Top 10 Best Scholarships in Brazil for International Students 2025

The PEC-G (Undergraduate Exchange Program for Foreign Students) is a unique opportunity offered by the Brazilian government that allows students from developing countries, including Pakistan, to pursue undergraduate studies at some of Brazil’s most prestigious public universities. While it does not cover living expenses, the scholarship offers a full tuition waiver—making it a strong option for academically motivated students with the means to support themselves during their studies.

For Pakistani students, this program opens the door to high-quality education in diverse fields ranging from engineering and agriculture to social sciences and the arts. Brazilian universities are known for their research, innovation, and practical learning environment. This exposure can be especially valuable for Pakistani students looking to bring international perspectives and skills back home or build global careers.

A unique aspect of PEC-G is that it encourages cultural and educational exchange. Students become part of a vibrant international community, gaining fluency in Portuguese and experiencing Brazil’s rich cultural heritage. However, since the medium of instruction is Portuguese, applicants must either learn the language in advance or complete a preparatory language course in Brazil before beginning their degree program.

Overall, PEC-G provides a pathway for Pakistani students to receive a respected international education at minimal academic cost. With careful planning for living expenses and dedication to language learning, this program can be a life-changing experience and a launchpad for future success.

The PEC-PG (Postgraduate Program for Developing Countries) is a flagship initiative by the Brazilian government that provides fully funded Master’s and PhD opportunities to students from developing nations, including Pakistan. It is designed to strengthen international academic cooperation while empowering talented individuals to access top-tier Brazilian universities. The scholarship covers full tuition, a monthly stipend for living expenses, and round-trip airfare, making it an exceptional opportunity for financially deserving but academically strong Pakistani students.

For Pakistani students, PEC-PG offers a rare chance to pursue advanced research and postgraduate education without the financial burden typically associated with studying abroad. Whether in the fields of engineering, health sciences, agriculture, or social studies, students gain exposure to Brazil’s globally recognized institutions, experienced faculty, and modern research infrastructure. This can be a transformative step for those aspiring to bring innovation and international experience back to Pakistan’s academic, industrial, or governmental sectors.

Language proficiency is a key consideration, as many programs are delivered in Portuguese. However, some universities do offer courses in English or provide language support. Pakistani students with a willingness to embrace linguistic and cultural adaptation stand to benefit the most—not only academically but also by becoming part of Brazil’s diverse, multicultural environment. This enriches their perspective and builds valuable global networks.

In essence, PEC-PG is more than a scholarship—it’s a full-fledged academic and cultural journey. For Pakistani graduates seeking to elevate their education while exploring new horizons, it offers a well-supported, fully funded pathway to grow academically, professionally, and personally. With the added bonus of living in one of the world’s most vibrant countries, the program promises both academic excellence and memorable life experiences.

The CAPES Scholarships, offered by Brazil's Federal Agency for Support and Evaluation of Graduate Education, present a remarkable opportunity for Pakistani students aiming to pursue advanced research degrees abroad. These scholarships cover tuition fees, provide monthly stipends, and often include additional research funding—making them especially attractive to students who wish to gain access to Brazil’s high-quality academic environment without bearing a heavy financial burden.

For Pakistani master's, PhD, and postdoctoral researchers, Brazil offers a unique blend of academic depth and international exposure. Brazilian universities, many of which rank among the best in Latin America, have strong ties to industry and research institutions. Fields like agriculture, biotechnology, public health, and environmental sciences are particularly well-developed. Pakistani students interested in contributing to national development through advanced research will find CAPES-funded programs aligned with many of Pakistan’s pressing needs.

A key aspect of the CAPES program is its emphasis on international collaboration and knowledge exchange. Through university partnerships and bilateral agreements, Pakistani students can apply for placements at Brazilian institutions and engage in cross-cultural academic dialogue. Many universities offer support programs for foreign students, helping them adjust both academically and socially. This global network can open up future research, teaching, and consultancy opportunities.

However, it’s important to note that Pakistani students typically need to secure admission to a Brazilian university before applying for CAPES support. Also, while some courses may be offered in English, proficiency in Portuguese is often necessary, particularly for full integration into the academic community. With proper planning, however, CAPES scholarships can serve as a powerful stepping stone for Pakistani scholars seeking to expand their academic horizons and bring international expertise back to Pakistan.

