UFSM Graduate Scholarships 2026 in Brazil for International Students – Complete Guide. Click here for more fully funded scholarships. Brazil is rapidly emerging as one of Latin America’s most exciting destinations for international graduate students.
The Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM) Graduate Scholarships 2026 offer international students a remarkable opportunity to pursue high-quality master’s and Ph.D. education at one of Brazil’s most respected public research universities, with financial support included.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the UFSM Graduate Scholarships, from eligibility and financial benefits to the student visa application process, accommodation, work rights, and long-term immigration pathways in Brazil.
Why Study at the Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM)?
The Federal University of Santa Maria (Universidade Federal de Santa Maria – UFSM) was founded in 1960 and is one of the most important federal universities in Brazil. Located in the city of Santa Maria in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, it is recognized for its strong research programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to international academic exchange.
UFSM consistently ranks among Brazil’s top federal universities and is a member of the National Association of Federal University Directors (ANDIFES). Its research output spans engineering, health sciences, agriculture, arts, social sciences, and environmental studies.
For international students seeking financial aid, visa sponsorship, and a genuine academic experience in South America, UFSM offers an affordable, welcoming, and academically stimulating environment that education consultants for Brazil frequently recommend.
University of Alabama Scholarships in USA 2026
Quick Overview – UFSM Graduate Scholarships 2026
| Program Name | UFSM Graduate Scholarships 2026 |
| Host University | Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM) |
| Host Country | Brazil |
| University Location | Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil |
| Degree Levels | Master’s (Mestrado) and Doctoral (Doutorado) |
| Funding Type | Funded (Monthly Stipend + Tuition Waiver) |
| Application Mode | Online via UFSM Graduate Programs Portal |
| Language of Instruction | Portuguese (some programs available in English) |
| Official Website | ufsm.br |
| Visa Support | Yes, Brazilian student visa support is available. |
About UFSM – A Leading Brazilian Federal University
UFSM is one of Brazil’s largest federal universities, with over 30,000 students enrolled across undergraduate and graduate programs. It offers more than 100 graduate programs at the master’s and doctoral levels, spread across its multiple centers and institutes.
The university is particularly renowned for its programs in agronomy, veterinary medicine, electrical engineering, physics, education, social communication, and health sciences. UFSM has active research partnerships with institutions across Europe, North America, and Latin America, making it an internationally connected academic hub.
International student recruitment agencies and study abroad consultants near me frequently highlight UFSM as one of Brazil’s most accessible and internationally welcoming federal universities. Its low cost of living, strong academic infrastructure, and active international office make it an excellent choice for graduate-level study in South America.
Types of Scholarships and Funding Available at UFSM 2026
UFSM graduate students can access scholarships through several funding mechanisms, primarily administered through Brazil’s federal funding agencies. Understanding these sources is key to planning your education financing options.
1. CAPES Graduate Scholarships
CAPES (Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior) is Brazil’s federal agency for postgraduate education improvement. It is the primary source of graduate scholarship funding at UFSM and universities across Brazil.
CAPES scholarships provide monthly stipends to master’s and doctoral students enrolled in approved Brazilian graduate programs. These are among the most important forms of financial aid for international students pursuing graduate study in Brazil, eliminating the need for education loans without collateral arrangements or complex tuition fee transfer abroad processes.
2. CNPq research fellowships
CNPq (Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico) is Brazil’s National Council for Scientific and Technological Development. It provides research fellowships and productivity grants to graduate students and researchers at Brazilian universities, including UFSM.
CNPq fellowships are available for both master’s and PhD students and cover areas ranging from sciences and engineering to humanities and social sciences. International students who are affiliated with approved UFSM research projects may access CNPq funding through their supervisors or research groups.
3. PEC-PG – Graduate Student Agreement Program (For International Students)
The PEC-PG (Programa de Estudantes-Convênio de Pós-Graduação) is a Brazilian government scholarship program specifically designed for international graduate students from developing countries. It is managed jointly by CAPES and CNPq and offered at federal universities across Brazil, including UFSM.
PEC-PG is one of the most important visa sponsorship pathways for international students into Brazilian graduate education. It provides monthly stipends to eligible international students and covers a portion of living costs during the graduate program. Many international student recruitment agencies highlight PEC-PG as the primary entry point for non-Brazilian graduate applicants.
