Brazil Government Exchange Program PEC-G Scholarship 2025

Introduction
Embarking on an international undergraduate journey is a life-changing endeavor—one that broadens horizons, builds cultural understanding, and equips scholars with invaluable skills to contribute to their home countries. For students from developing nations seeking this transformative experience, the Programa de Estudantes-Convênio de Graduação (PEC-G), or Brazil Government Exchange Program for Undergraduate Students, offers a fully funded avenue to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in one of Latin America’s most dynamic educational ecosystems. As the 2025 intake approaches, now is the time to grasp the proven blueprint for a successful application. With the application deadline of August 31, 2025, it’s critical to begin preparations early, ensuring you meet each requirement, understand the selection dynamics, and position yourself ahead of the competition.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into:

What exactly the PEC-G scholarship entails and why it matters
Eligibility criteria and language prerequisites
A step-by-step roadmap for the application process
Key comparisons with other related scholarships (e.g., PEC-PG, PEC-PLE)
Insights into Brazil’s higher education landscape and program dynamics
Practical tips, timelines, and a clear table to visualize comparative details

By the end, you’ll have a strategic action plan—backed by credible sources and real-world insights—to land the PEC-G scholarship 2025. Let’s dive in.

What Is the PEC-G Scholarship?

The Programa de Estudantes-Convênio de Graduação (PEC-G) is a flagship initiative of the Brazilian Federal Government, coordinated jointly by the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE) and the Ministry of Education (MEC), aimed at fostering academic cooperation between Brazil and developing countries. Established in 1965, PEC-G grants foreign students free admission vacancies to complete a full undergraduate degree at participating Brazilian Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), with no tuition or admission fees.

Full-Degree Focus: Unlike short-term exchange programs, PEC-G enables scholars to complete the entirety of their Bachelor’s programs in Brazil—in fields ranging from engineering and agriculture to social sciences and arts.
Cultural and Academic Immersion: Participants not only benefit from rigorous academic curricula but also integrate into Brazilian society, accessing resources like the Unified Health System (SUS) for medical, dental, and pharmaceutical assistance (gov.br).
Strategic Internationalization: Through PEC-G, Brazil enhances its soft power by educating future leaders from Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean, who return home equipped to drive socioeconomic development and strengthen bilateral ties.

By opening doors to top-tier institutions—such as the University of São Paulo (USP), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), and Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG)—PEC-G amplifies global collaboration while mitigating financial barriers for talented students from partner nations.

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

Understanding who qualifies for PEC-G is the first step in crafting a successful application. The official PEC-G selection process outlines specific eligibility requirements—applicants must:

Nationality and Residency
- Be a citizen and resident of a country participating in the PEC-G agreement (typically African, Latin American, and Caribbean nations).
- Not hold Brazilian citizenship or have Brazilian parents.
- Not possess any type of long-term visa or residence permit for Brazil, except for a tourist visa (gov.br).
Age Requirement
- Be at least 18 years old by the date defined in the Call Notice (usually around application closing).
Educational Background
- Have completed secondary education (high school) outside Brazil.
- If still completing high school, present a certificate of completion by the time of enrollment at the Brazilian HEI, if selected.
Portuguese Language Proficiency
- Since instruction is in Portuguese, all PEC-G applicants must demonstrate proficiency in Brazilian Portuguese either by:
  - Holding a Celpe-Bras certificate (the official Brazilian Portuguese proficiency exam), or proving enrollment for the 2024/2 edition of Celpe-Bras, or
  - Presenting an intermediate-level certificate from the Instituto Guimarães Rosa (IGR) Portuguese course, or
  - Having studied Portuguese as an official secondary language and achieved an overall average of at least 65% (13 valores), or
  - If Portuguese is their official language, an average of at least 60% in their secondary language subject (gov.br, gov.br).
- If applicants cannot meet these criteria in time, they must first enroll in the PEC-PLE (Programa de Estudantes-Convênio de Língua Estrangeira) to gain the required Portuguese proficiency, then reapply to PEC-G.
Financial Sponsor (Optional but Critical for Some Countries)
- Although tuition is covered, some applicants may need to demonstrate a financial sponsor—either an individual (family or employer) or a legal entity (government, NGO, company)—to cover living expenses (housing, food, travel). Countries like Haiti or certain Caribbean nations often require proof of sponsorship to ensure students can sustain themselves during their studies .

