Overview and School Profile
St. Julian's School, founded in 1958, stands as Portugal's oldest and largest British international school. Located in Quinta da Beloura near Sintra, the school serves approximately 900-1,000 students across a modern 12-hectare campus. St. Julian's holds accreditation from the Council of British International Schools and operates as an International Baccalaureate World School for its Diploma Programme.
The school's established reputation and comprehensive facilities make it the most sought-after international school in Portugal. However, this popularity translates to competitive admissions with waiting lists extending 6-12 months for high-demand year groups. Families planning to enroll should understand both the substantial financial commitment and realistic admission timelines before beginning the application process.
Complete Cost Structure 2024-2025
Tuition Fees by Year Group
St. Julian's operates on an age-based fee structure aligned with the British educational system. Annual tuition for the 2024-2025 academic year ranges from €15,888 to €18,384 depending on the child's year group.
Pre-Nursery students (age 3) pay €14,280 annually. Reception through Year 2 students (ages 4-7) pay €15,888. Years 3-6 (ages 7-11) increase to €16,440 annually. Secondary students in Years 7-9 (ages 11-14) pay €17,280. IGCSE students in Years 10-11 (ages 14-16) pay €17,760. Sixth Form students pursuing A-Levels or IB Diploma in Years 12-13 (ages 16-18) pay the highest rate of €18,384 annually.
These tuition figures represent only the base cost. Families must budget for substantial additional fees in the first year and ongoing annual expenses beyond tuition.
First-Year Mandatory Fees
New families joining St. Julian's face significant one-time fees that add €5,200 to first-year costs. The registration fee of €1,000 is non-refundable and must be paid when submitting the application. This fee covers assessment coordination, administrative processing, and application review regardless of admission outcome.
The joining fee of €4,200 applies to all families enrolling from January 2024 onward. This one-time, non-refundable capital contribution supports facility improvements and expansion projects. Previous cohorts were not subject to this fee, but current policy requires payment for all new admissions.
Combined with tuition, first-year total costs range from €21,088 for Reception students to €22,584 for Sixth Form students. These figures do not include transportation, meals, uniforms, or other ongoing expenses detailed below.
Hidden Costs and Ongoing Expenses
Beyond tuition and first-year fees, families should budget €3,146-€4,896 annually for essential expenses. School meals cost €4.72 per meal, totaling approximately €896 annually for 190 school days. Students may not bring packed lunches on most days, making meal participation effectively mandatory.
School bus transportation ranges from €2,000-€3,500 annually depending on pickup location and distance traveled. Routes serve Lisbon, Cascais, Sintra, and surrounding areas. Families living within walking distance of the Sintra/Cascais train line may use public transport as an alternative, eliminating this expense. However, most families find school bus service more convenient for young children.
Uniform requirements add €250-400 for initial purchase and €50-150 annually for replacements as children grow. St. Julian's enforces strict uniform policies from Reception through Year 11. Sixth Form students wear business casual attire rather than uniforms, reducing this cost for older students.
School trips and extracurricular activities cost €200-400 annually. Most day trips are included in tuition, but residential trips and specialized activities require additional payment. Books and materials remain minimal at €50-100 annually, as most resources are included in tuition.
Sibling Discount Structure
St. Julian's offers meaningful discounts for families with multiple children enrolled simultaneously. The third child receives a 15% tuition discount, saving €2,466 annually for a Year 4 student. The fourth child and any additional children receive 25% tuition discounts, saving €4,110 annually per child.
These discounts apply only to tuition fees, not to joining fees, registration fees, meals, transportation, or other expenses. Families with three children enrolled at Years 4, 7, and 10 would save approximately €5,000 annually through sibling discounts compared to full tuition rates. This represents substantial savings over multiple years of enrollment, though first-year costs remain unchanged as joining fees apply per family.
Payment Plan Options
St. Julian's accommodates different payment preferences through flexible scheduling. Annual payment in full receives a 2.5% discount when paid by July 1. This discount saves €410-€460 depending on year group.
