Brazil

University of Galway and Brazil

 University of Galway has a number of substantial academic links with Brazil, spanning a wide range of scientific, cultural, and artistic domains . Our research collaborators in Brazil include:

■ Universidade de São Paulo
■ Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro
■ Universidade Presbiteriana Mackenzie
■ Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG)
■ Pontificia Universidade Catolica do Rio De Janeiro
■ Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul
■ Universidade Federal de Uberlândia
■ Universidade Federal de Viçosa
■ Universidade de Fortaleza (UNIFOR)

 Study Abroad at University of Galway 

Our popular Study Abroad Programme offers undergraduate students the opportunity to study at University of Galway and earn credits towards their degree at their home institution.  Semester One runs from September to December while Semester Two runs from January until May. You can expect to take 5 - 7 classes per semester. This equates to approximately 30 ECTS credits, which is a normal course load for University of Galway students per semester.  Visiting students are examined alongside our full time degree-seeking students. Most classes are examined by end of semester examination, however most also include mid-term assignments and/or continuous assessment.
Upon completion of your studies, you will be sent a transcript showing the classes you have taken at University of Galway as well the credits earned and marks (%) received.  We have many years’ experience in the matter of credit transfer and course equivalence and can, on request, provide a suggested system to translate from ECTS credits to the credit
system used in your home country.  Classes Available to Visiting Students The University publishes the Visiting Student Academic Handbook before the beginning of
each Semester, which lists the specific classes (modules) available to Visiting Students for the coming semester.  


Entry Requirements


Visiting Student applicants are normally required to have completed two full years at university or college before being admitted and to have a GPA of 7.0 or above. Admission to classes may also be subject to certain prerequisites.  In addition, all international students must demonstrate English language proficiency:

 

Discipline TOEFL IBT
Arts/Business/Law 6.5 92
Science/Engineering  6.0 80



* We do not accept TOEFL ITP for direct entry to university but we offer intensive English Language programmes in advance of commencing university classes.


How to Apply
Please refer to universityofgalway.ie/international for details. The following documents must also be submitted
online:
■ College Transcript (in English)
■ Passport (copy)
■ Letter of Reference
■ Personal Statement
■ Evidence of English Proficiency (if available)
Videos showing what our SWB students have to say about University of Galway;
Ciência sem fronteiras na University of Galway
Science without Borders student experiences at University of Galway 
Research Opportunities for SWB students at University of Galway  
Video Testimonials from SWB students - Luciana Leal PUC MG
Video Testimonials from SWB students - Jessica Tsurmaki SP
Welcoming 100 Brazilian Students to University of Galway! 

 

Science Without Borders - PhD Students

brazil flagThe Science Without Borders programme aims to revolutionise Brazil’s R&D system by exposing Brazilian students and researchers to an environment of high competitiveness and entrepreneurship. Applicants can read more information about Science Without Borders here (in Portuguese).

NUI Galway and Brazil

National University of Ireland, Galway (NUI Galway), one of Ireland’s most prestigious universities, is proud to welcome PhD students from Brazil under the auspices of its government’s Science Without Borders / Ciência Sem Fronteiras programme.

NUI Galway is world-renowned as an expert research-led University. It is currently ranked third in Ireland in the latest Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, and stands as the highest-ranked Irish university outside the capital city of Dublin. You can read an article from Brazilian newspaper CORREIO BRAZILIENSE‌ about research at NUI Galway.

NUI Galway already has a number of substantial academic links with Brazil, and it is our hope that the Science without Borders scheme will strengthen these links further and also enhance the intellectual and cultural life of the University. Our current research collaborators in Brazil include:

  • Universidade de São Paulo
  • Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro
  • Universidade Presbiteriana Mackenzie
  • Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG)
  • Pontificia Universidade Catolica do Rio De Janeiro
  • Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul
  • Universidade Federal de Uberlândia
  • Universidade Federal de Viçosa
  • Universidade de Fortaleza (UNIFOR)

PhD Programmes at NUI Galway

NUI Galway currently has over 500 project opportunities for PhD students in the Science Without Borders scheme. Please refer to list below.