Ellison Scholars Program in UK | Fully Funded Scholarship
4. UFSM Institutional Research Scholarships
Beyond external funding agencies, UFSM itself provides institutional research scholarships through its own research programs and laboratories. These are often tied to specific research projects led by UFSM faculty and represent a direct pathway to funded graduate study through academic supervisor connections.
Connecting with UFSM faculty members in your research area before applying can open doors to institutional funding that may not be advertised through standard channels. A university admission consultant or education consultant for Brazil can help you identify the right faculty contacts and initiate professional communication.
5. FAPERGS – Rio Grande do Sul State Research Foundation
FAPERGS (Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul) is the state-level research funding agency for Rio Grande do Sul, the Brazilian state where UFSM is located. It provides additional research grants and fellowships to graduate students at universities within the state, including UFSM.
FAPERGS funding is particularly available for research in agronomy, environmental sciences, health, engineering, and regional development—areas where UFSM has particular strength. Working with your UFSM supervisor to access FAPERGS funding can significantly supplement your primary CAPES or CNPq scholarship.
UFSM Scholarship – Financial Benefits Summary
| Funding Source | Degree Level | Monthly Stipend (BRL) | Tuition Fees |
| CAPES | Master’s | BRL 2,100 (~USD 400) | Free (Public University) |
| CAPES | PhD | BRL 3,100 (~USD 590) | Free (Public University) |
| CNPq | Master’s | BRL 2,100 (~USD 400) | Free |
| CNPq | PhD | BRL 3,100 (~USD 590) | Free |
| PEC-PG (International Students) | Master’s / PhD | BRL 2,100 – 3,100 | Free |
| FAPERGS | Master’s / PhD | Varies by project | Free |
Why Brazil’s Zero-Tuition Policy Matters
One of the most significant financial advantages of studying at UFSM is that Brazilian federal universities charge zero tuition fees to all enrolled students—both domestic and international. This completely eliminates the burden of tuition fee transfer abroad for international students and makes Brazil one of the most cost-effective destinations in the world for graduate education.
Combined with a monthly stipend from CAPES, CNPq, or PEC-PG, most scholarship-holding graduate students at UFSM can cover their core living expenses in Santa Maria without needing additional education financing options or personal savings contributions.
Graduate Programs Available at UFSM for International Students
UFSM offers over 100 graduate programs at master’s and doctoral levels. Here is a summary of the key program areas available for international applicants in 2026.
King Fahd University Scholarships in Saudi Arabia | Fully Funded 2026
| Program Area | Available Programs |
| Agricultural Sciences | Agronomy, Plant Science, Soil Science, Zootechnics, and Veterinary Medicine |
| Health Sciences | Nursing, Pharmacy, Biomedical Sciences, Medicine, Physiotherapy |
| Engineering and Technology | Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Computer Science |
| Natural Sciences | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Environmental Science, and Ecology |
| Humanities and Social Sciences | Education, History, Geography, Political Science, Literature |
| Arts and Communication | Visual Arts, Music, Social Communication, Journalism |
| Forestry and Environment | Forest Engineering, Ecology, Environmental Management |
| Architecture and Urban Planning | Architecture, Urban Planning, Cultural Heritage |
Eligibility Requirements for UFSM Graduate Scholarships 2026
Eligibility varies depending on the specific scholarship source and graduate program. Here is a summary of the general requirements for international applicants.
General Academic Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
| Minimum Degree (Master’s) | Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field |
| Minimum Degree (PhD) | Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field |
| Language Requirement | Portuguese proficiency required for most programs (B2 level recommended) |
| Academic Transcripts | Certified transcripts from all previously attended institutions |
| Research Proposal | A well-developed research proposal aligned with your chosen program |
| Reference Letters | Two academic references are required for most programs. |
| Nationality (PEC-PG) | Citizens of developing countries with bilateral agreements with Brazil |
| Financial Declaration | Proof of financial means for the student visa application process |
Portuguese Language Requirement for International Students
Most graduate programs at UFSM are conducted in Portuguese. While some programs and research environments accommodate English, you will generally need to demonstrate a working knowledge of Portuguese to participate fully in coursework, seminars, and academic life.