The OAS-GCUB Scholarships program, a collaboration between the Organization of American States (OAS) and Brazilian universities, offers fully funded postgraduate opportunities to students from OAS member countries — and while Pakistan is not a direct member, affiliated programs and partnerships may provide Pakistani students indirect access. This makes it a valuable and lesser-known pathway for academically strong Pakistani students seeking an international Master's or PhD degree in Brazil.

For Pakistani students, the scholarship covers full tuition and provides a monthly stipend for living expenses. This is particularly attractive for those from middle- or low-income backgrounds who otherwise may not be able to afford overseas education. The scholarship spans a wide range of disciplines — including engineering, medicine, public health, environmental studies, and social sciences — allowing students to match their career interests with Brazil's academic strengths.

Another key advantage is that several Brazilian universities now offer postgraduate programs in English, reducing the initial barrier of Portuguese fluency. However, for students who wish to immerse themselves more deeply in Brazilian society and job markets, learning Portuguese remains a strong asset. Many universities also provide preparatory language support for selected scholars.

Overall, OAS-GCUB represents a unique opportunity for Pakistani students to gain advanced education in one of South America’s largest economies. It blends high academic standards, cultural diversity, and financial support — all of which contribute to a transformative educational experience that can boost career prospects both locally and internationally.

The University of São Paulo (USP) is Latin America's top-ranked institution and offers a valuable opportunity for Pakistani students aiming to study abroad on fully funded scholarships. Known for its academic excellence and strong global rankings, USP opens doors for Master's and PhD studies across various disciplines, especially in science, engineering, technology, and social development. Pakistani students benefit from a world-class education and access to advanced research facilities in an affordable and multicultural setting.

USP scholarships often include full tuition coverage, monthly stipends for living expenses, and research support. These are available through both USP’s internal programs and external Brazilian agencies like CNPq and CAPES. Pakistani scholars with a solid academic background and a passion for research can secure these opportunities, especially when affiliated with a Brazilian academic supervisor or institution.

Many of USP's postgraduate programs are available in English, making it accessible to Pakistani students without requiring prior knowledge of Portuguese. The university also offers language training, orientation support, and integration programs that make adjusting to Brazilian life easier. This inclusive environment, along with Brazil’s friendly culture, makes USP a welcoming destination for students from Pakistan.

Graduating from USP enhances a student’s profile globally, offering pathways into international research, academic positions, or professional careers. USP maintains partnerships with top universities and organizations across the world, so Pakistani graduates can leverage these connections for further studies or work abroad. With its global outlook and generous funding, USP presents an excellent option for Pakistani students to shape a bright academic and professional future.

The CNPq Scholarships (offered by Brazil’s National Council for Scientific and Technological Development) are highly valuable for Pakistani students and researchers interested in pursuing advanced research in STEM, biotechnology, social sciences, and sustainable development. This scholarship is ideal for those already involved in academic research or those who have a concrete project proposal and a willing supervisor in Brazil. The program focuses on fostering innovation and scientific collaboration between Brazil and developing countries like Pakistan.

For Pakistani students, one of the most significant benefits is access to Brazil’s vast network of advanced laboratories, research institutes, and technology parks. Institutions affiliated with CNPq often participate in cutting-edge scientific work in medicine, environmental science, agriculture, and information technology—fields that are increasingly relevant to Pakistan’s future development. Collaborating with these institutions can elevate a Pakistani student’s academic profile and open doors to international academic publishing and future academic appointments.

Moreover, CNPq scholarships include research grants and monthly stipends to help cover living costs in Brazil. This support ensures that students can focus fully on their research without financial stress. The flexibility of the program—being available for Master's, PhD, and postdoctoral levels—also means that scholars at various stages in their careers can apply, making it a sustainable and long-term academic opportunity for Pakistani talent.

However, applicants must secure a Brazilian research advisor and present a viable research proposal, which can be a challenge without networking or institutional support. Pakistani students are encouraged to proactively build academic connections, attend international conferences, and reach out to Brazilian universities early in their academic planning to fully leverage the CNPq scholarship’s potential.

Brazil’s flagship scholarship program, Science Without Borders, is one of the most notable international academic mobility efforts led by the Brazilian government. Initially launched to boost innovation through global exchange, the program funded thousands of foreign students to study and conduct research in Brazil’s top universities and institutes. Though the program was temporarily paused, official sources confirm that its revival is under serious consideration, and it is expected to relaunch soon with enhanced features and broader partnerships. This is particularly important for Pakistani students aspiring to gain global STEM exposure with full financial support.

