Brazil hubs

Larissa

Student

BrazilPortuguese (Português)R$ BRL

Larissa is a university student navigating the complexities of Brazilian higher education while balancing a tight budget. This hub covers everything from federal funding and student transit to digital identity and health services she relies on daily.

Money to keep me in university

Navigating federal grants and loans is essential for students who cannot afford full tuition or living costs.

Programa Universidade para Todos

national · MEC

Who qualifies
Students with family income up to 3 minimum wages who attended public high school.
What you get
Partial (50%) or full (100%) scholarships in private universities.
What it actually costs you
Requires ENEM score; no fee; online application.
Common gotcha
You must maintain a minimum GPA to keep the scholarship.

Fundo de Financiamento Estudantil

national · MEC

Who qualifies
Students with family income up to 3 minimum wages.
What you get
Low-interest student loan to cover tuition fees.
What it actually costs you
Requires ENEM score; credit check; repayment starts after graduation.
Common gotcha
Interest rates vary; read the contract carefully regarding the grace period.

Programa Bolsa Permanência

national · MEC

Who qualifies
Indigenous and Quilombola students in federal public universities.
What you get
Monthly financial aid to cover living expenses.
What it actually costs you
Proof of indigenous or quilombola status required.
Common gotcha
Limited spots; application windows are very strict.

Programa Nacional de Assistência Estudantil

national · MEC

Who qualifies
Students in federal public universities in vulnerable situations.
What you get
Subsidies for food, housing, and transportation.
What it actually costs you
Socioeconomic assessment by the university.
Common gotcha
Each federal university manages its own selection process.

Sistema de Seleção Unificada

national · MEC

Who qualifies
Students who took the most recent ENEM exam.
What you get
Access to public university spots.
What it actually costs you
Online registration; no fee.
Common gotcha
The cutoff scores change daily during the application window.

Iniciação Científica (PIBIC)

Programa Institucional de Bolsas de Iniciação Científica

national · CNPq

Who qualifies
Undergraduate students interested in research.
What you get
Monthly stipend for research work.
What it actually costs you
Must be selected by a professor/research group.
Common gotcha
You cannot hold two federal scholarships simultaneously.

Moving around the city

Public transport is a major expense; student discounts are vital.

Passe Livre Estudantil

municipal · City Transport Authority

Who qualifies
Low-income students enrolled in public or private schools.
What you get
Free public transport for commuting to school.
What it actually costs you
Proof of enrollment and income; annual renewal.
Common gotcha
Only covers the route from home to school.

Lei da Meia-Entrada

national · Federal Law 12.933/2013

Who qualifies
All students with a valid student ID (CIE).
What you get
50% discount on cultural, sports, and entertainment events.
What it actually costs you
Must have the standard national student ID card.
Common gotcha
Only IDs issued by authorized entities (UNE, UBES) are valid.

Identidade Jovem

ID Jovem

national · Secretaria Nacional da Juventude

Who qualifies
Youth aged 15-29 with family income up to 2 minimum wages.
What you get
Free or discounted interstate travel and half-price events.
What it actually costs you
Must be registered in the CadÚnico database.
Common gotcha
The digital app is often buggy; keep a printed copy.

Keeping my papers in order

You can't apply for anything without a clean digital identity.

Conta Gov.br

national · Ministério da Gestão

Who qualifies
Every Brazilian citizen.
What you get
Single sign-on for all government services.
What it actually costs you
Free; requires facial recognition or bank validation.
Common gotcha
Upgrade to 'Silver' or 'Gold' level to access all services.

Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas

CPF

national · Receita Federal

Who qualifies
All citizens.
What you get
Tax ID required for every transaction.
What it actually costs you
Free; must keep status 'Regular'.
Common gotcha
If your status is 'pendente de regularização', you can't enroll in university.

Carteira de Identidade Nacional

CIN

national · Ministério da Gestão

Who qualifies
All citizens.
What you get
New national ID using CPF as the unique number.
What it actually costs you
First copy is free.
Common gotcha
The transition from the old RG to the CIN is ongoing.

When I need a doctor

Public healthcare is free, but you need to know how to access it.

Sistema Único de Saúde

SUS

national · Ministério da Saúde

Who qualifies
All residents of Brazil.
What you get
Free medical care, exams, and surgeries.
What it actually costs you
Need a SUS card (Cartão SUS).
Common gotcha
Always carry your SUS card to the health center.

Farmácia Popular

national · Ministério da Saúde

Who qualifies
All citizens with a valid prescription.
What you get
Free or heavily discounted essential medications.
What it actually costs you
Valid prescription and ID.
Common gotcha
Only works in pharmacies with the 'Aqui tem Farmácia Popular' sign.

State-level schemes

27states & territories — open one to see what it offers.

Acre

Acre offers unique regional support for students in the Amazonian context, focusing on local university access and specialized vocational training for the forest economy.

Cash for my studies

Bolsa Estudante Acre

state · Secretaria de Estado de Educação (SEE-AC)

Who qualifies
Public high school students in Acre with high attendance and academic performance.
What you get
Monthly stipend of R$ 200 to cover school supplies and transport.
What it actually costs you
Requires maintaining 80% attendance and passing grades; no application fee.
Common gotcha
Payments are suspended if your attendance drops below the threshold for even one month.

Programa Acre Educa

state · Secretaria de Estado de Educação (SEE-AC)

Who qualifies
Low-income students transitioning from secondary school to vocational courses.
What you get
Full tuition waiver and free learning materials for state-run technical colleges.
What it actually costs you
Need to provide proof of income (CadÚnico) and school transcripts.
Common gotcha
Limited seats available; application window is very short at the start of the semester.

Auxílio Transporte Universitário

state · Secretaria de Estado de Ciência e Tecnologia (SECT)

Who qualifies
Students living in remote municipalities commuting to Rio Branco for university.
What you get
Monthly subsidy covering 50% of inter-municipal bus travel costs.
What it actually costs you
Proof of enrollment and residence in a municipality outside the capital.
Common gotcha
The subsidy is paid in arrears, so you must pay for your ticket first.

Bolsa de Iniciação Científica FAPAC

state · Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Acre (FAPAC)

Who qualifies
Undergraduate students in Acrean universities participating in research projects.
What you get
Monthly research grant of R$ 400 for 12 months.
What it actually costs you
Requires a faculty advisor and a submitted research proposal.
Common gotcha
You cannot hold this grant simultaneously with other federal research scholarships.

Living and staying healthy

Passe Livre Estudantil Rio Branco

municipal · RBTrans (Rio Branco Transport Authority)

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in recognized schools in Rio Branco.
What you get
Free bus fare for commuting to and from school.
What it actually costs you
Requires a student ID card (Carteira de Estudante) issued by the student union.
Common gotcha
The card must be renewed every semester to remain active.

Acolhimento Psicológico Estudantil

state · Secretaria de Estado de Saúde (SESACRE)

Who qualifies
Any student enrolled in a public school or university in Acre.
What you get
Free counseling and mental health support sessions.
What it actually costs you
Requires a referral from the school counselor or a self-referral at the local health unit.
Common gotcha
Wait times for non-emergency sessions can be long due to high demand.

Restaurante Popular Subsídio

state · Secretaria de Estado de Assistência Social

Who qualifies
Students with a valid student ID card.
What you get
Discounted nutritious meals at R$ 2.00.
What it actually costs you
Need to present your student ID at the point of purchase.
Common gotcha
Limited to one meal per day per student.
Alagoas

Alagoas offers specific educational support and transport subsidies to help students navigate the unique socio-economic landscape of the state.

