Study in Brazil

#1 in LatAm University Ranking
4 QS Top-500 Global Universities
1-Year Post-Study Visa
50% Lower Cost vs US
Full Tuition Govt Scholarships
20 Hours/Week Work Rights
Tropical Climate & Lifestyle
Free Tuition Public Universities
On this page

Why Study in Brazil?

Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world and covers nearly half of the South American continent. You can access free higher education here because public universities do not charge tuition fees for international students. Admission is highly competitive with approximately ten applicants for every available spot.

  • Top Tier Rankings: Brazil dominates the QS Latin America Rankings 2025 with 96 institutions featured, including the top ranked Universidade de São Paulo and third ranked Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp).
  • Academic Scale: You can choose from over 400 courses nationwide where more than 7.3 million students are currently enrolled.
  • Biodiversity Focus: As the most biodiverse country on earth, Brazil holds between 10% and 18% of all plant and animal life, making it a primary location for ecology and environmental studies.
  • Economic Power: You will be studying in the largest economy in Latin America, which serves as a growing hub for entrepreneurs and start-ups.

This destination is ideal if you are looking for Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degrees within a system that follows the Bologna model. You will thrive here if you are an independent student ready to learn Portuguese, as the job market increasingly seeks those who can bridge the gap between English and local industries. It is a strategic choice for researchers in technology, sustainability, and social sciences who want to be at the forefront of groundbreaking discoveries.

Your financial planning is simplified in Brazil because nearly 300 public universities provide government funded education at no cost to you. While private institutions charge fees, public options like the Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro and Universidade Estadual Paulista offer prestigious degrees for BRL 0. Most programs follow an academic year from February to December. If you aim to launch a career in Rio or São Paulo, you will find a job market that actively seeks speakers of English, Spanish, and Chinese. You can start your search now to Browse all 1 programs and find the right fit for your goals.

Explore Programs in Brazil

Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp)

Administration

Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp)

Campinas, Brazil English
Next Start Date
Duration
Yearly Tuition
Show all 1 programs

Costs & Funding

Your primary expense in Malaysia will be tuition, but the price depends heavily on your field. For a bachelor’s degree, you should budget between MYR 25,000 and MYR 55,000 per year. This is roughly 6,300 USD to 14,000 USD. If you pursue a master’s degree, annual fees range from MYR 30,000 to MYR 75,000. Specialized programs like medicine are the most expensive, often exceeding MYR 150,000 annually.

Action: Compare the specific fee structures for your chosen course on our university search tool.

Living in Malaysia is affordable. You can expect to spend between MYR 1,000 and MYR 1,500 per month on basic needs. This budget covers your housing, food, and local travel. Kuala Lumpur is recognized as a top affordable student city where your money goes further than in other Asian hubs. Public transport and daily meals remain cheap because the country has a low overall cost structure.

Action: Use a budget calculator to plan your monthly spending based on your lifestyle.

You can find financial help through several channels. Public and private universities offer their own scholarship schemes to attract international talent. You may also find opportunities through Education Malaysia Global Services. Applying for the February intake can sometimes lead to better scholarship chances because there is less competition than in September. Some students save between MYR 120,000 and MYR 150,000 in total tuition by choosing Malaysia over Western destinations.

Action: Check the "Scholarships" tab on your university profile to see current deadlines.

The bottom line is that Malaysia offers high value for your money. You can earn a UK engineering degree for MYR 80,000 to MYR 100,000. The same degree in the UK would cost you up to MYR 250,000. You get the same qualification at a fraction of the price. You also do not need to show as much financial proof as you would for a visa to Australia or Canada.

Action: Start your application now to secure your spot for the next intake.

Scholarships in Brazil

Brazil offers several government and university-led financial aid programs for international students. Most scholarships focus on graduate studies through partnerships with developing nations. You must generally demonstrate proficiency in Portuguese to qualify for these programs.

