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BRAZIL · RIO DE JANEIRO

Federal University of Rio de Janeiro

public · Founded 1920 · Languages: en, pt, es, fr

In short

The Federal University of Rio de Janeiro is a tuition-free public university in Brazil, highly ranked in Latin America. It offers a vibrant academic and cultural experience in Rio de Janeiro, primarily through exchange programs.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1920
Students: 67,329
International students: 1,500
Acceptance rate: 20%
Tuition (intl): €1–2k/yr
Languages: EN, PT, ES, FR
Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) is a prominent public institution in Brazil, with a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. Renowned for its significant scientific, cultural, and artistic contributions, UFRJ is consistently ranked among the top universities in Latin America. The university operates across multiple campuses and faculties throughout Rio de Janeiro State, encompassing numerous institutes, schools, museums, and hospitals. A unique feature is its third-largest ocean basin globally, dedicated to research in offshore oil exploration, reflecting strong partnerships with national and multinational enterprises. UFRJ fosters a global outlook, maintaining cooperative relationships with over 200 international institutions worldwide. It actively participates in exchange programs for students from partner universities, aiming to provide a comprehensive and internationally connected academic experience.

Why study here

Study at a highly-ranked university in Brazil and Latin America.
Benefit from extensive research facilities, including a world-leading ocean basin for oil exploration research.
Engage in a globally connected academic environment with over 200 international partnerships.
Experience the rich cultural life and natural beauty of Rio de Janeiro, a city known for its music, festivals, and warm atmosphere.
Access free Portuguese conversation classes for exchange students to improve language skills.

Student life

Student life at UFRJ is enriched by its setting in Rio de Janeiro, a city that offers a unique combination of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Beyond academics, students can enjoy the city's beaches, mountains, and forests. Rio is globally recognized as the birthplace of samba and Carnaval, hosting numerous international music festivals, art exhibitions, and plays. The university itself provides various institutes, schools, museums, and hospitals, fostering a dynamic environment for both study and personal development. The university also organizes events like 'Welcome Day' for new international students, helping them integrate into the academic and social community.

Fees

InternationalTuition-free for all students, including international exchange students, at this public federal university

Home—

LivingLiving costs in Rio de Janeiro of roughly EUR 6,000-10,000 per year

While specific tuition fees for international students were not provided, the university offers fee-based Portuguese language courses through its CLAC language school. Students are advised to investigate living costs in Rio de Janeiro, which can vary based on individual lifestyle.

Admissions

Exchange ProgramStudents must contact the international office of their home institution to qualify for an exchange experience at UFRJ.

Language of InstructionAll courses are offered in Portuguese.

Portuguese ProficiencyMost schools and institutes accept exchange students with an A1 proficiency level in Portuguese. This may vary depending on specific courses. It is advisable to consult the incoming students officer for detailed information.

Rankings

QS Rankings – 20183rd in Brazil

QS Rankings – 20187th in Latin America

Accreditation

Federal institution, accredited by the Brazilian Ministry of Education.

Programs

a selection

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Federal University of Rio de Janeiro · Brazil

MBA in Artificial Intelligence (Distance Learning)

The MBA in Artificial Intelligence (EAD-IA) is a postgraduate program designed for professionals seeking to leverage the power of data science and AI in their business strategies. In the 21st century, the exponential growth of digital data offers significant opportunities for data-driven decision-making and fostering innovation. This program equips students with the fundamental knowledge of AI and data science techniques to develop innovative solutions applicable across various industries. It combines a strong theoretical foundation with practical case studies and exercises, demonstrating how industry experts utilize data to solve complex business challenges. The curriculum is delivered by specialized faculty with deep theoretical knowledge and extensive industry experience, who will guide students through the opportunities and challenges of applying AI and data science in the business world.

Scholarships

for Brazil

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full funding

TWAS / National Council for Scientific and Technological Development of Brazil (CNPq)

TWAS-CNPq Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme

For researchers from developing countries (other than Brazil) who hold a PhD and wish to carry out postdoctoral research at a research institution in Brazil. Applicants apply through TWAS for a placement, with a host institution in Brazil, under the TWAS-CNPq partnership.

Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE), CAPES, and CNPq

Brazil PEC-PG Scholarship Programme

For citizens of developing countries that have educational or cultural cooperation agreements with Brazil, who hold the required degree and admission to a Brazilian graduate programme. Applicants apply through the Brazilian embassy/diplomatic mission in their home country and must commit to returning home after study.

Wellcome Trust Fellowships and Grants (for international researchers)

For researchers at different career stages working on health-related science. Wellcome funds a family of fellowships and grants — early-career, career-development, and discovery awards, plus team and translational funding — each with its own eligibility, value, and call deadline. There is no single scholarship application; you apply to the specific scheme that fits your stage and project.

Wellcome International Training Fellowships

For early-career researchers based in low- and middle-income countries (outside the high-income world) who want protected time and support for research training in health, often including a PhD or postdoctoral research. Wellcome's scheme names and exact criteria change over time, so applicants should check the current relevant Wellcome funding scheme.

European Commission - European Research Executive Agency (REA)

Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions Postdoctoral Fellowships

Open to researchers of any nationality who hold a PhD (or will have defended their doctoral thesis by the call deadline) and have at most 8 years of full-time-equivalent research experience after the PhD. Applicants apply jointly with a host organisation - a university, research institution, business, SME, or other body based in an EU Member State or a country associated to Horizon Europe. European Postdoctoral Fellowships are open to all nationalities for a project inside the EU or an associated country; Global Postdoctoral Fellowships are reserved for EU nationals or long-term residents who carry out a phase in a third country before returning to Europe. Researchers who have been displaced by conflict and those restarting a research career after a break are explicitly encouraged to apply.

Rotary Peace Fellowships

For professionals committed to peace and development, with relevant work experience and (for the master's) a strong academic background and proficiency in English. Applicants apply through their local Rotary district and are selected globally by The Rotary Foundation for study at a Rotary Peace Center.

Frequently asked questions

What are the tuition fees for international students at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro?

The Federal University of Rio de Janeiro is a public federal university and offers tuition-free education for all students, including international exchange students. While tuition is free, students should plan for living costs in Rio de Janeiro.

How does UFRJ facilitate international student admissions?

UFRJ primarily welcomes international students through its established exchange programs with partner higher education institutions. The university does not accept 'free mover' applications.

What is the language of instruction at UFRJ?

All courses at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro are offered in Portuguese. While most schools accept exchange students with A1 Portuguese proficiency, it is advisable to confirm specific course requirements.

Does UFRJ offer support for international students to learn Portuguese?

Yes, UFRJ provides free Portuguese conversation classes for all undergraduate exchange students. Additionally, their language school, CLAC, offers fee-based intensive and regular Portuguese as a Foreign Language courses.

What kind of research facilities does UFRJ offer?

UFRJ boasts significant research facilities, including the largest ocean basin globally dedicated to research in offshore oil exploration. This highlights strong collaborations with national and multinational enterprises.

Last updated 30 June 2026