Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Fortaleza
Summary: If you're moving to Fortaleza with kids, choosing a school if often your first decisions and impacts where you'll live. Here are some popular bilingual and international schools in Fortaleza
Fortaleza, a vibrant coastal city in northeastern Brazil, is a popular destination for expats and digital nomads due to its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and warm climate. While not as large as cities like São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro, Fortaleza offers a selection of international and bilingual schools catering to the expatriate community. Among the most popular are the Escola Americana de Fortaleza and the Colégio Ari de Sá Cavalcante, known for their high-quality education and diverse student bodies.
Escola Americana de Fortaleza (EAF)
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Fortaleza, Ceará
Website: www.eaf.com.br
Escola Americana de Fortaleza offers an American-style curriculum with instruction in English. The school is accredited by AdvancED and serves the international and local Brazilian community. EAF provides a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and technology clubs. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to academic excellence, EAF is a popular choice for expat families.
Colégio Ari de Sá Cavalcante
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Multiple campuses in Fortaleza
Website: www.aridesa.com.br
Colégio Ari de Sá Cavalcante is a well-respected bilingual school offering a Brazilian curriculum with strong English language instruction. The school is known for its rigorous academic program and preparation for both Brazilian national exams and international assessments. It boasts excellent facilities, including modern classrooms, sports complexes, and libraries, and offers a wide array of extracurricular activities.
Colégio Santa Cecília
Grades: Preschool through High School
Location(s): Fortaleza, Ceará
Website: www.santacecilia.com.br
Colégio Santa Cecília provides a bilingual education with Portuguese and English as the primary languages of instruction. The school focuses on a holistic education approach, encouraging students to develop intellectually, socially, and physically. It offers a Brazilian curriculum complemented by international teaching methods and has a variety of sports and cultural activities.
Colégio 7 de Setembro
Grades: Preschool through High School
Location(s): Fortaleza, Ceará
Website: www.7desetembro.com.br
Colégio 7 de Setembro is another prominent bilingual institution in Fortaleza, offering a curriculum that integrates Brazilian and international educational practices. The school emphasizes the development of critical thinking and bilingual proficiency. It features excellent academic programs, technology integration, and a variety of extracurricular activities, including robotics, sports, and arts.
Colégio Farias Brito
Grades: Preschool through High School
Location(s): Multiple campuses in Fortaleza
Website: www.fariasbrito.com.br
Colégio Farias Brito offers a bilingual education with a strong emphasis on English language learning. The school is known for its academic excellence and competitive entrance exam preparation. It provides students with modern facilities, a comprehensive curriculum, and a wide range of extracurricular activities, including music, theater, and various sports.
Colégio Antares
Grades: Preschool through High School
Location(s): Fortaleza, Ceará
Website: www.colegioantares.com.br
Colégio Antares is a bilingual school with a focus on both Brazilian and international education standards. The school offers a diverse learning environment with a curriculum that promotes bilingualism and multicultural understanding. Students have access to excellent academic resources, technology labs, and a variety of extracurricular programs to enhance their educational experience.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Brazil Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Brazil
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Brazil
- Best Places to Live in Brazil
- Real Estate in Brazil
- Guide to Real Estate in Brazil
- Pros & Cons of Living in Brazil
- Cost of Living in Brazil
- Moving to Brazil with a Pet
- Understanding Mental Health in Brazil
- Is Health Insurance Required When Moving to Brazil?
- Having a Baby in Brazil
- 2025 Guide to Living in Brazil
- Pros and Cons of Living in Brazil 2025