BRAZILIAN LAW EXCHANGE PROGRAM
PROJECT
As a highlight of the program, participants will have the rare opportunity to experience, firsthand, the daily workings of the country's highest court: during the internship period at the Federal Supreme Court, they will attend judgment sessions and gain direct exposure to the workings of one of Latin America's most influential constitutional courts, connecting the theory studied in the classroom to the reality of Brazil's highest judicial body.
Our goal is to provide students with a welcoming environment open to the exchange of ideas, fostering a comprehensive and enriching learning experience in key areas of Brazilian law.
This unique and enriching academic opportunity offers international students a comprehensive overview of the Brazilian legal system. Crucial areas such as Constitutional Law, Labor Law, Human Rights, and Environmental Law are taught, fostering an immersive learning experience. The course is free of charge, with classes taught entirely in English by faculty members from the University of Brasília and affiliated professors over the course of three weeks.
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.
Duration
The program lasts three weeks, providing an immersive and comprehensive introduction to Brazilian law.
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.
No Fees
The program is completely free of charge.
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
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.
Palestras
Introduction to Brazilian 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 Brazilian Legislation
Indigenous Rights in Brazil
Brasília Tours
Discover the city and Brazil's main government institutions as part of the program
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE)
Supreme Federal Court (STF)
Superior Court of Justice (STJ)
Reviews
Confira depoimentos de alunos que participaram de edições anteriores
“The BLEP was a remarkable opportunity to engage deeply with Brazilian constitutional law and its practical realities. In addition to the internship at Supremo Tribunal Federal, the programme stood out for the openness of its organisers as well as the richness of the lectures and group discussions. It is an experience I would unreservedly repeat and therefore wholeheartedly recommend to anyone interested.” — Class of 2026
Bastián Patricio Olivares Vásquez
Undergraduate in Law at Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez de Viña del Mar
“The Brazilian Law Exchange Program was very informative and interesting. All the professors were competent and I am grateful for the knowledge I have gained on a wide range of topics regarding Brazil. The organization was also great, everyone was very helpful.”— Class of 2026
Sara Hillborn Guizani
Royal Danish Embassy
“This experience was a turning point for me, both personally and professionally, one I hadn't initially imagined due to its short duration. The program they offer covers a wide variety of material in incredible detail. I'm currently in my fifth year, pursuing a specialization in Public Law, and this exchange proved to be a masterclass on many related topics, sparking an interest in comparative law for me.” — Class of 2026
“The Brazilian Law Exchange Program was very informative and interesting. All the professors were competent and I am grateful for the knowledge I have gained on a wide range of topics regarding Brazil. The organization was also great, everyone was very helpful.” — Class of 2026
Sara Hillborn Guizani
Royal Danish Embassy
Konrad Schilling
PhD candidate in Comparative Constitutional Law – Universidade de Münster
"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 professionals 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 schedule was also exceptionally informative: we had access to exclusive lectures, on-site 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 Brazil's most beautiful cities and universities — 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 a cultural exchange environment 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 so much!" — Class of 2024
Embaixador Geraldo Greene
Embaixador de Trinidad e Tabago em Brasília
"The Law Exchange Program between the University of Arizona, the James E. Rogers College of Law, and the University of Brasília was a fascinating experience and an opportunity that I am so thrilled to have been a part of. The classes on the history of the Brazilian legal system and the Constitution broadened my perspective on the American Common Law system and other global forms of law.The professors were excellent, very welcoming, and provided a perfect balance between academia and corporate/real-life perspectives on law.
Beyond the on-site experience at the law school, the guided tours of government offices and local areas were fascinating and truly unique opportunities. We were able to meet with Brazilian Chief Justices and attend a live session at the Supreme Federal Court as part of our guided visit. It was amazing! I highly recommend the program to anyone considering enrolling.Our group was composed of JD and MLS students from the University of Arizona, but it also included many local participants from local embassies who enriched the entire 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 cherish the Law Exchange Program." — Class of 2023
Lucas Flinders
Universidade do Arizona
“Participei do Programa de Intercâmbio Brasileiro de Direito 2023, e gostaria de parabenizar o Professor Juliano Zaiden Benvindo e sua equipe por um projeto muito bem conduzido. Os tópicos foram apresentados em estilo direto e profissional e proporcionaram uma excelente introdução e apreciação pelos estatutos legais e sistemas judiciais do Brasil, fundamentados como estão na história sociopolítica única do Brasil e seus desenvolvimentos constitucionais nos períodos colonial e pós-colonial. Houve apresentações lúcidas sobre os códigos e tradições civis e a prática jurídica do Brasil, incluindo a evolução no sentido de atender aos desafios das sociedades modernas, mais inclusivas, em relação aos direitos humanos, civis e políticos e lidar com novos problemas que surgiram com a inteligência artificial e a cibersociedade e as mudanças climáticas.
eu emergi também com uma apreciação da pesada carga de casos que estava sendo carregada rotineiramente pelos tomadores de decisão jurídica do Brasil e, como não-advogado, minha única reação seria dizer." — Class of 2023
“O Brazilian Law Exchange Program foi uma das experiências mais valiosas que EU tive como estudante de direito nos Estados Unidos. Estar imerso em um sistema completamente diferente de direito me deu a oportunidade de ultrapassar os limites da minha própria compreensão da lei e dos sistemas jurídicos, e examinar e questionar mais criticamente as maneiras pelas quais usamos a lei para resolver problemas. Foi um privilégio ser ensinado por e passar tempo com especialistas reconhecidos nacionalmente em uma diversidade de disciplinas jurídicas, e percorrer o Supremo Tribunal Federal e o Congresso Nacional - experiências que eu nem mesmo tive em meu país de origem. Pelo fato dos participantes das aulas serem uma mistura de universitários e diplomatas do mundo todo, a diversidade de perspectivas compartilhadas foi inestimável e enriqueceu o aprendizado de todos. Por último, o calor e a generosidade de todos os organizadores do programa e da minha família anfitriã, desde o esforço deles em me fazer sentir em casa até a disposição de me ajudar a praticar meu português do Brasil, me tocou profundamente e fez dessa experiência uma das quais estarei falando pelos próximos anos.” — Class of 2023
Mishella Romo Rivas
Universidade de Princeton
Kate O'Donnell
Universidade do Arizona
