GCUB Brazil International Mobility Scholarship 2027 (Fully Funded) – Complete Guide for International Students. Click here for more fully funded scholarships.
Are you looking for a fully funded scholarship to study in Brazil, one of Latin America’s most vibrant and culturally rich countries? The GCUB Brazil International Mobility Scholarship 2027 is an extraordinary opportunity that allows international students to study at Brazilian universities with full financial support, opening doors to a world-class education in the heart of South America.
Offered through the Groupe Coimbra des Universités Brésiliennes (GCUB) in partnership with the Brazilian government and CAPES—Brazil’s federal agency for postgraduate education—this scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, and more. It is one of the best education financing options available for students who want to experience Brazilian higher education without the burden of an education loan without collateral.
In this complete guide, we walk you through everything — eligibility, benefits, application process, student visa application process for Brazil, and the long-term PR pathway options available after your studies.
Quick Overview of the GCUB Brazil Scholarship 2027
Here is a fast-reference summary of the most important details about this fully funded international mobility scholarship.
Fully Funded UNICEF Internship Program 2026
| Detail | Information |
| Scholarship Name | GCUB Brazil International Mobility Scholarship |
| Organizing Body | Groupe Coimbra des Universités Brésiliennes (GCUB) with CAPES support |
| Host Country | Brazil |
| Scholarship Year | 2027 |
| Degree Levels | Undergraduate (mobility), Master’s, PhD, and Postdoctoral research |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Eligible Applicants | International students from eligible partner countries |
| Language of Study | Portuguese (language course included for some programs) |
| Application Deadline | Check official GCUB portal (typically early 2027) |
What is the GCUB Brazil International Mobility Scholarship?
The GCUB (Groupe Coimbra des Universités Brésiliennes) is a consortium of leading Brazilian federal universities that collaborates with international academic institutions to promote student mobility and academic exchange. The GCUB scholarship program is one of Brazil’s most important international student attraction initiatives.
This fully funded scholarship allows international students to study in Brazil at the undergraduate mobility, master’s, doctoral, or postdoctoral level. It is funded through a partnership between GCUB member universities, CAPES (Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior), and in some cycles, the Brazilian Ministry of Education.
For international students who want to study in Latin America, this scholarship represents one of the most generous and comprehensive packages available—covering tuition, a monthly stipend, accommodation support, and health insurance, all without requiring the student to arrange a tuition fee transfer abroad or seek an education loan without collateral from private lenders.
Why Study in Brazil with the GCUB Scholarship?
Brazil is the largest country in South America and one of the most academically dynamic nations in the developing world. Its federal universities—the backbone of GCUB—are among the highest-ranked in Latin America and produce world-class research across medicine, engineering, agriculture, environmental science, social sciences, and more.
Studying in Brazil also gives you exposure to one of the world’s most spoken languages—Portuguese—and positions you competitively for careers across Latin America, Portugal, and African Portuguese-speaking countries. For students working with an education consultant for Brazil or a study abroad consultant near me, Brazil consistently emerges as a top recommendation for students seeking quality education with low financial barriers.
Beyond academics, Brazil offers an unparalleled cultural, natural, and social experience. From the Amazon rainforest to world-famous cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Curitiba, life in Brazil as an international student is as enriching outside the classroom as inside it.
Top Reasons to Apply for the GCUB Scholarship 2027
- 100% fully funded — covers tuition, stipend, accommodation, and health insurance
- Available at multiple academic levels — undergraduate mobility, master’s, PhD, and postdoc
- Study at Brazil’s leading federal universities, ranked among the best in Latin America
- No IELTS or TOEFL required—Portuguese language courses may be included
- Visa sponsorship for international students facilitated through official Brazilian channels
- Strong research culture with access to cutting-edge laboratories and academic resources
- Gateway to a potential PR pathway and skilled worker visa in Brazil after graduation
- Build a global network across the Coimbra Group’s international university partnership
Full Scholarship Benefits and Financial Coverage
The GCUB Brazil International Mobility Scholarship 2027 is genuinely fully funded, meaning it eliminates the need for expensive personal financial arrangements. This makes it one of the strongest education financing options available for international students interested in South America.
