Understanding the Group of Brazilian Universities Scholarship (GCUB)

The Group of Brazilian Universities Scholarship, also known as the GCUB International Mobility Program, offers a significant opportunity for international students to pursue postgraduate studies in Brazil. This fully funded scholarship aims to foster academic excellence and promote international cooperation between Brazilian institutions and universities worldwide. It covers tuition fees and provides monthly stipends to help with living expenses, making it an attractive option for aspiring scholars.

This scholarship is a key initiative by the International Cooperation Group of Brazilian Universities (GCUB), with support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil. The program seeks to attract high-achieving students from all continents, contributing to the internationalization of Brazilian higher education. Each year, hundreds of master’s and doctoral scholarships are awarded across various Brazilian universities.

Eligibility Requirements for the GCUB Scholarship

To be considered for the Group of Brazilian Universities Scholarship, applicants must meet specific criteria. Primarily, the scholarship is open to citizens of countries that have diplomatic relations with Brazil. It is important to note that Brazilian nationals are not eligible to apply. Applicants must also be able to cover any additional costs not included in the scholarship, such as airfare, visa processing, and health insurance, although some provisions are made for students from OSC member states.

Furthermore, candidates must meet the language requirements of the specific graduate programs they wish to join. The application itself must be submitted in English, Portuguese, French, or Spanish. Applicants are permitted to apply for up to five Master’s or Doctoral programs at different universities. Educational documents must be submitted as part of the application process.

Benefits Provided by the GCUB Scholarship

The GCUB Scholarship offers a comprehensive package designed to support students throughout their academic journey in Brazil. A major benefit is the exemption from all enrollment fees, tuition, and academic charges, significantly reducing the financial burden on scholars. Additionally, recipients receive a monthly stipend intended to cover their living expenses for the entire duration of their program.

For students from OSC member states, the scholarship includes financial assistance of up to USD 1,500 for airfare, visa processing, international medical insurance, and other personal expenses. The application submission process itself is free of charge. Scholars also gain access to university facilities, including restaurants, libraries, and laboratories, providing a conducive environment for study and research.

Required Documents for Application

Prospective applicants for the Group of Brazilian Universities Scholarship must prepare a specific set of documents for their application. The core requirement is a completed application form. Applicants will also need to provide a copy of their passport or another valid identity document. A Curriculum Vitae (CV) is essential to showcase academic and professional background.

Copies of all previous educational certificates, diplomas, transcripts, and degrees are mandatory. Applicants are also required to submit an essay, which must adhere to a specific formatting structure: Times New Roman font, size 12, with 1.5 cm line spacing and margins of 2.5 cm on all sides. Careful attention to these details ensures that the application meets the program’s standards.

How to Apply for the GCUB Scholarship

The application process for the Group of Brazilian Universities Scholarship is conducted online through the official scholarship portal. Interested candidates should visit the provided link to access the Call for Applications and complete the application form. Applications typically open on a specific date, and registration closes at a set time on the deadline.

The deadline for the 2026 program is July 13, 2025. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the closing date to avoid any last-minute issues. The list of successful candidates is usually announced later in the year, typically around October 31st. Following the instructions carefully and submitting all required documents on time is key to a successful application.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the GCUB Scholarship?

The GCUB Scholarship, or International Mobility Program, is a fully funded program for international students to pursue Master’s or Doctoral degrees in Brazil.

Who is eligible for the GCUB Scholarship?

Citizens of countries with diplomatic ties to Brazil are eligible, but Brazilian nationals cannot apply. You must also meet the language requirements of your chosen program.

What does the GCUB Scholarship cover?

It covers tuition fees, enrollment charges, and provides a monthly stipend for living expenses. Students from OSC member states may also receive up to $1,500 for travel and insurance.

How do I apply for the GCUB Scholarship?

Applications are submitted online through the official scholarship portal. You will need to provide an application form, CV, educational documents, and an essay by the deadline, which is July 13, 2025, for the 2026 program.