The Celpe-Bras (Certificado de Proficiência em Língua Portuguesa para Estrangeiros) is Brazil’s official Portuguese proficiency test for foreigners and is accepted by most Brazilian universities as language proof for international admissions. Many international students invest in Portuguese language courses before applying—a step that study abroad consultants near me and education consultants for Brazil strongly recommend.
PEC-PG Specific Eligibility Requirements
The PEC-PG scholarship is specifically targeted at students from developing countries that have bilateral education agreements with Brazil. This includes most countries in Africa, Latin America, Asia, and parts of Eastern Europe.
Applicants must be citizens (not permanent residents) of an eligible country, must not have Brazilian citizenship or permanent residence status, and must be applying to a graduate program at a Brazilian federal university. A study abroad consultant near me or an international student recruitment agency experienced in Brazilian scholarships can help you confirm whether your country is eligible for PEC-PG.
How to Apply for UFSM Graduate Scholarships 2026 – Step by Step
The application process for UFSM involves multiple stages, depending on the scholarship route you are pursuing. Here is a clear guide for international applicants.
Step 1 – Research Your Target Graduate Program at UFSM
Begin by exploring UFSM’s official graduate program portal to identify programs that match your academic background and research interests. Each program has its own coordinator, research lines, available positions, and application process.
Review each program’s specific editorial (official call for applications) carefully, as requirements, deadlines, and available scholarship positions vary significantly between programs and departments. A university admission consultant or education consultant for Brazil can help you navigate this process efficiently.
Fully Funded Nanyang University Scholarships in Singapore 2026
Step 2 – Contact a Potential UFSM Supervisor
For PhD applicants especially, contacting a potential academic supervisor at UFSM before your formal application is strongly recommended. Brazilian graduate programs are research-intensive, and supervisor support can be decisive in scholarship allocation decisions.
Review the research profiles and publications of UFSM faculty in your area. Send a professional, concise email introducing yourself, your research background, and your proposed research topic. Many study abroad consultants near me advise international applicants to establish supervisor contact at least 6 months before the application deadline.
Step 3 – Apply for PEC-PG (For International Students)
If you are eligible for the PEC-PG scholarship, applications are submitted through Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE) in cooperation with the Brazilian Embassy or Consulate in your home country. The PEC-PG application period typically opens in the second half of each year.
During the PEC-PG application, you must provide your academic documents, proof of language proficiency, a research proposal, reference letters, and a letter of acceptance from a UFSM supervisor or graduate program coordinator. Working with an immigration attorney consultation specialist or an experienced study-abroad consultant can help ensure your application is correctly assembled.
Step 4 – Apply Directly to UFSM’s Graduate Program
Whether or not you are applying through PEC-PG, you must also apply directly to your target UFSM graduate program through the university’s official online portal. Each program publishes its own selection process, which may include document submission, written exams, or oral interviews.
Submit all required documents in the format specified by each program. Certified translations of foreign-language documents into Portuguese are typically required. This is a common area where applicants make mistakes—always verify translation requirements with the specific UFSM program coordinator before submitting.
Step 5 – Obtain Your Brazilian Student Visa
After receiving your acceptance letter from UFSM and your scholarship notification (if applicable), you must apply for a Brazilian student visa through the Brazilian Embassy or Consulate in your home country. This is the formal student visa application process for Brazil.
Many international applicants consult an immigration lawyer in Brazil or seek immigration attorney consultation services to ensure their visa applications are correctly prepared. Consulting a top immigration law firm that specializes in Brazilian immigration is especially helpful for applicants from countries with complex visa relationships with Brazil.
Required Application Documents for UFSM Graduate Programs
| Document | Description |
| Bachelor’s / Master’s Degree Certificate | Certified copy of your most recent academic degree |
| Academic Transcripts | Official transcripts from all attended institutions (with certified Portuguese translation) |
| Research Proposal | Research proposal in Portuguese aligned with your target program’s research lines. |
| Curriculum Vitae (latte format) | Academic CV in Brazil’s Lattes platform format (or equivalent) |
| Reference Letters | Two academic reference letters (in Portuguese or with certified translation) |
| Language Proficiency Certificate | Celpe-Bras certificate or other accepted Portuguese proficiency proof |
| Valid Passport Copy | Clear copy of passport with at least 18 months remaining validity |
| Medical Certificate | Health clearance certificate from an approved medical authority |
| Supervisor Acceptance Letter | Letter from a UFSM supervisor or program coordinator confirming acceptance (for PEC-PG) |
Brazilian Student Visa for UFSM Graduate Students
International students admitted to UFSM must obtain a Brazilian student visa before traveling to Santa Maria. Brazil’s student visa is processed through the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Itamaraty) and issued by Brazilian embassies and consulates worldwide.