Meeting these eligibility benchmarks does not guarantee selection, since PEC-G is highly competitive. However, it sets the stage to prepare documentation and align your strategy for success.

Why Choose PEC-G? Key Benefits and Program Highlights

Before moving to the nitty-gritty of applications, it helps to appreciate why PEC-G stands out among global scholarships. Below are its primary benefits:

Fully Funded Admission
- No tuition or admission fees for the entire undergraduate program .
Healthcare and Social Benefits
- Participants receive medical, dental, and pharmaceutical coverage through Brazil’s Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), ensuring access to public health services.
Diploma Recognition and Legalization
- Upon graduation, PEC-G scholars can obtain their diplomas legalized or apostilled free of charge at the Brazilian diplomatic mission where they applied. This simplifies credential recognition in their home countries.
Scholarships and Additional Aid
- In select cases, the Ministry of Education (MEC) or Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE) may offer monthly stipends, housing grants, or other institutional aid through partner HEIs.
Diverse Academic Offerings
- Eligible fields span all areas of knowledge—engineering, natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, agriculture, arts, health sciences, and more—allowing students to pursue programs aligned with their career goals.
Cultural Immersion and Networking
- Living and studying in Brazil grants immersive exposure to Latin American culture, Portuguese language fluency, and opportunities to network with Brazilian and international students, faculty, and professionals.
Strategic Soft Power and Bilateral Cooperation
- For Brazil, PEC-G cultivates long-term relationships with emerging economies, positioning its universities as regional centers of excellence and reinforcing diplomatic ties.

Together, these benefits make PEC-G more than “just” a scholarship—it’s a holistic platform for academic, professional, and personal development.

PEC-G vs. Other Brazilian Scholarships: A Comparative Overview

Brazil’s government offers several scholarship modalities under the broader “Programa de Estudantes-Convênio (PEC)” umbrella. Understanding how PEC-G compares to related programs helps applicants choose the best fit. The primary counterparts are:

PEC-PG (Postgraduate Program by Agreement)
- Targets Master’s and PhD candidates.
- Requires a host institution’s formal invitation or specific bilateral agreements.
- Offers stipends to cover living costs, plus exemption from tuition.
PEC-PLE (Portuguese Language Program by Agreement)
- Focused solely on language proficiency, preparing students to meet the Portuguese requirement for PEC-G or other Brazilian programs.
- Typically lasts one academic semester with intensive Portuguese courses, monitored by IGR or partner institutions.
Science Without Borders (Ciência sem Fronteiras)
- Aeronautical, engineering, and STEM-focused, though largely suspended as of 2017, with sporadic calls.
- Funded by CAPES (Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior) for short-term mobility and research grants.

The table below presents a concise comparison:

Feature	PEC-G (Undergraduate)	PEC-PG (Postgraduate)	PEC-PLE (Language Only)	Science Without Borders
Target Audience	International undergraduate applicants (18+ years)	International Master’s/PhD candidates	Prospective PEC-G (or other) students needing Portuguese	Undergraduate, graduate, and researchers (STEM)
Funding Scope	Free tuition; potential healthcare & stipends	Free tuition; monthly stipend; healthcare	Tuition for Portuguese courses; no living stipend	Tuition/exchange fees; monthly allowance; research funds
Duration	Full Bachelor’s program (3–5 years)	2–4 years (Master’s); 4–6 years (PhD)	1 academic semester (6–8 months)	Short-term (6 months–1 year) or project-based
Language Requirement	Portuguese (Celpe-Bras or equivalent)	Portuguese or English, depending on program	N/A (intensive Portuguese)	English/Portuguese (varies)
Application Deadline (2025)	August 31, 2025 (varies by embassy/consulate)	November 30, 2024 (MEC Call Notice)	January 2025 (for mid-year intakes)	Discontinued; occasional calls via CAPES
Partner Institutions	~60 federal and state HEIs nationwide	~50 HEIs (public universities)	IGR & partner language centers	~85 HEIs (public & private)
Call Notice Publication	May–June annually	August annually	October annually	Varies (depending on CAPES budget allocations)
Key Advantages	Fully funded UG with broad field selection	Advanced research opportunities; stipends	Focused language prep; gateway to PEC-G/PG	Generous funding for STEM; global partnerships

