Study in Belo Horizonte, Brazil

  Brazil

• Southern Brazil: 
Belo Horizonte

Term: Academic Year, Fall, Spring 
Dates: Fall: Early August-Mid December; Spring: Late February-Mid July; Calendar Year: Late February-Mid December

Description: The University of Wisconsin-Madison exchange program in Belo Horizonte allows students the opportunity to directly enroll at the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG). This exchange program provides students the opportunity to improve their Portuguese language skills while learning about Brazilian culture.

Belo Horizonte, a city of over three million people, is located in the state of Minas Gerais which is known for its historical significance, natural beauty, and vibrant economy. This area includes wealthy colonial cities such as Ouro Preto, as well as beautiful baroque architecture. Belo Horizonte was founded in 1897 as the first planned city in the Brazilian Republic and was designated the capital of Minas Gerais. The city is also a leading cultural center, with more than three universities, a historical museum, numerous libraries, and sports stadiums. Belo Horizonte is built on several hills and is completely surrounded by mountains; this city is located in the center of the state of Minas Gerais and only six kilometers from the Serra do Curral, Mina Gerais' highest point that offers a magnificent view of the city. With an average temperature of seventy degrees Fahrenheit and claims of having more culinary and entertainment establishments than most cities in Brazil, it is no wonder that the city was named the "city with the best quality of life in Latin America."

Highlights: Upon arrival in Belo Horizonte, participants can arrange to live with a Brazilian host family for a modest fee. Living with a host family is one of the best ways to be immersed into the culture and language of Brazil. Breakfast is included with the host family placement. After two weeks, participants can decide whether to continue living with the host family or find alternative accommodations in Belo Horizonte.

The UFMG campus has a university sports center that students can access. Belo Horizonte's location makes it a booming cultural center; it is halfway between Brasilia, the capital city, and the metropolises of Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Local transportation makes it easy to visit these other cities and several areas in the state of Minas Gerais.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Experience Required: yes

Fourth Semester Portuguese with a 3.0 GPA in all Portuguese language coursework.

This Program is open to American Participants.

Scholarships are Available. Contact us for more information.

Application Process Involves:

• Essay
• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Transcript

Post-Program Services Include:

• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home