Brazil has a large higher education system with public and private universities. Under the Brazilian Constitution, public education in official institutions is tuition-free. International students may also apply for tuition-free undergraduate places through the Student Program–Undergraduate Agreement (PEC-G), subject to the program’s eligibility rules and selection process.
However, higher education attainment remains relatively low among the local population. According to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), 20.5% of people aged 25 and older in Brazil had completed higher education in 2024. Data published by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) also show that 38% of new bachelor’s degree entrants in Brazil complete their degrees within the theoretical duration of their programs. The rate rises to 43% one year after the expected completion date and 49% within three years.
Brazil’s gross domestic product grew by 2.3% in 2025, following growth of 3.4% in 2024. Students considering university study in Brazil should review the latest admissions requirements, course structures, and application routes directly with their chosen institutions.
Below, we discuss some of the best subjects to study in Brazil.
Top Courses to Study in Brazil
1. Portuguese
Studying Portuguese in Brazil gives international students an opportunity to learn the language as it is used locally and to practice it in everyday settings. Portuguese is an official language in nine countries across four continents.
Portuguese proficiency can be useful for study, travel, and work in Portuguese-speaking contexts. Learning the language in Brazil also gives students regular opportunities to communicate with local speakers.
The Faculty of Letters at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) runs the CLAC language project. Its current course notice lists Portuguese for Foreigners among its regular courses organized into semester-long levels. Available levels, delivery modes, fees, and application procedures may vary, so students should check the latest notice before applying.
2. Manufacturing Engineering
Manufacturing Engineering focuses on the technical aspects involved in producing goods, from product conception to distribution. The field also involves the critical analysis of manufacturing techniques and equipment.
Students interested in this subject should review each university’s curriculum carefully, as the course structure and available electives may differ by institution.
The University of Campinas (UNICAMP) offers an undergraduate program in Manufacturing Engineering through its School of Applied Sciences.
3. Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering is a suitable option for students interested in machines, systems, product design, and manufacturing processes.
Course structures, elective options, and international mobility opportunities vary by institution. Students should check the current curriculum and admissions information published by each university.
The School of Engineering at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) lists Mechanical Engineering among its undergraduate engineering programs.
4. Tourism
Brazil has a significant tourism sector and recorded 9.3 million international tourist arrivals in 2025, the highest annual total in the country’s history.
Students interested in tourism can explore subjects related to destination management, travel services, hospitality, cultural attractions, and tourism planning.
The School of Communications and Arts at the University of São Paulo (USP) offers an undergraduate program in Tourism. The university lists the nighttime program as lasting eight semesters. USP states that its undergraduate courses are free of charge.
5. Law Enforcement
Law enforcement and legal practice are distinct fields. Students interested in becoming lawyers should consider a Law degree and review the professional registration requirements that apply in Brazil.
At the University of São Paulo, the undergraduate Law program has an ideal and minimum duration of 10 semesters and a maximum duration of 15 semesters.
Graduating with a Law degree does not automatically authorize a person to practice as a lawyer in Brazil. Under Brazilian law, applicants must meet the statutory registration requirements, which include obtaining a Law degree and passing the Bar Examination, known as the Exame de Ordem.
We hope that you found this article on the best subjects to study in Brazil informative and helpful. For more information about studying abroad, check out the Available Programs for International Students.