Money to keep me in college

Cartão Passe Livre Estudantil

state · Secretaria de Estado do Transporte e Desenvolvimento Urbano

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in public or private educational institutions in Alagoas with a valid student ID.
What you get
Free or heavily discounted bus fares for daily commute to school or university.
What it actually costs you
Requires registration at the local transport office with proof of enrollment and residence.
Common gotcha
The card often stops working during school holidays or if the student's enrollment status isn't updated every semester.

Bolsa de Estudo Alagoas

state · Secretaria de Estado da Educação

Who qualifies
Low-income students residing in Alagoas with high academic performance.
What you get
Monthly financial stipend to cover books, supplies, and incidental academic costs.
What it actually costs you
Application requires income proof, academic transcripts, and a declaration of non-receipt of other federal grants.
Common gotcha
The selection process is highly competitive and requires maintaining a minimum GPA to keep the funding.

Auxílio Permanência Estadual

state · Secretaria de Estado da Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovação

Who qualifies
Students in state-run technical or higher education institutions facing financial hardship.
What you get
Direct cash transfer to prevent dropout due to financial constraints.
What it actually costs you
Requires a social worker interview and submission of household income documentation.
Common gotcha
Funds are limited and distributed based on the severity of the socio-economic vulnerability score.

Programa Primeiro Emprego Alagoas

state · Secretaria de Estado do Desenvolvimento Econômico

Who qualifies
Students aged 16-24 looking for their first formal work experience in Alagoas.
What you get
Subsidized internship placements and professional training programs with partner companies.
What it actually costs you
Registration on the state employment portal and participation in mandatory soft-skills workshops.
Common gotcha
Many students forget to update their profile on the portal, missing out on matching notifications.

Staying healthy while studying

Atendimento Estudantil Maceió

municipal · Prefeitura de Maceió

Who qualifies
Students residing in Maceió with a valid student ID card.
What you get
Priority access to specific municipal health clinics for basic check-ups and mental health support.
What it actually costs you
Requires presentation of student ID and SUS card at the clinic reception.
Common gotcha
Many students don't realize this exists and go to general emergency rooms instead, facing longer waits.

Restaurante Popular de Alagoas

state · Secretaria de Estado da Assistência e Desenvolvimento Social

Who qualifies
Students with low income who can prove enrollment in a local institution.
What you get
Nutritious, subsidized meals at a fraction of the market price.
What it actually costs you
Requires a student-specific meal card, which is issued upon proof of enrollment.
Common gotcha
The queues can be very long during lunch hours, so plan your schedule accordingly.
Amazonas

Students in Amazonas rely on specialized regional transport subsidies and state-funded research grants that account for the unique logistical challenges of the Amazon basin.

Getting to class in the jungle

Passe Livre Estudantil Manaus

Passe Livre Estudantil

municipal · IMMU Manaus

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in public or private schools in Manaus with a valid student ID.
What you get
Free public bus transport for commuting to and from educational institutions.
What it actually costs you
Requires registration on the portal and a physical student card; updated annually.
Common gotcha
The card often stops working during school holidays or if the student has too many absences.

State School River Transport Program

Transporte Escolar Fluvial

state · SEDUC-AM

Who qualifies
Students living in remote riverside communities attending state schools.
What you get
Free boat transport to reach schools located in different river communities.
What it actually costs you
No cost; requires enrollment in a rural state school.
Common gotcha
Service is highly dependent on river levels and can be suspended during extreme drought.

Research and growth grants

FAPEAM Undergraduate Research Grants

Programa de Apoio à Iniciação Científica

state · FAPEAM

Who qualifies
Undergraduate students at Amazonas universities participating in approved research projects.
What you get
Monthly stipend for research activities.
What it actually costs you
Requires a faculty advisor and a formal research proposal submission.
Common gotcha
The competition is fierce and the documentation for the final report is very strict.

Bolsa Universidade Amazonas

Programa Bolsa Universidade

municipal · Prefeitura de Manaus

Who qualifies
Low-income students residing in Manaus who do not have a higher education degree.
What you get
Partial or full tuition scholarships at private universities in Manaus.
What it actually costs you
Requires proof of income and passing a selection process.
Common gotcha
You must maintain a minimum GPA to keep the scholarship active each semester.
Amapá

Students in Amapá rely on specific regional transport subsidies and local university support programs to navigate the unique logistical challenges of the Amazon region.

Getting to class and staying fed

Passe Fácil Estudantil

state · SETAP

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in public or private schools in Macapá and Santana.
What you get
50% discount on public bus fares.
What it actually costs you
Requires a student ID (DNE) and registration at the SETAP office; small fee for the smart card.
Common gotcha
The card must be renewed every semester with updated proof of enrollment.

Restaurante Popular de Macapá

municipal · Prefeitura de Macapá

Who qualifies
Low-income students with valid ID.
What you get
Nutritious lunch for a highly subsidized price (approx. 2-3 BRL).
What it actually costs you
Cash payment at the counter; bring your student ID.
Common gotcha
Long queues during peak lunch hours, so arrive early.

Help with my studies and research

FAPAP Research Grants

state · Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Amapá

Who qualifies
Undergraduate students involved in scientific initiation projects.
What you get
Monthly stipend for research activities.
What it actually costs you
Requires a faculty advisor and a submitted research proposal.
Common gotcha
Strict deadlines for project reporting; failure to report stops the stipend.

UNIFAP Student Assistance Program

university · Universidade Federal do Amapá

Who qualifies
Students from low-income families enrolled at UNIFAP.
What you get
Financial aid for housing, food, or transport.
What it actually costs you
Socio-economic assessment form and income documentation.
Common gotcha
The selection process is highly competitive and based on a point system.
Bahia

Bahia offers unique educational support and student transit benefits tailored to the socio-economic landscape of the Northeast, helping students navigate the costs of living in Salvador and beyond.

Money for my studies

Universidade para Todos

state · Secretaria da Educação do Estado da Bahia

Who qualifies
Public high school students in Bahia preparing for university entrance exams.
What you get
Free preparatory courses and study materials for ENEM and vestibular exams.
What it actually costs you
Requires proof of enrollment in public school and high attendance rates.
Common gotcha
The selection is based on academic performance in high school, not just interest.

Bolsa Permanência Bahia

Bolsa Permanência

state · Secretaria da Educação do Estado da Bahia

Who qualifies
Students from low-income families enrolled in state higher education institutions.
What you get
Monthly financial aid to cover books, food, and transport costs.
What it actually costs you
Must maintain a minimum GPA and participate in university extension projects.
Common gotcha
Funding is limited and highly competitive; you must re-apply every semester.

Bahia State Internship Program

Programa Partiu Estágio

state · Secretaria da Administração do Estado da Bahia

Who qualifies
University students residing in Bahia with at least 50% of the course completed.
What you get
Paid internship opportunities in state government departments.
What it actually costs you
Requires registration on the state portal and a clean academic record.
Common gotcha
The selection is done via a randomized lottery system among qualified applicants.

Getting around and daily discounts

Salvador Student Transit Card

Meia Passagem Salvador

municipal · Secretaria de Mobilidade (SEMOB)

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in recognized educational institutions in Salvador.
What you get
50% discount on public bus fares within the city.
What it actually costs you
Annual renewal fee and a valid student ID card.
Common gotcha
The card must be recharged monthly; it does not work if the school hasn't updated your status.

Bahia Cultural Half-Price

Lei da Meia-Entrada

state · Governo do Estado da Bahia

Who qualifies
All students with a valid national student ID (DNE).
What you get
50% discount on tickets for cinemas, theaters, and cultural events in Bahia.
What it actually costs you
Must present the physical or digital DNE at the box office.
Common gotcha
Only the official DNE is accepted; old or unofficial school IDs are often rejected.
Ceará

Ceará is a national leader in public education, offering robust state-level scholarships and transit support that make university life significantly more affordable for students.