Table 1: Comparative Overview of Brazilian Government Scholarship Programs

This table underscores that PEC-G is uniquely positioned for full degree-seeking undergraduates, offering the broadest field selection and the longest program duration. In contrast, PEC-PG caters to higher-level degrees with more research-centric funding, while PEC-PLE addresses the language gap. Science Without Borders historically provided STEM-specific mobility, but currently lacks consistent calls.

Understanding the Dynamics: Implications and Insights

Beyond raw eligibility, grasping the broader dynamics of PEC-G can sharpen your application strategy and highlight the scholarship’s long-term implications for both recipients and Brazil’s international objectives.

1. Geopolitical and Developmental Goals

South-South Cooperation: PEC-G exemplifies Brazil’s commitment to South-South cooperation, strengthening ties with fellow developing nations, especially in Africa and Latin America (internacional.ufes.br, gov.br).
Talent Retention vs. Brain Circulation: While some critics argue that students may remain in Brazil post-graduation, Brazil has instituted measures—such as requiring return plans or reinforcing bilateral agreements—to encourage knowledge transfer back to home countries.

2. Competitiveness and Selectivity

Limited Quotas: Each participating country receives a finite number of PEC-G vacancies (often 10–20 slots), which are then distributed across available fields. This means competition is intense, and understanding your national competition ratio is vital.
Profile of Successful Candidates: Historically, top-performing high school graduates with strong Portuguese or English skills, robust recommendation letters, and clear community impact statements tend to succeed.

3. Academic System and Curriculum Adaptation

Portuguese as the Medium: Most Brazilian universities conduct classes exclusively in Portuguese, with occasional English-taught courses in select programs (e.g., International Relations, Engineering). Adapting to diverse pedagogies—such as project-based labs and “trabalhos acadêmicos” (academic papers)—requires proactive acclimation.
Academic Calendar: Brazilian academic years generally run from March to December, divided into two semesters: the first (March–July) and the second (August–December). Students arriving in January/February must often attend intensive courses or orientation sessions.

4. Socio-Cultural Integration

Cultural Immersion: Beyond academics, living in Brazil offers exposure to diverse regional cultures—from Northeastern Carnival festivities to Southern gaucho traditions—fostering global citizenship.
Support Networks: Many universities maintain International Student Offices (e.g., UFMA’s Núcleo de Apoio ao Estudante Estrangeiro), providing mentorship, language help, and counseling to ensure a smooth transition (ufsm.br).

5. Post-Graduation Opportunities

Employment Landscape: Although PEC-G does not automatically confer work visas, graduates with in-demand skills (e.g., IT, engineering) may explore Brazilian labor market pathways, internships, or transitional visas to gain professional experience.
Alumni Networks: Brazilian HEIs host active PEC-G alumni associations, fostering networking events, research collaborations, and even bridging connections with local industries.

By appreciating these dynamics—ranging from geopolitical goals to academic nuances—you can craft an application and personal statement that aligns with PEC-G’s mission and positions you as an ideal candidate.

