If you’ve been dreaming of pursuing a Master’s or PhD in Latin America’s top-ranked university without the crushing burden of tuition and living costs, you might want to stop scrolling right now. The University of São Paulo (USP) — a powerhouse in global research and the largest public university in Brazil — is opening its doors to international graduate students with fully funded scholarships, including research funding and free housing.
This isn’t just an academic opportunity. It’s a chance to study in the heart of South America’s most dynamic city, work alongside world-class researchers, and live in a country known for its cultural richness, biodiversity, and affordable lifestyle.
The clock is ticking — applications close soon, and missing this window could mean waiting another year.
Why the University of São Paulo Stands Out
Founded in 1934, the University of São Paulo consistently ranks among the top universities in Latin America and features in the global top 100 for multiple subjects, according to QS World University Rankings. USP is Brazil’s research engine, producing more than 20% of the nation’s scientific output.
With over 90 graduate programs across disciplines — from engineering and life sciences to humanities and social sciences — USP provides a multidisciplinary environment that attracts scholars worldwide.
Here’s what makes USP particularly appealing for international Master’s and PhD students:
- No tuition fees – as a public university, USP charges zero tuition for graduate studies.
- Generous research stipends – enough to cover living expenses comfortably in São Paulo.
- Free or subsidized housing – available for many scholarship recipients.
- Access to advanced research facilities – from state-of-the-art labs to rare archival collections.
- Networking opportunities – USP maintains partnerships with institutions like Harvard, Oxford, and the University of Tokyo.
Scholarship Benefits at a Glance
USP’s postgraduate scholarships aren’t just about waiving fees. They are designed to support students holistically, ensuring they can focus on their research without financial strain.
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fee Waiver | 100% waived for all admitted Master’s and PhD candidates. |
| Monthly Stipend | Approx. R$ 2,100–R$ 4,500 depending on program and funding body. |
| Free Housing | On-campus housing or rent subsidy for off-campus accommodation. |
| Research Funding | Covers lab equipment, fieldwork, conference travel, and publication costs. |
| Health Coverage | Access to Brazil’s public health system plus university health services. |
| Language Support | Free Portuguese language courses for international students. |
| Cultural Integration | Student clubs, intercultural activities, and mentorship from faculty and peers. |
Who Can Apply?
USP’s scholarships are competitive but inclusive, attracting applicants from all continents. Generally, eligibility includes:
- Academic Qualifications –
- For Master’s: a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
- For PhD: a Master’s degree or equivalent research experience.
- Research Proposal –
Applicants must submit a clear and feasible research plan aligned with USP’s faculty expertise. - Language Proficiency –
While many graduate courses are in Portuguese, some programs (especially in sciences and engineering) offer coursework and supervision in English. If required, you may need proof of language proficiency such as TOEFL, IELTS, or CELPE-Bras. - Application to Graduate Program –
You must first be admitted to a graduate program before applying for funding.
Types of Funding Available
USP scholarships are typically awarded through major Brazilian funding agencies such as:
- CNPq (National Council for Scientific and Technological Development) – focuses on research excellence.
- CAPES (Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel) – prioritizes capacity-building and innovation.
- FAPESP (São Paulo Research Foundation) – funds cutting-edge research projects.
These agencies offer different stipend amounts and durations. Some also provide additional travel grants for international conferences and research visits abroad.
Living and Studying in São Paulo
São Paulo isn’t just Brazil’s economic hub — it’s a cultural mosaic with influences from Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. This diversity is reflected in everything from food to festivals.
As a student, you can expect:
- Cost of Living – While São Paulo is pricier than smaller Brazilian cities, the stipend provided by USP scholarships is generally sufficient to live comfortably, especially with free housing.
- Transport – The city has an extensive metro and bus network, and students often get discounted fares.
- Safety & Adaptation – Like any major city, safety varies by neighborhood. International students are encouraged to live near campus or in official housing.
Why Apply Now?
Two reasons: competition and timing.
Brazil’s academic calendar runs from March to December, but applications for the next intake close well before the year begins. For the 2026 academic year, the deadline for many USP graduate programs is late September 2025 — some as early as mid-September depending on the faculty.
If you delay, you may find yourself locked out until the next cycle, losing a year of potential research and professional growth.
How to Apply – Step-by-Step
- Identify Your Program
Browse USP’s official graduate programs directory to find a Master’s or PhD track that matches your interests. - Contact a Potential Supervisor
Most programs require a supervisor’s endorsement before admission. Send a concise email with your CV and research proposal. - Prepare Your Documents
Typical requirements:- Academic transcripts (translated into Portuguese or English if needed)
- Research proposal
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of language proficiency
- Submit Your Application
Apply via the specific faculty’s portal — deadlines vary by department. - Apply for Funding
Once admitted, apply for scholarships through CNPq, CAPES, or FAPESP with your program’s guidance.
Pro Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Tailor Your Proposal – Show how your research aligns with your target department’s ongoing projects.
- Highlight International Perspective – USP values diversity and cross-cultural collaboration.
- Demonstrate Feasibility – Detail how you’ll carry out your project within the given time frame and budget.
- Learn Basic Portuguese – Even if your program is in English, basic communication skills can help you adapt quickly.
Comparison with Other Latin American Scholarships
| Scholarship | Country | Coverage | Living Costs Covered? | Language Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USP Master’s & PhD Scholarships | Brazil | Tuition waiver, stipend, housing, research fund | Yes | Portuguese/English |
| CONICYT Chile Scholarships for Foreign Students | Chile | Tuition, monthly stipend | Yes | Spanish |
| UNAM Graduate Scholarships | Mexico | Tuition waiver, small stipend | Partially | Spanish |
Life After Graduation
Graduating from USP isn’t just an academic milestone. Many alumni go on to:
- Secure postdoctoral positions in Europe, North America, and Asia.
- Lead research projects funded by international agencies.
- Take faculty positions in Brazil and abroad.
- Work in government and policy-making roles.
This scholarship can be a launchpad for careers that blend academic excellence with global impact.
Final Thoughts – Don’t Let the Deadline Pass
Opportunities like this — full funding, free housing, and the prestige of a top-tier university — are rare, especially in a culturally vibrant and globally connected city like São Paulo.
If your goal is to deepen your research, expand your professional network, and experience Brazil beyond the tourist lens, USP’s Master’s and PhD scholarships could be your perfect fit. But you’ll need to act fast: the September deadline is approaching, and the application process takes time.
Start today — shortlist your program, reach out to a supervisor, and prepare your documents. By the time the new academic year begins, you could be walking through USP’s historic campus, ready to shape the future of your field.
Call to Action:
📌 If you’re serious about applying, bookmark this page, check the USP Graduate Program Directory, and begin your application now before the September cut-off.