Federal University of Bahia

About the university

The Federal University of Bahia (Universidade Federal da Bahia, UFBA) is a leading public federal university located in Salvador, Brazil, and is the largest higher education institution in the state of Bahia. Established in 1946 through the integration of historic schools including Medicine, Pharmacy, Law, and Fine Arts, UFBA now operates multiple campuses in Salvador and additional sites in Vitória da Conquista and Barreiras. It offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs across sciences, engineering, health, arts, humanities and social sciences, serving tens of thousands of students. As a research and cultural hub, UFBA contributes significantly to academic research, extension programs, and cultural production, with notable influence in areas such as tropical medicine, social sciences, and sustainable development. The university maintains an open engagement with local and international partners to foster innovation and academic excellence.

Key information

Location: Salvador, BR
Ranking #11
QS #1201
THE #1501
US News #1089
National ranking #13
Institution type: public

Popular faculties

Engineering
Humanities
Social Sciences
Health Sciences
Natural Sciences
Law
Arts

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: 45,000
Undergraduate: 38,000
Graduate: 7,000
International students: 1%

Campus life

Campus life at UFBA is vibrant and culturally rich, combining rigorous academics with artistic, social and community activities. Students participate in clubs, events, research initiatives and cultural festivals. UFBA campuses are located near historic Salvador neighborhoods, allowing engagement with local traditions, music, dance and Afro‑Brazilian heritage. Collaborative environments and diverse extracurricular offerings create a dynamic learning experience.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: $200 - $800 / per month

Housing options

On‑campus dormitories
private apartments
shared housing

Student clubs and organizations

Academic clubs
cultural societies
research groups

Sports

Soccer
basketball
volleyball
capoeira

Career & internships

Partner companies

Government agencies
tech firms
healthcare institutions
research organizations

Internships: UFBA students have access to internships and practical experiences with local industries, public institutions and research centers, enhancing professional skills and employability. Partnerships with government, health services, NGOs and cultural organizations enable placements related to students’ fields of study.

Admission requirements

Required documents

High school diploma
ENEM exam results
identification
Portuguese language proficiency

Tuition costs

$0 - $1,000 / per year
Acceptance rate: 16.00%
Scholarships available: UFBA offers various scholarships and financial support programs for undergraduate and graduate students, including merit‑based and need‑based awards, research grants, and support for academic mobility. These programs aim to assist students in completing their studies and engaging in research or international exchange, but specific eligibility criteria and amounts vary per program.

Quick facts

Founded: 1946
Teaching languages: portuguese
Study formats: offline

Contact

Website: https://www.ufba.br
[email protected]
+55 71 3283‑7025