The International Cooperation Group of Brazilian Universities (GCUB) has officially launched the fourth edition of the GCUB International Mobility Program (GCUB-Mob), offering more than 850 fully funded scholarship opportunities for international students interested in pursuing Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Brazil.

This global initiative, which aims to enhance academic cooperation and cultural exchange, will provide students from all five continents—Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, and South America—the chance to study at 58 renowned Brazilian universities. The academic programs are set to begin in 2026, while applications are currently open and will run from June 5 to July 13, 2025.

Scholarship Benefits: What the Program Covers

Selected applicants for the GCUB-Mob will benefit from a comprehensive scholarship package that significantly reduces the financial burden typically associated with international study. These benefits include:

• No enrollment, tuition, or academic fees

• Monthly stipend to cover living expenses

• Free application submission

• Access to university restaurants, libraries, laboratories, and other essential academic services

However, it is important to note that the scholarship does not cover the following:

• International airfare

• Visa application costs

• Health insurance

Applicants must plan ahead and secure additional funding for these expenses.

Who Can Apply? Eligibility and Language Requirements

This scholarship opportunity is open to non-Brazilian citizens from any country worldwide. The application process has been designed to be inclusive and multilingual. Here are the key eligibility points:

• Applicants must not be Brazilian citizens

• All nationalities are welcome to apply

• Applications can be submitted in English, Portuguese, French, or Spanish

• Applicants may apply for up to five different programs (Master’s or Doctorate) across various participating universities

Required Application Documents

Applicants must ensure that their submissions are complete and accurate to move forward in the selection process. The following documents are required:

1. Identification document (e.g., passport or national ID)

2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

3. Undergraduate diploma or certificate of completion

4. Master’s diploma (only for those applying for PhD programs, depending on the program’s requirements)

5. Two essays:

   • One explaining academic and professional expectations

   • One presenting a research proposal

6. Proof of a binding contract with a higher education institution (required only for university professors)

Missing or incomplete documents may result in disqualification, so applicants must follow the instructions carefully.

Step-by-Step Selection Timeline

The selection process is comprehensive and structured across multiple stages, ensuring transparency and academic merit. Below is the official timeline for the 2025-2026 application cycle:

• Phase 1: Document Consistency Review
  Dates: July 21 – August 1, 2025
  Purpose: Ensure that submitted documents are valid, complete, and meet program standards.

• Phase 2: Merit-Based Evaluation by Host Universities
  Dates: August 11 – September 6, 2025
  Purpose: Universities will assess candidates based on academic performance, essays, and compatibility with research areas.

• Final Classification of Candidates
  Dates: October 13 – 17, 2025
  Purpose: Candidates will be ranked and shortlisted for final approval.

• Official Homologation of Selected Candidates
  Dates: October 20 – 24, 2025
  Purpose: Universities formally approve and certify the list of selected students.

• Final List Publication
  Date: October 31, 2025
  Location: GCUB official website

For more details or to begin your application, visit the official application page here.

Partner Organizations Supporting the Program

The GCUB-Mob is a collaborative initiative coordinated by the International Cooperation Group of Brazilian Universities (GCUB) with strong support from key regional and global institutions. These include:

• Guimarães Rosa Institute of the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (IGR-MRE)

• Organization for South Cooperation (OSC)

• Organization of American States (OAS)

• National Council of State Research Funding Agencies (CONFAP)

• Union of Universities of Latin America and the Caribbean (UDUALC)

• Central American Higher University Council (CSUCA)

• National Commission of UNESCO for Brazil

• Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF)

Their collective aim is to foster international academic exchange, contribute to capacity-building in developing countries, and promote the internationalization of Brazilian higher education institutions.

Duration of Scholarships

The funding duration varies by program level:

• Master’s programs: 24 months

• Doctoral programs: 48 months

This extended period allows scholars sufficient time to complete coursework, engage in research, and contribute meaningfully to academic development.

What This Means for Prospective Students

The GCUB-Mob presents a unique opportunity for students worldwide to immerse themselves in Brazil’s vibrant academic environment. With its rich cultural heritage, fast-developing research landscape, and globally engaged universities, Brazil is positioning itself as a hub for advanced international education.

Additionally, through partnerships with multilateral institutions like UNESCO, OAS, and AUF, this scholarship scheme represents more than financial aid—it’s an invitation to become part of a larger vision of global knowledge-sharing, innovation, and cross-cultural collaboration.

Prospective applicants are advised to prepare their documents early and craft thoughtful essays, particularly for the research proposal component, which could play a crucial role in admission decisions.

Final Thoughts: An Unmissable Opportunity

For graduate students aiming to study abroad in a supportive, diverse, and forward-thinking academic ecosystem, the GCUB International Mobility Program offers unmatched potential. Whether you are a young researcher or a mid-career professional from any part of the world, this scholarship could be your gateway to building advanced skills, launching international collaborations, and contributing to both your home country and the global academic community.

Apply by July 13, 2025, and take a bold step toward your academic future in Brazil.