Students do not need to worry about education loans without collateral arrangements, complex tuition fee transfer abroad processes, or other costly financial preparation typically required for international study.
UNDP Digital AI and Innovation Internship 2026 (PAID)
What the GCUB Scholarship Covers
| Benefit | Details |
| Tuition Fees | Full waiver of tuition and enrollment fees at the host Brazilian university |
| Monthly Stipend (Undergraduate Mobility) | Approximately BRL 1,350 – 2,000 per month |
| Monthly Stipend (Master’s) | Approximately BRL 2,200 per month |
| Monthly Stipend (PhD) | Approximately BRL 3,300 per month |
| Monthly Stipend (Postdoc) | Approximately BRL 4,100 per month |
| Student Accommodation Brazil | University housing or housing assistance provided at host institution |
| International Student Health Insurance | Health insurance coverage for the duration of the scholarship |
| Portuguese Language Course | A preparatory Portuguese language course available at select GCUB universities |
| Research Allowance | Additional funding for research activities (for PhD and postdoc recipients) |
Eligibility Criteria for the GCUB Brazil Scholarship 2027
Understanding the eligibility requirements is the essential first step before beginning your application. The GCUB scholarship targets international students from specific partner countries who demonstrate academic excellence and a genuine commitment to their field of study.
Many students consult an education consultant for Brazil or a university admission consultant before applying to verify their eligibility and strengthen their application. Here is a detailed breakdown of who qualifies.
Core Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
| Nationality | Must be a citizen of an eligible partner country (non-Brazilian; check official GCUB list) |
| Academic Level – Undergraduate | Must be enrolled in an undergraduate program at a GCUB partner university abroad |
| Academic Level – Master’s | Must hold a recognized bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution |
| Academic Level – PhD | Must hold a recognized master’s degree or equivalent |
| Academic Level – Postdoc | Must hold a PhD and have a formal research collaboration with a Brazilian university |
| Academic Performance | Strong academic record; typically above-average GPA or equivalent |
| Language | Portuguese proficiency required or willingness to complete language preparation course |
| Host Institution Acceptance | Must have acceptance or pre-acceptance from a GCUB member university in Brazil |
| Age | No strict age limit for most levels; postdoc candidates should be within 7 years of PhD completion |
Eligible Partner Countries
The GCUB scholarship prioritizes students from countries that have formal academic partnerships with GCUB member universities. These typically include countries from Europe (through the Coimbra Group connection), Africa, Latin America, and select countries from Asia and the Middle East.
Common eligible regions include France, Belgium, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Poland, and other European countries with Coimbra Group university affiliations. Students from Africa — particularly Portuguese-speaking nations like Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, and Guinea-Bissau — are also frequently included. An international student recruitment agency with Brazil expertise can help confirm if your country is currently eligible for the 2027 cycle.
GCUB Member Universities in Brazil
One of the most compelling aspects of the GCUB scholarship is the quality of Brazilian universities in the network. GCUB member institutions are all public federal or state universities—the most prestigious in Brazil—offering world-class programs across virtually every academic field.
Selecting the right university and program is a critical step in your application strategy. Working with an education consultant for Brazil or a study abroad consultant near me with knowledge of Brazilian academia can help you identify the best academic fit for your background and goals.
Romania ARICE Scholarship (Fully Funded BS, MS, PhD) 2026
Leading GCUB Member Universities
| University | City / State | Known For |
| Universidade de São Paulo (USP) | São Paulo, SP | Brazil’s top-ranked university: medicine, engineering, law, sciences |
| Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) | Rio de Janeiro, RJ | Engineering, medicine, arts, social sciences |
| Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP) | Campinas, SP | Technology, sciences, medicine, humanities |
| Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG) | Belo Horizonte, MG | Health sciences, engineering, education, law |
| Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) | Porto Alegre, RS | Agriculture, environmental science, computing, social sciences |
| Universidade de Brasília (UnB) | Brasília, DF | International relations, law, social sciences, health |
| Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC) | Florianópolis, SC | Engineering, technology, marine sciences, humanities |
How to Apply for the GCUB Brazil Scholarship 2027
The application process for the GCUB Brazil International Mobility Scholarship 2027 requires careful planning and attention to detail. Most successful applicants begin preparing their materials 6 to 12 months before the expected application window opens. Many students work with a university admission consultant or international student recruitment agency with Brazil experience throughout this process.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Identify Your Target GCUB University and Program
Your first task is identifying which GCUB member university and program best matches your academic background and career goals. Visit the official websites of GCUB member universities and explore their postgraduate or undergraduate mobility programs in your field.
