Brazil offers funded PhD study with CAPES and CNPq scholarships, including programmes for international students.
PhD opportunities in Brazil
Why do a PhD in Brazil?
- CAPES and CNPq scholarships
- Strong agriculture, biodiversity and energy research
- PEC-PG for developing countries
Universities in Brazil
Well-known research universities and institutes for PhD study in Brazil include:
- University of São Paulo
- State University of Campinas (Unicamp)
- Federal University of Rio de Janeiro
- Federal University of Minas Gerais
Choose a university by your supervisor and research group, not the overall ranking — fit with the group decides most PhD outcomes.
PhD structure
Coursework, a qualifying exam and thesis defence.
Fees and funding
Fees: Public universities are tuition-free.
Main funded routes: CAPES and CNPq PhD funding (international eligibility varies), TWAS-CNPq when open.
Official starting points: CAPES · CNPq
See PhD funding by country to compare routes across 46 countries, or estimate your budget with the study cost calculator.
Applying for a PhD in Brazil
Apply to graduate programmes; international scholarships (PEC-PG, TWAS-CNPq) have separate calls.
Language: Portuguese is usually needed.
Your application checklist
- CV with research experience and any publications
- Research proposal or statement written for the project or supervisor — see our research proposal guide
- Master's (and undergraduate) transcripts and degree certificates; for Pakistanis, HEC-attested copies
- Two or three academic references — see our recommendation letter guide
- English test score or proof of English-medium study, if required
- Interview preparation — see our interview guide
Student visas and work
Visa: Students need a temporary student visa.
Working during your PhD: Limited.
After your PhD
Work requires a visa.
Open PhD opportunities in Brazil
TWAS-CNPq Postgraduate Fellowship (Full PhD in Brazil)
The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) · CNPq Brazil
Brazil
- Stipend
- Open to: Developing countries
- Study level: PhD
- 4 years
This guide gives an overview for international applicants. Rules on fees, funding and visas change — always confirm the details on the university, funder and embassy websites before you apply.
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