with registration after the start of the school year and the ability to filter by grade and day. Igniting Passions highlights Arts and Athletics programs, including concerts by Choir and Orchestra, and weekly Open Mic events. The program includes Arts & Crafts, Ballet, Basketball, Ceramics, Chess, Chinese language and culture clubs, percussion groups, choir, theatre, and many other after-school activities supported by dedicated Fine Arts spaces such as music classrooms, art rooms, a 400-seat theatre, and the main library. The campus hosts MUN programs and a range of after-school opportunities through Beyond the Classroom.	Extra curricular facilities A wide programme of clubs and societies covers sports, music, drama, the arts, languages, science, technology and leadership, supporting personal growth and teamwork. Clubs include Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Rugby, Cricket, Swimming, Golf, Track & Field, Tennis and Padel, plus Capoeira, Karate, Jiu-Jitsu and Boxing, Surf, Sailing, Skateboarding and Climbing. The school also supports leadership and service initiatives such as Model United Nations, Eco-School and the Community Service (CAS) group. The Wider Life Programme offers age-appropriate activities and schedules for the 2025/26 year, with details available to families.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History CAISL began in 1956 when Anthony McKenna founded a school with a big vision: bringing American education to Portugal, starting with 9 students in a small apartment in Pedrouços. In 1984 the Portuguese Ministry of Education officially recognized the school's educational program. In 1998 the Linhó campus was established, uniting the divisions on a purpose-built learning environment. CAISL is governed by the Fundação Escola Americana de Lisboa Board of Trustees, composed of three members: one appointed by Visteon Portuguesa and two appointed by the U.S. Embassy to Portugal, who set policy and long-term direction while day-to-day operations are delegated to school leadership. By 2026 CAISL has grown from 9 students to more than 700, marking 70 years of operation.	History The school has provided British international education in Portugal since 1932. It is one of the oldest and most prominent British international schools in Portugal with deep roots in Greater Lisbon and an extensive extracurricular programme. The school's dedication to the arts, sport and community engagement has produced internationally renowned artists, athletes and leaders who honed their skills on St. Julian's stages, pitches and debating platforms. It is accredited by CIS, COBIS, NEASC, and the International Baccalaureate Organisation, and its Head is an international member of the Heads' Conference (HMC). St. Julian's is a heritage-rich institution that has educated and empowered children for almost a century.
Community	Community CAISL is a truly international school community where every student is known, supported, and valued. At the start of the 2025–2026 school year, CAISL enrolled 755 students representing 62 nationalities. All of our faculty are fluent English speakers, and about 70% of core subject teachers are native speakers or program carriers. The CAISL community includes everyone who shares an interest in the success of our learners.	Community St. Julian's has an active and interconnected community that includes Alumni, Charity & community engagement initiatives, and family involvement through the Parents' Association and Parents of Alumni. The school offers opportunities to join the team and to participate in community activities, with regular updates shared via the school newsletter and the SJS Portal. The Community section connects current families with alumni and donation opportunities to support school life.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The Parent Support Group (PSG) is made up of CAISL parents who promote a sense of belonging and mutual support across the school community. The PSG organizes activities for CAISL families and staff, as well as some adults-only activities during the school days. The group brings together a significant number of parent volunteers and functions without a hierarchical structure; they meet at least once a month and charge no fees, and any school parent is welcome to attend. There is no required process to join; to be added to the mailing list, write to psg@caisl Lisbon.org, or simply join the next meeting. Next meetings and activities usually occur on the first Tuesday of every month. Event samples include Welcome Back BBQ, Movie Night/Matinee, Teacher Appreciation, Seasonal Decorations, Trekking, and a Book Club.	Parent teacher association All functions of the St. Julian's Parents' Association are run by volunteers. The Association's role is to strengthen the community of parents and to liaise with school leadership through regular meetings between the school and parent Coordinators and Year Group or Class Representatives (Primary, Secondary, and Bilingual). Outcomes from these meetings are communicated via the school newsletter and made available on the SJS Portal. The Parents' Association also runs an office for second-hand uniform sales, staffed by parent volunteers. Parents organise social and fundraising events such as the annual Cheese & Wine and Bonfire Night. To help, contact chair.stjulians.pact@gmail.com.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual CAISL offers a broad range of after-school programs that extend academic exploration and intellectual growth. The Model United Nations program builds research, diplomacy, negotiation, and public speaking skills, with Junior MUN and Iberian MUN conferences and opportunities to participate in THIMUN events. Middle School participates in Week Without Walls, traveling to historical, cultural, and scientific sites to deepen understanding. Technology is integrated across the curriculum, with coding, robotics, and AI exploration, including the use of virtual reality to tackle real‑world problems.	Academic & intellectual The school offers two learning pathways: English Curriculum and Bilingual Curriculum. The English Curriculum runs from Nursery to Year 13, follows the National Curriculum for England, leads to GCSE in Year 11, and offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma or Career-related Programme in Years 12–13. The Bilingual Curriculum teaches the Portuguese National Curriculum in English and Portuguese from age 6 to 15, with a bespoke foundation programme to GCSE before joining the IB in Year 12. Portuguese is integral to both pathways, and students develop strong language skills and access to universities worldwide.