Money to keep me in school

ISSEC Scholarship Program

state · Instituto de Saúde dos Servidores do Estado do Ceará

Who qualifies
Dependents of state civil servants enrolled in higher education.
What you get
Monthly financial aid to cover educational expenses.
What it actually costs you
Proof of enrollment and parent's functional status, processed annually.
Common gotcha
Requires continuous proof of academic performance to maintain eligibility.

Ceará Científico

state · Secretaria da Educação do Ceará

Who qualifies
Public high school students participating in state-level research projects.
What you get
Grants for research materials and potential travel funding for state fairs.
What it actually costs you
Submission of a research proposal and faculty advisor approval.
Common gotcha
The project must align with current state educational scientific themes.

Bolsa de Extensão Universitária

state · Secretaria da Ciência, Tecnologia e Educação Superior

Who qualifies
Undergraduate students in state universities (UECE, UVA, URCA).
What you get
Monthly stipend for participating in university extension projects.
What it actually costs you
Selection process via internal university public notice.
Common gotcha
Stipends are limited and highly competitive.

Auxílio Permanência (State Universities)

state · Universidade Estadual do Ceará (UECE)

Who qualifies
Low-income students enrolled in state-run universities.
What you get
Financial aid to cover food and basic living costs while studying.
What it actually costs you
Socioeconomic assessment form and income documentation.
Common gotcha
Must re-apply every semester with updated income proof.

Getting to class every day

Passe Livre Intermunicipal

state · Departamento Estadual de Trânsito (DETRAN-CE)

Who qualifies
Students living in one municipality and studying in another within Ceará.
What you get
Free travel on intercity buses for school commutes.
What it actually costs you
Registration card (Cartão do Estudante) and proof of residence.
Common gotcha
Only valid for routes registered with the state transit authority.

Carteira de Identificação Estudantil (CIE) - Ceará

state · ETUFOR / Governo do Ceará

Who qualifies
All students enrolled in recognized educational institutions in Ceará.
What you get
50% discount on public transport (Fortaleza) and cultural events.
What it actually costs you
Small processing fee and a digital photo upload.
Common gotcha
Must be renewed annually to remain valid for bus discounts.

Bilhete Único Fortaleza

municipal · ETUFOR

Who qualifies
Students residing in Fortaleza.
What you get
Integrated fare system allowing multiple bus transfers within a time window.
What it actually costs you
Registration at an ETUFOR service point.
Common gotcha
The student discount is only applied if the card is linked to the student registry.
Federal DistrictDistrito Federal

As the capital, Brasília offers unique student transit subsidies and local academic grants that significantly lower the cost of living for university students.

Getting around campus

Passe Livre Estudantil (PLE)

Passe Livre Estudantil

state · Secretaria de Estado de Transporte e Mobilidade (SEMOB)

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in public or private educational institutions in the Federal District.
What you get
Free public transport for commuting to and from school.
What it actually costs you
Free, requires student ID and proof of enrollment, processed via online portal.
Common gotcha
You must renew your registration every semester to keep the card active.

Bilhete Único DF

Bilhete Único

state · BRB Mobilidade

Who qualifies
All residents of the Federal District.
What you get
Integrated fare system allowing multiple bus/metro transfers within a set time frame.
What it actually costs you
Card issuance fee, requires CPF and proof of residence.
Common gotcha
The card must be registered in your name to recover balance if lost.

Money for studies

Bolsa Educação Superior

state · Secretaria de Estado de Educação do DF

Who qualifies
Low-income students residing in the DF for at least 5 years.
What you get
Partial or full tuition coverage for private higher education institutions.
What it actually costs you
Requires proof of income and academic performance records.
Common gotcha
Very competitive; selection is based on socio-economic ranking.

Cartão Material Escolar

state · Secretaria de Estado de Educação do DF

Who qualifies
Students in public schools whose families receive Bolsa Família.
What you get
Credit card for purchasing school supplies at accredited local stores.
What it actually costs you
Automatically issued based on school enrollment data.
Common gotcha
Funds expire if not used within the specified academic window.

Student life and culture

DF Student Half-Price Law

Lei da Meia-Entrada

state · Governo do Distrito Federal

Who qualifies
Students with a valid national student ID (DNE).
What you get
50% discount on tickets for movies, theaters, and sporting events.
What it actually costs you
Annual fee for the DNE card.
Common gotcha
Must present the physical or digital DNE card at the entrance; school IDs are often rejected.

Public Library Network DF

Rede de Bibliotecas Públicas do DF

state · Secretaria de Cultura e Economia Criativa

Who qualifies
Any resident with proof of address.
What you get
Free access to study spaces, Wi-Fi, and book lending services.
What it actually costs you
Free, requires registration with ID and utility bill.
Common gotcha
Fines apply for late book returns, which can block future borrowing.
Espírito Santo

Espírito Santo offers targeted financial support for students through state-specific scholarships and subsidized transit programs that make higher education more accessible for local residents.

Money to keep me in college

Nossa Bolsa

state · Secretaria de Estado da Ciência, Tecnologia, Inovação e Educação Profissional

Who qualifies
Low-income students who have completed high school in public schools or as scholarship holders in private schools.
What you get
Full or partial scholarships for undergraduate courses in private higher education institutions in the state.
What it actually costs you
Must have taken the ENEM exam; requires proof of income and school transcripts.
Common gotcha
The scholarship is only valid for specific courses and partner institutions listed each year.

Programa de Estágio do Governo do ES

state · Secretaria de Estado de Gestão e Recursos Humanos

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in higher education or technical courses recognized by the MEC.
What you get
Monthly stipend and transport allowance for internships within state government departments.
What it actually costs you
Requires passing a selection process based on academic performance and interview.
Common gotcha
Positions are limited and tied to specific academic areas needed by the state government.

FAPES Research Scholarships

state · Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa e Inovação do Espírito Santo

Who qualifies
Undergraduate students involved in scientific research projects at state universities.
What you get
Monthly financial grant to support research activities.
What it actually costs you
Requires a faculty advisor and a formal research project proposal.
Common gotcha
Strict reporting requirements for research progress every six months.

Getting to class every day

Passe Escolar Transcol

state · CETURB-ES

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in regular courses in the Metropolitan Region of Vitória.
What you get
50% discount on bus fares for daily commute to school.
What it actually costs you
Requires a student card (Cartão Escolar) and proof of enrollment.
Common gotcha
The discount is only applicable for trips between home and the educational institution.

Passe Livre Estudantil (Vitória)

municipal · Prefeitura de Vitória

Who qualifies
Low-income students residing in Vitória who meet specific socioeconomic criteria.
What you get
Free bus transport for commuting to school.
What it actually costs you
Requires registration with the municipal social services department.
Common gotcha
Re-registration is mandatory every semester to maintain eligibility.
Goiás

Goiás provides targeted support for students through regional transport subsidies and state-specific academic excellence grants that bridge the gap for those studying in Goiânia and interior hubs.

Getting around and staying fed

Passe Livre Estudantil (PLE)

Passe Livre Estudantil

state · Secretaria de Estado de Desenvolvimento Social

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in regular courses in the Metropolitan Region of Goiânia.
What you get
Free public transport passes for commuting to school.
What it actually costs you
Requires valid student ID, proof of enrollment, and monthly usage validation.
Common gotcha
You must re-validate your card every month or the system blocks the free rides.

Restaurante Universitário Estadual

Restaurante Universitário

state · Secretaria de Desenvolvimento Social

Who qualifies
Students from public universities in Goiás with low income.
What you get
Subsidized nutritious meals at a fraction of market price.
What it actually costs you
Requires social vulnerability assessment and student ID.
Common gotcha
Limited daily capacity; arrive early to avoid long queues.