What Is Brazil’s Student Visa?
Brazil’s student visa (VITEM IV) allows foreign nationals to live and study in Brazil for the duration of their academic program. It can typically be issued for up to one year initially and renewed annually at the Federal Police (Polícia Federal) upon arrival in Brazil.
PEC-PG scholarship holders typically receive institutional support that facilitates their visa sponsorship for international students through the Brazilian government. Non-scholarship international students are responsible for demonstrating financial self-sufficiency during the student visa application process.
Many applicants choose to consult an immigration lawyer in Brazil or a top immigration law firm experienced in Brazilian visa matters, especially if they are from countries with limited Brazilian consular presence or complex bilateral visa relationships.
University of Florence PhD Program in Italy 2026
Brazilian Student Visa Application Process
| Step | Action Required |
| Step 1 | Receive UFSM acceptance letter and PEC-PG scholarship notification (if applicable). |
| Step 2 | Contact the Brazilian Embassy or Consulate in your home country. |
| Step 3 | Complete the Brazilian visa application form (DSE) online or in person. |
| Step 4 | Submit all required documents, including the acceptance letter and financial proof. |
| Step 5 | Pay the visa application fee (the amount varies by country). |
| Step 6 | Attend any required visa interview at the Brazilian consulate. |
| Step 7 | Receive a student visa (VITEM IV) and travel to Brazil. |
| Step 8 | Register with the Federal Police within 30 days of arrival to convert your visa to a residence permit. |
Documents Required for the Brazilian Student Visa
Your Brazilian student visa application will require the following key documents: valid passport, completed visa application form, UFSM acceptance letter or PEC-PG scholarship notification, proof of financial means or scholarship award, health insurance certificate, medical fitness certificate, and clean criminal record certificate.
Understanding the immigration consultant fees involved in Brazilian visa assistance is important. Fees vary significantly by country and by the service provider. For complex cases, investing in a qualified immigration attorney consultation in Brazil or your home country is well worthwhile.
Student Accommodation in Brazil – Living in Santa Maria
Santa Maria is a mid-sized university city in southern Brazil with a population of around 280,000. It is known for its strong academic tradition, relatively low cost of living compared to Brazilian metropolitan areas, and a welcoming environment for international students.
UFSM On-Campus Housing (Casa do Estudante)
UFSM operates the Casa do Estudante (Student House), which provides low-cost on-campus accommodation for eligible students. International scholarship holders may apply for spaces in the Casa do Estudante, though availability is limited and applications must be submitted early.
On-campus student accommodation in Brazil at UFSM is highly subsidized, with monthly costs ranging from approximately BRL 0 to BRL 300 (essentially free to minimal cost) for eligible scholarship students. This represents one of the most affordable student accommodation options available at any university in Latin America.
Off-Campus Housing in Santa Maria
Most graduate students in Santa Maria choose off-campus accommodation, either in shared apartments or private rooms in the residential neighborhoods surrounding the UFSM campus. Rental costs in Santa Maria are significantly lower than in Brazilian metropolitan cities like São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro.
Average monthly rent for a shared room near UFSM ranges from BRL 400 to BRL 800 (approximately USD 75 to USD 150). Relocation services for students are available informally through UFSM’s international office and through the university’s active student community networks.
