Carlucci American International School of Lisbon vs The Lisboan International School

	C Carlucci American International School of Lisbon Lisbon, Portugal	T The Lisboan International School Lisbon, Portugal
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €12,128 - 23,532	Fees / year €13,450 - 23,450
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, IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 739	Pupils —
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1956	Opened 2025
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 The Lisboan is in Lisbon, Portugal, in the Alcântara district. The campus address is R. Maria Luísa Holstein, 1300-388 Lisboa, Portugal.
Stages	Stages EC3 through High School	Stages Open from FS1 to Year 10. Founded in September 2025.
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
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 Portugal
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 The Core Enrichment Programme takes place at the end of each school day.
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 —
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 fee - A non-refundable application fee of EUR 250 is required to start the admissions process. Enrolment fee (registration / acceptance) - A non-refundable one‑off enrolment fee of EUR 2,500 applies for new students when paid by 31 March 2026. From 1 April 2026 the enrolment fee for new students is EUR 3,000. The school requires payment of the enrolment fee to secure an offered place. Tuition fees — 2025/26 (annual and termly; three terms per year) Primary school (annual / termly ×3): - Nursery: EUR 11,950 / EUR 3,983. - Reception: EUR 11,950 / EUR 3,983. - Year 1: EUR 13,950 / EUR 4,650. - Year 2: EUR 13,950 / EUR 4,650. - Year 3: EUR 15,950 / EUR 5,317. - Year 4: EUR 15,950 / EUR 5,317. - Year 5: EUR 16,950 / EUR 5,650. - Year 6: EUR 16,950 / EUR 5,650. Secondary school (annual / termly ×3): - Year 7: EUR 17,950 / EUR 5,983. - Year 8: EUR 17,950 / EUR 5,983. - Year 9: EUR 17,950 / EUR 5,983. - Year 10: EUR 19,950 / EUR 6,650. - Year 11: EUR 19,950 / EUR 6,650. - Year 12: EUR 21,950 / EUR 7,317. - Year 13: EUR 21,950 / EUR 7,317. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is expressed as an annual amount and divided into three termly instalments (Termly Fee × 3). Food service can be charged per term and is invoiced on the first day of each term. Re‑enrolment charges for current students are applied in March and are deducted from the following year's tuition. New offers must be secured (acceptance form and enrolment fee) within the timeframe set by admissions (payment of the enrolment fee secures the place). Boarding fees - The Lisboan does not list any boarding provision or boarding fees; the school operates as a day school and transport options are discussed as local public transport and potential future bus services. No boarding charges apply. Other costs and typical additional charges - Food service (meal plan) charged per term: EUR 500 (2025/26). - Re‑enrolment (current students, charged every March and deducted from next year's tuition): EUR 1,000. - Items commonly billed separately or noted as additional costs include uniforms, school trips (co‑curricular and city trips), optional co‑curricular activities provided by external providers, transport (when provided), BYOD / laptop requirement for Year 7 and above, and mandatory exam charges (IGCSE, IB or other external exam fees where applicable). Some items such as school books, certain curriculum trips and specified exams for the 2025/26 year are included in tuition as noted by the school. Refund information - The application fee is non‑refundable. The enrolment fee is non‑refundable. The re‑enrolment fee charged in March is non‑refundable and will be deducted from the following year's tuition. No other refund terms for tuition are specified in the published fee summary. Fee payment options - The application fee can be paid online through the school's application portal. Detailed payment instructions for the enrolment fee and other invoices are provided by the admissions team when an offer is made; families are required to follow the admissions instructions to transfer the enrolment fee and complete enrolment. Specific payment methods (credit card vs. bank transfer) are managed through the school's admissions/payment process.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Not offered.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement There is no school uniform.	Uniform requirement The Lisboan has a uniform; P.E. kits will be purchased directly at the school.
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 —
House system	House system —	House system —
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 The Lisboan is part of Artemis Education.