Money for my studies

Bolsa Oportunidade

state · Secretaria de Estado da Educação

Who qualifies
High school students in the state network meeting attendance and performance criteria.
What you get
Monthly financial stipend to prevent dropout.
What it actually costs you
Must maintain 75% attendance and passing grades.
Common gotcha
Payments are suspended immediately if attendance drops below the threshold.

FAPEG Research Grants

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de Goiás

state · FAPEG

Who qualifies
Undergraduate and graduate students involved in scientific research projects in Goiás.
What you get
Monthly research scholarship (bolsa de iniciação científica).
What it actually costs you
Requires a faculty advisor and a formal research proposal submission.
Common gotcha
Strict reporting deadlines for research progress; missing one can lead to scholarship cancellation.

Programa Aprendiz do Futuro

Aprendiz do Futuro

state · Governo de Goiás

Who qualifies
Students aged 14-16 in public schools from vulnerable families.
What you get
Paid apprenticeship program with training and monthly salary.
What it actually costs you
Must be enrolled in school and attend training sessions.
Common gotcha
Selection is based on social criteria; keep your CADÚNICO updated.
Maranhão

Maranhão offers unique regional support for students through state-funded university access, transport subsidies, and local food security programs that help bridge the gap for low-income learners.

Money to keep me in school

Bolsa Escola Maranhão

state · Secretaria de Estado da Educação (SEDUC)

Who qualifies
Public school students in vulnerable situations with high attendance records.
What you get
Monthly financial aid to cover school supplies and personal expenses.
What it actually costs you
Requires proof of enrollment and 85% minimum school attendance.
Common gotcha
Payment is suspended if the student's attendance drops below the threshold.

UEMA Entrance Exam Fee Waiver

Isenção de Taxa PAES/UEMA

state · Universidade Estadual do Maranhão (UEMA)

Who qualifies
Low-income students who attended public schools in Maranhão.
What you get
100% waiver of the entrance exam registration fee.
What it actually costs you
Must apply during the specific window before exam registration opens.
Common gotcha
The window for fee waivers is very short and happens before the main registration.

State University Transport Program

state · Secretaria de Estado da Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovação (SECTI)

Who qualifies
Students living in municipalities without higher education institutions traveling to nearby hubs.
What you get
Subsidized or free bus transport to university campuses.
What it actually costs you
Proof of residency and active university enrollment.
Common gotcha
Seats are limited and often allocated on a first-come, first-served basis per semester.

Staying fed and healthy

Popular Restaurant Network

Restaurante Popular

state · Secretaria de Estado do Desenvolvimento Social (SEDES)

Who qualifies
General public, with priority and discounts for registered students.
What you get
Nutritious lunch or dinner for a highly subsidized price (often under R$ 5.00).
What it actually costs you
Bring your student ID to qualify for the lowest price tier.
Common gotcha
Queues can be very long during peak lunch hours.

Maranhão Student ID Card

Carteira de Identificação Estudantil

state · Secretaria de Estado da Juventude (SEEJUV)

Who qualifies
All regularly enrolled students in Maranhão.
What you get
Guaranteed 50% discount on cultural events, cinema, and sports matches.
What it actually costs you
Small processing fee and a digital photo upload.
Common gotcha
Must be renewed annually to remain valid for discounts.
Minas Gerais

Minas Gerais offers unique financial aid and transport subsidies specifically for university students living in the state.

Money to keep me in college

FUMPAM - Student Assistance Fund

state · UFMG Student Affairs

Who qualifies
Low-income undergraduate students enrolled in federal universities in Minas Gerais.
What you get
Monthly financial aid stipends and housing support.
What it actually costs you
Proof of income, social worker interview, and academic transcript.
Common gotcha
The selection process is highly competitive and requires strict adherence to the socio-economic evaluation timeline.

State University Monitoring Scholarship

state · UEMG

Who qualifies
Students enrolled at the State University of Minas Gerais (UEMG) with good academic standing.
What you get
Monthly payment in exchange for assisting professors with research or tutoring.
What it actually costs you
Application during the internal call for papers and a selection interview.
Common gotcha
You must maintain a minimum GPA to keep receiving the monthly payment.

Getting around Belo Horizonte

BHBus Student Discount Card

municipal · BHTRANS

Who qualifies
Students residing and studying in Belo Horizonte with a household income limit.
What you get
50% discount on bus fares for commuting to university.
What it actually costs you
Student ID card, proof of enrollment, and a small fee for the smart card issuance.
Common gotcha
The card must be renewed every semester with updated enrollment documents.

Student Free Pass

state · SETOP-MG

Who qualifies
Students from low-income families attending public schools or universities in the state.
What you get
Free public transport for school-related travel.
What it actually costs you
Registration through the state portal and validation by the educational institution.
Common gotcha
It only covers the route between your home and your university; it does not cover leisure travel.
Mato Grosso do Sul

Mato Grosso do Sul offers targeted support for students through state-specific transport subsidies and research grants that help bridge the gap between rural education and urban university life.

Getting to class and staying fed

Passe Estudantil

state · Agência Estadual de Regulação de Serviços Públicos (AGEMS)

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in public or private schools/universities in Campo Grande.
What you get
50% discount on public bus fares for commuting to educational institutions.
What it actually costs you
Requires school enrollment proof, utility bill, and a small fee for the smart card issuance.
Common gotcha
The card must be renewed every semester; if you miss the deadline, you pay full fare.

UEMS University Restaurant Subsidy

Restaurante Universitário UEMS

state · Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul

Who qualifies
Students currently enrolled at UEMS campuses.
What you get
Nutritious meals at a highly subsidized price, often below cost.
What it actually costs you
Requires student ID card and registration in the university's social assistance system.
Common gotcha
Limited daily capacity; you must arrive early or risk the meal tickets selling out.

Money for my research and projects

FUNDECT Research Scholarships

Bolsas de Iniciação Científica FUNDECT

state · Fundação de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento do Ensino, Ciência e Tecnologia do MS

Who qualifies
Undergraduate students at MS universities participating in research projects.
What you get
Monthly stipend for research activities for 12 months.
What it actually costs you
Competitive selection process; requires a faculty advisor and a research proposal.
Common gotcha
You cannot hold another paid job or scholarship simultaneously.

MS State Internship Program

Programa de Estágio do Governo de MS

state · Secretaria de Estado de Administração

Who qualifies
Students in higher education or technical courses in MS.
What you get
Paid internship positions within state government departments.
What it actually costs you
Selection via public notice (edital); requires CV and academic transcript.
Common gotcha
The selection process is highly competitive and happens at specific times of the year.
Mato Grosso

In Mato Grosso, students benefit from specific regional transport subsidies and state-funded research grants tailored to the needs of the Amazonian and Cerrado biomes.

Getting to class and eating on a budget

Passe Livre Intermunicipal

state · Secretaria de Estado de Infraestrutura e Logística

Who qualifies
Low-income students traveling between municipalities in Mato Grosso for education.
What you get
Free bus tickets for intercity travel to attend classes.
What it actually costs you
Requires registration at the SINFRA office and proof of enrollment; takes up to 30 days to process.
Common gotcha
It only covers intercity lines, not urban public transport within Cuiabá.

Restaurante Popular de Cuiabá

Restaurante Popular

municipal · Prefeitura de Cuiabá

Who qualifies
Students and low-income residents.
What you get
Nutritious lunch for a highly subsidized price (usually under R$ 5.00).
What it actually costs you
Just your ID and cash; no complex application.
Common gotcha
Lines can be very long during peak lunch hours.