AIA NRW Fellowship Program in Germany (Fully Funded) 2026
Estimated Monthly Cost of Living in Santa Maria, Brazil
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (BRL) | Approximate USD |
| Accommodation (Shared) | BRL 400 – 800 | ~USD 75 – 150 |
| Food (Campus + Restaurants) | BRL 500 – 900 | ~USD 95 – 170 |
| Public Transport | BRL 100 – 200 | ~USD 19 – 38 |
| Health Insurance | BRL 0 – 200 (SUS available for free) | ~USD 0 – 38 |
| Books and Supplies | BRL 100 – 200 | ~USD 19 – 38 |
| Personal and Leisure | BRL 200 – 400 | ~USD 38 – 75 |
| Total Estimated Monthly Cost | BRL 1,300 – 2,700 | ~USD 246 – 510 |
With a CAPES or CNPq monthly stipend of BRL 2,100 to BRL 3,100, most scholarship holders at UFSM can comfortably cover their living expenses in Santa Maria, making Brazil one of the most financially viable graduate destinations for international students globally.
International Student Health Insurance in Brazil
Brazil operates a universal public healthcare system called SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde). All residents of Brazil – including international students with valid visas and residence permits – are entitled to access SUS services free of charge. This is one of the most significant benefits for international students studying in Brazil.
Through SUS, UFSM international students can access primary healthcare, specialist consultations, emergency services, and hospitalization at no cost. This effectively provides international student health insurance coverage without requiring any out-of-pocket health insurance premium payments for basic medical needs.
For comprehensive private healthcare or dental coverage, optional private health plans are available in Brazil at reasonable costs. PEC-PG scholarship holders and CAPES-funded students should confirm with UFSM’s international office what additional health support is included in their specific scholarship package.
Work Rights for International Students at UFSM
Understanding your work rights as an international student in Brazil is important for both financial planning and career development.
Part-Time Work During Graduate Studies
Brazilian student visa regulations do not formally restrict international students from working part-time in Brazil, unlike in some other countries. However, your ability to work depends on your visa type and the terms of your scholarship agreement.
PEC-PG scholarship holders are generally expected to focus on their academic program and may face restrictions on paid employment outside the university under their scholarship terms. It is essential to review your specific scholarship contract and consult an immigration lawyer in Brazil if you are uncertain about your work rights.
Research and Teaching Activities at UFSM
Graduate students at UFSM – both scholarship holders and self-funded students – can participate in teaching assistance (monitoria) and research activities within the university. These activities are part of the academic training component of graduate education in Brazil and do not typically require separate work authorization.
Participating in university research projects, laboratory activities, and academic seminars also strengthens your professional profile significantly, supporting future work permit after-study applications or academic career development in Brazil and internationally.
Work Permit After Study in Brazil
After completing your degree at UFSM, you may apply to convert your student residence permit to a work permit through Brazil’s Federal Police (Polícia Federal). Brazil’s immigration law (Lei de Migração – Law 13,445/2017) provides pathways for foreign graduates of Brazilian institutions to remain in the country for professional activities.
Consulting an immigration lawyer in Brazil or the best immigration law firm specializing in Brazilian immigration law is strongly recommended at this transition point. Understanding the skilled worker visa requirements and documentation needed for the work permit conversion is essential for a smooth post-graduation transition.
Long-Term Immigration and PR Pathway in Brazil After Study
Brazil offers several long-term immigration options for international students who complete their studies and wish to continue living and working in the country.
Brazilian Permanent Residence After Graduation
Foreign graduates of Brazilian universities are eligible to apply for a permanent residence permit (Autorização de Residência Permanente) under Brazil’s immigration law. This pathway is specifically designed to encourage international talent to remain in Brazil after contributing to its academic and research ecosystem.
To apply for the permanent residence application in Brazil, you will generally need to demonstrate completion of a Brazilian degree program, proof of financial self-sufficiency or employment, and a clean immigration record. Consulting an immigration attorney consultation service in Brazil will help you navigate the documentation and administrative requirements of this process.
Brazilian Skilled Worker Visa for Post-Graduation Employment
International graduates who secure employment in Brazil may transition to a skilled worker visa (Visto de Trabalho) sponsored by their Brazilian employer. This is the most common pathway from student status to long-term legal residence for international graduates of Brazilian universities.
Brazil’s skilled worker visa requirements include an employment contract from a legally registered Brazilian employer, submission of professional credentials, and payment of applicable processing fees. Many international professionals working with a top immigration law firm find the process straightforward when documentation is correctly prepared.
