University of Brasília
Brazil's Capital of Knowledge.
📍 Brasília, Brazil 🇧🇷
🏆 #8 in Brazil · QS World #751 · THE World #801 · ARWU #701
Quick Facts about University of Brasília
- Founded: 1962
- Type: Public
- Students: 48,045
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: Up to $1,010/year
- Language: Portuguese
- Intakes: Spring, Fall
About University of Brasília
Academics
UnB offers a comprehensive range of academic programs across various fields, including Agricultural Sciences, Applied Social Sciences, Biological Sciences, Earth and Exact Sciences, Engineering and Technology, Health Sciences, Humanities, and Linguistics, Language and Arts. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in International Affairs, Law, Anthropology, Political Science, Social Sciences, Mathematics, and Economics. With 26 faculties and schools, and 18 specialized research centers, UnB provides a robust environment for both undergraduate and graduate studies, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches and research initiatives.
International Students
The International Affairs Office (INT) at UnB is dedicated to supporting international students, facilitating exchange programs, and promoting cultural integration. UnB offers admission pathways for international students through exchange programs and the Program for Undergraduate Students (PEC-G), designed for students from developing countries. While Portuguese is the primary language of instruction, the university offers free Portuguese classes for exchange students to aid in their cultural and academic integration. The university also has a "Buddy Program" to help new international students adapt to university life.
Campus & Location
The University of Brasília's main campus, Darcy Ribeiro, is a testament to modernist architecture, with iconic buildings designed by Oscar Niemeyer. Located on the northwestern banks of Lake Paranoá, the campus offers green spaces for relaxation and study. Brasília itself is a unique planned city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its modernist architecture and urban planning. The city offers a distinct urban experience with various cultural institutions, parks, and recreational areas, though it is spread out, making transportation a key consideration. Public transportation, including buses and a metro, is available, and students can apply for a free transportation card.
Career Outcomes
UnB emphasizes research and innovation, with over 500 research groups and a strong focus on developing solutions in various fields. The university's Innovation Agency promotes business incubation and entrepreneurship, fostering a startup culture and facilitating technology transfer to both private and public sectors. Graduates from UnB are well-prepared for diverse roles, with specific programs like the Postgraduate Program in Transport aiming to equip students for careers in urban planning, transportation engineering, and logistics management. The university's strong industry connections and career services aim to provide students with valuable opportunities and support for their professional development.
Information for International Students at University of Brasília
University of Brasília in Brasília, Brazil welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available (~$600/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: Portuguese
Admissions Requirements for University of Brasília
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Brasília:
- GPA minimum: 3
- Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%)
- Application deadline: November 1st (for March-July semester), April 1st (for August-December semester)
Programs at University of Brasília (3 programs)
University of Brasília offers 3 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (1)
- Economics (BSc) — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM
The Economics program provides students with a strong understanding of economic theories, models, and policies, analyzing how societies allocate resources. It covers microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and international economics.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Policy Advisor, Market Researcher
Master Programs (1)
- Master in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · STEM
This Master's program deepens knowledge in advanced computer science topics, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and software engineering. Students engage in research and develop innovative solutions.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, AI Researcher, Data Scientist, IT Consultant
PhD Programs (1)
- PhD in Economics (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM
This PhD program prepares students for academic and research careers in economics. It involves advanced coursework, original research, and the completion of a doctoral dissertation contributing new knowledge to economic theory or empirical analysis.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Economic Researcher, Central Bank Economist, International Organization Specialist
Scholarships & Tuition at University of Brasília
Annual tuition for international students: Up to $1,010/year
✅ University of Brasília offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of University of Brasília
- National Ranking: #8 in Brazil
- QS World University Ranking: #751
- Times Higher Education (THE): #801
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #701
- Ranking tier: Unranked
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at University of Brasília
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
- Housing cost: ~$600/month
Key Highlights
- Top-ranked Brazilian federal university
- Oscar Niemeyer designed campus
- Strong in International Affairs, Law
- Supports international student integration
- Comprehensive academic programs
Accreditation
- Ministério da Educação, Brazil
Fields of Study at University of Brasília
- Political Science
- International Relations
- Sociology
- Anthropology
Notable Alumni
- Marina Silva
- Cristovam Buarque
- Roberto Azevêdo
- Ana Paula Padrão
- Dado Villa-Lobos
Frequently Asked Questions about University of Brasília
What is University of Brasília?
University of Brasília is a public university located in Brasília, Brazil, founded in 1962. It has approximately 48,045 students.
How much does it cost to study at University of Brasília?
Tuition fees at University of Brasília for international students range from Up to $1,010/year. Student housing costs approximately $600/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for University of Brasília?
GPA minimum: 3. Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%). Application deadline: November 1st (for March-July semester), April 1st (for August-December semester).
What language are courses taught in at University of Brasília?
Courses at University of Brasília are taught in Portuguese.
How many programs does University of Brasília offer?
University of Brasília offers 3 programs: 1 Bachelor's, 1 Master's, and 1 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is University of Brasília ranked?
#8 in Brazil · QS World #751 · THE World #801 · ARWU #701.
Does University of Brasília offer scholarships?
Yes, University of Brasília offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does University of Brasília provide visa support?
Yes, University of Brasília provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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