1. Government & National Scholarships
  • PEC-PG (Postgraduate Student Agreement Program)
    Provider: CAPES, CNPq, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE).
    Value: Master's students receive a monthly stipend of BRL 2,100 for up to 24 months. PhD students receive BRL 3,100 for up to 48 months. The program also pays for return airfare and provides an additional health assistance payment of BRL 400 per month.
    Eligibility: You must be a citizen of a developing country that has a cooperation agreement with Brazil. You cannot hold a permanent or diplomatic visa in Brazil. You must have a Celpe-Bras certificate to prove Portuguese language skills.
    Official URL: gov.br/capes/pec-pg
  • PEC-G (Undergraduate Student Agreement Program)
    Provider: Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE) and Ministry of Education (MEC).
    Value: This is a tuition-only scholarship. It grants free tuition at public Brazilian universities. Students may apply for the "Promisaes" financial aid supplement after their first year, which provides BRL 622 per month for living costs.
    Eligibility: You must be between 18 and 23 years old. You must have completed high school in your home country. Your country must have a current agreement with the Brazilian government.
    Official URL: gov.br/mre/pec-g
  • GCUB-Mob (International Cooperation Group of Brazilian Universities)
    Provider: GCUB in partnership with over 50 Brazilian universities.
    Value: Monthly stipends vary by university but typically match the CAPES standard of BRL 2,100 for Master's and BRL 3,100 for PhDs. It covers full tuition fees.
    Eligibility: Open to citizens of any country that maintains diplomatic relations with Brazil. You cannot be a Brazilian citizen. You must apply for a Master's or Doctorate program at a participating university.
    Official URL: gcub.org.br/gcub-mob
2. University-Level Scholarships
  • Universidade de São Paulo (USP) Graduate Scholarships
    Type: Merit-based.
    Coverage: Full tuition and monthly stipends for research. USP is a public university, so tuition is already free for all students. The scholarship provides monthly living support ranging from BRL 2,100 to BRL 3,100 through internal research funds or national agencies like FAPESP.
    Official URL: usp.br/international
  • Unicamp (Universidade Estadual de Campinas) Research Grants
    Type: Research-based.
    Coverage: International students often secure funding through the SAE (Student Support Service). This includes food and transport assistance for students in financial need, plus merit-based research fellowships for Master's and PhD candidates.
    Official URL: internationaloffice.unicamp.br
3. External & Foundation Scholarships
  • FAPESP (São Paulo Research Foundation) Scholarships
    Provider: State of São Paulo.
    Value: Monthly stipends for Master's and PhD research. These are highly competitive. PhD stipends start at BRL 3,100 and can increase based on the year of study. They also include a "Technical Reserve" fund for research materials.
    Eligibility: You must be enrolled in a graduate program in the state of São Paulo. Your research project must meet high academic standards.
    Official URL: fapesp.br/en
  • TWAS-CNPq Postgraduate Fellowships
    Provider: The World Academy of Sciences and the Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development.
    Value: Monthly stipend and travel costs. It covers living expenses for students from developing countries to pursue a PhD in natural sciences.
    Official URL: twas.org/opportunity
4. Application Tips

Most Brazilian scholarships require you to apply nearly a year in advance. If you want to start in 2026, you should begin your documents in early 2025.

Required Documents:

  • Valid passport.
  • Certified copies of your diplomas and transcripts.
  • Celpe-Bras certificate for Portuguese proficiency.
  • A detailed research plan (for graduate applicants).
  • Letters of recommendation from previous professors.

Strengthen Your Application:

Contact a potential supervisor at your chosen Brazilian university before you apply. A letter of support from a professor can make your application stand out. Ensure all your documents are translated into Portuguese by a sworn translator. High grades are important, but your research project's relevance to Brazil's development often carries more weight.

Admission Guide

Applying to a university in Malaysia requires following a specific sequence of steps. The country expects to host 260,000 international students by 2030. You can apply to public government-funded institutions or private universities. Private institutions often offer more flexible entry requirements and additional intake dates throughout the year. If you have IGCSEs instead of SPM qualifications, private universities are your primary option.

Entry requirements

  • Undergraduate: You need a high school diploma or equivalent. Public universities accept GCSEs and A levels if the Malaysian Qualifications Agency recognizes them.
  • Postgraduate: You must hold a bachelor degree for master programs and a master degree for doctoral applications.
  • Architecture and Design: These specific courses require you to submit a portfolio of your work.

