University of Brasília
Brasília, 🇧🇷 Brazil Public
#8 National #751 QS World
#8 National #751 QS World #801 THE #701 ARWU
Founded 1962 48,045 students Multiple Campuses $1.0k/yr
About University of Brasília
The University of Brasília (UnB) is a federal public university located in Brasília, the capital of Brazil. Founded in 1962, UnB is recognized for its commitment to producing, integrating, and disseminating knowledge, and for educating citizens dedicated to ethics, social responsibility, and sustainable development. It consistently ranks among the top universities in Brazil and Latin America.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Highlights
- Top-ranked Brazilian federal university
- Oscar Niemeyer designed campus
- Strong in International Affairs, Law
- Supports international student integration
- Comprehensive academic programs
Subject Areas
Political ScienceInternational RelationsSociologyAnthropology
Student Life & Support
Visa Support Campus Housing Work Placements Sports Facilities Disability Support Scholarships Available
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Programs Offered at University of Brasília (20)
Offers programs in:
Bachelor Programs (10)
Architecture and Urbanism
STEM
Architecture
Architecture
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60 months Portuguese Full-time
Civil Engineering
STEM
Civil Engineering
Civil Engineering
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60 months Portuguese Full-time
Computer Science
STEM
Computer Science
Computer Science
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48 months Portuguese Full-time
Economics
STEM
Economics
Economics
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48 months Portuguese Full-time
International Relations
International Relations
International Relations
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48 months Portuguese Full-time
Journalism
Journalism
Journalism
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48 months Portuguese Full-time
Law
Law
Law
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60 months Portuguese Full-time
Medicine
STEM
Medicine
Medicine
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72 months Portuguese Full-time
Psychology
Psychology
Psychology
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60 months Portuguese Full-time
Visual Arts
Visual Arts
Visual Arts
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48 months Portuguese Full-time
Master Programs (5)
Master in Computer Science
STEM
Computer Science
Computer Science
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24 months Portuguese Full-time
Master in Economics
STEM
Economics
Economics
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24 months Portuguese Full-time
Master in Education
Education
Education
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24 months Portuguese Full-time
Master in Law
Law
Law
brazilgraduatejurisprudencelawlegal
24 months Portuguese Full-time
Master in Public Health
STEM
Public Health
Public Health
brazilgraduatehealthmamaster
24 months Portuguese Full-time
PhD Programs (5)
PhD in Computer Science
STEM
Computer Science
Computer Science
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48 months Portuguese Full-time
PhD in Economics
STEM
Economics
Economics
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48 months Portuguese Full-time
PhD in Education
Education
Education
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48 months Portuguese Full-time
PhD in Law
Law
Law
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48 months Portuguese Full-time
PhD in Public Health
STEM
Public Health
Public Health
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48 months Portuguese Full-time
University of Brasília Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate
3+ GPA
Acceptance Rate Very Selective (<20%)
Intakes Spring, Fall
Application Deadline November 1st (for March-July semester), April 1st (for August-December semester)
Tuition (per year) $1.0k/yr
Housing (monthly) ~$600
Teaching Language Portuguese
Accreditation
Ministério da Educação, Brazil
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Frequently Asked Questions About University of Brasília
Common questions from international students considering University of Brasília.
What is the acceptance rate at University of Brasília?
University of Brasília is classified as "Very Selective (<20%)" by admissions selectivity. Acceptance rates vary by program — competitive programs and graduate degrees typically have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs.
How much does University of Brasília cost for international students?
Tuition at University of Brasília ranges from $1.0k/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing (approximately $600/month), books, and living expenses.
What is University of Brasília ranked globally?
University of Brasília holds the following rankings: QS World #751, Times Higher Education #801, ARWU #701, #8 in Brazil. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.
Are scholarships available at University of Brasília?
Yes, University of Brasília offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.
When does University of Brasília start its semesters?
University of Brasília has intakes starting in Spring, Fall. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.
What programs does University of Brasília offer?
University of Brasília offers 20+ academic programs across multiple disciplines including Arts & Design, Computer Science, Education, Engineering. Programs are available at Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral levels.
Where is University of Brasília located?
University of Brasília is located in Brasília, Brazil 🇧🇷. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.
What are the admission requirements for University of Brasília?
For specific details about University of Brasília, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
How does University of Brasília compare to other universities?
University of Brasília is a strong choice that compares favorably to peer institutions (QS World #751). Each university has different strengths — we recommend comparing specific programs, location, cost, and graduate outcomes for your field rather than overall rankings alone.
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