ENEM Already Guarantees International Opportunities in Foreign Universities and Can Define the Future of Brazilian Students in Education.
ENEM Gains Recognition and Expands Opportunities Abroad
The ENEM is no longer just an entryway to higher education in Brazil. Currently, the exam has become a strategic international opportunity for young people seeking foreign universities.
In addition, many institutions allow candidates to submit their application even before the official release of results. This way, students do not miss important deadlines and gain time to organize documentation, housing, and financial planning.
According to experts, universities understand that the ENEM schedule is beyond the candidate’s control. Therefore, they accept the proof of participation in the exam as the initial step of the evaluation process.
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Foreign Universities Accept ENEM as a Selection Criterion
According to Beatriz Alvarenga, coordinator of Go Global at Inspira Rede de Educadores, foreign universities have already incorporated ENEM into their selection processes.
“Universities understand that the timeline is beyond the candidate’s control and await the results to complete the evaluation and decide on scholarships.”
Additionally, Beatriz advises students to consult each institution’s website directly. The ideal is to access the “admission requirements” section for “undergraduate courses,” where universities detail requirements, documents, and deadlines.
On these pages, ENEM appears as proof of academic qualification or as a substitute for local exams, depending on the country and the university.
Which Countries Accept ENEM as an International Opportunity
The use of ENEM as a total or partial criterion is already happening in various strategic academic destinations. Among them are the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Portugal, Italy, Spain, and France.
In Canada, universities use ENEM to demonstrate that the student has the qualifications to enter Brazilian higher education. This way, they validate the candidate’s basic education.
In Portugal, the exam replaces national tests. A cooperation agreement in place since 2014 regulates this process and expands Brazilian access to Portuguese higher education.
Meanwhile, Italy and Spain concentrate document submissions between April and June. Nonetheless, planning begins months in advance.
Complete Degrees Gain Strength in Foreign Universities
University advisor Vitor Marconi from Colégio Etapa highlights that the recognition of ENEM is growing beyond traditional destinations.
According to him, Portugal has recently expanded the use of the exam, including new areas such as medicine. Additionally, Ireland and the United Kingdom utilize ENEM as part of strategies to attract Brazilian students for complete degrees.
Marconi also points out significant changes in Australia. Universities such as Notre Dame and Melbourne have begun to consider ENEM for direct admission.
“The recognition indicates that universities have been reviewing procedures and observing ENEM as an exam capable of assessing competencies equivalent to those required internationally.”
Tight Deadlines Require Quick Action from Students
Deadlines vary by country. The United States and the United Kingdom have deadlines up to January 15. Canada and Ireland have shorter deadlines for scholarships, although they accept general applications for longer periods.
Therefore, submitting applications early increases the chances of receiving early responses. Additionally, it facilitates planning for academic, financial, and personal futures.
Meanwhile, students gain predictability and reduce risks.
Portuguese Universities That Accept ENEM
According to Inep, several foreign universities in Portugal accept ENEM, including:
University of Coimbra, University of Porto, University of Lisbon, Nova University of Lisbon, University of Aveiro, University of Minho, University of Évora, University of Beira Interior, University of Algarve, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Open University, Catholic University of Portugal, as well as several polytechnic institutes throughout the country.
How to Use ENEM to Study at Foreign Universities
To turn ENEM into a concrete international opportunity, students must follow some fundamental steps.
First, access the university’s website and look for “admission requirements” for “undergraduate courses.” Then, check if ENEM is accepted and what additional documents are required.
Next, submit the application along with proof of ENEM participation and the official schedule. Additionally, prepare school transcripts, GPA, letters of recommendation, and proof of English proficiency when necessary.
Finally, strictly observe the deadlines and submit the application as soon as possible. This way, the student increases their chances and builds a more secure and well-planned international academic future.

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