Brazilian Law Exchange Program
University of Brasília
The University of Brasília (UnB), founded in 1962 by visionary educators Darcy Ribeiro and Anísio Teixeira, is one of Latin America’s leading centers for higher education, research, and innovation.
Known for its cultural diversity and commitment to advancing knowledge, UnB consistently fosters groundbreaking academic and scientific contributions. Its Graduate Program in Law ranks among Brazil’s top three, holding the highest rating (7) in the national Capes evaluation — an honor shared only with the University of São Paulo (USP) and the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG).
The program
The Brazilian Law Exchange Program (BLEP) offers an unparalleled immersion into Brazil’s legal and institutional landscape.
Over three transformative weeks, participants engage in morning classes at the University and afternoon internships at Brazil’s Supreme Court (STF), the nation’s highest judicial authority. Conducted entirely in English, the program covers key areas of Brazilian law — including constitutional, environmental, regulatory, and competition law, as well as dispute resolution.
Beyond its academic dimension, the BLEP promotes a deep cultural and intellectual exchange between Brazilian and international students — an opportunity to broaden perspectives, forge professional networks, and explore one of the world’s most dynamic constitutional systems. The program is tuition-free, but participants are responsible for their accommodation, meals, and travel expenses.
Highlights
No Fees: The program is completely free of charge.
Classes in English: All classes will be taught in English by our renowned professors and affiliated faculty.
Interactive Learning Environment: Our goal is to create a vibrant space for the exchange of ideas, ensuring a dynamic and holistic educational journey through the essential aspects of Brazilian law.
University of Brasília Faculty of Law: Ranked among the top three law schools in Brazil for master’s and doctoral programs according to the Ministry of Education (MEC/CAPES), and one of the highest-ranked institutions at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Its students achieved the highest national score on the Ministry of Education’s National Law Examination in 2023 (MEC/ENADE).
Brasília: The capital of Brazil and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its exceptional modern architecture. Students will have the opportunity to visit the country’s main public buildings, such as the Supreme Federal Court and the National Congress.
What truly sets our Program apart is the chance to step inside Brazil’s highest judicial institutions as an active participant.
During the Program, students spend their afternoons interning at the Supreme Federal Court (STF), the heart of Brazil’s constitutional democracy.
Under the guidance of court professionals and academics, participants observe real cases, contribute to research, and gain firsthand insight into how constitutional law is interpreted and applied at the nation’s most influential court.
This unique experience blends academic learning with hands-on legal immersion, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at how Brazil’s judiciary shapes public life and safeguards democratic principles.
For students passionate about comparative constitutional law, international law, or global governance, no other program provides such privileged access to the inner workings of one of the world’s most dynamic legal systems.
Supreme Court Internship
Lectures
Introduction to Brazilians History and Institutions
The Brazilian Political System
Democratization Process and Recent Challenges
Civil Society and Political Participation
Brazilian Supreme Court and the Judiciary: Differences and Similarities with the Common Law
Anticorruption and compliance: Institutions and investigations
The Brazilian Criminal System
Introduction to the Brazilian Constitution
Brazilian environmental law and regulation
Modern solutions to the Judiciary: Artificial Intelligence in the decision-making process
Labour Law in Brazil: trends and perspectives
Gender Equality and LGBTQIA+ Rights
LGPD and Compliance: General overview of the Brazilian legislation
Indigenous Rights in Brazil
Brasília Tours
Discover the city and Brazil’s main government institutions as part of the program
Supreme Federal Court (STF)
Superior Court of Justice (STJ)
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE) and the University of Brasília (UnB)
Reviews
Check out testimonials from students who participated in previous editions
“The Brazilian Law Exchange Program was one of the most valuable experiences that I have had as a law student in the United States. Being immersed in a completely different system of law gave me the opportunity to push the limits of my own understanding of the law and of legal systems, and to examine and question more critically the ways in which we use the law to solve problems. It was a privilege to be taught by and to spend time with nationally-recognized experts in a diversity of legal disciplines, and to tour the Supreme Court and the National Congress - experiences that I have not even had in my country of origin. Because the participants in the classes were a mix of university students and diplomats from around the world, the diversity of perspectives shared was invaluable and enriched everyone’s learning. Lastly, the warmth and generosity of all the program organizers and of my host family, from their efforts in making me feel at home to their willingness to help me practice my Brazilian Portuguese, touched me deeply and made this experience one that I will be talking about for years to come. ”
“I participated in the 2023 Brazilian Law Exchange Program, and I would wish to congratulate Professor Juliano Zaiden Benvindo and his team for a very well conducted project. The topics were presented in a direct, professional style and provided an excellent introduction to and appreciation for Brazil's legal statutes and judicial systems, grounded as they are in Brazil's unique sociopolitical history and its constitutional developments in colonial and post colonial periods. There were lucid presentations on Brazil's civil codes and traditions and legal practice, including the evolution towards meeting the challenges of modern, more inclusive societies in relation to human, civil and political rights and dealing with new problems that have emerged with artificial intelligence and cybersociety and climate change.
