Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná (PUCPR)
PUCPR is a highly ranked, internationally focused private university in southern Brazilian state of Paraná. Across its five campuses, it offers nine academic schools. MSUB students will predominently be studying at the main campus in Curitiba, which also houses the university’s Center for Cultural Affairs. The center is responsible for enriching student life on campus and life around the state of Paraná through dance, music, art and festivals. The main campus also boasts an impressive sports complex with five courts for volleyball, futbal (soccer), basketball, tennis and squash, a 2,500-person gymnasium and an Olympic swimming pool. PUCPR offers a wide variety of classes across disciplines taught in English and also offers a Portuguese language and culture program The university's Business College is AACSB accredited.
Academic Year
Fall Semester = Late July - Early December
Spring Semester = Mid-February - Late June
Courses Offered
PUCPR is the leading Brazilian institution in offering undergraduate classes entirely in English through its Global Classes Program. The program includes options of classes in other languages (predominently English) that allows exchange students and local students to engage in classes. English-taught classes span a variety of disciplines, including business, the sciences, literature, humanities, education, computer science, and more.
Students who study at PUCPR also can take a Portuguese language and culture class, levels ranging from basic through advanced. Students who plan to study abroad are eligible to enroll in a basic online Portuguese class offered by PUCPR prior to the start of their program. The basic course is worth 2 US credits.
Buddy Program
PUCPR offers a helpful Buddy Program that connects incoming exchange students with a local student to act as a guide and support resource. This is a voluntary program where the local buddies give their time to offer support and friendship during your time abroad.
Accommodation
In Brazil, most institutions do not provide on-campus accommodation. However, the PUCPR International Office can assist students in finding suitable lodging in Curitiba. The accommodation network includes options like flats, hostels, and homestays. Once you select your accommodation, make sure to request a contract detailing the rental terms, including the period of stay, rental amount, method of payment, and agreement terms and conditions. This helps prevent misunderstandings or future disagreements. If you have any questions about the contract, feel free to consult with your Buddy or bring it to the International Office for clarification. Be mindful of accommodation management policies, including potential curfews, with most places observing a 10 pm quiet time.
You can explore online resources to find shared housing or room rentals, such as Facebook groups REI Curitiba-Moradia/Housing and Dividir Moradia-Curitiba. For added assurance, consider making an appointment to visit the place and bring your Buddy along.
Costs
The average monthly cost to live in Curitiba is approximately BRL 2,800 (around $530). Breakdown of costs includes accommodation (BRL 800 - 2,000), food (BRL 800- 1,000), and public transportation (BRL 300). To stay informed about currency exchange rates, keep in mind that $1 USD is roughly equal to 5.1811 BRL (as of June 2022). Numerous websites can assist you in calculating your monthly budget. Explore the cost of living further at and .
Approximately monthly costs are BRL 3,000 (about $600) - Food: BRL 500 - 1,000 Accommodation: BRL 1,000 - 2,000 (monthly) Transportation (public bus lines): BRL 250 - 300 Other Expenses: An administrative fee of BRL 200 (approximately US$ 40) is required upon arrival at PUCPR.
Curitiba Attractions
Curitiba is located in the southern region of Brazil and is the capital of the state of Paraná. Only 100 km from the coast, Curitiba offers easy access to quiet and charming beach towns. Referred to as the ecological capital of Brazil, Curitiba is currently considered one of the best urban planned cities in the world. It became an international model for sustainable development due to the implementation of integrated urban planning, which allowed the city to be considered a reference in public transportation, preservation of the city’s cultural heritage, expansion of parks and green areas, social and environmental programs.
Curitiba is a city with many places to visit-museums, street fairs, cinemas, theaters, parks, and many other attractions.
Visa Requirements
Students are responsible for obtaining a student visa at the Brazilian Consulate in their region as soon as they receive the acceptance letter. The student visa for more than 90 days of study is the VITEM IV Visa. The charge for the visa is $185 for American citizens.The application also requires a background check. Students can submit their application online and mail in their original documents. Brazil does not currently require in-person visa interviews.
Getting a CPF (Tax File Number): The CPF (tax file number) is a vital document for various processes in Brazil, including opening a bank account, purchasing a mobile phone SIM card, and formalizing your enrollment at PUCPR. It can be obtained at the Brazilian Consulate during the student visa application or online (instructions are provided via email). Students should share their CPF number before their arrival to complete registration at PUCPR and receive login credentials to access PUCPR systems.
Upon arrival to Brazil, students must register their visa with the Federal Police in Brazil (within 90 days of arrival). The cost for the registration is 220 Brazilian Reel ($36).
PUCPR does not have autonomy in this process, and its requirements must be met. It is essential to maintain a permanent address during your stay, and any address changes must be promptly communicated to the Federal Police and PUCPR's International Office. Keep your contact details updated for efficient communication (address, phone, email).
Health Insurance
To ensure comprehensive and quality coverage, all study abroad students are required to enroll in insurance that is provided through the designated Montana University System insurance provider. Please consult with the Study Abroad Coordinator for further information. This insurance is affordable with a typical semester averaging about $250.