Back-to-school planner 2026: the checklist with deadlines

Getting ready for back to school is mostly about not leaving anything to the last minute. This planner organises everything to do between June and September into concrete steps, each with a target date.

Tick off each step as you handle it — your progress is saved on this device, so you can come back and adjust whenever you like. When you're ready, export the pending deadlines to your calendar (.ics) and get the reminders on your phone or computer.

Still need to find a nursery? See the map of nurseries near you. Want the big picture before you start? Read the back-to-school guide.

Back-to-school planner

Tick off each step as you handle it. Your plan is saved on this device and you can export the deadlines to your calendar.

0 of 9 steps handled

Saved automatically on this device.

June – July

Confirm the nursery or pre-school place
Contact the nursery to confirm the place and start date. No reply? Use the map to find alternatives near home.
by 15 Jul
Update the child-benefit bracket and co-payment
The nursery fee depends on your income bracket. Check it on Segurança Social Direta before signing the contract.
by 31 Jul
Vaccination record and health form up to date
Most nurseries ask for an up-to-date vaccination record and a health form. Book the appointment early.
by 31 Jul
Review the family budget for the school year
Add up fees, supplies, meals and after-school care. Spreading purchases over two months softens the September spike.
by 10 Aug

August

Sort the school textbooks (free-manuals scheme / reuse)
For primary school, check the free textbooks on the MEGA platform. Otherwise, consider good-condition second-hand books.
by 25 Aug
Buy school supplies from the school's list
Buy from the official list and compare prices. Reuse what's left from last year before buying new.
by 31 Aug
Enrol in after-school care and activities
Secure the after-school place and activities early — spots run out. Check the hours fit your work schedule.
by 31 Aug

September

Sort transport and the first-days routine
Decide drop-off/pick-up, the pass or school transport, and a settling-in period for the youngest.
by 5 Sept
Confirm the first-day date and paperwork
Confirm with the school/nursery the start date, the paperwork to hand in and what the child should bring.
by 15 Sept