Science without Borders, the main federal government program for academic mobility abroad, has awarded 41,133 scholarships since its inception in 2011. Of this total, 23,851 students were approved in the last year, and more than 19,000 are already studying abroad. The remaining 17,282 candidates were selected from  public invitations this year.

This figure is not yet final since invitations are still open for China, Ireland, Austria, Belgium and Finland, with respective application periods closing in May. Accordingly, the total for this year is expected to exceed the target of 45,000 scholarships. New public invitations are expected to be announced in the second half of this year.

"Science without Borders is a program of political, academic and economic impact," said Education Minister, Aloizio Mercadante. He noted that since  the program's inception, it has exceeded all established targets. "The demand is very strong, because the Science without Borders is held in high regard and is widely recognized internationally," he added.

Created with the goal of providing 101,000 scholarships abroad, Science without Borders currently maintains partnerships in 35 countries. The federal government's goal is to promote advances in science, technology, innovation and industrial competitiveness through the expansion of international mobility. The federal government also maintains partnerships with institutions and companies, including the Brazilian Federation of Banks (FEBRABAN), the National Confederation of Industry (CNI), the Brazilian Association of Infrastructure and Basic Industries (ABDIB), Petrobras, Eletrobras and Vale, that provide support to the program.

To date, the most sought after destinations for academic exchanges have been: USA, Portugal, France and Spain.

Source:

Ministry of Education

27 April 2013