Homeschooling, known as Ensino Doméstico in Portuguese, is a method of education taking place at home, within communities, support groups, or alternative schools.

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Despite being counterintuitive, parents in Portugal seeking to homeschool their children are legally required to enroll them in a school and designate them as homeschooled. This provides the flexibility for parents to opt for homeschooling for various durations, with the understanding that it's a reversible decision, suitable for transitions like travel or health concerns.

 

Homeschooled children must demonstrate formal learning progress, aligning with national curriculum standards, particularly those enrolled in traditional Portuguese schools.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Homeschooling in Portugal:

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1. Is Homeschooling Legal in Portugal?

   Yes, homeschooling is legal and regulated in Portugal, requiring specific steps for compliance.

2. What Are the Legal Requirements for Homeschooling?

   Legalization involves enrolling at a school and presenting evidence of learning progress.

3. Do Homeschooled Children Need to Enroll in a Portuguese School?

   Portuguese homeschooling enrollment mandates that the educator possess a university degree. Foreign umbrella schools offering homeschooling programs may bypass Portuguese school enrollment requirements, provided they prove their child's education.

4. What Are the Degree Requirements for Educators?

   Parents acting as educators, or "encarregado de educação," must hold at least an undergraduate university degree. Alternatively, a family member with a degree may fulfill this role.

5. What If My Degree Is Not Recognized in Portugal?

   For foreign degrees not automatically recognized by Portugal, finding an equivalent program is necessary, a process facilitated by contacting the DGES or utilizing their website.

6. Can I Hire a Licensed Tutor If I Don't Hold a Degree?

   In cases where no household member holds a degree, hiring a licensed tutor is an alternative. These tutors, recognized as "Ensino Individual" in Portuguese, conduct education outside traditional institutions.

7. How Is Learning Progress Evaluated?

   Learning progress evaluation varies by year, ranging from portfolio assessments to national exams in Portuguese for specific grades. Extra support or Flexi-Schooling arrangements are available if needed.

8. Where Can I Find Legal Framework Guidance for Homeschooling?

   Several entities provide homeschooling legal framework guidance in Portugal, including MEL, DRE, and DGE.

9. How Do I Register for Homeschooling via a Public School?

   Begin by scheduling a meeting with the school's homeschooling coordinator, gathering required documents such as degree certificates, NIF numbers, passports, and residence permits.

10. Are There Private Schools Offering Homeschooling Programs?

    Some private schools offer homeschooling programs, typically adhering to the Portuguese curriculum, with students taking Portuguese exams.

11. Are There Online/Umbrella School Homeschooling Programs Available?

    Enrolling in online "umbrella" schools, such as Conclara or Brave Generation Academy, may allow parents to set their curriculum. Although not illegal, this method lacks legal regulation. There has been some concern about the legality of these schools recently. 

12. How Can I Become a Member of MEL (Associação Movimento Educação Livre)?

    Membership in MEL entails completing a form, paying associated fees, and sending payment confirmation to their email address.

13. Where Can My Child Take Other International Exams, Such as GCSEs, A levels, SAT, or Others?

    The American SAT exam can be taken at Carlucci American School, with additional international exam locations yet to be confirmed.

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Disclaimer:

Please note that while the information provided is based on general guidelines and practices as of the last update in January 2022, regulations and procedures regarding homeschooling can vary and may have changed since then. It's essential to verify the current requirements and resources through official sources such as government education departments or homeschooling associations to ensure accuracy and compliance with the most recent regulations.