Termly payment divides tuition into three installments with no additional fees. Monthly payment spreads costs across 10-12 months, also without surcharges. The school accepts bank transfers, direct debit, and credit cards, though credit card payments may incur small processing fees.
Families experiencing temporary financial hardship may contact the business office confidentially to arrange modified payment plans. The school works with families to maintain enrollment continuity when circumstances change.
Curriculum and Educational Pathways
British National Curriculum Foundation
St. Julian's follows the British National Curriculum from Early Years Foundation Stage through Key Stage 4. This curriculum structure aligns with UK educational standards and provides seamless continuity for British families relocating to Portugal or planning eventual return to the UK.
Early Years students (ages 3-5) engage in play-based learning following EYFS framework guidelines. The curriculum emphasizes social development, early literacy, numeracy skills, and creative exploration. Students transition gradually from unstructured play to structured learning activities.
Primary students in Years 1-6 (ages 5-11) study comprehensive core subjects including English, Mathematics, and Science. Additional subjects include Humanities, Languages (Portuguese mandatory, Spanish and French options), Arts, Music, Physical Education, and Design Technology. The curriculum balances academic rigor with creative and physical development.
Secondary students in Years 7-9 (ages 11-14) continue British National Curriculum across 10+ subjects. English, Mathematics, and Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) form the core. Students add History, Geography, Modern Languages, Arts, Music, Drama, and Design Technology. Portuguese remains mandatory throughout, ensuring students develop language skills for living in Portugal.
IGCSE Qualifications Years 10-11
Years 10 and 11 students prepare for Cambridge International IGCSE examinations, the globally recognized qualification equivalent to UK GCSEs. Students typically take 8-10 subjects chosen from English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, History, Geography, Modern Languages (Portuguese, Spanish, French), Arts, Music, and Business Studies.
IGCSE results determine eligibility for Sixth Form programs and university admissions. Strong IGCSE performance opens pathways to both A-Levels and IB Diploma options. Most students achieve successful outcomes, with the school maintaining high pass rates across subjects.
Sixth Form: Dual Pathway Options
St. Julian's offers a rare advantage in Sixth Form: families choose between traditional A-Levels and IB Diploma Programme. This dual pathway flexibility accommodates different university goals and learning styles within the same school community.
The A-Levels pathway follows the traditional British approach. Students select 3-4 subjects for intensive two-year study, culminating in A-Level examinations. This focused approach suits students with clear subject strengths and UK university aspirations. Common subject combinations include Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Economics, Business Studies, Psychology, History, Geography, English Literature, Modern Languages, and Arts.
The IB Diploma Programme offers a broader, internationally recognized qualification. Students study six subjects (three Higher Level, three Standard Level) across different academic areas. The curriculum adds Theory of Knowledge philosophical seminars, a 4,000-word Extended Essay, and Creativity/Activity/Service community engagement requirements. IB Diploma recognition spans universities worldwide, including UK, US, European, and Asian institutions.
St. Julian's university counseling supports both pathways effectively. The school maintains strong relationships with UK universities (recognizing A-Levels) and international institutions (recognizing IB). Students receive guidance matching qualifications to university requirements and career goals.
Language Instruction and Support
English serves as the primary language of instruction across all year groups. Students must demonstrate age-appropriate English fluency for admission. The school provides English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for international students who need language development alongside regular curriculum participation.
Portuguese language instruction is mandatory from Year 1 onward, reflecting the school's commitment to integrating students into Portuguese society. Students develop conversational fluency and literacy in Portuguese, facilitating social integration and practical communication. By secondary years, many students achieve strong Portuguese proficiency.
Additional language options include Spanish (from Year 4), French (from Year 5), and Mandarin Chinese (as an elective). Students typically study 2-3 languages throughout their St. Julian's education, developing multilingual capabilities.