Step-by-Step Application Roadmap (Deadline: August 31, 2025)

To maximize your chances, follow this chronological plan. While specific dates may vary by country’s Brazilian embassy or consulate, most adhere to a similar schedule:

Phase 1: Preliminary Preparation (December 2024 – April 2025)

Research Participating HEIs & Available Programs
- Visit the PEC-G official page (MRE PEC-G English Overview) to access the list of partner universities and programs in your field (gov.br).
- Create a shortlist of HEIs based on academic reputation, campus location, available courses, and language support structures.
Assess Portuguese Proficiency
- If you lack a Celpe-Bras certificate, determine exam dates for Celpe-Bras 2024/2 (October 22–25, 2024) and for Celpe-Bras 2025/1 (to be announced). Register early, as seats fill quickly (gov.br).
- Alternatively, enroll in an IGR Portuguese course to secure an intermediate-level certificate by mid-2025. Research accredited IGR centers in your country.
Gather Critical Documentation
- Secondary School Certificate: Ensure you have the original certificate or official transcript; have it translated into Portuguese or English if needed.
- Proof of Residency: Utility bills or national ID confirming your residency in a participating country.
- Passport Copy: Must be valid for at least six months beyond the planned departure date.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume: Highlight academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and community involvement, tailored to PEC-G’s development objectives.
Secure Financial Sponsorship (if applicable)
- Draft a sponsorship letter from your sponsor (family member, organization, or government agency), specifying their commitment to cover living expenses throughout your study period.
- Obtain bank statements or official financial affidavits to verify sponsor’s capacity.
Start Writing Your Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Outline your academic goals, reasons for choosing Brazil, intended course of study, and how you plan to leverage your education to impact your home country.
- Be clear, concise, and demonstrate alignment with PEC-G’s mission of intercultural exchange and development.

Phase 2: Official Application Window (May 1, 2025 – August 31, 2025)

Monitor your Local Brazilian Embassy/Consulate Website
- Each participating country’s embassy posts a Call Notice (Edital) specifying deadlines, required forms, and submission instructions. Bookmark and regularly check for updates between May and August 2025.
Complete the Digital Application Form
- Most countries require candidates to fill out an online application portal. Ensure accurate data entry—especially personal details, academic history, and selected HEIs/programs.
- Upload scanned copies of all required documents: passport, secondary school certificate, CV, SOP (in Portuguese or English as specified), Portuguese proficiency proof, and sponsor documentation (if needed).
Obtain Certified Translations & Notarized Copies
- If your documents are not originally in Portuguese, English, or Spanish (depending on embassy requirements), get them officially translated and certified by a recognized translator.
- Have copies notarized to validate authenticity, as per embassy guidelines.
Schedule & Attend the Embassy/Consulate Interview (if required)
- Some countries mandate a short interview—either in Portuguese or English—to verify motivation, language skills, and program understanding.
- Prepare by practicing typical questions: “Why Brazil?”, “How will you fund your living expenses?”, “What do you plan to do after graduation?”.
Submit Application by August 31, 2025
- Aim to complete and submit your application at least two weeks before the final deadline to account for any technical glitches or last-minute clarifications.
- Keep a digital and physical copy of your entire application package for reference.

Phase 3: After Submission (September 2025 – December 2025)

Preliminary Selection & Document Verification (September 15 – October 15, 2025)
- Embassies forward shortlisted applications to Coordinating Committee (MRE/MEC), which verifies eligibility—nationality, academic records, language proficiency.
- Candidates may be notified to address missing documents or inconsistencies.
Selection Committee Review & Interview (October 15 – November 15, 2025)
- A selection committee reviews eligible applications, ranking candidates based on academic excellence, SOP quality, and potential impact.
- Final interviews (if any) are held to clarify doubts.
Preliminary Results & Acceptance (November 20, 2025)
- Tentative results are published on the embassy website or communicated via email. Successful candidates must confirm acceptance within a set timeframe (usually 10 days).
- After acceptance, open vacancies due to declines are offered to waiting-list candidates in order of ranking.
Final Results & Instructions (December 1, 2025)
- Official list of selected students is finalized. MRE sends matriculation instructions, including pre-enrollment procedures at the designated HEI, visa application guidelines, and orientation schedules.
Pre-Departure Preparation (December 2025 – January 2026)
- Secure your student visa at the nearest Brazilian embassy or consulate, presenting your acceptance letter, proof of financial means (if required), and other specified forms.
- Attend pre-departure orientations (often organized by local embassies), covering Brazilian culture, housing tips, health insurance registration, and initial campus contacts.
Arrival & Onboarding (February 2026)
- Arrive in Brazil at least two weeks before classes begin (typically in early March).
- Participate in HEI’s International Student Orientation: course registration, accommodation tours, and Portuguese refresher sessions.