Ferguson Scholarships in the UK 2026
Brazil PR After Study – Immigration Pathway Overview
| Stage | Status / Visa | Duration |
| Graduate Study at UFSM | VITEM IV (Student Visa) | 2 – 5 years (program duration) |
| Post-Graduation Work Permission | Graduate Residence Authorization | 1 – 2 years |
| Employer-Sponsored Work | Work Authorization (Skilled Worker) | Renewable annually. |
| Permanent Residence Application | Autorização de Residência Permanente | After 4 years of legal residence |
| Brazilian Naturalization (Optional) | Brazilian Citizenship | After 4 years of permanent residency |
UFSM Graduate Scholarships vs. Other Brazilian University Scholarships
| University | Location | Scholarship Source | Strength Areas |
| UFSM | Santa Maria, RS | CAPES, CNPq, PEC-PG, FAPERGS | Agriculture, Engineering, Health, Education |
| USP (University of São Paulo) | São Paulo, SP | CAPES, CNPq, FAPESP, PEC-PG | Medicine, law, engineering, and sciences |
| UNICAMP | Campinas, SP | CAPES, CNPq, FAPESP | Technology, Science, and Medicine |
| UFMG | Belo Horizonte, MG | CAPES, CNPq, PEC-PG | Engineering, Health, Social Sciences |
| UFRGS | Porto Alegre, RS | CAPES, CNPq, FAPERGS, PEC-PG | Engineering, Agronomy, Health, Law |
UFSM stands out among Brazilian federal universities for its lower cost of living, strong agricultural and health sciences programs, accessible international scholarship pathways, and its welcoming campus environment in the southern region of Brazil.
Tips to Maximize Your Chances of Getting a UFSM Graduate Scholarship
Learn Portuguese before applying.
The single most impactful thing you can do to improve your chances at UFSM is to learn Portuguese before applying. Not only does language proficiency open up more programs, but it also demonstrates genuine commitment to studying in Brazil—a quality that impresses UFSM faculty and scholarship committees alike.
Invest in structured Portuguese language courses as early as possible, ideally beginning at least 12 months before your intended enrollment. Many online platforms and language institutes offer Brazilian Portuguese courses specifically designed for academic purposes.
Contact UFSM Faculty Early and Build a Relationship.
For PhD applicants, having an UFSM faculty member who is familiar with your work and actively supports your application is one of the strongest competitive advantages you can have. Research UFSM faculty publications in your area, identify two or three potential supervisors, and reach out professionally with a concise introduction email.
A study abroad consultant near me or an education consultant for Brazil who has connections within UFSM can also facilitate introductions to relevant faculty, giving you an additional edge in the competitive graduate scholarship selection process.
Prepare a Strong Research Proposal in Portuguese.
Your research proposal is one of the most important documents in your UFSM graduate application. It must be written in Portuguese, clearly structured, and directly aligned with the research lines of your target program and supervisor.
Invest in professional translation and academic review of your research proposal if your Portuguese is not yet strong enough for academic writing. Many university admission consultants offer research proposal review services for Brazilian university applications.
Apply Through Multiple Scholarship Channels Simultaneously.
Do not rely on a single scholarship source. Apply through PEC-PG (if eligible), simultaneously apply directly to UFSM graduate programs, and ask your potential UFSM supervisor about institutional research scholarships available within their research group.
Pursuing multiple funding channels simultaneously maximizes your probability of receiving at least one scholarship offer. Education consultants for Brazil who specialize in CAPES, CNPq, and PEC-PG scholarship pathways can provide valuable strategic guidance at this stage.
Frequently Asked Questions – UFSM Graduate Scholarships 2026
Is UFSM a good university for international students?
Yes. UFSM is one of Brazil’s most internationally recognized federal universities, with active exchange programs with institutions across Europe, Latin America, and North America. Its low cost of living, free tuition, and accessible scholarship pathways make it an excellent choice for international graduate applicants.
How Long Does the Brazilian Student Visa Take? Take the process?
Processing times for the Brazilian student visa (VITEM IV) vary by country but generally range from 2 to 8 weeks. Begin your student visa application process as soon as you receive your UFSM acceptance letter. Consulting an immigration lawyer in Brazil or an immigration attorney consultation specialist can help expedite the process in complex cases.