PhD students can apply to (1) undertake a full PhD at NUI Galway or (2) apply to spend up to one year undertaking postgraduate research at NUI Galway as a visiting PhD student.

Entry Requirements (PhD)

Entry requirements for PhD programmes may vary, however students will normally be expected to present a 4 year Bacharel or Licenciado/Licenciatura or Título Profissional degree with a GPA of 7.0 or above.

In addition, all international students must demonstrate English language proficiency.

DisciplineIELTSTOEFL (IBT)TOEFL (PBT)TOEFL (CBT)
Arts/Business/Law/Medicine    6.5* 92 580 240
Science/Engineering 6.0*   80 550 213


Language tests must be undertaken no more than two years prior to commencement of your programme at the University.

The NUI Galway TOEFL institution code is 8861.

*with not less than 5.5 in any component

 

How to Apply

PhD applicants should first search the database of available projects below before contacting the relevant supervisor at NUI Galway to discuss a research proposal.

When contacting a potential supervisor, applicants should also enclose the following:

  • Personal Statement (maximum 600 .words outlining research interests)
  • Resumé (Curriculum Vitae)
  • University Transcripts (in English)
  • Evidence of English Proficiency (if available)
StepStageAction
1 Project Selection Applicant searches the list of current PhD projects available at NUI Galway (see below)
2 Email Enquiry Applicant emails the named supervisor of their chosen project(s) to discuss a research proposal, enclosing the following: Personal Statement (maximum 600 words outlining research interests) Resumé (Curriculum Vitae) Transcripts describing results attained in University education to date
3 Applicant Review Applicant’s details are reviewed by the potential PhD supervisor at NUI Galway. The supervisor may ask the applicant to write a short proposal or research document, to discuss the research by phone, or to undergo some similar review process.
4 Decision If the supervisor agrees to accept the applicant as a PhD student, then the supervisor will guide the applicant in making a formal application to the university. (This will include a requirement to submit evidence of English-language competency).
5 Letter of Offer NUI Galway issues a Letter of Offer to the applicant as per the requirements of the Ciência Sem Fronteiras programme.
6 Funding Application Applicant proceeds to apply for funding from the Ciência Sem Fronteiras programme.
7 PhD Commencement Student commences PhD studies at NUI Galway.

Science without Borders - Application Instructions (PDF)

 

Browse our PhD Projects

We have nearly 500 project opportunities for PhD students in the Science Without Borders scheme. Click on any of the following categories to see a full list of projects in each area.

  • Health/Biomedical/Clinical/Pre-clinical Sciences
  • Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs)/Computing
  • Nanotechnology/New Materials
  • Oil/Gas/Coal
  • Pure/Natural/Physical Sciences (e.g. mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, geosciences)

 

Applicants can also download an Excel List of Science Without Borders Projects or search the Euraxess Ireland online database for a list of current research projects open to international students and researchers.

Fr. Barry Horan, Chaplaincy

 Gabriela' First Communion and Confirmation

         "Over the past three years, many of the Brazilian SWB students have been involved in different Chaplaincy activities. A number of them also played an active part in the Christmas Shoebox Appeal, the Lenten Lunch gatherings, the Examtime supports, and the Wednesday night prayer meeting in the Chapel over the past three years. The enthusiasm and the positivity that the students shared made a deep impact on many of the other students, both socially and spiritually. They also enjoyed having the opportunity to meet other students from Ireland and from many other parts of the world as well.
 
