Practical Information for International Students
Studying at FATEC São José dos Campos means living in one of Brazil’s most important technology and aerospace centers.
Located about 90 km from São Paulo, the city offers a safe environment, modern infrastructure, and a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many European cities.
The information below provides an estimated monthly budget for an international student, based on a typical student lifestyle.
🟦 Estimated Monthly Cost of Living
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | R$ 950 |
| Food | R$ 700 |
| Transportation | R$ 200 – R$ 300 |
| Mobile phone | R$ 60 |
| Personal expenses | R$ 350 |
Total estimated monthly budget
R$ 2,200 – R$ 2,500 per month
Approximate conversion: €400 – €460 per month
🟩 Accommodation (Student Shared Housing)
Many students in Brazil live in shared student houses called “repúblicas.”
These houses typically include:
- private or shared bedrooms
- shared kitchen
- living room and study areas
- internet connection
Estimated monthly cost
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Room in student shared housing | R$ 800 |
| Utilities (electricity, water, internet) | R$ 150 |
Total housing estimate: R$ 950 / month
🟧 Food and Daily Meals
Students usually combine home cooking with occasional meals in restaurants.
Typical prices:
- Simple restaurant meal: around R$35
- Groceries are widely available in supermarkets near student neighborhoods.
Estimated monthly cost
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Groceries | R$ 500 |
| Meals outside | R$ 200 |
Estimated food budget: R$ 700 / month
🟨 Transportation to Campus
Students usually reach the university by public bus or shared charter vans.
Option 1 – Public Bus
- Average fare: R$ 6,50
- Monthly cost estimate: R$ 300
Option 2 – Chartered Student Van
Many students prefer shared vans that provide direct transportation to the university.
Estimated cost:
R$ 250 – R$ 350 per month
Average estimate: R$ 300
🟪 Mobile Phone and Internet
Brazil has several mobile providers offering prepaid plans suitable for students.
Estimated cost
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Mobile phone plan | R$ 60 |
Plans usually include:
- mobile internet
- messaging apps
- local calls
🟥 Personal Expenses
This category includes daily necessities and leisure activities.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Personal care / pharmacy | R$ 80 |
| Leisure activities | R$ 150 |
| Study materials / miscellaneous | R$ 120 |
Estimated total: R$ 350 / month
🌎 Summary for International Students
A student living in shared housing and following a typical student lifestyle in São José dos Campos can expect a monthly budget of approximately:
💰 R$ 2,200 – R$ 2,500
💶 €400 – €460
This makes the city an accessible and affordable destination for international students, especially compared with many European university cities.
Núcleo de Relações Internacionais 