FIES / ProUni: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to access student loans through FIES or scholarships via ProUni to fund your higher education in Brazil.
This program provides two different ways for students in Brazil to access higher education through either a scholarship or a student loan.
Who it's for
This program is specifically designed for students who are seeking to enroll in higher education. It serves as a pathway for those looking to pursue university-level studies through the support of national frameworks.
What you get
There are two distinct benefits available depending on which part of the program you utilize. Through ProUni, you can access a scholarship (bolsa de estudo) to help cover the costs of your degree. Alternatively, through FIES, you can access a student loan (financiamento estudantil) to help fund your higher education journey.
What it costs you
To be eligible for these opportunities, you must have participated in the national exam known as ENEM. This exam is a requirement for those seeking to access these educational supports. You will need to have your results ready when you begin the application process.
The catch to know
The most important thing to understand is the difference between the two options. While a scholarship through ProUni is a grant for your studies, FIES is a student loan. This means that if you choose the FIES option, you are taking on debt that must be repaid with interest over time.
How to apply
- Confirm that you have taken the ENEM exam and have your results available.
- Visit the official government portal to check for current application windows and specific requirements.
- Navigate the registration process for either the scholarship or the loan option based on your needs.
- Complete the necessary steps on the official website to finalize your request.