Language requirements

Most programs are taught in English. You must provide English proficiency test results such as IELTS or TOEFL. Malaysia ranks in the top three in Asia for English proficiency. Over 72 percent of the population can speak conversational English, so you can study without learning a new language first.

Documents needed

  • Academic transcripts and certificates.
  • A copy of your passport and passport-size photographs.
  • A resume or CV for postgraduate applications.
  • Letters of recommendation.
  • A personal statement or statement of purpose.
  • Proof of payment for your application fee.

Common pitfalls

The review process usually takes several weeks. Many students fail to account for this time and miss the window to apply for their student visa. You must receive your formal offer letter before starting the visa process. Another common mistake is failing to pay the deposit required by the offer letter, which is necessary to secure your spot at the university. Ensure all documents are uploaded correctly to university portals like MAYA for Universiti Malaya or TOPAS for Taylor’s University.

Next step

Check the specific requirements for your chosen program on Global Admissions to ensure your qualifications match the university's criteria.

Student Life in Brazil

Choosing to study in Brazil puts you in one of the most culturally diverse destinations in South America. With 7 universities and 1 academic program currently available through our platform, you can find a path that fits your goals. Here is what you need to know about the daily reality of living and studying here.

Housing Options and Costs

Your housing choice will be the biggest factor in your monthly budget. Most international students choose between three main options. On-campus dorms are the most convenient but can be limited in availability. Shared apartments, or "repúblicas," are the most popular way to save money and meet locals. If you want a more private experience, you can rent a small studio or a room in a guesthouse. While prices vary by city, you should budget between BRL 1,000 and BRL 2,500 per month for rent depending on your location and whether utilities are included. Check your university's international office for a list of verified local landlords.

Daily Expenses and Budgeting

Life in Brazil can be affordable if you eat like a local. A typical meal at a "quilo" restaurant, where you pay by weight, costs around BRL 25 to BRL 45. For groceries, budget about BRL 600 per month. Your phone plan with enough data for navigation will cost roughly BRL 50 to BRL 100 monthly. Total monthly living costs, excluding rent, usually fall between BRL 1,200 and BRL 2,000. Start tracking your spending early to see where you can save.

Getting Around

You do not need a car in major student cities. Public transport systems, especially the metro in cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, are efficient and affordable. A single bus or metro fare is usually around BRL 4 to BRL 5. Ride-sharing apps are widely used and safe for late-night travel. Many campuses are also walkable or have dedicated bike lanes. Download a local transit app to see real-time bus schedules.

Climate and Practical Tips

Brazil is a tropical country, but the south can get cold between June and August. Pack light cotton clothes for the heat and a few warm layers if you are heading to cities like Curitiba or Porto Alegre. Sunscreen is essential. When you arrive, remember that Brazilians are social and often greet each other with a handshake or a light hug. Learn basic Portuguese phrases before you land to help you navigate shops and markets. Apply for your student visa at least two months before your start date to avoid delays.

  • Next Step: Compare the 1 available program in Brazil to see which fits your budget.
  • Action: Contact our advisors to get a detailed breakdown of tuition fees for your chosen university.

Fun Facts About Brazil

Which South American country dominates the continent's university rankings?

Brazil holds the top five spots for universities in South America according to the QS World University Rankings 2020. The University of São Paulo leads the region as the top-ranked institution among the 96 Brazilian schools featured in the 2025 Latin America rankings.

Can international students really study for free at public universities?

Brazil offers tuition-free education at its public research universities for both domestic and international students. While admission is competitive with roughly ten applicants per spot, those who get in pay zero tuition fees for degrees ranging from Bachelors to PhDs.

How much of South America does Brazil actually cover?

Brazil is the fifth-largest country in the world and occupies almost half of the entire South American continent. Its massive territory of 8,515,000 km² includes over half of the Amazon rainforest and the world-famed Amazon River.

What makes Brazil's economy a major player for post-graduation careers?

Brazil is the eighth-largest economy in the world and the largest in Latin America. The job market is increasingly seeking professionals who speak English, Spanish, or Chinese to support its growing international trade and business hubs in Rio and São Paulo.

