*Extension means reaching findings of knowledge, research and new skills to millions of people.
UFRJ’s history dates back to the beginning of the 19th century and is filled with remarkable scientific, cultural, and artistic accomplishments. It is currently the 3rd best university in Brazil and the 7th best university in Latin America (QS Rankings – 2018).
With many campuses and faculties scattered around Rio de Janeiro State, it comprises institutes, schools, and other facilities, including museums, hospitals, and the third largest ocean basin in the world for research on offshore oil exploitation.
The university has partnerships with several national and multinational enterprises, some of which have facilities on campus. Following a global trend, UFRJ creates and maintains cooperative relationships with institutions from every continent. It currently has partnerships with over 200 international institutions all over the world.
Rio de Janeiro
Rio is home to some of the best universities in Latin America, but since student life is much more than just studying, we must say that the combination of geographic features – sea, mountains, forest – and the warm welcome of its locals makes Rio de Janeiro a unique and incomparable city.
Birthplace of samba and the traditional Carnaval, Rio exhales music of all genres and hosts several internationally renowned music festivals, art exhibitions, plays, and much more.
Exchange program
UFRJ’s exchange program is made possible through agreements and partnerships with international higher education institutions.
We do not accept “free movers”. In order to qualify for an exchange experience at UFRJ, students must contact the international office of their home institution for more information.
Academic calendar
| 1st semester (Fall) | March – July |
| 2nd semester (Spring) | August – December |
Summer break is about two months (Jan/Feb) and Winter break is about two weeks (July), depending on the program.
Courses
The course list offers all options for undergraduate (graduação), master’s (mestrado) and PhD (doutorado) programs.
Portuguese language proficiency
All courses are offered in Portuguese. Most schools and institutes accept exchange students with an A1 proficiency level. This may vary depending on the chosen courses. Please refer to our incoming students officer for more information.
Free Portuguese conversation classes are offered to all undergraduate exchange students.
The university’s language school (CLAC) is also available, and it offers intensive and regular Portuguese as a Foreign Language courses (fees charged).