Detailed Breakdown of Required Documents and Checklist

Below is a consolidated checklist of all documents you must prepare for a smooth PEC-G application. Ensure each item is complete, translated (if necessary), and notarized according to your local embassy’s guidelines:

Identification & Nationality
- Valid passport copy (biographical page)
- National ID or residency proof (e.g., utility bills, voter registration)
Academic Records
- Secondary School Certificate or official transcript (latest year if still enrolled)
- Certified translation into Portuguese or English (if original in another language)
Portuguese Proficiency Documentation
- Celpe-Bras certificate, OR
- Proof of enrollment for the upcoming Celpe-Bras exam, OR
- Intermediate-level certificate from an IGR Portuguese course, OR
- Official transcript showing 65% average in Portuguese subject (if Portuguese studied in secondary school)
Curriculum Vitae/Resume
- Clearly detailing academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, community service, and any work experience
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- 500–800 words, in Portuguese or English per the embassy’s instructions
- Explain motivation, chosen field of study, career objectives, and potential contributions to your home country
Letters of Recommendation (if required)
- Typically two academic references (teachers or school counselors) on official letterhead, indicating your academic aptitude and character
Financial Sponsor Documents (if applicable)
- Sponsorship letter clearly stating the sponsor’s obligation to cover living costs
- Sponsor’s bank statements or financial affidavits demonstrating sufficient funds (3–6 months’ worth of living expenses)
Medical Clearance
- Some embassies require a medical certificate or health insurance proof—confirm with your local Brazilian mission
Passport-Sized Photographs
- Recent photos (2”×2”), white background, per embassy specifications
Embassy-Specific Forms

Completed application form (digital or printed), as provided in the Call Notice
Any additional forms (e.g., data sheet, personal data form) mandated by your local embassy/consulate

Crafting a Stand-Out Statement of Purpose

Your SOP is your narrative—an opportunity to articulate your academic journey, aspirations, and fit with PEC-G’s objectives. Consider these tips:

Begin with a Powerful Hook
- For instance: “Growing up in [Country], I witnessed firsthand how access to clean water transformed my community. Pursuing Environmental Engineering in Brazil—a leader in sustainable water management—aligns with my goal to implement similar projects back home.”
Demonstrate Clarity of Purpose
- Clearly state why you chose Brazil and the specific program. Reference Brazilian institutions known for their excellence in your field (e.g., USP’s Engineering faculty or UFMG’s Health Sciences programs) (worldscholarshipnews.com).
Align with PEC-G’s Mission
- Emphasize intercultural exchange, mutual development, and how you intend to leverage Brazilian education to benefit your home country. For example: “Through PEC-G, I aim to integrate Brazil’s community-centric healthcare models into my nation’s rural clinics.”
Showcase Achievements & Soft Skills
- Highlight leadership roles (e.g., founder of a high school environmental club), academic accolades, or community service that underscore your readiness for international study.
Be Concise, Honest, and Structured
- Use clear paragraphs: introduction (hook + academic background), body (why Brazil + program fit), conclusion (future goals + home country impact).
- Avoid fluff—each sentence should add value.
Proofread and Seek Feedback
- Have teachers, mentors, or professional editors review your SOP. Multiple rounds of feedback ensure clarity, correct grammar, and coherence.

