The Brazilian Government Scholarship 2025–26 offers fully funded study opportunities to international students from developing countries. The GCUB International Mobility Program (GCUB-Mob), organized by the International Cooperation Group of Brazilian Universities (GCUB), offers over 880 Master’s and Doctoral scholarships for international students, with academic programs beginning in 2026.
Supported by several global and regional organizations, the Brazilian Government Scholarship program aims to foster academic excellence and international cooperation. It is open to high-achieving students from all continents and includes opportunities at 60 Brazilian universities. Applications open on June 5, 2025, and close at 11:59 pm (BRT) on July 13, 2025.
Universities / Institutions
- Funded By: International Cooperation Group of Brazilian Universities (GCUB)
- Host University: Brazilian Universities
- Host Country: Brazil
- Degree level: Master’s, PhD
- Duration:
- Master’s: 2 years
- PhD: 3–4 years
This scholarship allows admission into several public universities across Brazil, including:
- University of São Paulo (USP) – São Paulo (Ranked #1 in Brazil)
- University of Campinas (UNICAMP) – Campinas
- Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) – Rio de Janeiro
- Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) – Belo Horizonte
These universities are known for their academic excellence, research innovation, and diverse programs.
Study Areas
You can choose from a wide range of fields, such as:
- Engineering and Technology
- Natural and Environmental Sciences
- Medicine and Public Health
- Social Sciences
- Arts and Humanities
- Agriculture and Veterinary Science
- Economics and Business
Brazilian Government Scholarship Benefits
- Tuition Fees: Full exemption from tuition and enrollment fees.
- Monthly Scholarship:
- Master’s: Paid for up to 24 months.
- Doctorate: Paid for up to 48 months.
- Funded by the host university, matching national postgraduate standards.
- Access to Facilities: Libraries, labs, classrooms, and university restaurants on equal terms with other students.
- Promotion of university internationalization
- Strong global cooperation
- Improved academic and professional skills
Benefits Not Included
However, the scholarship does not cover:
- International travel expenses
- Personal expenses outside of monthly stipend
- Accommodation setup costs on arrival
- Travel during holidays or semester breaks
Eligibilities for Brazilian Government Scholarship
To apply, you must:
- Must be from a country with diplomatic ties to Brazil and not hold Brazilian nationality.
- Be physically and mentally fit for studies.
- Be able to fund expenses not covered (e.g., airfare, visa, insurance).
- Indicate desired level: Master’s or Doctorate.
- Provide proof of undergraduate degree for all levels; master’s degree required for some PhDs.
- Apply to up to 5 different programs at different universities (preferably in different regions).
- Hold a valid secondary school certificate or equivalent for undergrad; bachelor’s degree for master’s
- Pre-Funding: Students must cover their own expenses until the first scholarship payment.
Arrival Requirement: Students must:
- Open a bank account in Brazil.
- Present valid insurance (covering medical, lab, hospital, and funeral repatriation).
- Show valid visa/residence permit documents.
- Complete formal registration at the university.
- Submit all documentation to GCUB within 45 days or risk cancellation.
Required Documents (PDF Format, Uploaded Online)
- Passport or national ID.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Undergraduate diploma or certificate of completion.
- Master’s diploma (if required by the doctoral program).
- Two essays per chosen program:
- Essay 1: Academic/professional expectations (max 1,000 words).
- Essay 2: Research proposal (max 4,000 words), including:
- Theme, justification, objectives, literature, methods, timeline, references.
- Proof of university employment (only for teaching staff).
- If selected, official Portuguese translations may be requested.
Important Notes
- One application only per candidate. Duplicate submissions result in disqualification.
- Application is free, done only via the online platform.
- Candidates are responsible for accuracy of all information.
- Originals may be requested later.
- Late or incomplete applications are rejected without exception.
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Brazilian Government Scholarship Application Process
Follow these steps to apply successfully:
- Visit the official portal and check eligibility and program availability
- Choose your desired course and university
- Fill out the online application and upload all required documents
- Submit before the deadline
- Wait for selection and interview (if applicable)
- Receive the acceptance letter and begin visa process
Selection Process (3 Phases)
- Document Review:
- GCUB checks completeness and validity.
- Incomplete or late submissions are eliminated.
- Merit & Program Review:
- Host universities evaluate applications.
- Programs pre-approve up to 4x the number of slots.
- Geographic diversity may influence selections.
- Final Selection:
- Advisory Committee ranks and allocates candidates.
- Criteria: country distribution, HDI, academic merit, gender balance, teaching status.
- Final decisions are non-negotiable and cannot be appealed.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early and gather your documents ahead of time
- Write a compelling statement of purpose
- Choose a study field that aligns with your background
- Ensure your academic transcripts are certified and translated
- Demonstrate a strong motivation to return and contribute to your home country
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
On average, international students in Brazil spend around:
- $300–$500/month in smaller cities
- $600–$800/month in major cities like São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro
This includes housing, food, transport, and basic utilities.
Why Should You Choose This Opportunity?
This scholarship is more than just financial aid—it opens doors to world-class education, cultural immersion, and a gateway to Latin America. You’ll gain access to high-quality academic resources while learning Portuguese, networking globally, and preparing for a successful international career. Plus, it encourages cultural exchange and development partnerships between Brazil and your country.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Do I need to speak Portuguese before applying?
Not necessarily. Many universities offer a preparatory Portuguese course before the academic term starts.
Q2. Can I apply for a postgraduate degree if I already studied in Brazil?
No. This scholarship is for first-time international students in Brazilian institutions.
Q3. Are there any age restrictions?
Yes. Undergraduate applicants must be under 25, and postgraduate applicants under 35.
Q4. Can I work while studying?
Part-time work is allowed under Brazilian law, but scholarship holders must prioritize their studies.
Q5. Is TOEFL or IELTS required?
No. English proficiency is not mandatory as most programs are in Portuguese. Portuguese proficiency may be required later.
Official Link for More Details and Application
Call for Applications: GCUB-Mob Nº 001/2025
Access the Brazilian Government Scholarship portal here (search for “PEC-G” or “PEC-PG” programs under education)
