Studying in Brazil: the key facts

Although Brazil might not typically be a top choice for international students, we often receive inquiries from colleagues worldwide seeking guidance on applying to Brazil for various reasons.

Below are some key facts that I hope will assist any counsellors looking to find out more information about studying in Brazil.

Brazil ranks as the world’s eighth-largest economy, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), indicating a plethora of potential career opportunities for prospective students. Furthermore, it holds the title of the fifth-largest country globally, with an expansive territory and a population exceeding 200 million (according to the census of 2022). 

While social inequality persists and urban violence remains a concern, students can still enjoy a high quality of life across various contexts.

Higher education – tuition fee-free public research universities

Brazil’s higher education system is intricately linked to its Portuguese colonisation, with the establishment of its first higher education institutions dating back to the early 19th century, coinciding with the transfer of the Portuguese Crown to Rio de Janeiro.

It wasn’t until the 1920s and 1930s that unified universities were established, including the prestigious University of São Paulo (USP), which is ranked as one of the top institutions in Latin America according to the THE Latin America University Rankings.

Additionally, Brazil’s higher education system drew inspiration from the French model; for example, USP was initially strongly structured by a French mission.

Consequently, Brazilian institutions adopted a strong focus on research, offering a range of subjects, theoretical classes and substantial government funding. This emphasis on research led to the creation of a network of thriving public universities across the country that offer tuition fee-free education and continue to lead research publications nationally.

Higher education – growing private institutions

On the flip side, Brazil has a growing number of private institutions, some of which have garnered significant recognition. These institutions typically emphasise a hands-on approach and prioritise innovation. Moreover, they are increasingly active in providing classes in English, although Portuguese proficiency remains essential in most cases.

For instance, Fundação Getúlio Vargas (FGV) stands out for its leading programmes in business administration and economics. International schools frequently also send students to newer institutions such as Insper and Ibmec for these and other majors. ESPM excels in advertising while Einstein, a respected healthcare institution, offers programmes in medicine, psychology, biomedical engineering, nutrition, nursing and more.

While many of these institutions are concentrated in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, several other institutions across the country also provide multiple opportunities.

Private universities require tuition fees that can fluctuate based on the chosen major, typically falling within the range of US$7,200 (£5,500) to US$35,000 (£27,000) annually.

Admissions

Many public universities mandate the National High School Exam (Enem), a comprehensive assessment covering Portuguese, mathematics, humanities, sciences and a Portuguese essay.

Some institutions also administer their own entrance exams.

Encouragingly, private institutions, particularly for international school applicants, increasingly accept credentials such as the IB Diploma, SAT and, in some cases, the Abitur or the French Baccalaureate. These credentials often serve as substitutes for traditional entrance exams, though additional requirements such as interviews or Portuguese proficiency essays may still apply. Some universities will have specific entry requirements for international students.

Portuguese – is it a must?

Only a handful of programmes are conducted in English.

Nevertheless, many universities are actively expanding their English-language offerings. Moreover, higher education institutions are intensifying their international endeavours, attracting more foreign students, even if only for exchange programmes.

However, as per the British Council (2023), only 5 per cent of the population is proficient in English. Thus, developing proficiency in Portuguese would be crucial while living in Brazil.

Conclusions

Studying in Brazil offers diverse opportunities despite it not being the most popular among international students. 

Public universities offer tuition fee-free education and lead research publications. Conversely, private institutions, increasingly recognised, focus on innovation.

Admissions vary: while public universities rely on the National High School Exam, private ones accept international credentials. Portuguese proficiency is still important.

Overall, Brazil’s educational landscape reflects a dynamic mix of tradition, innovation and diversity.