Facilities and Campus Resources
Academic Infrastructure
St. Julian's 12-hectare campus provides purpose-built facilities designed for British curriculum delivery. Multiple science laboratories support Biology, Chemistry, and Physics practical work essential for IGCSE and A-Level programs. Design Technology workshops feature 3D printers, laser cutters, and CAD software for engineering and design projects.
The school library houses an extensive collection of books, periodicals, and digital resources. Students access online databases, e-books, and research materials supporting academic work across subjects. Quiet study spaces and collaborative work areas accommodate different learning preferences.
Technology integration includes campus-wide Wi-Fi, learning management systems, and 1:1 digital device programs for specific year groups. Students use laptops or tablets for research, assignments, and digital literacy development. Computer labs provide additional access for students without personal devices.
Arts and Performance Spaces
Dedicated arts facilities include music rooms, drama theater, art studios, and performance spaces. Music students access practice rooms, recording equipment, and a wide range of instruments. Drama students rehearse and perform in a fully equipped theater with professional lighting and sound systems.
Visual arts studios provide space for painting, sculpture, ceramics, and digital media projects. Students exhibit work throughout campus and participate in school arts festivals and competitions.
Athletic Facilities
St. Julian's sports facilities rival many UK independent schools. Two gymnasiums support indoor sports including basketball, volleyball, badminton, and gymnastics. An Olympic-sized swimming pool plus teaching pool enable competitive swimming and water safety instruction year-round.
Eight tennis courts accommodate school teams and recreational play. Multiple playing fields support football, rugby, cricket, athletics, and field sports. The campus includes climbing walls, fitness areas, and outdoor recreational spaces.
Athletics programs emphasize both competitive achievement and lifetime fitness habits. Students participate in house competitions, inter-school tournaments, and external leagues. Many students represent St. Julian's in regional and national competitions.
Outdoor Learning Environments
The semi-rural Sintra location provides extensive outdoor spaces uncommon in urban schools. Nature areas support environmental education and outdoor learning projects. Gardens and green spaces offer recreational areas during breaks and lunch periods.
The campus size allows for separated areas by age group, providing appropriate environments for young children while offering older students increased independence and space.
Admission Process and Timeline
Application Requirements
St. Julian's accepts applications throughout the year but operates effectively on a competitive selection basis. Families should submit applications 12-18 months before desired start dates for high-demand year groups including Reception, Year 7, and Year 12.
Required documents include a completed online application form, child's birth certificate (apostilled if issued outside Portugal, translated to English), child's passport copy, parent/guardian passport copies, recent school reports covering the previous 2-3 years, and two teacher recommendations (one academic, one character reference).
Students in Year 6 and above must submit a personal statement describing their interests, achievements, and goals. Parents provide a statement explaining their interest in St. Julian's and how the school aligns with family educational values. Proof of residence in Portugal or confirmed relocation plans, vaccination records, and a completed medical form round out the documentation.
The €1,000 non-refundable registration fee must accompany the application. This fee covers all assessment and administrative costs regardless of admission outcome.
Entrance Assessments
All applicants except Pre-Nursery students undergo entrance assessments matching their age and year group. Pre-Nursery applicants participate in informal observation sessions lasting 1.5-2 hours featuring play-based activities. Staff observe social interaction, communication skills, and developmental readiness without formal testing.
Primary students (Reception through Year 6) complete assessments in English and Mathematics lasting 45-60 minutes total. Age-appropriate reading, writing, and numeracy tasks help staff understand current achievement levels and learning support needs. Student interviews follow assessments, allowing staff to meet children and discuss interests, prior schooling, and adjustment expectations.
Secondary students (Years 7-13) complete more comprehensive assessments. English and Mathematics tests last approximately one hour each, with additional subject-specific assessments for older students. Year 10-11 applicants may complete science or humanities assessments if entering mid-IGCSE program. Sixth Form applicants often discuss subject choices and academic goals during extended interviews.
Parent interviews occur for all applicants. Admissions staff discuss family expectations, student needs, school philosophy, and practical considerations including transportation and involvement opportunities. These conversations help ensure mutual fit between family and school.
