Study in Brazil
by Robyn Tellefsen
The largest country in Latin America, Brazil is an emerging power in the global marketplace. And with more than 180 million residents, the country has become one of the chief consumer markets in the world. Brazil offers world-class business opportunities, evidenced by multinational corporations focusing their recruiting efforts in Brazil universities. When you study in Brazil, you will gain a critical edge in your professional education.
Higher Education in Brazil
More than 2,000 private and public universities in Brazil offer higher education programs that are internationally recognized for excellence. Approximately five million students are enrolled in the 23,000+ programs available. Several Brazil universities are ranked among the top universities in the world, offering courses lasting from two to six years.
When you decide to study abroad in Brazil, you can be sure you'll be schooling in a country committed to continual improvement of its education offerings. Institutes of higher education in Brazil invest in hiring qualified professors, enhancing laboratories, expanding libraries, maintaining affordability, providing a wide range of courses, and designing innovative extension and research programs. Brazil universities continue to produce high-quality, groundbreaking research that fuels the country's technological growth.
Universities in Brazil offer world-renowned programs in biology, dentistry, dermatology, medicine, and veterinary medicine, to name a few. MBA programs in Brazil are also noteworthy, as well as programs that combine internships and volunteer work in poor or indigenous communities.
In order to study in Brazil, you'll need to earn a Certificate of Proficiency in Portuguese (Celpe-Bras). You can earn this internationally accepted certificate through satisfactory performance on a standardized Portuguese exam developed by the Brazilian Ministry of Education.
Diversity in Brazil
Brazil is truly a land of many opportunities. Its year-round sunshine in a gorgeous tropical climate, warm and welcoming people, and rich cultural melting pot all contribute to the allure of study in Brazil.
Brazil is home to several modern, cosmopolitan cities. One of the largest cities in the world, Sao Paulo is Brazil's business powerhouse and a cultural hub for Latin America with its many concert halls, museums, nightclubs, parks, and restaurants. And Rio de Janeiro is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
The diversity of Brazil is evident in the distinct features of its various geographic regions. In the north lies the Amazon rainforest, the most important tropical forest in the world and a significant attraction for biologists and nature lovers. The northeastern section of Brazil provides the stomping grounds for musicians, writers, and some of the liveliest Carnival parties. The southeastern region, home to major cities such as Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, is the country's most economically developed and cosmopolitan region - a great place to study in Brazil. Southern Brazil is one of the country's most important regions in terms of culture, economy, and tourism, presenting breathtaking mountain landscapes as well as beautiful beaches. And the Midwest boasts the Pantanal, a diverse and fascinating ecosystem, as well as Brasilia, the modern national capital.
The country's beauty, diversity, and global education opportunities are reason enough to study abroad in Brazil. Are you ready to embark on an international education journey that will change your life?
Frequently Asked Questions
Are scholarships available?
Depending on your country of citizenship, your embassy may provide a list of available scholarships for you to study outside of the country. Additionally, the program you are attending may also offer scholarships. Researching is important and can be helpful in defraying the cost of your time as you study in Brazil.
Can I stay in the country after I have finished studying?
Brazilian visas are required for all foreign visitors, no matter what you are doing there. The visa is good for several visits during the five years after the visa has been issued (although you must make your first visit within 90 days of the date of issue) for Americans, Mexicans, and Canadians. They must also only be in the country for 90 days at a time, unless approved by the Federal Police in Brazil for up to 180 days. All other nationalities are good for up to a period of 90 days.
Can I work while I am studying?
Students who study in Brazil during their high school or undergraduate years will generally obtain the Temporary Visa I. This visa does not permit exchange students to engage in paid activities while in the country.
Do I have to speak the country's native language to study there?
The official language of Brazil is Portuguese. While it is not absolutely necessary to speak the native language, it is a good idea to have some sort of handle on Portuguese before you go. If your language level is subpar, you will certainly be required to study Portuguese throughout your time in Brazil. In fact, most study abroad programs in Brazil are designed to have a strong focus on the Portuguese language. Studying in a country that has a different language than what you're used to is a great way to really immerse yourself in the language and get the most out of your experience.
What are the average tuition and living expenses?
Tuition and living expenses when you study in Brazil may vary, depending on the program you are in and what school you attend. Many universities factor in the average cost of living before you go so you'll have an idea of what it may cost for the semester. It is important to talk with someone in your program before you leave to study in Brazil.
What are the housing options available?
Housing options are generally worked out through your program or university when you study in Brazil. Many students say in the same general areas, which could include a dorm-like situation or apartment-style living. Some students may even stay with a host family, living with a native Brazilian family that may cook some meals for the student.
What are the Visa application requirements?
You must have a visa in order to travel to and study in Brazil. This can be obtained at any Brazilian consulate in person. The only individuals who can submit a visa application by mail are residents of the District of Columbia, Kentucky, Ohio, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. In this case, you must submit them by Express Mail of the United States Postal Service (USPS). All other residents and those send via a different means will not be processed. If you go down to the Brazilian consulate, you will need to bring with you your valid passport, a completed application, passport-sized photos, a letter from the institution at which you will be studying while you are in Brazil, and a letter from your parents indicating financial responsibility (or a letter that shows you have received a scholarship). There may be slightly different requirements, depending on the country in which you hold citizenship. Processing time is about 15 days.
What exams will I need to take to get into schools in this country?
Some programs and universities require and entrance exam into a program to study in Brazil, while others do not. It's important to check the specific requirements before you apply to study in Brazil.
What is the application procedure to study in this country?
There are many institutions and universities that host study abroad programs in Brazil. These are ideal because you know that your credits will be accepted by your home institution once you return. However, there are some schools that have partnerships with other institutions or foreign exchange student universities. In order to find out what each individual school requires for their application procedures, it is important to do your research and see what they include. Many study abroad programs require that you be a certain age or a certain year in school (oftentimes, a sophomore or junior in college). Others may require a specific GPA or major. The requirements vary, depending on where you intend to study.
