Degree equivalency

The equivalency of the Master's degree is valid exclusively within the scope of the University of São Paulo.

For candidates applying to the doctoral program at ESALQ, the process for obtaining equivalency of the Master's degree must begin concurrently with the application (instructions can be found on the website of the chosen graduate program > Application materials > Degree equivalency).

For all other applicants, the equivalency process must be initiated through the Graduate Office of ESALQ, by sending the following documents in PDF format to pg.esalq@usp.br:
• A signed request form;
• Master’s or Doctoral diploma – front and back;
• Defense minutes or an equivalent document showing the examining committee’s composition;
• Copy of the Master’s dissertation;
• Academic transcript listing the completed courses;
• Bachelor’s diploma – front and back.

The CoPGr (Graduate Studies Council) may accept Master’s degrees obtained abroad as equivalent to those granted by USP in order to allow admission to the PhD program with credit for courses already completed during the Master’s.

Master’s degrees obtained in Brazil that have national validity do not require equivalency analysis.

Master’s degrees obtained in Brazil that do not have national validity are not recognized by USP.

Master’s degrees obtained abroad may be accepted as equivalent to those granted by USP if they are from institutions of recognized excellence and deemed, upon merit analysis, to be compatible with USP’s standards.

If the Master’s degree was obtained from an institution that does not require the submission and defense of a dissertation, the full set of documented academic activities must be evaluated for merit through detailed reviews.

The corresponding documentation will be reviewed by the CPG (Graduate Program Committee) of the program to which the applicant is applying. The CPG will verify and register the information in the Graduate System.