High School
Preparing for the future. From 14 to 16.United Lisbon International School offers a rigorous and challenging High School programme that culminates in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. Starting in Grade 9, students begin to recognise their own skills and strengths and, with the school's support, to gradually make their future choices through carefully managed career and university guidance.
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Grades 9&10
In Grades 9&10, students follow a bespoke curriculum designed to bridge the gap between the IMYC and the IB Diploma Programme. This programme combines international benchmarks with IB-aligned inquiry and skill development. While students have a core set of subjects throughout High School, they also have the opportunity to explore areas that capture their imagination and interest.
These years also provide opportunities for students to take on increasing responsibility for their own learning, and guidance is given on developing effective learning and study skills.
These foundation years prepare students for IB subject specialisation and graduation pathways in Grades 11–12, leading to the IB Diploma or the United Graduate Award, equipping graduates for university success worldwide.
Special projects in Grade 9
Special projects in Grade 10
Excursions
We take every opportunity to put theoretical concepts into practice with excursions and day trips. Grade 10 students recently went to Porto as part of their geography studies, while Grade 9 students have been exploring the coast around Lisbon and visiting a regenerative farming initiative.
Pathways to graduation in Grades 11&12
Every student at ULIS follows a clear and internationally recognised pathway to high school graduation.
As a NEASC-accredited international school, authorised by the Portuguese Ministry of Education to deliver secondary education (Ensino Secundário level), we offer students two flexible ways to complete high school while remaining within the same academic programme.
All students learn in an IB-aligned academic environment. The difference between the pathways is found in how students complete their graduation requirements – not the courses they study. There are no separate or simplified courses. All Grade 11–12 students remain fully integrated in IB classrooms.
During Grades 11 and 12, all students work toward a fully accredited high school diploma. Alongside this, they may choose to enhance their studies by adding IB Certificates or by pursuing the full IB Diploma.
Our high school diploma, the United Graduate Award, is:
- NEASC accredited
- Authorized by the Portuguese Ministry of Education
- Recognized as the school’s official graduation pathway for Grades 9–12
All students are automatically placed on this diploma track. From there, they can decide whether to add IB Certificates or the full IB Diploma to their studies.
Welcome from the head of High School
At United Lisbon International School, Grades 9–10 form a dynamic foundation for the IB Diploma Programme while helping students discover their strengths and passions. Our bespoke curriculum blends academic rigour with real-world relevance through interdisciplinary projects, academic pathways that open doors for specialisation, inquiry, and collaborative learning.
Students develop critical thinking, research, and communication skills while gradually building independence through guided projects and structured support. Student voice is central to the experience, with opportunities for leadership, innovation, and service.
Alongside strong academics, dedicated wellbeing and skills programmes help students develop resilience, empathy, and global awareness. By Grade 11, students are confident learners ready to pursue the full IB Diploma or personalised IB course pathways, both leading to our completion of Secondary School and the United Graduate Award.
Frank Alfano,HEAD OF SECONDARY SCHOOL