Studying and Living for International Students in Brazil

Brazil is the largest Latin American country and a popular study destination for international students. Brazilians are known for their convivial nature. They greet everyone in a friendly manner. Studying in Brazil will make you feel at home. You’ll get to meet and work with a great diversity of interesting people and discover about their culture. 

Read the post “Studying and Living in Brazil “and get insights about the accommodation, transportation, living and education expenses, health, and so on.

There are different types of accommodation available to International Students in Brazil. You need to contact your chosen institution’s international office beforehand to know about the types of accommodations available and seek advice on where to stay. 

Students can get well furnished apartments to stay in Brazil. Single as well as double rooms are available in the apartments. The cost of the apartments will vary depending upon the size, location and the facilities offered.

Student Residence best fits for those who are looking for a more independent lifestyle and want to meet and interact with other international students. Student residences vary in size depending upon the location. Pupils of all ages and nationalities can opt for the Student Residence. It is the most economical form of private student accommodation. There are many facilities being provided in student residences such as kitchen, cafeterias and so on. 

Hotels or Guest houses is also an option to stay in Brazil for international students. But this option is only suited for short-term stays between 1-4 weeks.  

Homestay accommodation in Brazil enriches your understanding of the Brazilian custom, culture and language. If you are interested in both the official language of Brazil and also learning about the culture, lifestyle, and tradition of Brazil during your stay, then you will discover that living with a host family is an ideal choice. In Brazil, there are many Homestays available, including families with or without children and even single households.

A teacher home in Brazil refers to living in the abode of a language teacher who will welcome you into his/her family and make you feel at home. This choice will allow you to immerse yourself totally in the language, culture and tradition of Brazil and is the most effectual way to learn the language quickly and easily.

The federal and state universities usually don't charge tuition fees. The international students only have to pay a registration fee once they are admitted to a course of study. Municipal managed institutions at times charge tuition fees and private universities always charge tuition fees. The tuition fee at a private university varies considerably depending upon the University and the course of study. Check with each university separately.

The living expenses in Brazil are high as compared to other South American countries. The prices may vary depending upon the region. Below are some indicative costs-

Meal at a low-priced restaurant: R$ 13-20 (varies based on region)

Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: R$60-120

One-way ticket for local transport: R$2.70-3

Monthly public transport pass: R$100-170

Basic Utilities for medium-sized flat per month (Includes electricity, water, etc.): R$130-270 (not for lodging or pensionata)

Internet per month: R$55-100

The rent varies depending upon the location, size and facilities. Here is what you can expect to pay-

 

Lodging with a Landlord: R$180-350 per month

Pensionata: R$350-800 per month (a room with meals included)

Furnished Flat:  R$500-2,000 per month depending on the city and locality

International students are not permitted to work while studying in Brazil.

Buses are the most common kind of public transport in Brazil. They are the best alternative for getting around the country. Buses are comfortable and affordable. The cost of travelling via bus will vary depending upon the location, but city bus fares are generally low-priced, with alternatives for daily users and students to get bus cards.

Brazil has metro systems in a few cities, but their utility varies. In Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, the metro can be a good and safe alternative. In smaller cities like Belo Horizonte, Salvador, etc. improvements are being done to make the metro a more useful alternative. 

Brazil’s major cities hold a huge taxi fleet that runs on meter, and taxis usually gather at selective points throughout the city. Taxis are affordable and if you’re in a new city you can hire a pre-paid taxi.  

The boats offer services to reach the islands along Brazil’s wide coastline and various locations near the country’s many rivers. So if you want to explore Brazil and its neighbouring locations, boats can be a good option.

Public health care is offered to all Brazilian and international students in Brazil through a national system called as the Unified Health System, or SUS (Sistema Unico de Saude). The SUS is for all and free for each and everyone.

Health Insurance: Advanced and better quality and faster health care services are available through the private health system and international students are required to possess a private insurance to access it.

Note: The prices mentioned here are indicative in nature. Exact cost will vary depending on level and type of course, life style etc.