How many UNESCO World Heritage Sites can you visit between classes?

The country is home to 23 UNESCO World Heritage Sites ranging from the modernist architecture of Brasília to the historic center of Salvador de Bahia. Students can explore diverse landmarks including the Iguaçu National Park and thousands of kilometers of coastline.

When does the academic year start in the Southern Hemisphere?

Unlike the northern hemisphere, the Brazilian academic year runs from February to December. This schedule aligns with the local seasons and allows students to experience the famous lively carnivals and parades that take place during the summer months.

What are the typical living costs for a student in Brazil?

Average monthly living costs for students generally range from EUR 300 to EUR 800. These costs cover daily life in major cities like Curitiba and Brasília while you use the local currency, the Brazilian Real.

Is it possible to find English-taught programs in a Portuguese-speaking nation?

While Portuguese is the national language for 210 million people, Brazilian universities are increasing their number of English-taught programs. This shift aims to attract more of the 35,000 international students currently studying in the country.

Career Outcomes

Malaysia has recently introduced the Graduate Pass, which allows you to stay in the country for up to 12 months after you finish your degree. This pass is officially a Social Visit Pass. It lets you search for jobs, take on internships, or volunteer while you decide on your next steps. To qualify, you must have a Bachelor's degree or higher from a university approved by Education Malaysia Global Services. You also need a Malaysian citizen sponsor who earns a minimum of MYR 1,500 per month.

The graduate employment rate in Malaysia stays above 80 percent. If you secure a full-time role, your employer must apply for an Employment Pass on your behalf. You cannot work full-time on a Student Pass or Graduate Pass alone. You must cancel your student visa and obtain this professional work permit to start your career legally.

Next step: Check if your passport is valid for at least 18 months before you apply for the Graduate Pass.

Graduates in Malaysia earn an average yearly salary of MYR 56,000. Your actual pay depends heavily on your specific role and industry. Common monthly salary ranges include:

  • Software Engineers: MYR 7,000 to MYR 107,000.
  • Data Analysts: MYR 4,000 to MYR 85,000.
  • Project Managers: MYR 12,000 to MYR 211,000.
  • Account Executives: MYR 4,000 to MYR 59,000.

Next step: Use these figures to build a post-graduation budget based on your target field.

Major employers in Malaysia actively hire international talent for roles in technology, finance, and engineering. Top recruiters include Petronas, Maybank, CIMB, and Hong Leong Bank. Global firms like Accenture, Standard Chartered Bank, and HSBC also maintain a large presence in Kuala Lumpur. Demand is highest for graduates with skills in IT, healthcare, logistics, and biotechnology.

While opportunities are growing, the market is competitive. You will compete with a large number of local graduates for entry-level roles. To work legally, you must find an employer willing to sponsor your work visa, as you cannot convert a student visa to a work visa directly while remaining in the country. Most international graduates find that having specialized technical skills or proficiency in multiple languages helps them stand out to multinational corporations.

Next step: Research the list of companies licensed to sponsor foreign workers before you begin your job search.

Visa & Work Rights

To study in Malaysia, you must obtain a Student Pass. This is your official residence permit for the duration of your full-time program. You do not apply for this alone. Your chosen university processes it through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS), the official government gateway for international students.

Step-by-Step Application Process

  • Accept your formal offer letter from a recognized Malaysian institution.
  • Your university registers your application with immigration authorities.
  • Digitally sign the application forms provided by the school.
  • Submit required documents to your university for verification.
  • Receive your Visa Approval Letter (VAL), which acts as your entry permit.
  • Travel to Malaysia and undergo a post-arrival medical screening within two weeks.
  • Submit your passport to the Immigration Department to receive your physical Student Pass sticker.

Required Documents

You must provide a passport valid for at least 18 months. You also need recent passport-sized photos with a white background, academic transcripts, and a medical health report. You must show proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living costs. Ensure you complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) before you land.

Costs and Timeline

The total application fee for a Student Pass typically ranges from MYR 1,000 to MYR 2,000. This amount covers the processing fee, visa fee, and your i-Kad identity card. Once you are in Malaysia, annual renewal fees are approximately MYR 60. Processing usually takes between 14 and 30 days. You should start your application at least one and a half months before your current pass expires if you are already in the country.