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 Early Years focus on play, curiosity, and foundational skills, continuing into Primary with a broad and balanced curriculum. The Cambridge International framework guides the curriculum in Senior School, culminating in IGCSE examinations at the end of Year 11. In Senior School, the IB Diploma Programme is taken in Years 12 and 13. IGCSE subject options include English, Maths, Science, Humanities, Modern Foreign Languages, Design and Technology, Art and Design, Music, and Physical Education. At the end of Year 11, students sit the Cambridge International Education IGCSE examinations. Success provides a strong platform for progression to the IB Diploma Programme, A levels or vocational pathways. The Lisboan is part of the Artemis Education Family.
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 —
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 The IB Diploma Programme is recognised by leading universities worldwide. It develops critical and creative thinking, collaboration, independent research, self-management and communication, equipping students for higher education and for thriving in a rapidly changing world. Pathways beyond IGCSE include progression to the IB Diploma Programme, A levels or vocational pathways.
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 The Lisboan supports social and emotional development across academics, sport, creativity, and other aspects of the student experience. Staff provide guidance and support to foster emotional resilience and social-emotional learning through mentorship and open conversations.
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) —
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 —
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 Wellbeing is central to The Lisboan's culture and is underpinned by a safeguarding policy. Staff provide a secure, supportive environment where students can participate freely and grow in confidence. They offer guidance that fosters emotional resilience and social-emotional learning through mentorship and open conversations. Students are encouraged to take on new challenges with support, helping them develop independence and confidence to navigate change.
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 Wellbeing and safety of our students are above everything else. The safeguarding policy underpins school culture, providing a secure and trusted environment where children can participate freely and grow in confidence. Our staff offer guidance and support, fostering physical safety as well as emotional resilience and social-emotional learning through mentorship and open conversations. Students are encouraged to push their boundaries with the right support to build independence and courage to face new challenges.
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 From a historic home in the Alcântara district, The Lisboan provides a learning environment that emphasizes innovation, sustainability and global citizenship. The facilities have been reimagined as innovative, flexible and forward-looking learning spaces. The campus is energy efficient, harnessing natural resources to support learning. Through its City as Our Classroom approach, learning is connected to Lisbon's culture and community. The Lisboan is a member of COBIS and will work towards CIS and WASC accreditation, and it is part of Artemis Education.
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 Through our partnership with Atlético CP, students have access to top-tier athletic facilities and coaching. Forest School is supported by Monsanto Forest Park as an extension of the classroom, enabling outdoor education and ecological learning. Rock climbing is introduced in partnership with Escala25. Padell is offered through Clube de Padel Alcântara. Music education is enhanced through a collaboration with the Lisbon Metropolitan Orchestra.
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 Lisboan combines the Cambridge International Curriculum with the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, progressing to IGCSEs and the IB Diploma Programme from 2027. For 2025, ages 3 to 14, with plans to complete the full secondary programme by 2028. The City as Our Classroom approach links learning to Lisbon's culture and landscape. The school is a COBIS member and part of Artemis Education. The Artemis Experience and diverse co-curricular program enriches the academic journey.
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 Artemis Experience drives a dynamic co-curricular program that connects personal development with Lisbon's culture and landscape. Garden & Farming activities are offered in collaboration with ISA (Lisbon's Institute of Agronomia), providing hands-on learning about sustainability and food systems. Forest School activities extend into Monsanto Forest Park for outdoor education, ecology, and experiential learning. Rock climbing is available through Escala25. Padèl and music programs are offered through Clube de Padel Alcântara and the Lisbon Metropolitan Orchestra, respectively.
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 Lisboan is a British international school in the heart of Lisbon. It opened in September 2025 and is currently open from FS1 to Year 10, following the Cambridge International Curriculum and progressing to Cambridge IGCSEs; from 2027 it will offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The school is a member of COBIS and will work towards CIS and WASC accreditation, and is part of Artemis Education. The Lisboan's building is a former pasta and flour factory dating back to 1908; the factory was acquired in 1926 by the Industrial Company of Portugal and Colonies and remained operational until 1970, and has since been renovated into a 21st-century learning space. The Lisboan is located in Alcântara, Lisbon, at the centre of a dynamic community, and it uses a City as Our Classroom approach to connect learning with Lisbon's culture and community, with a carbon-neutral education design that harnesses solar energy and aims to keep energy use low.