         For me, one of the highlights was the Christmas Party of 2013 in the Chapel and Common Room, organised by the Chaplaincy and International Office, with the support of the chaplain to the Brazilian Community in Galway, Fr. Kevin Keenan, SVD. Another highlight was that one of the SWB students, Gabriela Raymundo, liked the Chapel so much that she requested if she could make her First Holy Communion and Confirmation here in the Chapel before leaving. She committed herself to catechetical classes with myself and her sponsor, her friend Virginia Lordello, and also got support via Skype from Virginia’s mother who is a catechist in Brazil. It was very fitting then, that on June 29th last, Gabriella was joined by many of her Irish and Brazilian friends, both staff and students, to celebrate the sacraments, with her family looking on via Skype (see picture above).

         As we bid them “Despedida”, I am most grateful for the ways in which our Brazilian friends have contributed to the life of the University community, and particularly the Chaplaincy. As I told them at our last meeting, I am hopeful that some of them may return to University of Galway for their postgraduate studies."
 

— Father Barry HoranChaplaincy

Dr. Martina Kelly - SwB Coordinator

“Working with our SWB students was a very positive experience. They embraced University life at University of Galway with great enthusiasm and joy. We wish them well on their return home and hope to see many of them again in the future.”

— Dr. Martina KellySwB Coordinator, Mechanical Engineering

Dr. Ann M. Torres - Vice Dean of Internationalisation

“I am impressed with SWB students’ initiative. As I'm in the School of Business & Economics, I had not expected to supervise any of them. Nonetheless, each year a cohort seek me out because they are eager to work with Irish firms. The research they conduct adds value to the firms by testing product concepts and performing market analyses with respect to competitive, customer and technological trends. It is a pleasure supervising such engaged and dynamic students, who bring a diverse perspective to their project research work.”

— Dr. Ann M. Torres, Vice Dean of Internationalisation, College of Business, Public Policy & Law

Hellen Carvalho - LLM in Peace Operations, Humanitarian Law and Conflict

Hellen Carvalho

"I put a lot of energy into finding the ideal master program abroad. When I first arrived in University of Galway, I did not know exactly what to expect. Today, as I finish my LLM in Peace Operations, Humanitarian Law and Conflict at The Irish Centre for Human Rights, I can say I made the right choice and my expectations were exceed about my program, the University, Galway, Irish people and Ireland in general. The Centre, where I am doing my LLM as a Government of Ireland Scholar, is recognized all over the world in the human rights field. Wherever I go, people complement me for choosing University of Galway. The environment in the school is very pleasant; the lectures are accessible and willing to help with our current academic issues and with our future professional choices. Even the building where I study is symbolic, allowing us to get a touch of humanity trough photos and paintings. Besides the Centre, University of Galway as a whole is a unique experience, everything and everyone is welcoming, making the study days not so hard. Now when I imagine that on top of this, I got to experience Galway and Ireland, I am even more confident I did the right choice. Galway is just an explosion of emotions, the music on the street, its friendly people and its landscape. I am genuinely thankful for the experience I had in Ireland. Now I am in a better position to achieve my academic and professional goals and the ride to this point could not have been happier."

— Hellen Carvalho, LLM in Peace Operations, Humanitarian Law and Conflict, from Brazil. Hellen was a Government of Ireland Scholar.
You should also visit her Instagram account about studying in Galway as well as her blog!

Alexandre Libanore - Phamacology

Alexandre Libanore

"Study here in Ireland is continue the challenge of learn Science. Share experiences and knowledge about theories, researches and methods with people from another country and culture, is one of the best things to improve yourself as a person and as a scientist. Some molecules and theories can change their names in another language but the meaning and the veracity still the same. Likewise, the truth about this great area remains unique: it does not matter where you came from; everybody has the same passion for this thing called Science!"