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative CAISL's Fine Arts program includes Music, Visual Arts, and Drama, taught by specialist teachers from Early Childhood onward. Visual Arts begin in Elementary and continue through Grade 12, with a String Orchestra and Choir developing in the upper years and drama electives such as Musical Theater, One Act Plays, and Theater Studies, plus ISTA Theater Festival participation for High School Drama. The school also offers a range of after‑school arts activities and clubs, including Film Makers Club, Experimental Art Club, Sewing/Clothing design, and other offerings such as Guitar, Drums, and Piano, with public performances throughout the year.	Arts & creative The Arts are central to the curriculum, fostering creativity, emotional expression and critical thinking through a diverse arts programme that includes creative arts, drama and music. Students receive individual music tuition and can join choirs, orchestras and jazz bands, enriching their artistic development. The school values artistic achievement and proudly lists Paula Rego among its alumni.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Portuguese Language & Culture is an activity to improve Portuguese speaking through elements of Portugal's history and culture, meeting twice a month with field trips to sites such as Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. Portuguese Club is also offered as a fee‑based language club to support language practice.	Cultural & language Portuguese is integral to the curriculum. The English Curriculum includes Portuguese as a compulsory subject up to Year 9. The Bilingual Curriculum teaches the Portuguese National Curriculum in both English and Portuguese from ages 6 to 15, with a bespoke foundation to GCSE before IB. Graduates develop strong language skills and international networks.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies CAISL offers a wide range of after‑school activities led by teachers or external partners, including debate, science, technology, and chess. In Middle and High School, lunchtime and after‑school clubs encourage leadership, collaboration, and exploration of interests across diverse topics. Examples of student clubs and activities include Dungeons & Dragons, Girl Scouts, Lego Club, Scrapbooking, Sewing Club, DJing, Piano, and Minikinos Stop Motion Film Making.	Social & hobbies Clubs and societies enrich learning and help students discover talents beyond the classroom. The co-curricular offering includes Debate Club, STEM initiatives, language clubs, music ensembles and theatre productions. Students can lead initiatives and represent the School at national and international conferences (e.g., Model United Nations). Eco-Schools and the Community Service (CAS) group empower students to address environmental and social issues and develop global citizenship.
Community & service	Community & service Community Service at CAISL is central to growth, with the Secondary Community Service Club organizing bake sales, fundraising, Banco Alimentar drives, and housing projects with Associação DOMUS. High School Honor Societies such as National Honor Society, Tri‑M, the Thespian Troupe, and the Honorable Art Society include service components and engage in fundraising and other service activities. Independent Service Projects and Service Learning connect classroom goals to community needs, such as migration symposia and fundraising for water in South Sudan. Parent participation through the Parent Support Group also contributes to service activities like Banco Alimentar and charitable knitting projects.	Community & service Eco-Schools and the Community Service (CAS) groups empower students to respond to environmental and social issues, fostering agency, responsibility and tangible global citizenship. Clubs and societies support service and engagement beyond the classroom, reinforcing practical impact and community involvement.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The MUN program develops leadership, global awareness, and self‑confidence, with Junior MUN and Iberian MUN as major events and participation in THIMUN conferences. CAISL hosts IMUN, an Iberian MUN conference, and senior students often take on leadership roles such as chairs or Secretaries General. In addition, CAISL supports leadership development through clubs and initiatives like Next Gen Leaders (Startwise) as part of its after‑school offerings.	Leadership & professional Many clubs are initiated and run by students themselves, cultivating leadership and opportunities to lead initiatives. The Model United Nations (MUN) club develops public speaking, negotiation and representation skills as students participate in conferences. These experiences build leadership, teamwork and professional confidence for the future.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing CAISL's Athletics program focuses on participation, team development, and sportsmanship, with after‑school teams in soccer, volleyball, basketball, and baseball for younger students and high school teams traveling to European tournaments. The program emphasizes safe competition, fitness, and multicultural experience as part of its mission. Field trips and Outdoor Learning experiences, including farm visits, planting, and environmental activities, supplement physical and outdoor wellness. Kidding Around Yoga and other wellness activities are offered as part of after‑school options to support physical and mental well‑being.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing and safety are top priorities; safeguarding policies follow the latest English guidelines. British pastoral care supports students, with tutors monitoring academic and emotional wellbeing and Heads of Year overseeing welfare. Security procedures include comprehensive background checks for staff, volunteers and others, with regular reviews. The school also runs a broad sports programme with after-school activities and diverse clubs, including a Rugby Club open to the community and international tours.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision All CAISL classes are taught in English, with Portuguese Native Language and Portuguese as a Foreign Language offered throughout the grades. Portuguese is required for all students through Grade 9. Portuguese Native Language follows the Ministry of Education curriculum for its levels, while Portuguese as a Foreign Language is designed to help students develop functional proficiency before moving to the Native/Fluent program. English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESL) support is provided to assist non-native English speakers.	