Small groups, real dates, and the exam calendar you actually need.
Most of my work is one-to-one. A few times a year I run a small group aimed at a specific exam sitting — because preparing alongside other people who are just as nervous turns out to help more than anything I can say.
Here's what's open now, plus the official 2026 CIPLE dates.
CIPLE Group — September intake
for the 17 October exam
Six weeks, four to eight people, built backwards from one date. We work through every section of the exam together, and we spend real time on the part almost nobody prepares for — what to do when your mind goes blank in the oral.
Maximum eight people. Not a scarcity tactic — past eight, there isn't enough speaking time each, which is the only reason to be in a group at all. The official exam fee (around €79) is paid directly to your exam centre and isn't included here.
Twenty minutes, no pressure. If you're not ready for October, I'll tell you — and we'll aim at a later date instead.
The law changed in May. A2 didn't go away — it moved forward.
Since Lei Orgânica n.º 1/2026 came into force on 19 May 2026, naturalisation requires 10 years of legal residence — 7 for EU and CPLP nationals — up from five.
But permanent residency still requires A2 at five years, and that part was not changed. So if you were counting on having a few more years to sort out your Portuguese, the citizenship clock may have moved away from you while the residency one didn't.
For a lot of people that makes the A2 certificate the nearer deadline, not the distant one. If you're unsure which applies to you, that's a question for your lawyer — but if the answer turns out to be "sooner than I thought," this is what I do.
I coach language, not law. Nothing here is legal advice — always confirm your own timeline with a qualified professional.
Remaining CIPLE dates in 2026
Sittings are added by each exam centre separately, so availability varies. Register early — they fill.
Registration closes roughly three weeks before each sitting, and results take about six weeks. Book the exam through CAPLE or an authorised centre — dates and fees are set by them, not by me.
Rather work one-to-one?
The groups only run a few times a year, and they don't suit everyone. Individual CIPLE prep runs eight weeks and starts whenever you're ready.
See CIPLE prep →Aiming further ahead?
If October is too soon, say so on the call and I'll tell you honestly. Sitting it before you're ready costs you the fee and a lot of confidence.
Book a call →