ADMISSIONS
FAQs
We understand that choosing a school for your children, especially when relocating, is not always easy. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions by families touring the school. If you have a question that is not addressed on this page, please contact us via email and we will provide you with a response as soon as possible.
How does OBS make admissions decisions?
Our school thrives precisely because it has a diverse intake of students and welcomes applications from students regardless of race, religion, national origin, gender, or sexual orientation.
Each year OBS receives many more applications than there are spaces available at the school. It is sometimes therefore necessary to place students on a waiting list. In general, the higher the year group, the longer the waiting list, although there are some years when younger year groups may also have lengthy waiting lists.
As our Admissions Committee reviews the applications, we consider how well a student and family might be a fit for the school and its mission. For older students, a history of commitment to academic endeavour, as well as creative or active pursuits such as visual or performing arts and sports is helpful. Students showing character attributes such as a commitment to community service and athletic involvement, are also considered. As a family-oriented school, we also appreciate parents who have a history of active involvement within the life of a school. While our school would like to admit all of its applicants, our statutory cap on class sizes makes this impossible.
When should I submit an Application?
The OBS academic year begins in early September and applications will be accepted throughout the school year. Given that space is often limited in different year groups, families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
We are moving mid-year, can my child start once the school year has begun?
Yes, pupils join us at all times throughout the academic year, provided there is space in the applicable year groups. As an international school, we operate rolling admissions to accommodate families that move at times that do not coincide with the start of the academic year. This does not apply to our IBDP classes (UK school years 12 and 13, Portuguese 11º e 12º anos.)
Once I apply for a place, is my child’s place guaranteed?
An application alone is no guarantee of a place. A place is only guaranteed once you have received an official acceptance letter from the school and you have completed the registration process in full, including all applicable payments.
If my child is not accepted, is the registration fee refundable?
No, the registration fee in non-refundable.
Once my child has been offered a place, can we postpone their entry until the following academic year?
Yes, provided there are spaces available in that year group.
What is the class size?
Our Pre-Prep class has a maximum of 16 pupils, all other year groups may have 20 students per class.
Do students wear uniform?
Yes, our students wear uniform until Form 10 (inclusive). (UK Year 11, Portugal 10º ano).
Does my child need to be toilet trained for Pre-Prep?
Yes, pupils applying for Pre-Prep must be fully toilet trained before the first day of school (no nappies / diapers ).
How old must my child be to join Pre-Prep?
Children must turn three before December of the year they join Pre-Prep.
