Study in Brazil: Language & Culture

The national language of Brazil is Portuguese. It’s by far the largest Lusophone country. In fact, due to Brazil’s huge population, it’s made Portuguese one of the world’s major languages. Brazilian Portuguese has even overtaken the Portuguese spoken in Portugal to become the standard version of the language worldwide. Brazil is also home to more than a dozen indigenous languages, as well as a swathe of minority languages, ranging from Spanish, to Ukrainian, to Korean. 

English is compulsory in Brazilian schools and is becoming increasingly common. Most younger Brazilians will have a good grasp of English - even if they aren’t entirely fluent. In major cities, older Brazilians will also likely have some knowledge of English, as well as other languages like Italian and German. Brazil is becoming increasingly bilingual, with English now having leapfrogged Spanish as the most learnt second language.

That being said, you’ll probably want to make some effort to learn basic Portuguese. It’ll help you fit into your surroundings and get more from your time in Brazil.

Throughout the country, crime continues to be a major problem, one for which Brazil is notorious. Petty theft and street crime is common. Illegal guns are also a problem. Sometimes, international students and tourists are attacked. These problems are particularly prevalent in Rio, especially in favelas and tourist areas, like the Christ the Redeemer statue. Take great care in less-developed areas and avoid leaving valuables on obvious display. 

But don’t let this put you off Brazil. The violent crime rate, even in Rio, is no worse than in some American cities like St Louis and Chicago. 

Brazil is as widely renowned for its scenery as it is for its vitality. From hectare after hectare of rainforest, to the world’s longest river, to the legendary Copacabana Beach, Brazil is a feast for the senses.