Academic Program

The Brazil Scientific Mobility Program or BSMP is a non-degree program for Brazilian undergraduate students to study at colleges and universities in the United States.  The program consists of one academic year (two semesters or three quarters) and a summer academic training component (internship or research) related to the student’s field of study. Participating students are primarily in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

The requirements of a host institution are that they offer:

• Strong coursework relevant to (mostly) STEM fields;
• On-campus housing, meal plans, and insurance coverage during the academic year, as well as over institutional breaks and holidays;
• A welcoming environment and opportunities for students to grow academically, professionally, and personally by providing excellent support services, appopriate housing, meal plan and assistance in securing an internship

All students must be enrolled in full-time and expected to enroll in coursework relevant to their field of study.

After placement, IIE will make arrangements to pay the students’ tuition, room, board and health insurance upon receipt of an invoice from each host school. IIE will also provide J-1 visa sponsorship in the student non-degree category under our exchange visitor program. Round trip transportation to/from Brazil, a monthly stipend and book allowance will be provided to each student directly from the Brazilian government.

All undergraduate Brazil Scientific Mobility students (whether CAPES or CNPQ sponsored) will be placed by IIE. Institutions would be expected to accept documentation through IIE including the Common Application, TOEFL score reports, transcripts, etc. IIE will work closely with the institution during admission to confirm placement.

On behalf of the Government of Brazil, the Institute of International Education (IIE) invites U.S. colleges and universities to become a host institution in the Brazil Scientific Mobility Undergraduate Scholarship Program.

U.S. institutions will find that hosting students will enrich diversity on campus, enhance international exposure, and broaden cultural perspectives.  The program is foreign-sourced and fully funded by CAPES and CNPq.

Institutional applications to host students will be accepted on a rolling basis. The 2013-2014 participation form for new institutions can be completed here:

2013-2014 Brazil Scientific Mobility Program Participation Form