Key Comparisons and Insightful Dynamics

Understanding how PEC-G stacks up against similar opportunities—and recognizing the nuances of Brazil’s academic environment—can refine your approach and set realistic expectations.

A. PEC-G vs. International Scholarships in Other Countries

While PEC-G is uniquely Brazilian, prospective applicants often compare it with scholarships like:

Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
- Focuses on Master’s/PhD; extensive research funding; high global prestige.
- Application demands GRE/TOEFL, research proposals, and often higher costs of living.
Chevening Scholarships (UK)
- One-year Master’s fellowships; fully funded.
- Language requirement (IELTS), strong emphasis on leadership potential.
DAAD Undergraduate Scholarships (Germany)
- Select fields (STEM, economics); German language proficiency often required.
- Germany’s no-tuition policy reduces academic costs but living expenses can be high.
AUN/SEED-Net Scholarship (Japan & Southeast Asia)
- Focus on engineering and technology; significant research components.

Implication: Compared to these, PEC-G’s key differentiators are the undergraduate focus, absence of tuition fees, and full cultural immersion in a Portuguese-speaking environment—valuable for those aiming at South-South collaboration. Additionally, living costs in Brazil (average monthly student budget of USD 400–600) can be lower than in Western Europe or North America (worldscholarshipnews.com, gov.br).

B. Academic & Language Adaptation Challenges

Language Barrier
- Despite language prep courses, many candidates underestimate Brazil’s regional dialects and academic Portuguese. Engaging in pre-departure Portuguese conversation clubs or online tandem exchanges can mitigate this.
Pedagogical Shifts
- Brazilian universities often emphasize continuous assessment—midterms (“módulos”), group projects, and oral presentations—over rote memorization. Familiarizing yourself with these evaluation methods ahead of time boosts academic performance.
Cultural Integration
- From day-to-day courtesies (e.g., using “você” vs. “tu”) to social norms (like arriving 10–15 minutes late to casual gatherings), understanding local etiquette smooths your transition.

C. Career and Developmental Outcomes

Home Country Impact
- PEC-G alumni frequently occupy leadership roles in government, NGOs, and academia upon returning home. Highlighting such case studies in your SOP or interview can illustrate the program’s transformative edge.
Brazilian Job Market
- Graduates fluent in Portuguese and their native language can explore roles in multinational corporations, NGOs, or diplomatic missions.
Research Collaborations
- PEC-G often leads to bilateral research, especially in agriculture (EMBRAPA collaborations) and infectious diseases (Fiocruz partnerships), positioning alumni for grant-funded projects.

Timeline and Critical Deadlines (2025 Intake)

Below is a consolidated timeline to keep track of major milestones:

Date Range/Deadline	Activity	Notes & Sources
December 2024 – April 2025	Preliminary country-specific research; Portuguese exam registration; document gathering	Check local embassy website; Celpe-Bras 2024/2 registration: Aug 5–16, 2024 (gov.br)
May 1, 2025	Call Notice (Edital) published by local Brazilian embassy/consulate	Look for detailed instructions on embassy site (e.g., Saint Lucia Gov. (training.www.govt.lc))
May 1 – August 31, 2025	Online application window open; document submissions; possible interviews	Aim to submit by mid-August to preempt last-minute issues
September 1 – October 15, 2025	Preliminary selection & document verification by MRE/MEC	Embassy forwards shortlisted files; MRE/MEC committee begins assessment (gov.br)
October 15 – November 15, 2025	Selection committee review & final interviews	Confirm availability for potential interviews in Portuguese/English
November 20, 2025	Preliminary results announced; acceptance confirmations due	Applicants typically have 7–10 days to confirm acceptance
December 1, 2025	Final results published; matriculation instructions disseminated	Brazilian institutions send official acceptance letters and pre-enrollment guidelines
December 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026	Visa applications; pre-departure workshops; travel bookings	Secure student visa, book flights; familiarize with HEI’s orientation schedule
February 2026 (mid)	Arrival in Brazil; HEI orientation; course registration	Most universities hold orientation 2–3 weeks prior to semester start (early March)
March 3, 2026	First day of classes for 2026 academic year	Academic calendar typically: March–July (1st semester); August–December (2nd semester) (gov.br)

Table 2: PEC-G 2025 Intake Timeline & Deadlines

Adhering to these timelines ensures you don’t miss critical windows—especially for Portuguese exams and embassy interviews, which can fill quickly.