— Alexandre LibanorePhamacology, from São Paulo

Andre Freitas - Computer Science

Andre Freitas

"University of Galway has a strong reputation on Semantic Web and Semantic Technologies research and it is recognised as a leading research institution in this area. My research area is focused on how to enable software systems to understand the meaning of information, enabling them to become more intelligent and easy to interact with. The real-world and long-term impact of this area and the level of the technical challenges involved guided my choice. Here provides an outstanding research infrastructure. I am supported by a Science Foundation Ireland funding. Galway is a very vibrant and culturally-rich city. It has deep historical roots, a lovely architecture and a beautiful landscape: Galway is 10 out of 10. The Irish are open and friendly and you can easily integrate with the local culture. The University also provides the opportunity to interact with people from many other countries. I would certainly recommend University of Galway for prospective international students."

— Andre Freitas, PhD in Computer Science, from Brazil

Anselmo Zuqui - Geology

Anselmo Zuqui

"Well, it’s hard to point out just a few positive points of this year studying abroad. First of all, sharing experiences and knowledge with people with different culture is amazing, opening our minds. Here I also have access to new laboratories and news modules that will make me a better professional. Moreover, living in Ireland is helping me improve my English, make new good friends and have unforgettable days. I will always be thankful to University of Galway for this opportunity."

— Anselmo Zuqui, Geology

Students' blogs

Some of our students have created a blog about their Irish experience during their stay at University of Galway : you should read them!

Lucas Reibnitz shares with you fourteen humorous observations of Ireland's people and culture.

Valentim Allan tell you why you should choose University of Galway and  especially Geology and Earth Science!

Carla Ribeiro Lage - Occupational Therapy Student

Carla Ribeiro Lage

"Many people ask me why I chose Ireland; most of them are intrigued because neither the climate nor the food are the attractions of the country. It is impossible not to agree with this, but the choice goes beyond. I chose Ireland because it is a wonderful country with breathtaking natural landscapes and with good educational rankings, in addition, Irish people are very friendly and available. I chose Galway because it is the cultural capital of Ireland and it is a college town full of colors and music. And the university, University of Galway, offers quality education and various facilities for students living intensive the university, I know that this exchange will become a Occupational Therapist of quality and magnify me as a human."

— Carla Ribeiro Lage, Occupational Therapy Student, Science without Borders Scholarship funded by CAPES , from Belo Horizonte

Cintia Perez Duarte - Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Cintia Perez Duarte

"I chose University of Galway for the opportunity to attend an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program and meet a reference center for research on autism in the country. Since my degree I work with people with disabilities and I´m grateful for help children and families in various aspects. I'm enjoying what University of Galway has to offer me as library facilities, experience and availability of teachers to enhance my knowledge about diagnosis and intervention, as this is essential for my professional career. For this partnership to become possible I received a Sandwich PhD abroad scholarship, provided by CAPES, Brazil. Galway is a lovely city to live in, with many possibilities of entertainment and culture, added structure and the possibilities offered by the university."

— Cintia Perez Duarte, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), CAPES scholar

Jessica Tsurmaki - Engineering

Jessica Tsurmaki

"Starting a new life in a different country sometimes it’s not something easy because you will have to get used to the time change, weather, food, culture. But in my opinion, I believe that’s a unique experience not just in the academic, but also, in your life. Galway, it’s a vibrant city, there so many different things to do, to see and to listen. Because there is a huge culture all over the city, so you don’t have to look for it, that’s one of the reasons Galway is good place to live and study. University of Galway, it’s new kind of experience that I’m living and appreciating because the university is amazing, have a good structure, good opportunities, services and whatever comes to your mind they will have, or if don’t they will do everything to find a solution. In addition, I conclude that I will try to learn everything here in Ireland, because education is something that just belong to you and will never be stole from you, and you can get all this information just not in classes, but also in travels, like I did to Cliffs of Moher and Aran Island, in this, you start to learn more and more about Ireland and how their history is impressive and also the people and their story."

— Jessica Tsurmaki, Engineering, Universidade Santa Cecilia, from São Paulo

Juliana Lima - Engineering Management

Juliana Lima

"When I arrived here I realized that I have made the right choice when I chose to come to Galway! The main reason is because Galway is a beautiful city and the people are very nice and friendly. The other reason is because here is a really great college. Professors are really worried about our learning; they help us and try to make the class a place where we want to be. We are free to choose the modules and that´s is the best part for a visiting student. I would recommend Galway for everyone."