The program traditionally supported both undergraduate and graduate exchange students in disciplines like engineering, physics, mathematics, IT, biotechnology, environmental science, and health sciences. Scholars selected under this initiative were offered a fully funded package including tuition waiver, international travel, monthly living allowance, housing support, and medical insurance. Additionally, a Portuguese language preparatory course was also provided to help students integrate into academic and social life in Brazil. While most undergraduate courses are in Portuguese, many master’s and PhD programs are available in English, especially in STEM fields, which lowers the language entry barrier for Pakistani students.

What makes this program particularly beneficial for Pakistani students is Brazil’s growing reputation in scientific research and innovation, especially in fields such as biofuels, environmental conservation, nanotechnology, and medical research. Students will not only gain academic learning but also hands-on research experience in advanced labs and industry-linked projects. Brazil’s institutions maintain collaborations with research centers in Europe, North America, and Asia, offering opportunities for joint research and co-authored publications. For students from Pakistan, this could be a gateway to global networking, post-study work opportunities, and even long-term academic careers abroad.

Pakistani students are encouraged to begin preparing early by focusing on STEM subjects, building strong academic records, participating in relevant extracurriculars, and improving their English proficiency (and optionally Portuguese). Students should also monitor updates from the Brazilian Ministry of Education and the official scholarship portal. As Brazil seeks to re-engage with the international academic community, Pakistani talent in science and technology stands a strong chance to benefit from this prestigious initiative. With its return, Science Without Borders could once again become a life-changing opportunity for brilliant students in Pakistan looking to grow in the global STEM arena.

The University of Campinas (UNICAMP) is one of Brazil’s top-ranked research institutions, widely respected across Latin America for its excellence in science, engineering, and innovation. For Pakistani students seeking a strong academic and research environment, UNICAMP offers a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research across disciplines. With world-class labs and access to renowned faculty, the university stands out as a hub for those aspiring to contribute to global scientific advancement.

UNICAMP offers various scholarships and financial aid packages for international students enrolled in Master's and PhD programs. These may include full or partial tuition exemptions, monthly living stipends, and opportunities for research or teaching assistantships. For Pakistani students facing financial constraints, this makes UNICAMP an affordable yet high-quality option for graduate study abroad.

English-taught programs are available in selected departments, particularly at the graduate level, which lowers the language barrier for Pakistani students unfamiliar with Portuguese. Moreover, the university provides Portuguese language training and orientation support to help international students adapt to life in Brazil. The multicultural environment on campus makes it easier for Pakistani students to build global networks and feel welcomed.

Living in Campinas, a modern city close to São Paulo, offers Pakistani students a balanced lifestyle with affordable living costs, safety, and access to Brazil’s academic and cultural richness. UNICAMP’s support for international students ensures that scholars from Pakistan can focus on their research and education without excessive financial or cultural hurdles, making it an ideal destination for those seeking academic excellence abroad.

Private and NGO scholarships in Brazil offer a unique avenue for talented Pakistani students who may not have access to government-sponsored programs. These scholarships are often funded by well-established organizations like the Lemann Foundation, Fundação Estudar, and Santander Universidades. They aim to support individuals who demonstrate outstanding academic performance, leadership qualities, or a commitment to social development. For students passionate about making a difference, these programs can be a stepping stone to impactful careers in Brazil or globally.

Many of these scholarships go beyond just covering tuition. Depending on the organization, selected students may receive monthly stipends, accommodation assistance, access to mentorship programs, and networking opportunities with professionals and alumni. For Pakistani students who are first-generation scholars or come from underserved communities, this type of holistic support can make higher education abroad more accessible and empowering.

The fields of study supported by private and NGO scholarships in Brazil are often aligned with global development goals, such as public health, technology, education, and entrepreneurship. This makes them particularly suitable for Pakistani students with a strong social vision or business mindset. Some programs also support students pursuing social entrepreneurship or community-based projects, creating space for impact-driven academic journeys.

However, these scholarships are typically highly competitive and selective, with limited slots each year. Students are expected to have a strong academic record, a clear personal mission, and often, some community service or leadership experience. But for those Pakistani students who are driven, socially aware, and seeking international exposure with purpose, these scholarships present a powerful opportunity to study in Brazil and grow as global changemakers.