Frequently Asked Questions

I am an undergraduate student and I would like to study at UFRGS. What procedures should I follow?

Students interested in studying at UFRGS should fill out the application form for student visitors (Formulário de Candidatura para Aluno Visitante) and send it to Relinter, with the following attachments: University transcripts, a copy of your passport and a brief description of the disciplines you have completed at your institution. The documents will be analyzed and, if accepted, a Letter of Acceptance will be sent by mail. Here you can find more information about the application process.

I am a graduate student and I would like to study at UFRGS. What procedures should I follow?

Relinter only works with academic mobility of undergraduate students. International students who want to do their graduate studies at UFRGS should contact Pró-Reitoria de Pós-Graduação (propg@propg.ufrgs.br) or directly contact the teaching units where they want to study. The contacts can be found at http://www.ufrgs.br/propg/programas/programas.htm.

I want to learn or to improve my Portuguese. Is there a Portuguese as a foreign language course at UFRGS?

UFRGS offers a Portuguese as a foreign language course for international students for affordable prices. The course is offered for students who want to learn Portuguese, as well as for those who want to improve their proficiency in the language, providing a better foundation for classroom activity. The Portuguese as a foreign language course at UFRGS is an experience that surpasses academic structure, encouraging students to participate in dynamic extra-curricular activities that provide cultural immersion. The applications of those interested are received by the Institute of Language and Literature. For further information about the Portuguese as a foreign language program at UFRGS, contact the program coordinators by e-mail at ileppe@ufrgs.br or by phone: +55 51 33086690.

How much do I have to pay to study at UFRGS?

UFRGS is a federal university, public and free of charge, therefore, accepted students do not have to pay tuition. However, some parallel activities are of charge, such as the Portuguese as a foreign language course, as well as cultural activities, lunch at the cafeteria, housing, and so on.

Is my institution in Cooperation with UFRGS?

UFRGS has cooperation agreements with several public and private institutions around the world. You can check here to see if your institution is in cooperation with UFRGS.

Does this mean I cannot study at UFRGS?

UFRGS will receive applications from all students; however, those students coming from universities in cooperation with UFRGS will have preference. Feel free to contact us if you have any doubts about this subject.

Does UFRGS offer scholarships for international students?

Students from developing countries with which Brazil has cooperation agreements in educational and cultural fields may seek information about the programs PEC-G and PEC-PG in Brazil's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, MRE: http://www.dce.mre.gov.br/PEC/apresentacao.html.
Graduate students may consult the possibility of scholarships directly with UFRGS' Graduate programs: http://www.ufrgs.br/pos.

Is there student housing on the UFRGS campi?

UFRGS has three student housing units, however, they are only available for low-income Brazilian students and international students from the Escala program.

Is there a cafeteria at UFRGS?

UFRGS has five cafeterias with varied menus, elaborated by nutritionists. The prices are subsidized and the meal costs R$1,60 with juice.

Can I practice sports at UFRGS?

The Campus Olímpico offers several classes in different sports for all international students free of cost. Several activities are offered with professors’ supervision (bodybuilding, water sports, synchronized swimming, dance, olympic gymnastics, collective sports and wrestling). A timetable with activities and sports is available for request.

In which language are classes given?

Even though there is no requirement for students to prove their proficiency in Portuguese, it is important for students to know that classes are taught in Portuguese. Many international students choose to enroll at the Portuguese as a foreign language course to improve their knowledge and proficiency.