Assessment Location and Remote Options
Families currently residing in Portugal typically complete assessments on campus in Sintra. Overseas applicants may request remote assessment arrangements. The school administers tests via secure online platforms with parent supervision. Video interviews replace in-person meetings when necessary.
Remote arrangements require advance coordination and may extend timelines. Families planning Portugal relocation should request remote options early in the application process.
Decision Timeline and Wait List Reality
St. Julian's typically communicates admission decisions 2-4 weeks after assessment completion. Accepted families receive conditional offers requiring acceptance within 10-15 days. Families must pay the €4,200 joining fee upon acceptance to secure enrollment spots.
However, admission reality differs from this official timeline for competitive year groups. Reception, Year 7, and Year 12 regularly maintain waiting lists extending 6-12 months or longer. Current applicants for these entry points should expect 6-18 month wait times from application to available space.
The school prioritizes siblings of current students, who receive very high placement preference. Early applications submitted 12-18 months before desired start gain slight advantages. However, even early applications may face extended waits during high-demand periods.
Wait List Management Strategies
Families on waiting lists should maintain active engagement with the admissions office. Express continued interest through periodic updates every 6-8 weeks. Share children's recent academic achievements, awards, or accomplishments demonstrating growth and development. Schools view maintained interest favorably when spaces open.
Attend school open days (typically held in September and October) and request individual campus tours when possible. Physical presence and genuine enthusiasm sometimes influence placement decisions when multiple families await the same opening.
Consider flexibility around year groups when possible. If a family desires Year 3 enrollment but Year 4 has availability, some families choose to enter at the available point rather than wait additional months. This strategy works best when curriculum continuity remains intact.
Apply to multiple schools simultaneously. Families serious about September enrollment should submit applications to St. Julian's, CAISL, and Oeiras International School concurrently. Receiving an offer from a less-preferred school provides insurance against extended St. Julian's waiting times. Families can decline other offers if St. Julian's space opens, though application fees to multiple schools are non-refundable.
Mid-year openings occasionally arise when families relocate unexpectedly or transfer schools. These opportunities are unpredictable but worth monitoring. Families maintaining wait list status during the school year might secure spots within 2-4 weeks when sudden openings occur.
Transportation and Location Access
Geographic Setting
St. Julian's location in Quinta da Beloura places it near Sintra, approximately 30-40 minutes from central Lisbon by car. The semi-rural setting provides extensive grounds and peaceful surroundings while maintaining accessibility to Lisbon metropolitan amenities.
Families living in Cascais, Estoril, Carcavelos, or along the Sintra-Cascais coastal train line have good access via multiple transportation options. Families in central Lisbon, Oeiras, or other areas should carefully consider daily commute realities before enrolling.
School Bus Service
St. Julian's operates comprehensive school bus routes covering major residential areas. Routes serve central Lisbon, Cascais and coastal areas, Sintra and surrounding areas, and Oeiras. Bus service costs €2,000-€3,500 annually depending on distance and route complexity.
Bus fees are separate from tuition and require annual commitment at enrollment. Families cannot opt in or out mid-year or select only occasional bus use. The service provides door-to-door pickup and drop-off within designated service areas, eliminating parent driving duties. Morning pickups typically occur between 7:30-8:30 AM with afternoon returns between 4:00-5:00 PM depending on route.
Train Access Alternative
Families living near the Sintra-Cascais train line can use Portuguese public transportation as an cost-effective alternative. The Carcavelos station provides closest access to campus, approximately 15 minutes by car or taxi. Older students (typically Year 9 and above) may use trains independently, though young children require parent accompaniment.
Train travel eliminates €2,000-€3,500 annual bus costs but requires reliable schedules and parent availability. Most families with primary-age children prefer school bus convenience despite higher costs.