For postdoctoral researchers, you must identify a specific research group or supervisor at a Brazilian GCUB university who is willing to host your research. An education consultant for Brazil or a study abroad consultant near me with Brazilian university connections can greatly accelerate this process.
Step 2: Contact Your Prospective Host Institution
Before applying for the scholarship, it is strongly recommended — and for some levels required — to contact the host university directly and obtain a letter of pre-acceptance or intent to host. This letter demonstrates that a Brazilian academic institution has reviewed your profile and is interested in hosting you.
For PhD and postdoctoral applicants, this step also involves identifying a specific supervisor who will guide your research in Brazil. Building this relationship early — ideally months before the application deadline — is one of the most important steps in a competitive GCUB application.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application Documents
The GCUB scholarship requires a comprehensive set of documents. Many require certified translation into Portuguese, which takes time and planning. Here is the complete document checklist.
ICSID Internship in the USA at the World Bank Group in Washington, D.C
| Document | Details |
| Completed GCUB Application Form | Official form from the GCUB/CAPES portal |
| Curriculum Vitae (CV) | Academic and professional CV in Portuguese or English |
| Motivation Letter | Personal statement explaining your study goals and choice of Brazil and your host university |
| Research or Study Plan | Detailed academic or research plan for your stay in Brazil (especially for PhD/postdoc) |
| Academic Transcripts | Certified copies with Portuguese translation if required |
| Degree Certificates | Notarized copies of all relevant academic degrees |
| Host Institution Letter | Pre-acceptance or invitation letter from the GCUB member university in Brazil |
| Letters of Recommendation | Typically 2-3 letters from professors, supervisors, or research mentors |
| Language Certificate (if available) | Portuguese proficiency certificate (CELPE-Bras) or equivalent; not always mandatory |
| Passport Copy | Valid passport with at least 12 months validity |
| Publications List (PhD/Postdoc) | List of academic papers, conference presentations, and other research outputs |
Step 4: Submit Through the Official GCUB/CAPES Portal
Applications are submitted through the official GCUB and CAPES online portals. Create your profile, fill in all required fields, and upload your documents before the deadline. Ensure all documents are clearly labeled, in the correct format, and complete.
Many applicants who work with an education consultant for Brazil or a university admission consultant complete this submission process without errors — a critical advantage given that incomplete applications are disqualified immediately. Immigration attorney consultation services can also help verify that your submitted documents are correctly formatted for the Brazilian academic system.
Step 5: Await Selection and Scholarship Notification
After the application deadline, GCUB and CAPES review all submissions and select recipients based on academic merit, research quality, and alignment with Brazil’s academic development priorities. Successful candidates receive formal notification through the portal and are then guided through the student visa application process for Brazil.
Student Visa Application Process for Brazil
Once you receive your GCUB scholarship award, the next critical step is applying for a Brazilian student visa. Brazil requires non-residents to obtain a VITEM IV (Student Visa) for long-term study stays. This is a type D visa that allows you to reside in Brazil for the duration of your scholarship program.
The student visa application process for Brazil is managed through Brazilian embassies and consulates in your home country. The process is generally straightforward with a scholarship letter, but consulting an immigration lawyer in Brazil or immigration consultant in Brazil before applying can help ensure your application is error-free.
