Rio de Janeiro Studying
Reasons to Study in Rio de Janeiro
Study in Rio de Janeiro provides access to Rio’s breathtaking natural setting between pristine beaches and coastal mountains and its carnival celebrations and samba festivals. What many don’t realize is Rio’s importance in education, culture, and the arts. For study in Rio de Janeiro, the city has numerous public and private universities. The top rated universities in Rio are the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) and the Jesuit run Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro (PUC-Rio) both are among the top schools in Brazil and South America.
Direct Admission to Rio’s Universities
Direct admission to study in Rio de Janeiro is, unfortunately, for many foreigners virtually impossible to gain unless you are a native of a Latin American country or a citizen of certain developing nations in Asia or Africa. The cause of this impediment is that any applicant to a Brazilian university must pass entrance examinations (vestibulares) open only to those with a Brazilian identification card.
Transfer Students in Rio de Janeiro
Fortunately, admission is not impossible because alternatives are available. If you have successfully completed at least two academic semesters at a similar institution in your country, you can apply to study in Rio de Janeiro as a transfer student. You must still pass a language examination, which may be done on-line; but the entrance exam is not necessary. Acceptance is dependent on the availability of openings. When sending an application to study in Rio de Janeiro, remember that in Brazil the academic year begins during the first week of February so you should apply by September.
Exchange Students in Rio de Janeiro
Finally, if you are presently attending a school which has an exchange student agreement with Brazil, you could apply for study in Rio de Janeiro as an exchange student. Both PUC-Rio and UFRJ have exchange agreements throughout the world. Consult your International Studies Department and follow your school’s application procedures. Participation in these programs will generally be in the summer break or for a full year. In certain cases, fluency in Portuguese is not required but highly recommended.
Cost of Studies at Rio’s Universities
The federal universities in Brazil have free tuition while the private universities do not. Student exchange costs will mirror the costs for the same period at your home university. The cost of studying depends on the subjects chosen. Consult the universities’ websites for costs. If necessary, two good places to look for funds to study in Rio de Janeiro are the International Educational Finance Corp. (IEFC) and the International Student Loan Program (ISLP).
Brazil’s Visa Requirements
To study in Brazil, you need to apply for a student visa. If not an exchange student, you will need proof of sufficient funds/grants to cover your expenses and health insurance.
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