Details

• Brazil
• MAMgmt-14
• Graduate
• WS 2025
• Time spent at the partner university: 6 months

1. Preparation

Apply as early as possible. Early application gives more planning security and is essential for handling follow-up steps such as the visa process and coordination with the host university. Start the visa application early, as it requires several documents and appointments. It is also highly recommended to apply for a Brazilian CPF shortly after arrival, as it greatly simplifies payments and many administrative processes. In addition, make sure to bring warm and long clothing. Weather in São Paulo can fluctuate significantly, and it is often cooler than one would expect from Brazil.

2. Accommodation

Accommodation type (student residence/private): I stayed at Uliving, which I would strongly recommend. Uliving Paulista is my preferred option: it is the largest Uliving residence, very social, and offers many events such as parties, shared cooking, and sports activities. Uliving Jardins is also well located but smaller and quieter. Location, safety, and proximity to the university: Uliving Paulista is about a 20-minute walk from FGV and located in a good and central area. Paulista is considered a relatively safe neighborhood, but phone theft can still happen and basic caution is necessary, as in most parts of São Paulo. Tips I wish I’d known beforehand: Uliving officially requires a minimum stay of six months, but in practice this can sometimes be negotiated, depending on availability and timing.

3. Academic life at host university

The courses at FGV are generally less demanding compared to those at WU Vienna. If you choose your courses carefully, you can have classes for just one or two days per week, leaving plenty of time for travelling. Attendance is mandatory (around 75%), and grading is mainly based on group presentations and take-home exams rather than written in-class exams. Exchange Master’s students were mainly assigned to the older campus buildings, which are less modern. However, FGV also has newer buildings with very modern facilities.

5. Every day life in the host country

I used public transport only once, although it is generally reliable. My main means of getting around were walking and Uber. Walking is recommended only during the day and in areas you know well; Uber is the safest and most convenient option overall. Social and leisure activities are very lively. At Uliving, we regularly played volleyball, and there were frequent social events. FGV also offers sports courses, but due to frequent travelling, participating in them was not worthwhile for me. The nature in Brazil is breathtaking, offering a strong contrast to city life. In addition, Brazilians are very open-minded and extremely helpful, which makes everyday life and social integration much easier. São Paulo itself is not particularly beautiful and has few classic sights, but it offers a large central park and excellent access to beaches and natural destinations within a short travel distance.São Paulo offers an enormous number of events. Uliving Paulista organized regular parties, including monthly birthday parties, and FGV hosted start and end-of-semester events. In general, there is something happening every day in the city. While São Paulo itself is not particularly beautiful and has few classic sights, it offers a large central park and is well located for travel. Within about one hour, you can reach the coast and many attractive beaches.

6. Testimonial

São Paulo is an ideal exchange destination for outgoing students who enjoy travelling and exploring. The range of opportunities is so vast that it is impossible to experience everything within one semester, making it very likely that you will want to return. What made the exchange truly special was the strong international community: people from all over the world are very open and welcoming, and it is easy to form friendships that last beyond the exchange.