Brazilian Student Visa (VITEM IV) – Application Steps
| Step | Action Required |
| 1 | Receive official GCUB scholarship award letter and university enrollment confirmation |
| 2 | Locate the Brazilian Embassy or Consulate in your home country |
| 3 | Complete the visa application form online through the Brazilian government’s visa portal |
| 4 | Schedule a visa appointment and submit all required documents in person |
| 5 | Pay the visa application fee and receive your VITEM IV student visa |
| 6 | Arrive in Brazil and register with the Federal Police (Polícia Federal) within 90 days for your RNE (Registro Nacional de Estrangeiros) |
Documents Required for Brazilian Student Visa
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond intended stay)
- Completed Brazilian visa application form
- GCUB scholarship award letter and university enrollment confirmation
- Proof of student accommodation Brazil or university housing confirmation
- International student health insurance certificate valid for Brazil
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- Proof of financial means (scholarship letter typically satisfies this)
- Criminal record certificate from your home country
Immigration consultant fees for Brazilian student visa applications are generally affordable and worth every cent for peace of mind. Consulting the best immigration law firm in Brazil or an immigration attorney consultation service early in the process can prevent costly delays.
DAAD Weimar Triangle PhD Postdoc Scholarship 2026
Portuguese Language Preparation for GCUB Scholars
One of the most common concerns for international students applying for the GCUB scholarship is the Portuguese language requirement. Most academic programs at Brazilian public universities are taught in Portuguese, and language proficiency is essential for academic success.
The good news is that several GCUB member universities offer intensive Portuguese language preparation courses specifically designed for incoming international scholarship holders. These courses are typically offered at the start of the academic year and run for several weeks to a few months before your main program begins.
Portuguese Language Preparation – Key Facts
| Feature | Details |
| Course Type | Intensive Brazilian Portuguese for academic purposes |
| Duration | Typically 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the host university |
| Cost | Often covered by the scholarship or offered at subsidized rates for GCUB recipients |
| Recognized Certification | CELPE-Bras (Certificate of Proficiency in Portuguese) — internationally recognized |
| Prior Knowledge Required | Some programs welcome complete beginners; others prefer basic Portuguese knowledge |
Even before arriving in Brazil, it is highly recommended to begin learning Portuguese. Free resources like Duolingo, Pimsleur, and Portuguese university MOOCs can give you a head start. Students who speak Spanish, Italian, or French often find Brazilian Portuguese relatively accessible due to linguistic similarities.
Life in Brazil as a GCUB Scholarship Student
Brazil is an incredibly diverse and welcoming country for international students. Each major university city offers a unique lifestyle, academic culture, and natural environment. From the bustling urban energy of São Paulo to the laid-back coastal charm of Florianópolis and the political significance of Brasília, there is something for every kind of student.
As a GCUB scholar, your student accommodation in Brazil is either provided directly through the university’s housing system or through a housing assistance payment that helps you cover private accommodation costs. Most Brazilian federal universities have residential facilities (moradia estudantil) that are available to international scholarship holders at no or minimal cost.
Cost of Living in Major Brazilian University Cities
| City | Estimated Monthly Cost (BRL) | Equivalent (USD approx.) |
| São Paulo | BRL 2,500 – 4,000 | ~$450 – $750 |
| Rio de Janeiro | BRL 2,800 – 4,500 | ~$500 – $850 |
| Campinas | BRL 2,000 – 3,500 | ~$370 – $650 |
| Belo Horizonte | BRL 1,800 – 3,000 | ~$340 – $560 |
| Porto Alegre | BRL 1,700 – 2,800 | ~$320 – $530 |
| Florianópolis | BRL 2,000 – 3,500 | ~$370 – $650 |
| Brasília | BRL 2,200 – 3,800 | ~$410 – $710 |
Given that the GCUB scholarship stipend for master’s students is approximately BRL 2,200 per month and for PhD students around BRL 3,300 per month, most scholarship recipients can cover their basic living costs comfortably—especially since accommodation is either provided or subsidized. For students using relocation services for students offered by their host universities, settling into Brazilian life is typically smooth and well-supported.
International Student Health Insurance in Brazil
Brazil has a public healthcare system called SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) that provides free healthcare to all residents, including foreign nationals with a valid residence registration. As a GCUB scholarship holder with an RNE (Registro Nacional de Estrangeiros), you are entitled to access SUS services.