Funding my academic journey

FAPEMAT Research Grants

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de Mato Grosso

state · FAPEMAT

Who qualifies
Undergraduate and graduate students conducting research in Mato Grosso.
What you get
Monthly stipends for scientific initiation or master's/doctoral research.
What it actually costs you
Must have a research project approved by a professor; highly competitive selection process.
Common gotcha
Deadlines are strict; missing a document in the portal means immediate disqualification.

MT Estudante

Programa MT Estudante

state · Secretaria de Estado de Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovação

Who qualifies
Students in public state universities in Mato Grosso.
What you get
Financial aid for housing and academic materials for vulnerable students.
What it actually costs you
Proof of socioeconomic vulnerability and academic performance records.
Common gotcha
Requires periodic renewal every semester to keep receiving funds.
Pará

Students in Pará navigate a unique landscape of Amazonian regional scholarships and transport subsidies designed to bridge the gap between remote river communities and urban universities.

Money to keep me in school

Bolsa Permanência Pará

state · Secretaria de Estado de Ciência, Tecnologia e Educação Superior, Profissional e Tecnológica (SECTET)

Who qualifies
Low-income students enrolled in public higher education institutions in Pará.
What you get
Monthly financial aid to cover living expenses and academic materials.
What it actually costs you
Proof of income, enrollment certificate, and active bank account; competitive selection process.
Common gotcha
The selection is highly competitive and depends on the state budget availability for the current academic year.

Passe Livre Estudantil Pará

Passe Livre Estudantil

state · Governo do Estado do Pará

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in public schools or universities residing in participating municipalities.
What you get
Free public transport for commuting to and from educational institutions.
What it actually costs you
Student ID card (Carteira de Estudante) issued by the state, proof of residence, and school enrollment.
Common gotcha
Not all municipalities in Pará have adopted the system; check if your city's bus lines are integrated.

Programa Forma Pará

state · SECTET

Who qualifies
Students in regions with low access to higher education.
What you get
Access to university courses offered in partnership with state and federal universities in remote municipalities.
What it actually costs you
Must pass the specific entrance exam (processo seletivo) for the program.
Common gotcha
Courses are often offered in cohorts; if you miss the enrollment window, you have to wait for the next cycle.

Programa de Estágio do Governo do Pará

state · Secretaria de Estado de Planejamento e Administração (SEPLAD)

Who qualifies
Undergraduate students in Pará universities.
What you get
Paid internship positions within state government agencies.
What it actually costs you
Application through public selection process, CV, and university recommendation.
Common gotcha
Positions are limited and usually require a minimum GPA to apply.

Learning new skills for the future

Usina da Paz Educational Courses

Usina da Paz

state · Governo do Estado do Pará

Who qualifies
Residents of areas served by Usina da Paz complexes.
What you get
Free vocational training, language classes, and computer literacy courses.
What it actually costs you
Registration at the local Usina da Paz unit with ID and proof of residence.
Common gotcha
Popular courses fill up within hours of opening registration.

Centros de Formação Técnica (Centec)

Centros de Formação Técnica

state · SECTET

Who qualifies
High school students or graduates looking for technical certification.
What you get
Free technical education in areas like IT, environment, and management.
What it actually costs you
Entrance exam or selection based on academic record.
Common gotcha
Certificates are state-recognized but ensure they match your career goals in the Amazonian market.
Paraíba

Paraíba offers students unique regional support through state-funded transport subsidies and specialized educational grants that bridge the gap between rural living and urban campus life.

Getting to class and staying afloat

Passe Livre Intermunicipal

state · DER-PB

Who qualifies
Low-income students traveling between municipalities for education.
What you get
Free bus travel on intermunicipal routes.
What it actually costs you
Proof of enrollment and income declaration; takes 15 days to process.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific bus lines registered with the state, not all private operators.

UEPB Permanence Grant

Auxílio Permanência UEPB

state · Universidade Estadual da Paraíba

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in UEPB with verified socio-economic vulnerability.
What you get
Monthly stipend to cover food and transport costs.
What it actually costs you
Detailed socio-economic questionnaire and home visit assessment.
Common gotcha
You must maintain a minimum GPA to keep receiving the monthly payment.

Paraíba Student Half-Price Law

Lei da Meia-Entrada

state · Secretaria de Estado da Cultura

Who qualifies
All students with a valid national student ID (DNE).
What you get
50% discount on cinema, theater, and concert tickets.
What it actually costs you
Must present the DNE card at the box office.
Common gotcha
Digital IDs are often rejected if they don't have the official QR code.

Building my career in Paraíba

FAPESQ Research Scholarships

Bolsas de Iniciação Científica FAPESQ

state · Fundação de Apoio à Pesquisa do Estado da Paraíba

Who qualifies
Undergraduate students participating in research projects at recognized state institutions.
What you get
Monthly research stipend for 12 months.
What it actually costs you
Requires a faculty advisor to submit the project proposal.
Common gotcha
The application window is very short and strictly tied to the academic calendar.

Paraíba First Job Program

Programa Primeiro Emprego

state · Secretaria de Estado do Desenvolvimento Humano

Who qualifies
Students and recent graduates looking for their first formal internship or job.
What you get
Subsidized internship placements in local companies.
What it actually costs you
Registration on the state portal and resume submission.
Common gotcha
High competition for spots in João Pessoa compared to interior cities.
Pernambuco

Pernambuco offers a unique ecosystem for students through the Porto Digital hub and specific state-funded education initiatives that prioritize local youth development.

Money to keep me in school

Integral Education Program (PEI)

Programa de Educação Integral

state · Secretaria de Educação e Esportes de Pernambuco

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in state-run full-time high schools.
What you get
Full-day schooling with meals and specialized extracurricular support.
What it actually costs you
Enrollment in a designated PEI school; requires proof of residency.
Common gotcha
Limited spots available; enrollment is competitive in urban centers like Recife.

Pernambuco Internship Program

Programa de Estágio do Estado de Pernambuco

state · Secretaria de Administração de Pernambuco

Who qualifies
University students residing in Pernambuco with at least 50% of the course completed.
What you get
Monthly stipend and transport vouchers for internships in state government bodies.
What it actually costs you
Selection process via public notice; requires university enrollment letter.
Common gotcha
The selection process is highly competitive and happens only when vacancies open.

Student Free Pass (Recife/Metropolitan)

Passe Livre Estudantil

municipal · Grande Recife Consórcio de Transporte

Who qualifies
Low-income students registered in public schools or with specific scholarships.
What you get
Free public bus transportation for commuting to school.
What it actually costs you
VEM Estudante card; requires annual renewal and proof of enrollment.
Common gotcha
Must be used only on routes between home and school; usage is monitored.

University for All (State Level)

Programa Universidade para Todos em Pernambuco

state · Secretaria de Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovação

Who qualifies
Public high school graduates in Pernambuco.
What you get
Preparatory courses for entrance exams (Vestibular/ENEM) and potential tuition subsidies.
What it actually costs you
Registration during the annual selection window; requires high school transcripts.
Common gotcha
Often confused with the federal ProUni; this is a state-specific preparatory initiative.

Getting a head start in tech

Porto Digital Talent Development

Capacitação Porto Digital

state · Porto Digital / Softex

Who qualifies
Students interested in IT and creative economy residing in Pernambuco.
What you get
Access to specialized tech training, bootcamps, and networking with local tech companies.
What it actually costs you
Selection process; requires basic technical aptitude.
Common gotcha
Courses fill up within hours of opening; keep an eye on their social media.

