University of São Paulo Overview
The University of São Paulo (USP), founded in 1934, is Brazil’s largest and most prestigious public university. It is a leading institution in Latin America for both academic excellence and research output. USP operates across 11 campuses throughout the state of São Paulo, with the main campus located in the city of São Paulo at Cidade Universitária. The university serves approximately 90,000 students and offers a wide range of programs in fields such as social sciences, engineering, health sciences, arts, and humanities. Education is tuition-free for all students. The primary language of instruction is Portuguese, although some programs offer courses in English.
University of São Paulo Offered Programs
University of São Paulo offers programs in Architecture and Urbanism, Business Administration, Computer Science, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Law, Medicine, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Nursing, Political Science, Economics, Journalism, International Relations, Environmental Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Visual Arts, Music, Philosophy, Sociology, and History, among others.
University of São Paulo Tuition Fees
As a public university, USP offers tuition-free education to both Brazilian and international students. However, students are responsible for their living expenses and any special course materials.
| Program Type | Annual Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Free |
| Master’s | Free |
| Doctorate | Free |
| Exchange Programs | Usually Free |
University of São Paulo Required Documents and Admission Requirements
Brazilian undergraduate applicants are admitted mainly through the FUVEST exam or ENEM scores. International applicants typically need to submit their high school diploma, transcripts, a copy of their passport, proof of Portuguese proficiency (usually CELPE-Bras), a statement of purpose, and a CV. Graduate applicants must submit a bachelor’s degree, academic transcripts, a research proposal, letters of recommendation, and sometimes take entrance exams or attend interviews.
University of São Paulo Deadlines
The main admission deadlines are:
- FUVEST Application Period: July to August
- FUVEST First Stage Exam: November
- FUVEST Second Stage Exam: January
- International Applications: Usually September to November
- Graduate Applications: September to October
University of São Paulo Scholarships Offerings
USP provides scholarship programs especially for students with financial need, including support for meals, transportation, and housing through the PAPFE program. Research scholarships are available for students involved in scientific projects. Graduate students may receive funding from Brazilian agencies such as CAPES, CNPq, and FAPESP. Some international exchange programs offer travel and living expense support.
University of São Paulo Rankings
USP consistently ranks as the top university in Brazil and among the best in Latin America. According to QS World University Rankings, USP is ranked #1 in Brazil and around #92 globally. Times Higher Education also ranks USP as the leading Brazilian university and places it within the top 200 worldwide.
| Ranking Organization | Country Rank | World Rank |
|---|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings | 1 | ~92 |
| Times Higher Education | 1 | Top 200 |
| Academic Ranking of World Universities | 1 | 101-150 |
University of São Paulo Acceptance Rate
Admission to USP is highly competitive. Popular programs such as Medicine, Law, and Engineering have acceptance rates between 5% and 10%. Other programs have slightly higher rates, typically ranging from 15% to 20%. The acceptance rate for international applicants varies but is generally selective.
University of São Paulo Student Campus Life
Campus life at USP is vibrant and culturally rich, with museums, art galleries, theaters, sports facilities, and extensive green spaces. Over 300 student clubs and organizations are active on campus. Housing options on campus are limited and prioritized for low-income and international students. Most students live in off-campus shared apartments, particularly in the Butantã neighborhood near the main campus. Campus amenities include dining halls, libraries, and transportation services.
University of São Paulo Cost of Living
Living expenses in São Paulo are moderate compared to other global cities but still require a careful budget for students. Rent prices near campus tend to be higher, but discounted public transport is available for students. Many students share apartments to reduce costs.
| Expense Category | Monthly Average (BRL) |
|---|---|
| Shared Rent | 1,000 – 1,600 |
| Food | 500 – 700 |
| Transportation | 200 – 300 |
| Utilities and Internet | 200 – 300 |
| Personal Expenses | 300 – 500 |
| Total | 2,200 – 3,400 |
University of São Paulo Contact Information
Phone: +55 11 3091 3111
Email: atendimento@usp.br
Address: Rua da Praça do Relógio, 109 – Cidade Universitária, São Paulo – SP, Brazil
University of São Paulo Online Application
International undergraduate applications are submitted online through USP’s International Relations Office, requiring scanned documents upload. Graduate applications are done through individual faculties’ online portals. Application fees are generally waived, and the admission process is managed online.