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 The Lisboan is a British international school in the heart of Lisbon, founded in September 2025 and open from FS1 to Year 10. The Lisboan's location in the heart of Alcântara puts it at the centre of a dynamic community that attracts entrepreneurs, creative minds and forward-thinkers from around the world. The City as Our Classroom approach connects learning with Lisbon's culture and community, and the school collaborates with local partners to enrich student experiences, including Atlético CP, ISA Lisboa, Monsanto Forest Park, Escala25, Clube de Padel Alcântara, and the Lisbon Metropolitan Orchestra.
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 —
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 Lisboan teaches the Cambridge International Curriculum, progressing to Cambridge IGCSEs and, from 2027, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The City as Our Classroom approach connects learning with Lisbon's culture and community, developing curiosity, confidence and compassion. The Lisboan is a COBIS member and works toward CIS and WASC accreditation.
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 Music education is provided through collaboration with the Lisbon Metropolitan Orchestra, offering instrument instruction and performance opportunities. The Lisboan's eight-pillar Experience includes a 'Performance' pillar that supports exhibiting talents in the performing arts. The co-curricular program integrates arts and performing opportunities alongside academic and sporting activities.
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 City as Our Classroom connects learning with Lisbon's culture and community. Internationalism is one of the Lisboan Experience pillars, guiding cross-cultural understanding and global-mindedness. The school's culture-focused approach is reinforced by its status as part of Artemis Education and its city-based learning ethos.
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 The Lisboan Experience offers a broad range of options that mix academics, recreation, instrumental, sporting and performing arts activities as part of daily life. The eight pillars include Wellbeing, Social Responsibility and Outdoor Education, guiding students' leisure and personal development. In addition, external providers in Lisbon offer activities such as rowing, surfing, padel, mountain biking and specialist performing arts.
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 Social responsibility is one of the Lisboan Experience pillars, with opportunities for community engagement through sustainability projects and local partnerships. Students participate in citywide sustainability efforts, from beach cleanups to urban gardening. Eco-Centric Education emphasizes partnerships and community involvement in real-world environmental projects.
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 Leadership and Entrepreneurship are two of the Lisboan Experience pillars, providing guidance to develop leadership skills, creative problem solving and an entrepreneurial mindset. The eight-pillars framework encourages students to take initiative, collaborate, and apply enterprise thinking across activities. These opportunities are integrated into the Experience Programme under expert guidance.
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 is one of the Lisboan Experience pillars, guiding students' health, resilience and social-emotional development. Outdoor Education is another pillar, supporting learning through outdoor experiences. Physical Education & Sport is delivered through a partnership with Atlético CP, giving access to top-tier athletic facilities and coaching. The eight-pillars framework positions physical and mental health as central to student development.
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 On-site EAL support is available. The Lisboan follows the National Curriculum for England adapted for an international setting and uses the Cambridge International framework, with Cambridge IGCSEs and the IB Diploma Programme.
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 —
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 The Lisboan is an international school for students aged 3 to 18. In 2026 the school serves ages 3 to 15 (Nursery through Year 10), with Year 11 opening in 2026, Year 12 in 2027, and Year 13 in 2028. The school follows the National Curriculum for England adapted for an international setting, delivering Cambridge IGCSEs and, from 2027, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Admissions are rolling with no application deadline; assessments may be conducted during the academic year. Applications are online and the six‑step process is: 1. Enquire; 2) Gather Documents (child's Passport, both parent/guardian passports, Vaccination Record, End of Year Report, Passport‑size Photo); 3) Application (online form and documents) with a €250 application fee; 4) Assessment (if applicable) to determine placement; 5) Offer by email with next enrolment steps; 6) Secure the place within 10 working days by submitting the Acceptance form, Parent/Guardian Contract, paying the enrolment fee, and signing The Lisboan Values and Data Protection Agreements. The Age Placement Guide maps birth dates to Nursery through Year 13 (examples include 1 September 2021–31 August 2022 = Nursery 3–4 yrs; 1 September 2020–31 August 2021 = Reception 4–5 yrs, etc.). The Lisboan is a member of COBIS and will work toward CIS and WASC accreditation. The application fee is €250 and the enrolment fee is €2,500 (until 31 March 2026; otherwise €3,000).
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 —
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 —
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