Parent Drop-Off and Pickup
Families choosing to drive benefit from campus parking and organized drop-off/pickup procedures. Morning drop-off operates 8:00-8:30 AM with staff supervision. Afternoon pickup runs 3:30-4:30 PM depending on year group and activity participation.
Traffic congestion near campus can be significant during peak times, particularly on rainy days. Families should allow extra travel time and consider carpooling arrangements with neighbors or friends.
Special Needs and Learning Support
Available Support Services
St. Julian's provides learning support services for students with mild to moderate learning differences. The Learning Support Department offers individualized assistance for students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, and processing difficulties.
Support typically takes the form of small-group instruction, in-class assistance, study skills development, and assessment accommodations. The school follows British special educational needs framework, familiar to UK families.
Admission Considerations
Families should discuss learning needs openly during the admission process. The school evaluates whether available support resources match student requirements. Students with significant needs requiring full-time support or highly specialized interventions may not be suitable candidates, as the school maintains mainstream classroom expectations.
Families currently receiving support through UK Education, Health and Care Plans or similar frameworks should provide complete documentation during application. International educational psychologist reports help the school understand needs and determine appropriate support levels.
Additional Support Costs
Learning support services may incur additional fees beyond standard tuition. Families should inquire about specific costs during admissions conversations. Some support is included in standard fees, while intensive one-on-one instruction typically requires supplemental payment.
Comparison with Other Lisbon International Schools
Position in Market Hierarchy
St. Julian's occupies the premium tier of Lisbon's international school market. Only Oeiras International School (€20,532-€21,713 tuition plus €5,000-€8,500 capital levy) exceeds St. Julian's pricing. CAISL and TASIS Portugal offer comparable tuition but with different fee structures.
Families choosing St. Julian's prioritize established reputation, British curriculum with IB option, comprehensive facilities, and long institutional history. The school's size (900+ students) provides robust programming, diverse extracurricular options, and strong community networks.
When to Choose St. Julian's
St. Julian's suits families seeking British curriculum continuity, particularly those planning eventual return to UK or UK university admission. The dual A-Level/IB pathway benefits families wanting qualification flexibility without changing schools.
The large student body appeals to families desiring social diversity, extensive clubs and sports teams, and comprehensive secondary programming. Established infrastructure and experienced faculty provide stability valued by risk-averse families.
K-12 continuity (ages 3-18) eliminates the stress of mid-education school transitions, a significant advantage over schools serving limited age ranges.
When to Consider Alternatives
American families should strongly consider CAISL or TASIS Portugal instead. These schools offer American curriculum, AP courses, US-style grading, and US high school diplomas, providing better alignment with American university applications.
Families with children requiring significant learning support may find smaller schools like International Preparatory School or schools with specialized programs more suitable.
Budget-conscious families might explore mid-range British schools like Oporto British School (€8,735-€14,585 tuition) or consider German/French schools (€4,680-€8,721 tuition) if language immersion is acceptable.
Families prioritizing Portuguese language development and cultural integration might prefer bilingual Portuguese-international schools over predominantly English-speaking environments.
Financial Planning for St. Julian's Enrollment
First-Year Budget Reality
A family enrolling one child in Year 4 at St. Julian's should budget €24,636-€26,986 for the first year. This includes €16,440 tuition, €4,200 joining fee, €1,000 registration fee, €896 meals, €2,000-€3,500 transportation (if using school bus), €250-€400 uniforms, €200-€400 activities, and €50-€100 books.
Subsequent years cost €19,636-€21,886 annually, as joining and registration fees do not recur. Annual tuition typically increases 3-4% each year, adding approximately €500-€700 to costs over time.
Multi-Child Family Calculations
Families enrolling three children benefit significantly from sibling discounts. Consider a family with children in Years 4, 7, and 10:
- First child (Year 4): €16,440 full tuition
- Second child (Year 7): €17,280 full tuition
- Third child (Year 10): €17,760 minus 15% discount = €15,096
Total tuition: €48,816 (savings of €2,664 annually compared to full rates)
Additional fees include single €4,200 joining fee (per family, not per child), €1,000 registration per child (€3,000 total), and €2,688 meals (€896 per child). Transportation, uniforms, and activities multiply per child but with potential carpooling and hand-me-down savings.
