Study Abroad in São Paulo
College Study Abroad
Explore São Paulo, Brazil
When you study abroad in São Paulo, Brazil, you’ll immerse yourself in one of the most dynamic and diverse cities in the world and the largest city in Brazil. Known for its vibrant culture, rich arts scene, and thriving business hub, studying abroad in São Paulo on a CIEE program opens the door to endless opportunities. From exploring the city’s iconic museums like MASP to savoring its world-class cuisine and experiencing its unique neighborhoods, São Paulo offers a truly unforgettable experience. With a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, bustling nightlife, and a deep cultural heritage, São Paulo provides an exciting environment for both academic achievement and personal growth. It’s clear why this cosmopolitan city is a top choice for students seeking adventure, cultural immersion, and professional development!
While abroad, students may complete a full- or part-time internship in São Paulo, gaining real-world international work experience and developing valuable professional skills. Internships are available across diverse industries, including finance, technology, agriculture, manufacturing, and more, providing a well-rounded perspective of today's global job market and enriching the overall study abroad experience.
Study Tours & Cultural Excursions in São Paulo
Every CIEE São Paulo study abroad and international internship program includes frequent cultural excursions uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In São Paulo, excursions may include:
- Taking a scenic hike through the lush trails of Ibirapuera Park, one of São Paulo’s largest green spaces, where you can enjoy nature, visit outdoor art installations, and unwind in the heart of the city
- Joining a samba class and experiencing Brazil’s famous dance culture firsthand in a lively studio or local dance hall, where you can learn the rhythms of samba and enjoy the energy of Brazil’s most iconic music genre
- Taking a guided street art tour through the colorful Beco do Batman, an open-air gallery in São Paulo’s Vila Madalena neighborhood, where you’ll discover incredible murals, graffiti, and the work of local and international artists
Internships & Volunteering in São Paulo
Students can add valuable international work experience to their resume by interning at financial firms, tech startups, agricultural organizations, and manufacturing businesses.
São Paulo Study Abroad Programs
- São Paulo, Brazil
- Study Program
Enroll in courses at Fundação Getulio Vargas, a CIEE partner school, where you will spend a semester taking courses in a variety of academic topics.
- São Paulo, Brazil
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Spend a full semester in São Paulo exploring Brazilian culture, taking business courses, and gaining real-world experience with an optional internship.
- São Paulo, Brazil
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Designed for STEM majors, enroll in engineering, technology, and science courses that align with your degree while exploring all São Paulo has to offer.
- São Paulo, Brazil
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Spend a semester in Brazil’s vibrant cultural and financial capital – São Paulo – where you'll take courses in a variety of academic subjects.
- São Paulo, Brazil
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Spend 12 weeks interning abroad PT (20 hours/week) and earning academic credit while immersing yourself in Brazil's most populous city, São Paulo.
- São Paulo, Brazil
- Full-Time Internship
Spend 8 weeks of your summer interning abroad (approximately 30-40 hours/week) and earning academic credit while exploring all São Paulo has to offer!
- São Paulo, Brazil
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Spend 6 weeks of your summer interning abroad PT (15-20 hours/week) and earning academic credit while immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of São Paulo, Brazil.
- São Paulo, Brazil
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Spend a semester in São Paulo and explore how the city is shaping the future with cutting-edge innovation and smart city planning.
- São Paulo, Brazil
- Full-Time Internship
Spend 12 weeks of your summer interning abroad FT (30 hours/week) and earning academic credit while exploring all São Paulo has to offer!
- São Paulo, Brazil
- Study Program
Your Liberal Arts program in São Paulo lasts a full semester and is designed for students from all academic backgrounds who have Portuguese language skills.
Currency
The Brazilian Real
Spoken Language
Portuguese
Available Transportation
Buses, metro, taxis, trolleybuses
Famous Local
Eduardo Saverin – the wealthiest Brazilian and co-founder of Facebook
Climate
Mild winters; humid, warm summers
Did You Know?
São Paulo has the most helicopters in the world, per capita, because of traffic
Airport
São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport (GRU)
Social Norms
Brazilians are comfortable with close personal space and touching while talking
What to Pack
Breathable clothing, bathing suits, water bottle
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of study abroad in São Paulo varies depending on the program you choose and how long you plan to go for. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each of the individual São Paulo study abroad programs.
For costs not included in the outlined fees, you'll want to consider factors surrounding your journey while abroad.
Read more: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?
The program fee for study abroad in São Paulo typically includes:
- Tuition
- Housing
- Pre-departure advising
- Orientation
- On-site staff + 24/7 emergency on-site support
- Cultural and co-curricular activities
- Travel protection
However, you’ll want to do your research on each individual CIEE program page to learn what’s included in the program fees.
Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants
Apply in 1,2,3!
CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in São Paulo to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through 3 simple steps:
- Search for and apply to your dream program
- Review all available funding opportunities
- Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application
Study Abroad Scholarships
Need-Based Scholarships
Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
Merit Scholarships
Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
Other Scholarships
Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status.
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