However, many international students also maintain supplementary international student health insurance for faster access to private healthcare facilities and for coverage during international travel. The GCUB scholarship may include a basic health insurance component — confirm the specific coverage with your host university’s international student office upon arrival.
Post-Study Work Permit and PR Pathway in Brazil
Brazil offers meaningful immigration pathways for international graduates who want to remain and build their careers in the country after completing their studies. Understanding these pathways in advance allows you to plan strategically during your scholarship period.
Brazil’s immigration law (Lei de Migração No. 13.445/2017) introduced a more modern and welcoming framework for skilled worker visa applications and residence permits, making it easier for international graduates to transition from a student visa to a work-based residency status.
Eric Bleumink Fellowship in Netherlands (Fully Funded) 2027
Work Permit After Study in Brazil
After completing your GCUB scholarship program, you can apply for a Brazilian work permit through the Ministry of Justice and Public Security’s immigration portal. The work permit after studying in Brazil is granted on the basis of a valid job offer from a Brazilian employer or, in some cases, through self-employment or freelance professional registration.
Consulting an immigration lawyer in Brazil or an immigration consultant in Brazil immediately after graduation is strongly recommended to explore the most appropriate pathway for your specific professional situation. Immigration consultant fees in Brazil are generally affordable by global standards.
Brazilian PR Pathway – Key Steps for International Graduates
| Stage | Details |
| Student Visa and RNE Registration | Obtain VITEM IV visa and register with the Federal Police for your residence card within 90 days of arrival |
| Study Period Residency | Annual renewal of residence authorization during your scholarship period |
| Post-Graduation Work Authorization | Apply for work authorization based on job offer or professional registration after graduation |
| Permanent Residence Application | After 4 years of continuous legal residence in Brazil, one is eligible to apply for permanent residence |
| Brazilian Citizenship | Eligible after 4 years as a permanent resident (subject to Portuguese language proficiency and other conditions) |
Skilled Worker Visa Brazil – What International Graduates Need to Know
Brazil’s skilled worker visa pathway is governed by RESOLUÇÃO NORMATIVA CNIg, which sets out the categories and requirements for work-based immigration. International graduates with a Brazilian degree — especially at the master’s or PhD level — are well-positioned to meet the skilled worker visa requirements in Brazil due to their advanced qualifications and Portuguese language proficiency.
For graduates interested in staying in Brazil long-term, the key is securing a formal employment contract with a Brazilian company or institution, which then supports your work permit after a study application. The best immigration law firm in Brazil or a licensed immigration attorney consultation provider can guide you through this transition seamlessly.
Many GCUB alumni who remain in Brazil after graduation leverage their university networks—built during the scholarship—to find employment at Brazilian universities, research institutions, government agencies, and multinational companies. This makes the PR after study pathway in Brazil particularly accessible for well-networked GCUB scholarship graduates.
GCUB Scholarship vs Other Brazil Scholarship Programs
Brazil offers several scholarship programs for international students beyond GCUB. Understanding how the GCUB scholarship compares helps you decide which program best aligns with your academic level and career goals.
Comparison of Major Brazil Scholarships for International Students
| Scholarship | Offered By | Level | Fully Funded? |
| GCUB International Mobility Scholarship | GCUB / CAPES | UG Mobility, MS, PhD, Postdoc | Yes |
| PEC-G (Undergraduate Program for Foreign Students) | Brazilian Government / MEC | Undergraduate (full degree) | Partial (tuition-free; living costs not covered) |
| PEC-PG (Postgraduate Program for Foreign Students) | CAPES / CNPq | Master’s and PhD | Yes (stipend + tuition) |
| CNPq Research Scholarships | CNPq (National Council for Scientific Development) | PhD and Postdoc | Yes (stipend + research allowance) |
| Lemann Foundation Scholarships | Lemann Foundation (Private) | Master’s (specific programs) | Yes |
The GCUB scholarship stands out for its breadth—covering multiple academic levels, offering generous monthly stipends, and being administered through some of Brazil’s most prestigious universities. Its connection to the broader Coimbra Group network also makes it particularly attractive for students from European partner countries.