Language provision The school teaches English and Portuguese. The English Curriculum runs from Nursery to Year 13, following the English National Curriculum with GCSEs in Year 11 and the IB Diploma or Career-related Programme in Years 12–13; Portuguese is an integral subject up to Year 9. In the Bilingual Curriculum, the Portuguese National Curriculum is taught in both English and Portuguese from ages 6 to 15 (1º–9º ano), with a foundation programme leading to GCSEs before joining the IB in Year 12. Non-Portuguese-speaking families can join earlier to accelerate language acquisition.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching Bilingual teaching is provided in Early Childhood, with English as the primary language of instruction and Portuguese introduced through immersion. In Early Childhood, two teachers work together, one fluent in English and one in Portuguese, with both often bilingual. The English-language instruction extends to most grades, while Portuguese is taught as a Native/Fluent Language and as a Foreign Language throughout the grades. ESL support is available for non-native English speakers.	Bilingual teaching Bilingual Curriculum is offered for ages 6–14 (1º–9º ano) with the Portuguese National Curriculum taught in English and Portuguese. Parents can choose this pathway from Reception or Year 1. Bilingual students are then integrated into the English curriculum with a bespoke foundation programme leading to GCSEs before joining the IB Diploma or Career-related Programme in Year 12. The pathway supports both native Portuguese and non-Portuguese-speaking students and fosters strong language skills and international networks.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs English is used as the language of instruction in Early Childhood with Portuguese introduced through immersion. In EC, two teachers work together, one fluent in English and one in Portuguese, and both are often bilingual, providing an English-Portuguese immersive experience. ESL support helps non-native English speakers access the regular curriculum.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards null	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations CAISL is fully accredited and operates with a permanent authorization to offer an American curricular program for EC3 through 12th grade; CAISL is authorized to award an American High School Diploma and the International Baccalaureate Diploma, both accepted worldwide including for entry into Portuguese universities. CAISL is authorized by the IB Organization to offer the IB Diploma Program and is accredited by the Middle States Association (MSA) Commission on Elementary and Secondary Education. CAISL is the only “assisted school” in Portugal from the U.S. Department of State. Memberships include American Education Reaches Out, Association of Private and Cooperative Educational Institutions (Portugal), Independent Schools Management, International Schools Theater Association, Mediterranean Association of International Schools, National Association of Independent Schools, National Honor Society, The Educational Collaborative for International Schools, and Virtual High School Learning.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions CAISL accepts applications year-round with rolling admissions and welcomes new students at any point during the school year. Starting at the beginning of the school year is often ideal, but not essential. The three-step application process is: First Step—Submit Application: an online form, required documents (school records for the last three years, standardized testing results, and any additional reports), and an application fee of 100 Euros; applications are reviewed only when complete. Second Step—Application Review: decisions are made by a team that includes a member of the Admissions Team, the appropriate Principal (Elementary or Secondary), and the Director; space in the grade/program and the student's academic and behavioral records inform the decision; if a class is full, no new enrollments are accepted until a spot opens; the availability of specialized programs (Learning Support, English as an Additional Language, Nursing/Medical care, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program) also affects eligibility. Third Step—Enrollment: when a place becomes available, enrollment requires an Enrollment Contract, a Registration Agreement (updated annually in February), copies of valid identification for the student and the parents, billing information, and proof of payment of the required fees; three mandatory fees to secure a place are: a one-time Registration Fee of 600 Euros, a Building Fee of 1,953 Euros per year (payable for the first five years), and one quarter of the annual Tuition (amount varies by grade); details are in the Fee Schedule.	Admissions 1. Register your interest: Contact the Admissions Office via the online form to receive detailed information including current availability, fees and the steps to follow. 2. Book a visit: A personal tour lasts about 30 minutes; children are welcome; if you cannot visit in person, an online meeting can be arranged; visits are informational and do not guarantee a place. 3. Make a formal application: Apply early as classes fill up quickly; complete the online application form and pay the 250 EUR application fee; this one-time fee covers administrative costs and is non-refundable. 4. Interview and assessment: The Admissions Committee, chaired by the Head, reviews applications continuously; invited families attend interviews; interviews commence in September for admission in the following academic year; for Year 4 and above a formal Admissions Assessment is completed just before the interview; an online assessment can be arranged if needed. 5. Acceptance: The Head decides on admission based on the Committee's advice; notification is in writing; after a formal offer, sign the Parent School Agreement and pay the Registration Fee of 750 EUR and the Capital Levy of 5,000 EUR within 10 working days. If a place cannot be offered, families may join the waiting list and the Admissions Office maintains regular contact with those on the list. Most new students start in September; applications are considered year-round subject to availability; final years of the IGCSE or IB DP/CP are generally not accepted. Additionally, St. Julian's offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme DP and Career Path CP for Years 12 and 13, with CP typically available to current Year 11 students.