Can I Bring My Family to Brazil While Studying at UFSM?
Yes. Brazilian immigration law allows international students to apply for dependent visas for immediate family members (spouse and children under 18). Family members receive residence authorization based on the student’s status. Consulting an immigration attorney or consultation specialist is recommended for family visa applications in Brazil.
NASA OSTEM Internship in USA (PAID) – Fully Funded 2027
Is PEC-PG available for all countries?
PEC-PG is available for citizens of countries that have bilateral agreements with Brazil. This includes most nations in Africa, Latin America, Asia, and some in Eastern Europe and the Pacific. Check the official CAPES and MRE websites for the current list of eligible countries before applying.
Can I transfer my UFSM scholarship to another Brazilian university?
CAPES and CNPq scholarships are generally tied to the specific graduate program and institution where you are enrolled. Transferring a scholarship to another university is possible in some circumstances but requires formal authorization from the funding agency. Always consult UFSM’s graduate secretariat and the relevant funding agency before attempting a transfer.
Application Deadline and Timeline for UFSM Graduate Scholarships 2026
| Milestone | Estimated Date |
| PEC-PG Application Opens | July – August 2025 |
| PEC-PG Application Deadline | September – October 2025 |
| UFSM Program Applications Open | Varies by program (check each edict). |
| UFSM Selection Process | October – December 2025 |
| Scholarship Allocation Results | November 2025 – February 2026 |
| Student Visa Application Period | December 2025 – March 2026 |
| Arrival at UFSM | February – March 2026 |
| Graduate Semester Begins | March 2026 |
Note: Exact dates vary by program. Always verify current edicts and deadlines on the official UFSM graduate programs portal.
Final Thoughts – Should You Apply for the UFSM Graduate Scholarships 2026?
Absolutely. The UFSM Graduate Scholarships 2026 represent one of the most accessible and financially viable graduate study opportunities in the Americas. With zero tuition fees at a Brazilian federal university, monthly stipends through CAPES, CNPq, or PEC-PG, access to free public healthcare, and one of Latin America’s lowest costs of living, studying at UFSM is an outstanding value proposition for international graduate students.
Beyond the financial benefits, UFSM offers strong academic supervision, diverse research programs, an active international community, and a clear long-term immigration pathway for those who wish to build a career and eventually pursue PR after study in Brazil.
If you are serious about graduate education in South America – whether in agriculture, health sciences, engineering, environmental studies, or the humanities – UFSM should be at the top of your shortlist for the 2026 intake. Start learning Portuguese now, identify your target program and supervisor, and begin your application journey today with the support of a qualified education consultant for Brazil.
OECD Internship Programme in France | Paid Internship 2027
Official Scholarship and Visa Application Websites
| Resource | Official Website | Purpose |
| UFSM Official Website | https://www.ufsm.br | University information and graduate program portal |
| UFSM Graduate Programs Portal | https://www.ufsm.br/pro-reitorias/prpgp | Graduate admissions, edicts, and scholarship listings at UFSM |
| CAPES – Graduate Scholarships Brazil | https://www.gov.br/capes | CAPES scholarship programs and graduate funding information |
| PEC-PG – International Student Scholarship | https://www.gov.br/capes/pt-br/acesso-a-informacao/acoes-e-programas/bolsas/bolsas-e-auxilios-internacionais/descricao-de-programas/programas-no-brasil-para-estrangeiros/pec-pg | PEC-PG scholarship application for international students |
| CNPq—Research Fellowships, Brazil | https://www.gov.br/cnpq | CNPq research fellowship and grant information |
| FAPERGS – Rio Grande do Sul Research Foundation | https://fapergs.rs.gov.br | State-level research grants for UFSM graduate students |
| Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Visas | https://www.gov.br/mre/pt-br/assuntos/portal-consular/vistos | Brazilian student visa (VITEM IV) information and application |
| Brazilian Federal Police – Residence Permits | https://www.gov.br/pf/pt-br/servicos/imigracao | Residence permit registration and renewal for international students in Brazil |
| Celpe-Bras Portuguese Proficiency Test | https://celpebras.inep.gov.br | Official Brazilian Portuguese proficiency certification for international applicants |
ESO Internship Program in Garching, Germany (Fully Funded) 2026