— Juliana Lima, Engineering Management, from São Paulo

Marcela Fregatto - Geology

Marcela Fregatto

"Studying in Galway is being an unforgettable experience, University of Galway is a huge and amazing university, where people seem happy to work and innovate every day. The International Affairs deserve a special mention since they are making all possible to welcome and introduce us to the life in the city and in the university.  Galway is a gorgeous and vibrant city that has the very best of Irish life. I feel extremely lucky to have the opportunity to live and study here for one year."

— Marcela Fregatto, Geology, from Curitiba

Marina Faísca Steiner - Pharmaceuticals

Marina Faísca Steiner

"I like living here! Galway is a perfect city to live abroad, is a quiet and safe town. The Irish are wonderful with us. I don't like the weather (you need to always care an umbrella, because you never know when it will rain), but the rest compensates it. "

— Marina Faísca Steiner, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC), Pharmaceuticals, from Florianópolis

Entry Requirements

Entry Level  Qualification Irish Leaving Cert points: 300 to 400 Irish Leaving Cert points: 400 to 500 Irish Leaving Cert points: 500 to 600
Foundation Level Certificado do Ensino Medio  Recommended CGPA 8 NA NA
Undergraduate  One year University course in Brazil  60% 70% 80%
  First year of Bacharel/Licenciado/Licenciatura /  Bachelors Degree  GPA of 7.5 GPA of 7.5 GPA of 8.5
Entry Level  Qualification Minimum Grade Required/Degree 2:2 Equivalent Very Good/2:1 Equivalent Excellent/1st Equivalent
Postgraduate Bacharel/Licenciado/Licenciatura / Bachelors Degree (when awarded by a regionally accredited institution)  GPA of 6.5  for courses which require a  2:2 equivalent GPA of 7.5 GPA of 8.5

Science without Borders 2016!

Science without Borders - Brazilian Students - University of Galway 2016

Allan Valentim Melo de Gouza from Brazil

Valentim from Brazil speaks of his experience as an SWB UG student (Earth and Ocean Science) at University of Galway

Welcoming 100 Brazilian Students to University of Galway!

140 students from 69 universities throughout Brazil had been accepted by University of Galway to study in 2013

Science without Borders student experiences

Brazilian students from the SWB scholarship programme speak about why they chose to come to University of Galway and how they have found the experience.

Research Opportunities for SWB students at University of Galway

University of Galway was the only University in Ireland to offer summer research projects/internships to all our SWB students in the summer of 2014

Ciência sem fronteiras na University of Galway

Veja o que estudantes em University of Galway dizer sobre sua experiência em Galway

Brazil Global Excellence Scholarship 2023-2024

Value
Up to 11 €5,000 tuition-fee waivers from University of Galway with no subject restrictions. Scholarships are for first year of study only.

Scholarships include:

College of Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic Studies
2x €5,000 scholarships considering PG & UG programmes.

College of Business, Public Policy and Law
2x €5,000 scholarships considering PG & UG programmes.

Shannon College of Hotel Management
2x  €5,000 scholarships considering PG & UG programmes.

College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences
2x €5,000 scholarships considering PG & UG programmes.

College of Science and Engineering
2x €5,000 scholarships considering PG & UG programmes.

Level of study
This funding is available to students undertaking full-time Undergraduate and Postgraduate Taught.

Nationality restrictions
This funding is available to students with a Brazilian passport.

Academic requirements
Candidates must meet the academic requirements for admission to the intended programme in University of Galway.

Application Process
Candidates will be automatically considered on the basis of their personal statement and prior academic performance once they have an offer for a 2023 University of Galway programme. No further application is required.

For more information contact

Alejandro Tostado
Regional Manager Latin America

alejandro.tostado@universityofgalway.ie

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