Inova PE Innovation Grants

Inova Pernambuco

state · FACEPE (Fundação de Amparo à Ciência e Tecnologia de Pernambuco)

Who qualifies
University students with research or startup projects.
What you get
Seed funding and research grants for academic projects.
What it actually costs you
Submission of a detailed research proposal; requires a faculty advisor.
Common gotcha
Strict reporting requirements for how the grant money is spent.
Piauí

Piauí offers targeted support for students through state-specific digital literacy programs and educational grants that bridge the gap for those in Teresina and interior regions.

Getting help with my studies and tech

Passe Livre Intermunicipal

state · Secretaria de Estado dos Transportes (SETRANS)

Who qualifies
Low-income students traveling between municipalities for education.
What you get
Free bus tickets for inter-city travel to attend classes.
What it actually costs you
Requires proof of enrollment and income declaration; takes 15 days to process.
Common gotcha
Only valid for inter-city routes, not urban Teresina buses.

Programa Piauí Conectada

state · Secretaria de Estado da Educação (SEDUC)

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in the state public school network.
What you get
Access to high-speed fiber optic internet in schools and digital learning platforms.
What it actually costs you
Free; requires student ID and school login.
Common gotcha
Connectivity is limited to school premises and specific public hotspots.

Programa de Monitoria Estudantil

state · Secretaria de Estado da Educação (SEDUC)

Who qualifies
High school students with high academic performance.
What you get
Monthly stipend for assisting teachers and tutoring peers.
What it actually costs you
Selection process based on grades and interview.
Common gotcha
Stipend payments can be delayed by administrative cycles.

Passe Estudantil Teresina (SETUT)

municipal · Sindicato das Empresas de Transportes Urbanos de Teresina

Who qualifies
Students residing in Teresina enrolled in recognized institutions.
What you get
50% discount on urban bus fares.
What it actually costs you
Annual registration fee and student card issuance.
Common gotcha
Must renew the card every semester to keep the discount active.

Funding my degree and research

FAPEPI Research Scholarships

state · Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Piauí

Who qualifies
Undergraduate and graduate students involved in state-funded research projects.
What you get
Monthly research grant ranging from R$ 700 to R$ 2,500 depending on level.
What it actually costs you
Must submit a research proposal and have a faculty advisor.
Common gotcha
Strict reporting requirements; failure to submit reports results in immediate cancellation.

Auxílio Permanência UESPI

state · Universidade Estadual do Piauí

Who qualifies
Students in vulnerable socioeconomic conditions at UESPI.
What you get
Financial aid to cover food and study materials.
What it actually costs you
Application during specific calls; requires socioeconomic proof.
Common gotcha
Limited number of slots; high competition.

Programa Piauí Alfabetizado

state · Secretaria de Estado da Educação (SEDUC)

Who qualifies
University students acting as literacy tutors for adults.
What you get
Monthly stipend for service hours.
What it actually costs you
Requires training and commitment to evening/weekend sessions.
Common gotcha
Requires significant time commitment outside of regular classes.
Paraná

Paraná offers robust support for students through state-specific transport subsidies, research grants, and accessible public university systems that prioritize regional development.

Getting around Curitiba and beyond

Passe Estudante URBS

municipal · URBS - Urbanização de Curitiba

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in regular courses in Curitiba with a minimum monthly attendance.
What you get
50% discount on public transport fares within the city.
What it actually costs you
Requires school declaration, proof of residence, and a small fee for the card issuance.
Common gotcha
The card must be renewed every semester; failure to do so results in immediate blockage.

Passe Livre Estudantil Intermunicipal

state · Secretaria de Estado da Infraestrutura e Logística

Who qualifies
Low-income students commuting between municipalities for higher education.
What you get
Free or heavily subsidized intercity bus tickets.
What it actually costs you
Requires income proof (CadÚnico) and university enrollment certificate.
Common gotcha
Limited to specific bus lines authorized by the state government.

Funding my research and studies

Fundação Araucária Research Grants

state · Fundação Araucária

Who qualifies
Undergraduate and graduate students involved in scientific or technological research projects.
What you get
Monthly stipend ranging from R$ 700 to R$ 3,000 depending on the academic level.
What it actually costs you
Must be linked to a research group registered with CNPq.
Common gotcha
Strict reporting deadlines; missing a report can lead to the cancellation of the grant.

Universidade Sem Fronteiras

state · SETI - Secretaria da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior

Who qualifies
Students in state universities participating in social extension projects.
What you get
Monthly scholarship for community service and outreach activities.
What it actually costs you
Requires selection through a public call (edital) process.
Common gotcha
Projects are often tied to specific regional development goals in Paraná.

Auxílio Permanência Estadual

state · Secretaria de Estado da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior

Who qualifies
Students in extreme socioeconomic vulnerability enrolled in state universities (UEPG, UEL, UEM, etc.).
What you get
Financial support for food, housing, and study materials.
What it actually costs you
Requires rigorous social assessment by the university's social service department.
Common gotcha
Funds are limited and prioritized by the university's internal social criteria.
Rio de Janeiro

Rio offers unique transit concessions and state-funded research grants that help students navigate the high cost of living in the capital.

Getting around the city cheaply

Passe Livre Universitário

state · Secretaria de Estado de Transportes

Who qualifies
Students from low-income families enrolled in public universities in the state of Rio.
What you get
Free public transport passes for daily commuting to university.
What it actually costs you
Requires proof of income, enrollment certificate, and residency in the state.
Common gotcha
The application window is very short at the start of each semester; missing it means paying full fare.

Bilhete Único Intermunicipal

state · Fetranspor

Who qualifies
Students commuting between different municipalities within the Rio metropolitan area.
What you get
Discounted fares when using multiple modes of transport (bus, metro, train) within a 3-hour window.
What it actually costs you
Requires a registered Riocard Mais card linked to your student status.
Common gotcha
You must register your CPF to the card, or the discount won't apply.

Money for books and research

FAPERJ Scientific Initiation Scholarships

state · Fundação Carlos Chagas Filho de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro

Who qualifies
Undergraduate students involved in research projects with state-approved professors.
What you get
Monthly stipend for research activities.
What it actually costs you
Requires a research proposal and a CV Lattes submission.
Common gotcha
The competition is fierce; your professor must be the one to apply on your behalf.

UERJ Student Assistance Program

state · Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro

Who qualifies
Students enrolled at UERJ facing socioeconomic vulnerability.
What you get
Financial aid for food, housing, or academic materials.
What it actually costs you
Requires a social assessment interview and household income documentation.
Common gotcha
Funds are limited and prioritized for students in high-attrition courses.

Passe Cultural Estudantil

state · Secretaria de Estado de Cultura e Economia Criativa

Who qualifies
Public university students in Rio.
What you get
Free or heavily discounted access to state-run museums, theaters, and cultural centers.
What it actually costs you
Just show your valid student ID (Carteira de Identificação Estudantil).
Common gotcha
Many private venues don't accept the state card; check if it's a state-managed facility.
Rio Grande do Norte

Rio Grande do Norte offers specific student transport subsidies and regional university support programs that help students navigate the unique geography of the Potiguar coast and interior.

Getting to class without breaking the bank

Passe Livre Natal

municipal · Prefeitura de Natal

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in public or private schools in Natal with a low-income profile.
What you get
Free bus fare for daily commutes to school.
What it actually costs you
Requires a student card (NatalCard) and proof of enrollment; renewed every semester.
Common gotcha
The card often stops working during school holidays if not properly updated.

State University Transport Subsidy

Auxílio Transporte Universitário

state · Secretaria de Estado da Educação (SEEC-RN)

Who qualifies
Students living in interior municipalities commuting to regional university hubs.
What you get
Financial aid to cover inter-city bus travel costs.
What it actually costs you
Requires municipal registration and proof of residency distance.
Common gotcha
Funds are often distributed to the municipality, so check with your local City Hall (Prefeitura) first.