Work Rights

You can work part-time for up to 20 hours per week. This is only allowed during semester breaks or holidays of more than seven days. You must get approval from the Immigration Department to work. If you have family, you can apply for a Dependent Pass for your spouse or children.

Next Step: Check the specific document checklist provided by your university admissions office to begin your EMGS registration.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does tuition cost at public universities in Brazil?
Public universities in Brazil are government-funded and do not charge tuition fees for international students. This applies to all levels of study including undergraduate and postgraduate programs. You only need to cover your own living expenses while studying at these institutions. Admission is very competitive because there are typically ten applicants for every available spot.
What are the costs for attending a private university?
Private universities in Brazil charge tuition fees and do not follow a formal categorization like public institutions. These schools often have more flexible programs and lower entry requirements than federal or state universities. You should check the specific fees for each private institution as they vary by course and location. There are over 2,000 private institutions across the country.
What is the monthly budget for living in Brazil?
Brazil is the largest country in South America and costs vary significantly between cities like São Paulo and smaller towns. You will need to budget for housing, food, and transport in the local currency, the Brazilian Real (BRL). Your expenses will depend on whether you live in major hubs or regional areas. The country has a population of over 210 million people and a large economy to support diverse student budgets.
Do I need a visa to study in Brazil?
International students generally require a student visa to enroll in Brazilian higher education institutions. You must consult the latest advice from your local Brazilian consulate or the UK government's travel advice before you travel. Most programs follow an academic year that runs from February to December. Ensure your visa covers the duration of your specific Bachelor or Master degree.
Can I work while studying in Brazil?
Brazil's job market is increasingly seeking individuals who speak English, Spanish, or Chinese. The country is the eighth-largest economy in the world, which provides many career opportunities for students after they graduate. Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo are the primary centers for this economic activity. You should verify current visa regulations regarding specific work hour limits for international students.
What housing options are available for students?
You can choose between university-managed housing or private rentals in cities like Brasilia, Rio, or Curitiba. Costs for housing will fluctuate based on your proximity to the nearly 300 public universities or 2,000 private schools. Many students opt to live in major cities where the five best universities in South America are located. It is common to share apartments to reduce monthly costs.
Is Brazil a safe place for international students?
While urban violence is a recorded concern in large cities, international students can still enjoy a high quality of life. You should always follow the latest safety advice for visitors to Brazil provided by your home government. Most students find a welcoming culture in a country that spans nearly half of the South American continent. Staying in well-populated student areas can help manage safety concerns.
Do I need to speak Portuguese to study in Brazil?
Portuguese is the official language of Brazil and most courses are taught in it. However, universities are offering more English-taught programs to attract international students. If you speak English, Spanish, or Chinese, you may find specific advantages in the local job market. You should check if your specific program requires a proficiency test in Portuguese.
Are there scholarships available for international students?
Public universities provide tuition-free education, which acts as a full scholarship for the cost of instruction. Some government-operated research centers also focus on specialized research and may offer funding. You can look for specific grants at top-ranked schools like the University of São Paulo or Unicamp. Private institutions may offer their own financial aid packages to international applicants.
How do I apply to a Brazilian university?
The application process for public universities is highly competitive with a ratio of ten applicants per spot. You will likely need to submit your academic records and proof of language proficiency. Many institutions follow the Bologna model, offering Bachelors, Masters, and PhD degrees. There are over 400 courses nationwide with 7.3 million students currently enrolled.
What are the top-ranked universities in Brazil?
The University of São Paulo is ranked 1st in the QS Latin America Rankings 2025. Other top institutions include Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp) at 3rd and Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro at 5th. In total, 24 Brazilian universities are listed in the QS World University Rankings 2026. These schools lead the region in research and academic excellence.
What is the academic calendar in Brazil?
The academic year in Brazil typically runs from February to December. This schedule applies to both the nearly 300 public universities and the vast network of private institutions. You should plan your application and visa process well in advance of the February start date. Most degree programs follow standard durations for Bachelors and Masters levels.

Ready to Study in Brazil?

Browse programs, compare universities, and start your application.