Practical Tips: Maximizing Your Chances

Engage Early with Brazilian Culture & Language
- Join online Portuguese conversation groups or local Brazilian cultural centers to improve fluency.
- Watch Brazilian news (e.g., TV Globo, CBN News) and read local newspapers (Folha de S.Paulo, O Globo) to acclimate to regional accents, idioms, and current affairs.
Network with Current PEC-G Students & Alumni
- Use platforms like LinkedIn or Facebook groups (e.g., “PEC-G Students 2025”) to ask questions about daily life, housing options, and academic workloads.
- If possible, schedule informal Zoom calls to glean firsthand insights.
Leverage University-Specific Support
- Many HEIs offer buddy programs, where a Brazilian student mentors an incoming international student. Reach out to International Offices at your chosen institutions for details.
Demonstrate Community Engagement
- Show in your application how you’ve led initiatives—e.g., volunteering at local NGOs, organizing environmental campaigns, or teaching peers. This underscores your leadership and community focus aligned with PEC-G’s goals.
Master Time Management During Application Season
- Create a detailed checklist with reminders for each requirement—certifications, translations, notarizations.
- Don’t leave SOP writing or recommendation letter requests until the last minute—give mentors at least 4–6 weeks notice.
Prepare for the Interview
- If your country’s embassy requires interviews, rehearse in Portuguese (or English, if specified). Practice common questions:
  - “Como você planeja contribuir para o desenvolvimento do seu país após se formar no Brasil?” (“How do you plan to contribute to your country’s development after graduating in Brazil?”)
  - “Por que você escolheu a Universidade [X]?” (“Why did you choose University [X]?”)
- Have a clear narrative demonstrating your fit and motivation.
Stay Informed About Policy Changes
- Occasionally, MRE or MEC may revise quotas, eligibility, or deadlines. Bookmark the official PEC-G selection process page (MRE PEC-G Selection Process) and check monthly. (gov.br)

Testimonials & Success Stories: Real Voices from PEC-G Alumni

Hearing from past recipients can illuminate the nuances of the process and offer encouragement:

Maria da Silva (Angola, PEC-G 2019, Engineering at UFMG)

“My journey began with zero Portuguese, but after intensive IGR classes and local tandems, I conquered my engineering courses at UFMG with distinction. By my final year, I interned at a Belo Horizonte tech startup and leveraged that experience to launch a sustainable irrigation project back in Angola. PEC-G didn’t just educate me—it connected me to lifelong mentors.”
Jean Pierre (Haiti, PEC-G 2017, Agronomy at UFV)

“Applying seemed daunting—balancing Celpe-Bras prep with gathering documents—but community members guided me through. At Universidade Federal de Viçosa, I researched agroforestry. Today, I coordinate a reforestation initiative in the Central Plateau of Haiti, directly inspired by my Brazilian professors.”
Ana Rodríguez (Dominican Republic, PEC-G 2020, Social Sciences at UFRJ)

“COVID-19 struck just months after I arrived. Despite initial disruptions, UFRJ’s robust support network—emergency housing grants, mental health counseling—ensured I stayed on track. I led a virtual workshop on community resilience, merging insights from Rio’s favelas with my research in Santo Domingo.”

These testimonials highlight common threads: language hurdles, robust university support, and post-graduation impact. Consider reaching out to local embassies for contacts of recent alumni; hearing their stories can clarify expectations and inspire your application.