Help with my degree and research

FAPERN Research Grants

Bolsas de Iniciação Científica FAPERN

state · Fundação de Apoio à Pesquisa do RN

Who qualifies
Undergraduate students in RN universities participating in research projects.
What you get
Monthly stipend for research activities.
What it actually costs you
Competitive selection process; requires a faculty advisor.
Common gotcha
Deadlines are strict and align with the academic calendar; missing the call means waiting a full year.

UFRN Student Assistance Program

Programa de Assistência Estudantil da UFRN

university · Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte

Who qualifies
Students enrolled at UFRN with verified socioeconomic vulnerability.
What you get
Food vouchers for the university restaurant (RU) and housing/book subsidies.
What it actually costs you
Requires a detailed socioeconomic assessment (CADÚNICO registration).
Common gotcha
You must re-apply or update your status every year to keep the benefit.

UERN Student Support

Auxílio Estudantil UERN

university · Universidade do Estado do Rio Grande do Norte

Who qualifies
Students enrolled at UERN facing financial hardship.
What you get
Monthly cash transfer to support academic expenses.
What it actually costs you
Application through the university portal during specific open calls.
Common gotcha
Limited number of spots; priority is given to students from public high schools.
Rondônia

As a student in Rondônia, you rely on state-specific transport subsidies and local research grants that help bridge the gap between the Amazonian interior and academic hubs.

Getting to class without breaking the bank

Passe Livre Estudantil Rondônia

state · Secretaria de Estado da Educação (SEDUC)

Who qualifies
Public school students residing in municipalities with integrated transport systems.
What you get
Free public bus transportation to and from school.
What it actually costs you
Requires school enrollment proof and a dedicated student transport card; processing takes 15 days.
Common gotcha
It only covers the route between your home and the school address registered in the system.

Programa Estadual de Transporte Escolar (PETE/RO)

state · Secretaria de Estado da Educação (SEDUC)

Who qualifies
Students living in rural areas of Rondônia who lack local schools.
What you get
State-funded bus transport to the nearest urban school center.
What it actually costs you
No cost; requires registration at the local municipal education office.
Common gotcha
Service frequency depends on road conditions during the rainy season.

Funding for my projects and research

FAPERO Research Grants

state · Fundação Rondônia de Amparo ao Desenvolvimento das Ações Científicas (FAPERO)

Who qualifies
Undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in Rondônia-based higher education institutions.
What you get
Monthly stipends ranging from R$ 700 to R$ 2,500 depending on the academic level.
What it actually costs you
Requires a rigorous project proposal and a faculty advisor's endorsement.
Common gotcha
Deadlines are strict; missing the submission window means waiting for the next annual cycle.

Programa de Estágio do Governo de Rondônia

state · Secretaria de Estado do Planejamento, Orçamento e Gestão (SEPOG)

Who qualifies
Higher education students in Rondônia looking for mandatory or non-mandatory internships.
What you get
Monthly stipend plus transport allowance and valuable public sector experience.
What it actually costs you
Requires passing a simplified selection process based on academic grades.
Common gotcha
You must be enrolled in a course recognized by the MEC.
Roraima

As a student in Roraima, I navigate unique regional challenges where state-level support focuses on bridging the gap between remote interior communities and academic opportunities in Boa Vista.

Getting to class and staying in school

Passe Livre Estudantil Roraima

state · Secretaria de Estado da Educação e Desporto

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in public schools or low-income students in higher education residing in Boa Vista.
What you get
Free public bus transportation for daily commutes to school.
What it actually costs you
Requires a student ID card (Carteira de Estudante) and proof of enrollment; renewed every semester.
Common gotcha
The card often takes weeks to process at the start of the term, so keep your receipt.

Auxílio Permanência UERR

state · Universidade Estadual de Roraima

Who qualifies
Undergraduate students at UERR facing socioeconomic vulnerability.
What you get
Monthly financial stipend to cover books, food, and basic study materials.
What it actually costs you
Requires a detailed social-economic survey and proof of household income.
Common gotcha
You must maintain a minimum GPA to keep receiving the funds.

Programa de Transporte Escolar Rural

state · Secretaria de Educação

Who qualifies
Students living in rural areas of Roraima attending state schools.
What you get
State-funded bus transport from remote villages to the nearest school hub.
What it actually costs you
Zero cost; requires registration at the local school secretariat.
Common gotcha
Routes are fixed; if you miss the bus, there is no backup public transport.

Building my career in the North

Programa de Estágio Estadual

state · Secretaria de Administração

Who qualifies
University students in Roraima seeking mandatory internships.
What you get
Paid internship positions within state government departments.
What it actually costs you
Requires a competitive selection process based on academic grades.
Common gotcha
Positions are highly competitive and mostly located in Boa Vista.

Iniciação Científica FAPERR

state · Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de Roraima

Who qualifies
Undergraduate students interested in research projects related to the Amazonian region.
What you get
Monthly research grant for 12 months.
What it actually costs you
Requires a faculty advisor and a research proposal submission.
Common gotcha
The application window is very short and strictly enforced.

Centro de Línguas UERR

state · Universidade Estadual de Roraima

Who qualifies
Students and the general public in Roraima.
What you get
Highly subsidized language courses (Spanish, English, etc.).
What it actually costs you
Small registration fee per semester; competitive entrance exam.
Common gotcha
Classes fill up within minutes of opening registration.
Rio Grande do Sul

Rio Grande do Sul offers unique regional support for students through specialized transport subsidies and state-funded research grants that are essential for navigating the university life in Porto Alegre.

Getting around and staying fed

Passe Livre Estudantil (PLE)

Passe Livre Estudantil

state · Secretaria de Sistemas Penal e Socioeducativo

Who qualifies
Low-income students enrolled in regular courses who travel between municipalities for study.
What you get
Free intercity bus transportation for commuting to classes.
What it actually costs you
Proof of income, enrollment certificate, and residency documentation; renewed every semester.
Common gotcha
It only covers intercity travel, not urban bus lines within Porto Alegre itself.

TRI Estudante

municipal · EPTC Porto Alegre

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in recognized educational institutions in Porto Alegre.
What you get
50% discount on urban bus and train fares within the city.
What it actually costs you
Annual issuance fee and school-validated enrollment proof.
Common gotcha
The card must be revalidated every academic cycle or the discount stops working.

Restaurante Popular Porto Alegre

Restaurante Popular

municipal · Prefeitura de Porto Alegre

Who qualifies
Low-income students and general public.
What you get
Nutritious lunch at a highly subsidized price (usually under R$ 5).
What it actually costs you
Just the meal fee; no complex registration required.
Common gotcha
Lines can be very long during peak lunch hours.

Funding my research and studies

FAPERGS Research Scholarships

Bolsas FAPERGS

state · FAPERGS

Who qualifies
Undergraduate and graduate students involved in state-approved research projects.
What you get
Monthly stipend for research dedication.
What it actually costs you
Requires a faculty advisor to submit the project proposal during open calls.
Common gotcha
Highly competitive; you must have a strong academic record to be selected.

Fundacred Student Credit

Fundacred

private · Fundacred Foundation

Who qualifies
Students in private universities in RS needing tuition assistance.
What you get
Credit line to pay tuition fees with deferred payment options.
What it actually costs you
Requires a guarantor and credit analysis.
Common gotcha
This is a loan, not a scholarship, so interest rates apply.
Santa Catarina

Santa Catarina offers unique state-funded scholarship programs and transport subsidies that significantly reduce the financial burden for students attending local universities.