First-year total: approximately €58,704-€67,704 for three children
Subsequent years: approximately €51,504-€60,504 annually
These figures demonstrate why St. Julian's enrollment represents a significant financial commitment requiring careful long-term planning.
Portuguese Tax Deductions
Portuguese residents may claim education expenses as tax deductions through the e-Fatura system. The Portuguese Tax Authority allows deductions for qualifying education costs including tuition fees, registration fees, and textbooks. Families should maintain receipts and invoices for all St. Julian's payments.
Deduction limits and eligibility criteria depend on family income levels and tax residency status. Families should consult Portuguese tax advisors to understand specific deduction amounts and filing procedures. International school tuition often qualifies, but maximum benefit rarely exceeds €800-€1,000 annually.
Long-Term Enrollment Planning
Families should evaluate total costs across the anticipated enrollment period. A child entering Year 1 and remaining through Year 13 (12 years of enrollment) incurs approximately €250,000-€300,000 in total costs at current rates, accounting for annual fee increases.
These costs assume single-child enrollment without sibling discounts and include tuition, meals, transportation, and activities. Families with multiple children or those receiving sibling discounts may see total costs increase to €500,000-€700,000 for three children completing full K-12 education.
Long-term planning requires evaluating whether St. Julian's investment aligns with family financial capacity, educational priorities, and residency duration in Portugal. Some families choose St. Julian's for specific periods (primary years or secondary years) before transitioning to Portuguese public schools or other alternatives.
University Outcomes and Preparation
British University Pathways
St. Julian's maintains strong relationships with UK universities through its A-Level pathway. Students regularly receive offers from Russell Group universities including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, University College London, London School of Economics, University of Edinburgh, University of Manchester, King's College London, and University of Bristol.
A-Level results align directly with UK university admissions requirements. Students benefit from dedicated university counseling, UCAS application support, personal statement guidance, and interview preparation. The school's long history and established reputation provide name recognition among UK admissions officers.
International University Recognition
IB Diploma students access broader international university options. The IB qualification receives recognition from universities worldwide including throughout Europe, in the United States and Canada, in Australia and New Zealand, and in Asian institutions.
Many students pursue undergraduate degrees outside the UK, with popular destinations including Netherlands, Spain, United States, Canada, and Australia. IB scores translate to university admission criteria across different systems, providing flexibility for families uncertain about final destination.
University Guidance Resources
St. Julian's university counseling begins in Year 10, helping students understand different pathways, qualification requirements, and career implications. Year 12 students receive intensive support including university research assistance, application essay editing, recommendation letter coordination, and interview preparation.
The school hosts university fairs, representative visits, and information sessions throughout the academic year. Students meet admissions officers from target institutions and learn about specific program requirements. Alumni networks connect current students with recent graduates attending various universities, providing peer perspectives on transition and success.
Beyond Academics: Community and Culture
International Diversity
St. Julian's student body represents 40+ nationalities, creating a genuinely international environment. British students form the largest single nationality group (approximately 30-40%), followed by Portuguese nationals (15-20%), other European nationalities (20-25%), and students from North America, Asia, Africa, and elsewhere (15-25%).
This diversity exposes students to different cultures, perspectives, and traditions throughout their education. International Day celebrations, cultural festivals, and language exchange programs promote cross-cultural understanding and global citizenship.
Parent Community Engagement
St. Julian's encourages strong parent involvement through the Parent Association, which organizes social events, fundraisers, community service projects, and family activities throughout the academic year. New family orientation programs help recently arrived expatriates connect with established community members.
Parent volunteers support school libraries, accompany field trips, assist with theatrical productions, and organize athletic events. This engagement creates tight-knit communities, particularly beneficial for families new to Portugal seeking social connections.