Scholarships	Scholarships CAISL Scholarship is not available for new students at this moment. It is a merit-driven award that also considers financial need. Applications are accepted from students currently attending Grades 4 through 7 and entering Grade 5 through Grade 8. The Scholarship covers all required fees (tuition, building fee, registration fee, and transportation), but lunch is not included. The scholarship is awarded for one academic year with the expectation that recipients will continue to meet requirements for subsequent years through graduation from the High School in Grade 12. For information about all school fees, refer to the Fee Schedule. Questions can be directed to admissions@caislisbon.org or +351 219 239 800.	Scholarships St. Julian's offers three types of scholarships: Scholars Awards, Lighthouse Awards, and Community Scholarships. Scholars Awards are awarded to Year 12 students based on Year 11 attainment and exemplary engagement and attendance, with up to five Academic Scholarships awarded; winners receive a prize from a menu of opportunities for summer school or internships during the Summer Holiday. Lighthouse Awards reward outstanding contributions to school life, with up to five awards per academic year; in 2025/26 Year 13 is invited to apply; winners receive prizes such as summer programs or internships. Community Scholarships (Anniversary Community Scholarships) are means-tested and awarded to local community members not currently at St. Julian's; up to two Anniversary Scholarships of up to 100% discount per year are possible; applications involve interview, testing and a portfolio. The portfolio should demonstrate commitment to learning, school life, and talent or passion, plus evidence of how the student will contribute to the St. Julian's community; English proficiency is considered. Appendix 1 outlines the process for 2025/26 and specifies deadlines (e.g., invitations and timelines); Appendix 2 covers Anniversary Community Scholarships. Scholarship prizes include an internship with Invest In Internships in London up to 2,500 GBP and contributions to summer school programs up to 2,500 GBP. The school reserves the right not to award scholarships if criteria are not met. For 2025/26, Year 13 will also be invited to apply."} } // admissions, waitlist, and scholarships content drawn from the school site. } } } // end of response fields } // end of JSON block} // citations included for source verification (Admissions page and Scholarships policy PDF) } } // end of final content } // end of message } // Note: This response presents the requested fields as a concise, authoritative summary based on the school's own pages and documents. // If you'd like a shorter version or a version tailored to a specific year group, I can adjust. } // end of user-provided content } // end of answer } // end of output } // end of final answer } // final} // end } // final} // (End) } // done } // end
Waitlist	Waitlist WAIT POOL: If there is no space in the grade or program or the applicant is eligible but space is not available, the student may be placed in the Wait Pool for the school year; updates will be requested if the family remains interested; it is impossible to predict when space will become available; when space opens, all Wait Pool applicants are reconsidered and offers are made based on the submitted academic/behavioral records. PRIORITY LIST: 1) Current CAISL re-enrolling students; 2) Students whose parents are US Government employees; 3) Students from American or American International Schools; 4) Students from schools whose primary language of instruction is English; 5) Students from bilingual schools or linguistically unable to attend a school whose instruction is in Portuguese; 6) Students from schools whose instruction language is Portuguese.	Waitlist Waiting lists exist. If a year group is full, applicants are placed on the waiting list, and the Admissions Office maintains regular contact with families while they remain on the list.
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