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Study in Brazil: Education in Brazil

Brazil was a Portuguese colony until it gained independence in 1825. This means that its higher education system has a distinct European edge.

Jul 30, 2024

Brazil was a Portuguese colony until it gained independence in 1825. This means that its higher education system has a distinct European edge. 

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Brazil has three types of undergraduate degrees:

  • Bachelor’s - an undergraduate degree in a certain discipline that takes between three and six years to complete.
  • Licentiate - this allows you to become a teacher. It takes three or four years to complete.
  • Associate - these take two or three years to complete and give students a highly-detailed education in a specialized area (for example; human resources management).

This partitioning continues at the postgraduate level. There are two types of postgraduate degrees: 

  • Lato Sensu - this degree is for those who want a postgraduate degree in a specific subject area but don’t want to go on to do a PhD.
  • Stricto Sensu - doing well in this degree can open the door to a PhD.

Both types of degrees take one or two years to complete.

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PhDs in Brazil take about three or four years to complete. If you choose to undertake one whilst working, they can take up to six years.

Do be warned, however, that, despite Brazil’s growing reputation for higher education, degrees awarded by some universities may not be recognized elsewhere in the world. Do check before applying. That being said, the quality of education at top Brazilian universities is comparable to that of European universities under the Bologna Process

As for how you actually study, it’s the same as in most countries. It’s a mix of lectures, readings and independent study. If you’re studying a more practical subject, then you’ll also spend time in a lab or workshop.

Study in Brazil

Want an overview of Brazil? This section gives you a quick insight into what life is like in this vast country, as well as its world-famous zest for life.

Student Visas

Do you need a visa to enter Brazil to study? Learn more about the student visa process, and what you need to enter the country, depending on your citizenship. Don't worry! Brazil makes its process crystal clear.

Housing & Living Costs

No matter where you study abroad, it’s important to create a budget in advance so that you’re prepared. Therefore, we’ve detailed average living and housing costs so that you can get a better idea of what you would be paying as a student in Brazil.

Tuition Fees & Scholarships

Tuition fees for degree programs in Brazil can vary. Both international and domestic students are expected to pay tuition fees in Brazil, but these fees can vary a lot. This sections has information on how this works, and on scholarships.

Language & Culture

Brazil is a country with an unmatched vibrancy. Find out more about what the country offers in terms of language, culture, and more! This section also talks about how to stay safe in Brazil.

Application Process

Learn more about how to apply through Brazil's national application portal, as well as the entry exam for courses taught in Portuguese.

Programs

Ready to look at education in Brazil? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Brazil today!

Keystone Team

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The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.