Mechanical Engineering Graduate Program - Rio de Janeiro State University (UERJ) - Brazil

PPG-EM >> Living in Rio de Janeiro

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Staying in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro, a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and iconic landmarks, offers a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Whether planning to stay for a short, medium, or long term, understanding the neighborhoods, their distances to PPG-EM, cost of living, and quality of life is crucial.

It is important to note that the Rio de Janeiro State University (UERJ) does not offer accommodation or housing services for students.

Accommodation

For short-term stays, platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com are recommended. These platforms offer a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly options to luxury stays.

• Airbnb: Provides a variety of rental options including entire apartments and private rooms.
• Booking.com: Useful for finding hotels, hostels, and guesthouses.

For medium to long-term stays, websites and apps like QuintoAndar and OLX offer rental listings for apartments and houses.

• QuintoAndar: Specializes in rental properties without the need for a guarantor, simplifying the leasing process.
• Zap Imóveis: Specializes in rental properties.
• OLX: A classified ad platform where you can find various rental properties listed by owners and real estate agents.
• WebQuarto: Facilitates finding shared accommodations, ideal for students and young professionals.

Transportation

Navigating Rio de Janeiro efficiently is crucial, particularly for those who prioritize easy access to PPG-EM via public transportation. The city's public transport network, which includes buses, metros, and ride-sharing options, is comprehensive. It is strongly advised to use the Moovit app for route planning. This tool can significantly aid in determining the accessibility of PPG-EM from your chosen accommodation, ensuring that you can reach your destination efficiently.

• Moovit: Offers comprehensive public transportation information including bus and metro schedules, real-time arrivals, and route planning.
• Uber: A convenient ride-sharing service for getting around the city.
• 99: Another common ride-sharing service in Rio.

Financial Requirements for International Students

The Rio de Janeiro State University (UERJ) stands as one of the most prestigious universities in Brazil and Latin America. As a Brazilian public university, UERJ does not charge any tuition or fees, providing students with the opportunity to obtain an advanced academic degree at a university of excellence entirely for free.

However, international students must have sufficient funds to cover living expenses during their stay in Rio de Janeiro. Additionally, they must obtain health insurance with funeral and sanitary repatriation coverage, valid for the entire duration of their stay in Brazil, prior to their arrival.

It is important to note that student visa holders are prohibited from holding any formal employment in Brazil.

International students planning to study in Rio de Janeiro should anticipate a bare minimum monthly budget of 2,000 BRL (2023) to cover essential living expenses. This budgetary estimate encompasses rent for a shared apartment/room, necessary utilities such as internet, electricity and water, grocery costs, and public transportation for commuting to university.

For students with outstanding academic records, the PPG-EM offers the opportunity to apply for scholarships (financial aids). However, even with the possibility of receiving a scholarship, international students must still have sufficient funds (personal savings, parental sponsorships, government support from their home country, etc) to cover their living expenses in Rio de Janeiro.

Recommendations

Rio de Janeiro is known for its favelas (Slums), which are densely populated urban areas historically underserved by government infrastructure and services. While these communities are rich in culture and history, they can also present safety challenges for visitors unfamiliar with the area. For your safety, it is advisable to avoid staying in or exploring favelas without local guidance or a clear understanding of the environment.

If you are an international student planning to pursue a Master's or Doctoral degree in Rio de Janeiro, it is strongly recommended that you contact student representatives (Representantes Estudantis). They can assist you in finding suitable accommodation and handling the necessary paperwork to get started in Brazil. This support can be invaluable in navigating the initial challenges faced by foreign students.

It is also important to be aware of the local weather patterns. Rio experiences a tropical climate with a wet season from December to March and a dry season from April to November. Prepare accordingly, especially during the summer months when temperatures can be particularly high.

In general, staff such as bus drivers, cashiers, and other service workers in Rio de Janeiro may not speak English. While many professors at the PPG-EM may teach in English, some may not. However, even for those courses taught in Portuguese, textbooks, handouts, and exercises are often available in English. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you learn at least the basics of Portuguese during your stay. Acquiring fundamental language skills can greatly enhance your daily interactions and overall experience in Brazil. The university offers Portuguese for foreigners courses.

Lastly, familiarize yourself with local customs and laws, especially those related to public behavior and safety. For example, always be cautious with your personal belongings in crowded areas and use licensed taxis or verified transportation apps for traveling around the city. Being aware of these details can enhance your safety and overall experience during your stay.

Common Neighborhoods to Stay in Rio