Tips to Strengthen Your GCUB Scholarship Application
Competition for the GCUB Brazil International Mobility Scholarship is significant. Here are the most effective strategies to make your application as strong as possible.
Northumbria University Scholarships UK
Build a Genuine Connection with a Brazilian Academic
For PhD and postdoctoral applicants especially, having a genuine, established relationship with a Brazilian academic supervisor significantly strengthens your application. Do not wait until the last minute to reach out—contact potential supervisors at GCUB member universities at least six months before the application deadline.
Send a concise, professional email introducing yourself, your research background, and your specific interest in their work. Attach your CV and a brief research proposal. A positive response from a Brazilian academic supervisor can make your application significantly more competitive.
Write a Specific, Brazil-Focused Motivation Letter
Your motivation letter should clearly explain why you want to study in Brazil specifically — not just why you want to pursue a master’s or PhD. Mention specific aspects of Brazilian academic culture, particular research strengths of your target university, or why Brazil’s unique academic or social context is relevant to your research goals.
Generic motivation letters that could apply to any country are immediately recognizable and rarely succeed. A study abroad consultant near me or an education consultant for Brazil can help you craft a letter that is specific, compelling, and culturally aware.
Begin Learning Portuguese Now
Even if the GCUB program includes a language preparation course, arriving in Brazil with some foundational Portuguese knowledge demonstrates genuine commitment and helps you integrate faster. Use free online resources or language exchange apps, or enroll in a local Portuguese language course through a cultural institute like the Instituto Camões or Aliança Francesa (which often offers Portuguese classes in major cities).
Demonstrating Portuguese language initiative in your application and motivation letter is a meaningful differentiating factor that selection committees appreciate.
Prepare Your Research or Study Plan Thoroughly
For graduate-level applicants, the research or study plan is often the most scrutinized document in the application package. A strong plan clearly articulates your research question, methodology, expected outcomes, and how the specific resources available at your target Brazilian university will contribute to your research goals.
A university admission consultant or education consultant for Brazil with experience in Brazilian postgraduate admissions can help you structure your research plan in a way that aligns with the evaluation criteria used by GCUB and CAPES selection committees.
About GCUB and CAPES
GCUB — the Groupe Coimbra des Universités Brésiliennes — is a consortium of leading Brazilian federal and state universities that works to promote internationalization, academic exchange, and research collaboration between Brazil and universities worldwide. It is part of the broader Coimbra Group, an international association of long-established European research universities.
CAPES (Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior) is Brazil’s federal agency responsible for postgraduate education, academic scholarships, and the recognition of international academic credentials. CAPES is one of the main financial partners of the GCUB scholarship program, ensuring its long-term sustainability and institutional credibility.
Key Facts About GCUB and CAPES
| Organization | Key Facts |
| GCUB Full Name | Groupe Coimbra des Universités Brésiliennes |
| GCUB Member Universities | Over 15 leading Brazilian federal and state universities |
| GCUB International Partner | Part of the global Coimbra Group network of universities |
| CAPES Full Name | Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior |
| CAPES Founded | 1951 |
| CAPES Annual Budget | Over BRL 4 billion annually for scholarships and research support |
| CAPES Headquarters | Brasília, DF, Brazil |
Frequently Asked Questions About the GCUB Brazil Scholarship 2027
Is Portuguese language proficiency required to apply?
Portuguese proficiency is generally required or expected for most GCUB scholarship programs, as academic instruction at Brazilian public universities is primarily in Portuguese. However, some programs offer language preparation courses for incoming international scholars. If you are not yet proficient, demonstrating active language learning and commitment to achieving proficiency before or upon arrival can support your application. Confirm specific language requirements with your target GCUB university or through an education consultant for Brazil.
Can I apply if my country is not in Europe?
Yes. While GCUB has strong European connections through the Coimbra Group, the GCUB scholarship is not exclusively for European students. African, Asian, and Latin American students from partner countries are also eligible in many cycles. Check the specific eligible country list published with each scholarship call. An international student recruitment agency with Brazilian scholarship expertise can help you confirm eligibility for your specific country.
Osaka University MEXT Scholarship in Japan 2026
Do I need to find my own accommodation in Brazil?
