🇧🇷 Brazil
Study in Canada from Brazil
Building on the legacy of the Science Without Borders program, Brazil continues to send thousands of talented students to Canada every year. With a growing Portuguese-speaking community, strong STEM programs, and welcoming multicultural cities, Canada is the ideal study destination for Brazilian students.
Why Brazilian Students Choose Canada
Thousands of students from Brazil choose Canada every year. Here are the key reasons why Canada stands out as the top study destination for Brazilian students.
Science Without Borders Legacy
The Science Without Borders program (Ciência sem Fronteiras) sent over 100,000 Brazilian students abroad, with Canada being one of the top destinations. Although the program ended, its legacy established strong academic partnerships between Brazilian and Canadian universities that continue to create exchange and scholarship opportunities.
Growing Portuguese-Speaking Community
Canada has a significant Portuguese-speaking community, especially in Toronto (Little Portugal, Dundas West), Montreal, and Vancouver. Brazilian students will find cultural events, restaurants, churches, and community organizations that help maintain connections to Brazilian culture while settling into Canadian life.
World-Class STEM Education
Canada’s investment in STEM research and development is among the highest in the world. Brazilian students interested in engineering, computer science, biotechnology, and environmental science will find cutting-edge labs, renowned professors, and strong industry partnerships at Canadian universities.
Safe and Multicultural Environment
Canada is consistently ranked one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the world. Brazilian students appreciate the multicultural environment, low crime rates, and inclusive society that respects diversity and celebrates cultural differences.
Popular Programs for Brazilian Students
These programs are especially popular among Brazilian students studying in Canada, offering strong career outcomes and immigration potential.
Computer Science & Software Engineering
Canada’s tech sector is booming, with hubs in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Ottawa. Brazilian students in CS programs benefit from co-op placements at major tech companies and a strong job market for graduates in AI, machine learning, and software development.
Environmental Science & Climate Research
Brazil’s Amazon expertise combined with Canada’s Arctic and boreal forest research creates powerful academic synergies. Canadian programs in environmental science offer Brazilian students unique perspectives on global ecological challenges.
Business & Finance (MBA Programs)
Canadian MBA programs at Rotman (Toronto), Ivey (Western), and Sauder (UBC) are globally recognized. Brazilian students benefit from the strong economic ties between Canada and Brazil and the growing demand for professionals with cross-market expertise.
Biomedical Sciences & Biotechnology
Canada is a leader in biomedical research, with world-renowned programs at universities like Toronto, McGill, and UBC. Brazilian students in life sciences find advanced research facilities and opportunities to collaborate with leading scientists.
Mining Engineering & Geological Sciences
Both Brazil and Canada are major mining nations. Canadian universities like Queen’s, UBC, and Laurentian offer top mining engineering programs with strong industry partnerships that can lead to careers in either country.
Creative Industries & Digital Media
Canada’s thriving film, gaming, and digital media industries attract creative Brazilian talent. Programs at Sheridan College, Emily Carr, and the Vancouver Film School offer hands-on training in animation, game design, and visual effects.
Top Universities for Brazilian Students
These institutions are particularly popular with students from Brazil, offering strong academic programs, support services, and community connections.
University of Toronto
Strong Brazilian student association, world-leading research across STEM fields
University of British Columbia
International Leader of Tomorrow Award, top environmental science programs
McGill University
Competitive international tuition, strong life sciences and engineering programs
University of Waterloo
World’s largest co-op program with 7,100+ employer partners globally
University of Alberta
Top AI research, Brazil-Alberta partnerships in energy and environment
Seneca Polytechnic
Applied programs with industry placements, strong support for international students
Scholarship Opportunities
Brazilian students can access a variety of scholarships and financial support programs to help fund their Canadian education.
Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP)
Up to $15,100 CAD
Government of Canada scholarship for Latin American and Caribbean students for short-term exchange and research at Canadian post-secondary institutions.
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
$50,000 CAD/year for 3 years
Canada’s premier doctoral scholarship open to international students. Brazilian PhD candidates with outstanding research records are encouraged to apply.
CAPES-Canada Agreements
Varies by program
Brazil’s CAPES agency maintains scholarship agreements with Canadian universities for graduate students in priority research areas including STEM, health sciences, and social sciences.
University Entrance Scholarships
$5,000 - $50,000 CAD
Major Canadian universities automatically consider international applicants for entrance scholarships. UBC’s International Major Entrance Scholarship awards up to $40,000 CAD over four years.
Study Permit Process from Brazil
Follow these steps to obtain your Canadian study permit from Brazil. We recommend starting the process at least 4-6 months before your intended program start date.
Receive a DLI Acceptance Letter
Apply to a Designated Learning Institution in Canada and obtain your official letter of acceptance. Many Brazilian students use agents or apply directly through university portals.
Prepare Required Documents
Gather proof of funds (minimum tuition plus $20,635 CAD/year for living costs), valid passport, passport-size photos, academic transcripts, and English or French language test results (IELTS, TOEFL, or TEF).
Apply Online Through IRCC
Create an account on the IRCC online portal, complete the study permit application (IMM 1294), and upload all supporting documents. The application fee is $150 CAD.
Submit Biometrics in Brazil
Visit a VFS Global centre in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, or other Brazilian cities to provide your fingerprints and photo. The biometrics fee is $85 CAD.
Medical Examination (If Required)
Depending on your program and health history, you may need a medical exam by a designated panel physician in Brazil. IRCC will notify you if this is required.
Receive Approval & Arrive in Canada
Study permit processing from Brazil typically takes 7-12 weeks. Upon approval, present your letter of introduction at the Canadian port of entry to receive your official study permit.
Living in Canada as a Brazilian Student
Practical information about daily life in Canada for students from Brazil, including community, costs, employment, and cultural adjustment.
Brazilian Community
Toronto’s Little Portugal and surrounding neighborhoods have a vibrant Brazilian community with restaurants, markets, samba schools, and Carnival celebrations. Montreal, Vancouver, and Calgary also have active Brazilian student groups.
Cost of Living Comparison
While Canada is more expensive than Brazil, salaries and part-time work opportunities help offset costs. Monthly living expenses range from $1,200 to $2,500 CAD. Students in smaller cities like Kitchener, Halifax, or Winnipeg enjoy lower costs.
Adapting to Canadian Winters
Canadian winters are the biggest adjustment for Brazilian students. Temperatures can drop to -20°C or lower in some cities. Investing in quality winter gear (parka, boots, layers) is essential. Many campuses have indoor tunnels and heated buildings to make winters manageable.
Working Opportunities
Your study permit allows you to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during breaks. Brazilian students commonly find work in hospitality, food service, retail, tutoring, and on-campus research positions.
From Student to Permanent Resident
Canada wants international graduates to stay. Here is your roadmap from Brazilian student to Canadian permanent resident.
Complete your program at a designated learning institution and apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), valid for up to 3 years.
Gain at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada in a NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation.
Take an approved language test — most Brazilian students take IELTS for English, aiming for CLB 7 or higher for maximum CRS points.
Create an Express Entry profile for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and enter the candidate pool.
Consider Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) which add 600 CRS points — Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta have dedicated international graduate streams.
Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence and submit your complete application within 60 days.
Brazilian graduates typically achieve permanent residence within 2-3 years of completing their Canadian studies.
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