Extracurricular Programming
St. Julian's offers extensive clubs, sports teams, and activities beyond academic curriculum. Options include competitive sports teams (football, basketball, swimming, tennis, rugby, athletics), performing arts (choir, orchestra, band, drama productions), academic clubs (Model UN, debate, robotics, science olympiad), and creative activities (art club, creative writing, photography, film).
Secondary students access residential trips, international exchanges, and overseas competitions. These experiences develop independence, leadership skills, and global awareness. Many alumni cite extracurricular participation as defining aspects of their St. Julian's experience.
Making the Enrollment Decision
Is St. Julian's Right for Your Family?
St. Julian's serves families seeking established British international education within Portugal. The school excels for families prioritizing curriculum continuity with UK system, reputation and institutional stability, comprehensive facilities and programming, K-12 continuity without transitions, and dual A-Level/IB pathway flexibility.
Families should carefully evaluate financial capacity for €21,000-€27,000 annual commitment, realistic expectations for 6-12 month waiting list periods, acceptance of predominantly English-speaking environment with limited Portuguese immersion, and alignment with British educational philosophy and teaching methods.
Application Decision Timeline
Families confident in St. Julian's fit should apply 12-18 months before desired enrollment. The long timeline accounts for assessment scheduling, decision processing, potential waiting list periods, and visa/residence permit processing for families relocating from abroad.
Families uncertain about timing or school fit might attend open days, schedule campus tours, and speak with current families before committing to application fees and assessment processes. The school welcomes these exploratory conversations.
Alternative School Research
Even families strongly preferring St. Julian's should research backup options given competitive admissions and waiting list uncertainties. Consider CAISL or TASIS (American curriculum), Oeiras International School (all-IB pathway), International Preparatory School (smaller British school), and British School of Lisbon (multiple campus locations).
Applying to 2-3 schools simultaneously provides insurance against prolonged waits. Application fees are non-refundable, but the security of having enrollment options justifies the €1,500-€3,000 additional investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long are waiting lists currently?
Reception, Year 7, and Year 12 typically experience 6-12 month waits. Other year groups may have 2-6 month waits or occasional immediate availability. Mid-year openings occur unpredictably when families relocate. Contact admissions for current status of specific year groups.
Can my child enroll mid-year if we relocate to Portugal unexpectedly?
Mid-year enrollment depends on space availability in the relevant year group. Submit applications immediately upon relocation confirmation. The school accommodates mid-year entries when possible but cannot guarantee placements. Consider backup options including other international schools or Portuguese public schools for interim periods.
What English level does my child need for admission?
Students must demonstrate age-appropriate English fluency for their year group. Early Years and primary students need conversational fluency and emerging literacy. Secondary students require academic English proficiency for complex texts and essay writing. The school offers EAL support but not intensive English language instruction.
Does St. Julian's offer scholarships or financial aid?
St. Julian's maintains limited financial aid programs for exceptional circumstances. Availability varies annually based on school resources. Families experiencing financial hardship should contact the business office confidentially. Most families pay full fees, and aid competition is intense.
What happens if we need to withdraw mid-year?
Withdrawal requires one full term's advance notice in writing. Families providing proper notice receive refundable deposit returns within 30-60 days. Insufficient notice may result in deposit forfeiture. Tuition remains due through the notice period regardless of student attendance. The school does not offer mid-term refunds.
How does St. Julian's compare to British schools in UK?
St. Julian's curriculum, facilities, and academic standards align closely with UK independent schools. Class sizes (20-24 students) mirror UK norms. The international student body and Portuguese location provide cultural experiences unavailable in UK. Costs are comparable to mid-tier UK independent schools (£15,000-£20,000 annually).
Can students transfer between A-Level and IB pathways in Sixth Form?
Students commit to either A-Level or IB Diploma at Sixth Form entry. Switching pathways mid-program is not typically possible due to different course structures and assessment requirements. The school provides guidance during Year 11 to help families choose appropriate pathways based on university goals and learning preferences.