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Study in Brazil

Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.

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About studying in Brazil

Brazil is in eastern South America, and its universities and colleges welcome students from many countries. International students can look at undergraduate, postgraduate and, in some fields, research programmes, as well as shorter courses where institutions offer them. Study options span broad areas such as business, engineering, health, the sciences and the humanities, with agriculture, energy and infrastructure shaping much of the country’s economy.

Brasília, São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are among the places students often consider. The main language is Portuguese; the availability of English-taught programmes varies between institutions. Use this guide to explore subjects, typical intakes, costs, scholarships and visa steps, then check the details with each institution.

Why study in Brazil?

Students choose Brazil for different reasons: a particular course, a university’s reputation in a field, the language, the location or the chance to experience life in eastern South America. The right decision depends on your subject, budget, preferred city and long-term plans.

  • Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Energy, Oil & Gas and Engineering, with options differing between universities.
  • Industry context: Agriculture, energy and infrastructure matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
  • Cities and campus life: Brasília, São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
  • Culture and language: living in Brazil means everyday contact with Portuguese and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.

Brazil has an extensive network of federal and state public universities as well as private institutions, and most teaching is in Portuguese.

Compare the structure of each programme, how it is assessed and what support is available for international students before you decide.

Top subjects to study in Brazil

If you are not sure where to start, these areas connect well with Brazil’s economy and higher-education offer. The list is a starting point rather than a ranking.

Links to agriculture, energy and infrastructure mean that related courses may include practical projects or industry examples, although this varies by institution. Each subject has its own page for Brazil on this site, with its specializations.

It helps to look at specializations within each area as well: two programmes with the same broad subject can lead in quite different directions.

Subjects to study in Brazil

Explore subject areas available for students planning to study in Brazil.

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Universities in Brazil

Explore universities in Brazil and discover study options for international students.

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Scholarships to Study in Brazil

Funding for international students in Brazil can come from several sources, and what is available depends on your nationality, level of study and subject.

  • government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Brazil
  • universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
  • foundations, charities and international organisations
  • research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students

Funding is never guaranteed: check eligibility, deadlines and what the award includes, and have a plan in case you are not successful. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.

Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.

Intakes to study in Brazil

Many programmes in Brazil start around February or March, which is the main entry point for most new students. Some institutions also admit students around August, although this second intake is usually available for fewer courses. Exact dates vary by institution and programme.

Because deadlines differ between universities, keep a simple timeline for each application: when it opens, when it closes, when decisions are expected and how long the visa process may take. Leave room for delays in obtaining documents.

Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.

A simple planning checklist:

  • shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
  • prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
  • apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
  • allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation

Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.

Cost of studying in Brazil

Budgeting for a degree in Brazil starts with the tuition fee for your specific course, which depends on the institution, subject and level.

When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:

  • application and registration fees
  • course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
  • health insurance and any visa or permit costs
  • accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme

Programme length also matters: a longer course or a preparatory year changes the total cost. Always use the current fees published by the institution for the year you plan to start.

It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.

Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.

Student visa requirements to study in Brazil

Your offer letter is usually only the first step: most students from abroad also need the right permission to enter and stay in Brazil for their studies.

Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:

  • an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
  • a valid passport and passport photos
  • evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
  • health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
  • proof of language ability or previous qualifications

Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. The embassy or consulate of Brazil in your country, and its official immigration authority, are the right places to confirm what applies to you.

Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.

Cost of living in Brazil

Planning your living budget for Brazil early helps you avoid surprises during your first months. Costs in Brasília can differ noticeably from those in São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro and smaller towns.

The main costs to plan for are:

  • Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
  • Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
  • Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
  • Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
  • Insurance and health: any required health cover
  • Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life

Ask your institution for its estimate of student living costs and plan for some extra money for arrival and emergencies.

Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.

FAQs about studying in Brazil

What are the advantages of studying in Brazil?

It depends on your goals. Brazil offers programmes across many subjects, a location in eastern South America and study in Portuguese (with some English-taught options). Students interested in agriculture, energy and infrastructure may find the local context especially relevant.

What subjects can I study in Brazil?

Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Energy, Oil & Gas, Engineering and Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies. The subjects page for Brazil lists every subject available here with its specializations.

When do courses start in Brazil?

Many programmes start around February or March. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.

How much does it cost to study in Brazil?

Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.

Do international students need a visa to study in Brazil?

Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources and the embassy or consulate of Brazil.

Are scholarships available for international students in Brazil?

Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.

Which cities are popular with students in Brazil?

Brasília, São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are among the places students often consider. Living costs, housing and the student experience can differ between cities, so compare them alongside your course options.

Can I study in English in Brazil?

Many courses are taught in Portuguese. Some institutions offer English-taught programmes, but availability varies, so check the language of instruction and language requirements for each course.

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