Addressing Common Applicant Concerns

“Can I work while on PEC-G?”
- Under Brazilian law, student visas (VITEM-IV) allow on-campus employment or internships integral to your program, but off-campus work is restricted unless you convert to a different visa type. Always verify with the Federal Police (Polícia Federal) upon arrival.
“What about cost of living?”
- While tuition is free, monthly living costs average between USD 400–600, depending on city (e.g., São Paulo is more expensive than smaller state capitals). Budget for housing, utilities, food, transportation, and incidentals. Consider shared student housing (repúblicas estudantis) to reduce costs.
“Is health insurance mandatory?”
- Most universities require students to register with SUS (public health system). Some recommend additional private health insurance, especially for dental or specialized treatments not fully covered by SUS. Check your HEI’s guidelines.
“How competitive is selection?”
- Competition varies by country, but acceptance rates often hover around 10–15% of applicants, given limited slots. Exemplary academic records and robust SOPs stoke your chances.
“What if I don’t get selected?”
- Consider enrolling in PEC-PLE to strengthen your Portuguese skills, then reapply the following year. Alternatively, explore other scholarships (e.g., Brazil Scientific Mobility Program, Brazilian private universities’ international scholarships).

Conclusion: Your Roadmap to Success

Securing the PEC-G scholarship 2025 is a transformative opportunity to immerse yourself in Brazilian academia, culture, and innovation, all while obtaining a tuition-free undergraduate degree. By carefully adhering to eligibility criteria, mastering Portuguese, crafting a compelling SOP, and following the detailed application roadmap—culminating in the August 31, 2025 deadline—you position yourself ahead of the curve.

Recap of Key Action Items:

Early Preparation (Dec 2024 – Apr 2025): Research institutions, register for Celpe-Bras or IGR courses, gather documents.
Perfecting Your Application (May 1 – Aug 31, 2025): Complete digital forms, secure translations, schedule embassy interviews.
Post-Submission Diligence (Sept 2025 – Dec 2025): Track selection updates, confirm acceptance, obtain student visa.
Pre-Departure & Arrival (Dec 2025 – Feb 2026): Attend orientations, book flights, settle into Brazilian life.

Remember: PEC-G’s mission is not just academic excellence but fostering mutual development and intercultural understanding. Let your application narrative reflect how you embody these values—your dedication to learning Portuguese, your track record of community engagement, and your vision for applying Brazilian knowledge to uplift your community back home.

Final Call to Action:

Visit the official MRE PEC-G selection process page to confirm country-specific deadlines and requirements (gov.br).
Download the latest PEC-G undergraduate call notice PDF for detailed instructions – ensure you review the “Important Information” section thoroughly (gov.br).
Connect with current PEC-G students or alumni on social media for first-hand tips and support.

The journey may seem challenging, but with thorough preparation, strategic planning, and unwavering motivation, you’ll stand poised to become the next cohort of PEC-G scholars—ready to contribute to Brazil’s vibrant academic community and return home as a catalyst for positive change.

Good luck, and see you in Brazil!

References

Brazil Government PEC Scholarship 2025 | World Scholarship News. (worldscholarshipnews.com)
PEC-G Selection Process – Ministério das Relações Exteriores (MRE). (gov.br)
About PEC-G Program – Ministério das Relações Exteriores (MRE). (gov.br)
Brazilian Program for Exchange Students – Undergraduate Level (PEC-G) at UFSM Global. (ufsm.br)
Exchange Programme for Undergraduate Students (PEC-G) 2025 – Government of Saint Lucia. (training.www.govt.lc)
PEC-G and PEC-PLE Language Requirements – PDF. (gov.br)
PEC-G Selection Timeline (Processo seletivo) – MRE Portuguese page. (gov.br)
PEC-G | International Office – Ufes. (internacional.ufes.br)

Brazil Government Exchange Program PEC-G Scholarship 2025 – Apply by August 31, 2025