Most GCUB member universities provide housing assistance for international scholarship holders — either through university dormitories (moradia estudantil) or through a monthly housing allowance. Availability varies by institution and city. Contact the international relations office of your target GCUB university to confirm what accommodation support is available before your arrival. Using relocation services for students offered by the university can simplify finding appropriate student accommodation in Brazil.
Can the GCUB scholarship lead to permanent residency in Brazil?
Not directly. However, completing a master’s or PhD program in Brazil through the GCUB scholarship contributes to your legal residency record, which counts toward the 4-year continuous residence requirement for a permanent residence application in Brazil. Combined with post-graduation employment on a skilled worker visa, many GCUB alumni successfully transition to permanent residence and eventually Brazilian citizenship. Consulting an immigration lawyer in Brazil early in your studies is the best way to plan this pathway effectively.
How competitive is the GCUB scholarship selection?
Competition varies by academic level and year. PhD and postdoctoral positions tend to be more competitive than undergraduate mobility placements due to the higher number of applicants and the greater selectivity of Brazilian graduate programs. A strong research proposal, a confirmed relationship with a Brazilian supervisor, excellent academic transcripts, and a well-crafted motivation letter are the key factors that distinguish successful applicants. Working with a university admission consultant or education consultant for Brazil significantly improves your application quality.
Official Scholarship and Visa Application Websites
Always use official and verified sources when researching the GCUB Brazil International Mobility Scholarship 2027 and the Brazilian student visa application process. Below are all the essential official resources you need to bookmark and monitor regularly.
United Nations Online Volunteer Program 2026
| Resource | Official Website | Purpose |
| GCUB Official Website | https://www.gcub.org.br | Official GCUB scholarship program details, member universities, and application information |
| CAPES Official Portal | https://www.gov.br/capes/pt-br | Brazilian federal agency for postgraduate education and scholarship funding |
| CAPES International Scholarships | https://www.gov.br/capes/pt-br/acesso-a-informacao/acoes-e-programas/bolsas/bolsas-e-auxilios-internacionais | Overview of all CAPES international scholarship programs, including GCUB partnerships |
| CNPq – Brazilian Research Council | https://www.gov.br/cnpq/pt-br | Research scholarships, PhD funding, and postdoctoral opportunities in Brazil |
| Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Visas | https://www.gov.br/mre/pt-br/assuntos/portal-consular/vistos/informacoes-sobre-vistos-para-estrangeiros-viajarem-ao-brasil | Official Brazilian visa requirements, including VITEM IV student visa information |
| Brazilian Federal Police – Immigration | https://www.gov.br/pf/pt-br/assuntos/imigracao | RNE registration, residence permits, and permanent residence application in Brazil |
| Universidade de São Paulo (USP) International | https://www.usp.br/internacional/ | International student information, programs, and admissions at Brazil’s top university |
| UFRJ International Relations Office | https://www.ufrj.br/en/ | Information on postgraduate programs, scholarship opportunities, and student support at UFRJ |
| Coimbra Group Universities Network | https://www.coimbra-group.eu | International Coimbra Group network connecting GCUB with European partner universities |
| CELPE-Bras Portuguese Proficiency Test | https://www.gov.br/inep/pt-br/areas-de-atuacao/avaliacao-e-exames-educacionais/celpe-bras | Official Brazilian Portuguese proficiency certification — required for some GCUB programs |
Monitor the GCUB official website and CAPES scholarship portal regularly for updates on the 2027 application cycle, deadline announcements, and any changes to eligibility requirements. Scholarship information is updated annually, and only official sources provide the most accurate and current details.
The GCUB Brazil International Mobility Scholarship 2027 is a life-changing opportunity for international students who want to experience world-class education in Latin America’s most dynamic academic environment. Whether you are pursuing a master’s degree, a PhD, or a postdoctoral research project, Brazil’s leading federal universities and the GCUB network offer everything you need to achieve your academic goals, fully funded. Start your preparation today, connect with potential Brazilian supervisors, begin learning Portuguese, and take the first step toward an extraordinary academic and life experience in Brazil.
Milan University Excellence Scholarship in Italy