Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro logo

Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro, BR · Ranking #13

The Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro (PUC‑Rio) is a private, non‑profit Jesuit Catholic university in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, established in 1940. It is recognized as one of Brazil’s leading higher education and research institutions, with strong programs in humanities, social sciences, engineering, computer science, economics, law, business, and international relations. PUC‑Rio emphasizes academic excellence rooted in humanistic values and Christian ethics, while encouraging research, innovation, and community engagement. The university hosts undergraduate, graduate, and extension programs, and supports international exchange, dual degrees, and interdisciplinary study. Its campus in the Gávea neighborhood offers libraries, labs, cultural spaces, and a vibrant academic environment.

Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro logo

Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro

About the university

The Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro (PUC‑Rio) is a private, non‑profit Jesuit Catholic university in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, established in 1940. It is recognized as one of Brazil’s leading higher education and research institutions, with strong programs in humanities, social sciences, engineering, computer science, economics, law, business, and international relations. PUC‑Rio emphasizes academic excellence rooted in humanistic values and Christian ethics, while encouraging research, innovation, and community engagement. The university hosts undergraduate, graduate, and extension programs, and supports international exchange, dual degrees, and interdisciplinary study. Its campus in the Gávea neighborhood offers libraries, labs, cultural spaces, and a vibrant academic environment.

Key information

  • Location: Rio de Janeiro, BR
  • Ranking #13
  • QS #571
  • THE #601
  • National ranking #16
  • Institution type: private

Popular faculties

  • Law
  • Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Economics
  • Business
  • Social Sciences
  • International Relations

Programs (29)

  • Computer Science
  • Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Medicine
  • Nursing
  • Pharmacy
  • Business Administration
  • Economics
  • Finance and Accounting
  • Marketing
  • Tourism and Hospitality
  • Law
  • Political Science
  • International Relations
  • Philosophy
  • History
  • Linguistics
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • Environmental Science
  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Anthropology
  • Education
  • Fine Arts
  • Music

Student body

  • Total students: 21,000
  • Undergraduate: 13,000
  • Graduate: 2,500
  • International students: 2%

Campus life

Campus Life At PUC‑Rio Is Vibrant And Diverse, Centered Around Academic Engagement, Cultural Activities, And Community Involvement. Students Participate In Research Projects, Extension Programs, Student Organizations, Cultural Events, And Service Initiatives. The Gávea Campus, Nestled In A Green Neighborhood Of Rio de Janeiro, Offers Libraries, Labs, Cafeterias, Sports Facilities, And Ample Opportunities For Collaboration, Networking, And Personal Growth.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: $500 - $1,200 / per month

Housing options

  • Shared Apartments
  • Private Rentals
  • Student Residences (limited)

Student clubs and organizations

  • Academic Societies
  • Cultural Clubs
  • Volunteer Organizations
  • Sports Clubs
  • Arts Groups

Sports

  • Soccer
  • Volleyball
  • Basketball
  • Futsal

Career & internships

Partner companies

  • Local Corporations
  • NGOs
  • Tech Firms
  • Financial Institutions

Internships: PUC‑Rio Provides Internship Opportunities Through Partnerships With Local And International Organizations In Business, Engineering, Social Services, And Cultural Sectors. Students Gain Practical Experience Through Internships, Cooperative Projects, And Research Assignments That Prepare Them For Careers. The Career Services Office Supports Placement, Resume Development, And Interview Preparation.

Admission requirements

Required documents

  • Application Form
  • High School Diploma
  • Academic Transcripts
  • Portuguese Proficiency Proof
  • Passport Copy
  • Motivation Letter

Tuition costs

  • $6,000 - $15,000 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 25.00%
  • Scholarships available: PUC‑Rio Offers Scholarships And Financial Aid Based On Academic Merit And Socioeconomic Criteria. Scholarships May Include Partial Tuition Waivers, Support For Research Projects, Leadership Initiatives, And Funding Through Partnerships With Organizations. International Students Can Access Exchange Scholarships And Institutional Aid Schemes Depending On Program And Performance.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1940
  • Teaching languages: english, portuguese
  • Study formats: offline

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