Brasillinois/CAPES Mobility Program FAQ

The CAPES–Brasillinois Mobility Program promotes academic collaboration and exchange between Brazilian universities and the University of Illinois System (Urbana-Champaign, Chicago, and Springfield). The program supports Brazilian graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and faculty to participate in research, teaching, and professional development activities in Illinois for 6 to 10 months.

What is the CAPES Mobility Program with Illinois?

This program is a collaboration between CAPES (Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel) and the University of Illinois System. It provides opportunities for Brazilian scholars to conduct research, participate in collaborative academic projects, and strengthen institutional partnerships across Illinois campuses.

Participants may be hosted by any of the three University of Illinois campuses:

• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC)
• University of Illinois Chicago (UIC)
• University of Illinois Springfield (UIS)

Who is eligible to participate?

Eligible participants typically include:

• Graduate students enrolled in CAPES-affiliated Brazilian universities;
• Postdoctoral researchers supported by CAPES;

Applicants should demonstrate strong academic standing, English proficiency, and a clear plan for collaboration with Illinois faculty or research units.

How long does the mobility period last?

The mobility period ranges from 6 to 10 months, depending on the nature of the project and CAPES approval. The proposed duration should align with the objectives of the research or academic collaboration plan.

What financial support is provided by CAPES?

CAPES provides comprehensive financial support, which typically includes:

• A monthly stipend for living expenses during the stay in Illinois;
• Health insurance coverage;
• Round-trip airfare between Brazil and Illinois;
• Research or educational materials allowance, as applicable.

Participants are responsible for any personal expenses not covered by CAPES, such as housing deposits, optional travel, or additional insurance coverage beyond CAPES’ provisions.

What type of visa is required? (J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa)

All program participants must obtain a J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa.

• CAPES funding qualifies as program sponsorship.

Visa assistance is provided by the Office of International Student and Scholar Services at each university.

What does it mean to be a Visiting Scholar at Illinois?

A Visiting Scholar is a non-degree academic visitor—such as a researcher, faculty member, or postdoctoral fellow—affiliated with a University of Illinois department or research center.

• Visiting Scholars conduct research, collaborate on projects, or engage in academic training.
• They have access to university facilities, libraries, seminars, and professional networks.
• Visiting Scholars are not enrolled in degree programs but may request permission to audit courses.

Can I audit courses while at Illinois?

Yes, CAPES Mobility participants may audit (attend without credit) courses at Illinois with the instructor’s approval.

• Auditing allows participants to attend lectures and participate informally but not receive a grade or official transcript credit.
• Some departments may require registration or charge a small fee for auditing.
• The availability of auditing opportunities may vary by campus and department.

What kind of academic activities can participants engage in?

Depending on the participant’s profile (graduate student, faculty, or researcher), activities may include:

• Conducting research under the supervision of an Illinois faculty mentor;
• Participating in collaborative projects with Illinois research groups or centers;
• Giving guest lectures or seminars;
• Attending academic conferences, workshops, and networking events;
• Strengthening institutional partnerships between Brazilian and Illinois universities.

What is the process for applying?

The process typically includes the following steps:

1. Call for Applications: CAPES announces the Brasillinois Mobility Program and outlines eligibility and funding details.
2. Identify a Host: Applicants identify a University of Illinois faculty host and research area of interest.
3. Invitation Letter: The Illinois host unit provides an invitation or acceptance letter.
4. Application to CAPES: The applicant submits the full proposal to CAPES through its online system.
5. Selection and Placement: CAPES and Illinois review and confirm selected participants.
6. Visa and Pre-Arrival: Once approved, participants receive their DS-2019 form and apply for the J-1 visa.

How does the University of Illinois support visiting CAPES scholars?

Each Illinois campus provides a range of support services, including:

• Orientation and onboarding through International Programs offices on each campus;
• Access to campus facilities and research libraries;
• Housing guidance and local adjustment resources;
• Opportunities for academic networking and collaboration.