Are you looking for a fully funded way to study in Brazil through a government-backed program?
Brazilian Government Scholarships offer international students a powerful opportunity to study in South America’s largest country. These programs provide financial support, academic access, and cultural immersion. Discover how to apply, what’s covered, and which universities participate in these prestigious scholarships.
The Brazilian Government Scholarship refers to various fully or partially funded programs provided by Brazil’s federal agencies. These initiatives aim to attract talented international students for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD studies.
Open to students from multiple countries worldwide
Offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral opportunities
Programs administered by MEC, CAPES, and CNPq
Courses mainly in Portuguese, with some English-taught options
Scholarships available across multiple fields
Covers tuition, living stipends, and sometimes airfare
Prioritizes international cooperation and development
Includes cultural orientation and language training
Public and private university participation
Annual application cycles with strict deadlines
Key Scholarship Programs Offered by the Brazilian Government
Brazil hosts several flagship programs under the government scholarship umbrella, each with unique criteria and goals.
PEC-G (Programa de Estudantes-Convênio de Graduação) for undergraduate students
PEC-PG for postgraduate degrees (master’s and PhD)
Science Without Borders (Ciência sem Fronteiras) initiative
CAPES scholarships for research and teaching
CNPq research grants for science and technology fields
UNILAB-focused scholarships for students from Africa and Portuguese-speaking countries
Exchange programs via cooperation with Latin America and Caribbean
Bilateral education agreements with dozens of countries
Programs co-managed with UNESCO and other international bodies
Language proficiency development scholarships
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
Each scholarship has its own eligibility requirements. However, there are common conditions applicants must meet across most Brazilian Government Scholarships.
Valid passport from an eligible country
Completed prior academic level (high school, bachelor’s, or master’s)
Proof of Portuguese proficiency (e.g., CELPE-Bras certificate)
Academic transcripts with good performance
Recommendation letters from previous institutions
Health clearance and insurance documentation
Age requirements (usually under 25 for undergraduates)
Commitment to return to home country after studies (for PEC)
No previous residence in Brazil
Application submission within official deadlines
How to Apply for a Brazilian Government Scholarship
The application process varies slightly depending on the program but typically involves submission through consulates or official online portals.
Choose the appropriate scholarship program for your level
Review official requirements from MEC or Brazilian embassies
Prepare academic documents and translations if necessary
Take the CELPE-Bras exam if Portuguese is required
Write a personal motivation letter
Obtain academic references
Complete medical examinations
Submit application through Brazilian embassies or consulates
Wait for selection process updates
Accept the offer and prepare for visa and travel
What Expenses Are Covered by These Scholarships?
Brazilian Government Scholarships typically provide comprehensive financial support. Some programs cover full expenses, while others may offer partial funding.
Most Brazilian university programs are taught in Portuguese, so language proficiency is a key requirement.
CELPE-Bras is the official proficiency test
Some universities offer pre-sessional language training
Scholarships may include language preparation courses
English-taught programs are limited and rare
Language immersion boosts cultural integration
CELPE-Bras can be taken in over 20 countries
Minimum score requirements vary by program
Preparation courses available online and offline
Test usually offered twice a year (April, October)
Universities may require additional language interviews
Cultural and Academic Benefits of Studying in Brazil
Living and studying in Brazil offers a rich blend of academic growth and cultural experience.
Exposure to Latin America’s largest academic community
Access to tropical biodiversity and research opportunities
Vibrant student life and multicultural campuses
High-impact research projects and fieldwork
Affordable cost of living in many cities
Local festivals and traditional cuisine
Warm climate and welcoming social atmosphere
Interactions with international and Brazilian peers
Government support for international student success
Opportunities to travel and explore diverse regions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Brazilian Government Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, most programs such as PEC-G and PEC-PG are fully funded, covering tuition, a monthly stipend, and additional allowances.
Can I apply if I don’t speak Portuguese?
Yes, but you must pass the CELPE-Bras proficiency exam or complete a language course before starting your academic program.
What is PEC-G and who can apply?
PEC-G is for undergraduate students from developing countries. Applicants must be under 25 and demonstrate academic potential.
When is the application period?
Application periods typically begin early in the year and close around July. Deadlines vary by program and country.
Can I work while studying in Brazil?
Yes, but you must obtain legal authorization. Many scholarships also include a stipend to reduce the need for work.
Do all programs require a Portuguese test?
Most do, but some postgraduate programs may accept English if courses are taught in that language.
How competitive is the scholarship?
It is competitive but accessible. Strong academic records, a good motivation letter, and meeting all eligibility criteria help.
Are there scholarships for short-term courses or exchanges?
Yes, Brazil offers short-term academic mobility and research exchanges through bilateral agreements and programs like CAPES.
What is the role of the embassy in the application?
Embassies often manage application submissions, language testing logistics, and initial candidate assessments.
Can I stay in Brazil after graduation?
Some programs require students to return home. However, graduates can explore legal work or academic options after completing their scholarship.
Conclusion
Brazilian Government Scholarships are a gateway to academic excellence and international exposure. These programs open doors to world-class education and immersive cultural experiences.
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