Money for my studies

UNI-EDU Program

Programa de Bolsas Universitárias de Santa Catarina

state · Secretaria de Estado da Educação

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in undergraduate courses at private universities in SC that are part of the Acafe system.
What you get
Financial aid covering up to 100% of tuition fees based on socioeconomic criteria.
What it actually costs you
Requires proof of residency, income documentation, and participation in social projects.
Common gotcha
You must maintain a minimum academic performance and complete mandatory hours of community service to keep the scholarship.

State FIES Supplementation

state · Secretaria de Estado da Educação

Who qualifies
Students already receiving federal FIES who demonstrate additional financial hardship.
What you get
Additional monthly stipend for study materials and living expenses.
What it actually costs you
Application through the state education portal during the designated window.
Common gotcha
This is separate from the federal FIES portal; you must apply for both independently.

Getting around the city

Florianópolis Student Transit Pass

Passe Escolar Florianópolis

municipal · Prefeitura de Florianópolis

Who qualifies
Students residing and studying in Florianópolis with a valid enrollment certificate.
What you get
50% discount on bus fares for daily commutes.
What it actually costs you
Requires a student ID card (DNE) and registration at the local transport office.
Common gotcha
The pass must be renewed every semester; it does not work automatically after the term ends.

Intermunicipal Student Free Pass

Passe Livre Intermunicipal

state · Secretaria de Estado da Infraestrutura

Who qualifies
Low-income students traveling between municipalities in SC for education.
What you get
Free travel on intercity bus lines.
What it actually costs you
Requires income declaration and school verification.
Common gotcha
Limited to a specific number of trips per month; check your quota before booking.
Sergipe

Sergipe offers targeted support for students navigating the transition from public high school to higher education through local state-run initiatives and transit subsidies.

Getting to class without breaking the bank

Passe Livre Intermunicipal

state · Secretaria de Estado do Desenvolvimento Urbano e Infraestrutura

Who qualifies
Low-income students residing in Sergipe who study in a different municipality than their residence.
What you get
Free intercity bus transport to and from the educational institution.
What it actually costs you
Requires proof of enrollment, income declaration, and residence verification; processed annually.
Common gotcha
The registration window is very tight at the start of each semester; missing it means paying full fare for months.

Meia-Passagem Aracaju

municipal · SMTT Aracaju

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in recognized educational institutions within the Aracaju metropolitan area.
What you get
50% discount on municipal bus fares.
What it actually costs you
Requires the 'Cartão Mais Aracaju' student card, a small issuance fee, and semesterly renewal.
Common gotcha
The card must be validated at the SMTT office or authorized kiosks every semester, or the discount stops working.

Extra help for my studies

Programa de Bolsas de Estudo Sergipe

state · Secretaria de Estado da Educação e da Cultura

Who qualifies
Students from public high schools in Sergipe entering state-recognized higher education institutions.
What you get
Monthly financial stipend to cover books and basic academic materials.
What it actually costs you
Requires high academic performance and proof of low family income; application is competitive.
Common gotcha
You must maintain a minimum GPA to keep receiving the funds, or it is suspended immediately.

Auxílio Permanência UFS

university · Universidade Federal de Sergipe

Who qualifies
Undergraduate students at UFS in situations of socioeconomic vulnerability.
What you get
Monthly cash transfer to assist with food and housing costs.
What it actually costs you
Requires a detailed socioeconomic questionnaire and home visit verification.
Common gotcha
The application process is extremely document-heavy; any discrepancy in income proof leads to rejection.

Programa de Estágio Estadual

state · Secretaria de Estado da Administração

Who qualifies
University students in Sergipe looking for mandatory or non-mandatory internships.
What you get
Monthly internship allowance and transport voucher.
What it actually costs you
Requires passing a selection process or public call; must be enrolled in a relevant degree program.
Common gotcha
These positions are highly sought after and often require specific technical skills listed in the public notice.
São Paulo

São Paulo offers the most robust state-funded scholarship and transport subsidy ecosystem in Brazil, essential for students navigating the high cost of living in the capital.

Money for my studies

Bolsa Auxílio Permanência

state · Secretaria de Desenvolvimento Econômico

Who qualifies
Low-income students enrolled in state technical schools (ETECs).
What you get
Monthly stipend to cover food and transport costs.
What it actually costs you
Proof of income, academic enrollment, and social vulnerability assessment.
Common gotcha
Requires renewing your social vulnerability status every semester.

FAPESP Undergraduate Research Scholarship

Bolsa de Iniciação Científica FAPESP

state · FAPESP

Who qualifies
Undergraduate students in SP state universities with a research project.
What you get
Monthly grant for research activities plus insurance coverage.
What it actually costs you
Detailed research proposal and a faculty advisor's endorsement.
Common gotcha
The selection process is highly competitive and requires a high GPA.

Crédito Universitário Estadual

state · Secretaria da Educação

Who qualifies
Students in private universities who meet specific income criteria.
What you get
Subsidized loan to pay for tuition fees.
What it actually costs you
Guarantor and proof of financial hardship.
Common gotcha
Interest rates are low but it is still a debt that must be repaid after graduation.

Getting around the city

Passe Livre Estudantil

municipal · SPTrans

Who qualifies
Students registered in public or private schools in São Paulo city with low income.
What you get
Free public transport on buses and metro lines.
What it actually costs you
Registration fee and school-validated enrollment documents.
Common gotcha
You must re-validate your card every semester or you will be blocked.

Lei da Meia-Entrada Paulista

Lei da Meia-Entrada

state · Secretaria da Cultura

Who qualifies
All students with a valid student ID (CIE).
What you get
50% discount on cinema, theater, and concert tickets.
What it actually costs you
Standard cost of the student ID card (CIE).
Common gotcha
Only the national standard ID card (CIE) is accepted; old school IDs don't work.
Tocantins

Tocantins provides specific regional support for students in the Amazonian transition zone, focusing on transport subsidies and local university access.

Getting to class without breaking the bank

Passe Livre Intermunicipal

state · AGR-TO

Who qualifies
Low-income students traveling between municipalities in Tocantins for education.
What you get
Free or heavily discounted bus tickets for academic travel.
What it actually costs you
Requires proof of enrollment and income declaration; takes 15 days to process.
Common gotcha
Only applies to specific inter-city bus lines, not urban Palmas transit.

Programa Estadual de Transporte Escolar

state · SEDUC-TO

Who qualifies
Students living in rural areas attending state-run schools.
What you get
Daily shuttle service to and from school.
What it actually costs you
Zero cost; requires registration at the local school secretariat.
Common gotcha
Routes are fixed and do not accommodate individual schedules.

Help with my studies and research

FAPT Research Scholarship

Bolsa de Pesquisa FAPT

state · Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Tocantins

Who qualifies
Undergraduate students in Tocantins universities participating in approved research projects.
What you get
Monthly stipend ranging from R$ 400 to R$ 800.
What it actually costs you
Requires a faculty advisor and a submitted research proposal.
Common gotcha
Funding is competitive and tied to specific state-priority research areas.

Tocantins Government Internship Program

Programa de Estágio do Estado do Tocantins

state · SECAD-TO

Who qualifies
Students enrolled in higher education institutions recognized by MEC.
What you get
Paid internship within state government departments.
What it actually costs you
Requires passing a selection process based on grades and interview.
Common gotcha
Positions are limited and often require specific majors relevant to state administration.

UNITINS Student Permanence Aid

Auxílio Permanência UNITINS

state · Universidade Estadual do Tocantins

Who qualifies
Students enrolled at UNITINS facing financial hardship.
What you get
Monthly financial aid to cover books, food, and supplies.
What it actually costs you
Requires social-economic assessment by the university social worker.
Common gotcha
The aid is renewed semesterly and depends on maintaining a minimum GPA.