Federal University of Pernambuco logo

Federal University of Pernambuco

Recife, BR · Ranking #10

The Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE) is a prominent federal public research university based in Recife, Brazil, founded in 1946 from the integration of historic professional schools including law, engineering and medicine. The university operates three campuses — Recife, Vitória de Santo Antão and Caruaru — and provides a wide portfolio of academic programs including approximately 70 undergraduate and 175 postgraduate options across diverse fields such as engineering, natural and exact sciences, health sciences, humanities, social sciences and arts. UFPE is recognized as one of the top universities in Brazil and the leading higher education institution in the North‑Northeast region, with strong research output, notable CAPES‑rated departments, and active engagement in community development. The Cidade Universitária campus in Recife covers a large academic hub with extensive facilities for teaching, research and student life, contributing significantly to regional innovation, scientific knowledge production and cultural activities.

Federal University of Pernambuco logo

Federal University of Pernambuco

About the university

The Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE) is a prominent federal public research university based in Recife, Brazil, founded in 1946 from the integration of historic professional schools including law, engineering and medicine. The university operates three campuses — Recife, Vitória de Santo Antão and Caruaru — and provides a wide portfolio of academic programs including approximately 70 undergraduate and 175 postgraduate options across diverse fields such as engineering, natural and exact sciences, health sciences, humanities, social sciences and arts. UFPE is recognized as one of the top universities in Brazil and the leading higher education institution in the North‑Northeast region, with strong research output, notable CAPES‑rated departments, and active engagement in community development. The Cidade Universitária campus in Recife covers a large academic hub with extensive facilities for teaching, research and student life, contributing significantly to regional innovation, scientific knowledge production and cultural activities.

Key information

  • Location: Recife, BR
  • Ranking #10
  • QS #612
  • THE #1201
  • National ranking #10
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • Engineering
  • Law
  • Medicine
  • Natural Sciences
  • Social Sciences
  • Arts
  • Computer Science

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: 40,000
  • Undergraduate: 32,000
  • Graduate: 8,000
  • International students: 2%

Campus life

Campus life at UFPE combines academic rigor, cultural diversity and vibrant student engagement. Students participate in research projects, academic societies, clubs and cultural events, with the Cidade Universitária serving as a central hub for interaction, study and extracurricular activities. UFPE’s location in Recife — a city known for its music, festivals and coastal culture — enriches students’ social experiences alongside their academic pursuits.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: $250 - $900 / per month

Housing options

  • On‑campus dormitories
  • private apartments
  • shared housing

Student clubs and organizations

  • Academic clubs
  • cultural societies
  • research groups

Sports

  • Soccer
  • volleyball
  • basketball
  • athletics

Career & internships

Partner companies

  • Public institutions
  • tech firms
  • healthcare providers
  • research organisations

Internships: UFPE students have access to internships and practical training through collaborations with industry partners, public institutions and research organisations, supporting professional growth in fields such as engineering, health sciences, law and education. Programs vary by department, and the university’s networks help students build skills and connections that enhance employability.

Admission requirements

Required documents

  • High school diploma
  • national entrance exam results (e.g.
  • ENEM)
  • identification
  • Portuguese proficiency

Tuition costs

  • $0 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 14.00%
  • Scholarships available: UFPE offers a range of scholarship and financial aid programs for undergraduate and postgraduate students, including need‑based grants, research fellowships and support for academic mobility. Opportunities may cover living stipends and research funding, with eligibility criteria and amounts varying by program and funding source. International students can access information and support through the university’s international affairs office to identify suitable scholarship options.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1946
  • Teaching languages: portuguese
  • Study formats: offline

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