I did emerge also with an appreciation of the heavy case load being carried routinely by Brazil's legal decision makers, and as a non-lawyer, my only reaction would be to say "I wish I could help. "
“The Law Exchange Program between the University of Arizona, James E. Rogers College of Law and the University of Brasilia was a fascinating experience and an opportunity I am so thrilled that I was able to be a part of. The classes on the history of the Brazilian law system and Constitution broadened my perspective of the American Common Law system and other global forms of law.
The professors were excellent, very friendly, and provided a perfect balance between academia and the corporate/real-life perspectives of law. In addition to the on-site experience at the law school, the guided tours to the Government offices and local areas were fascinating and truly once-in-alifetime opportunities. We were able to meet with Brazilian Chief Justices and attend a live session at the Supreme Court as part of our guided tour. It was incredible! I would highly recommend the program to anyone entertaining the idea of enrolling.
Our group consisted of both JD and MLS students from the University of Arizona but also included many local participants from local embassies which enriched the whole experience. Our Brazilian guides were so helpful and friendly, and always quick to answer any questions or concerns.
I truly loved the experience and am very grateful for the partnership between the Universities. I will always treasure the Law Exchange Program!”
Ambassador Gerard Greene
Trinidad and Tobago’s Ambassador in Brasilia
Class of 2023
Luke Flinders
University of Arizona
Class of 2023
Kate O'Donnell
University of Arizona
Class of 2023
Mishella Romo Rivas
Princeton University
Class of 2024
“The BLEP program was an extraordinary opportunity that brought together scholars, ambassadors, and lawyers, offering incredible insights and rich social experiences. The program featured intensive seminars led by legal practitioners and professors, explaining the Brazilian political and legal system as well as its contemporary challenges. The curriculum was carefully designed to challenge our perspectives and encourage deep, analytical discussions, fostering a strong understanding of diverse legal frameworks. The program was also exceptionally informative: we had access to exclusive lectures, in-person visits to federal courts, and Q&A sessions with legal professionals. It offered a unique opportunity to understand the Brazilian approach to political and democratic institutions in one of the most beautiful cities and universities in Brazil — Brasília and the University of Brasília (UnB)!
Beyond the academic experience, the social dimension of the exchange was truly special. Participants from diverse backgrounds came together, creating an environment of cultural exchange that extended far beyond the classroom. Organized events, informal gatherings, and group excursions enriched our experience, allowing us to build meaningful connections and lifelong friendships. This program not only expanded my legal knowledge but also deepened my appreciation for global perspectives and shared values within the legal community. Thank you very much!”
Registration
If you wish to take part of the program, the registration is the first step.
By completing the form below, you express your interest, and we will get in touch to provide further details!
The course is free, and more information will be provided shortly. Press the box below to fill the application forms:
