Quick Summary
- 1The Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS) has opened free enrollment for 156 spots in 107 undergraduate courses for students aged 60 and older.
- 2The selection process, titled UFMS 60+, runs until February 13 and utilizes documents like ENEM scores or high school transcripts for admission.
- 3This initiative is part of a broader program launched in 2025 aimed at promoting healthy aging and intergenerational dialogue.
- 4The rector of UFMS emphasized that the university strengthens itself by recognizing that learning occurs throughout a person's entire life.
A New Era of Learning
The Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS) has officially launched a groundbreaking initiative designed to welcome a new demographic into the academic fold. On Monday, January 19, the university opened the registration portal for the UFMS 60+ selection process, offering 156 spots across 107 undergraduate courses. This program specifically targets individuals aged 60 and older, providing them with a unique opportunity to pursue higher education completely free of charge.
By removing financial barriers and traditional entrance exam requirements, UFMS is championing the concept of lifelong learning. The initiative is not merely about academic achievement; it represents a significant cultural shift within the university system, aiming to create a more inclusive and diverse educational environment where age is no longer a limiting factor.
How to Apply 📝
Registration for the UFMS 60+ program is conducted entirely online and will remain open until February 13. To be eligible, candidates must be at least 60 years old and possess a complete high school education. The selection process is notably flexible, avoiding a single high-stakes exam in favor of a document-based evaluation system.
Applicants can be selected through one of three primary methods:
- Grades from the ENEM or Encceja exams taken between 2018 and 2025.
- Grades from the UFMS Vestibular (entrance exam) taken between 2018 and 2025.
- High school transcripts accompanied by a letter of intent.
Furthermore, individuals who have previously participated in the Universidade Aberta à Pessoa Idosa (Unapi) will be given priority during the selection phase. This approach ensures that candidates are assessed based on a holistic view of their academic history and personal motivations.
"“The University strengthens itself when it recognizes that learning happens throughout life. The presence of people aged 60 or more in undergraduate courses expands dialogue between generations and reaffirms the social role of UFMS.”"— Camila Ítavo, Rector of UFMS
Timeline and Results
Following the close of registration, the university has outlined a clear timeline for the release of results. The preliminary results are scheduled to be published on February 19. This allows candidates a window to review their status before the final decisions are made.
The final list of admitted students will be released on February 24, immediately followed by the call for enrollment. All relevant details and the complete official notice (edital) are available on the university's dedicated Ingresso UFMS webpage. This structured timeline ensures transparency and gives successful candidates ample time to prepare for the start of the academic semester.
The Broader Program 🌱
This selection process is a key component of the Programa UFMS 60+, which was established in 2025. The program's core mission is to promote healthy and active aging by valuing diversity and ensuring an inclusive campus atmosphere. It moves beyond simple enrollment statistics to foster a genuine environment of intergenerational exchange.
One of the program's central pillars is the Unapi, which offers activities in teaching, research, and extension specifically for older adults. The initiative has seen rapid expansion; in the previous semester alone, UFMS opened over 1,900 vacancies across multiple campuses, including:
- Aquidauana
- Campo Grande
- Coxim
- Naviraí
- Três Lagoas
- Pantanal
Currently, the program is expanding its reach to include Chapadão do Sul, Nova Andradina, and Ponta Porã, signaling a growing commitment to accessibility across the state of Mato Grosso do Sul.
A Commitment to Inclusion
Rector Camila Ítavo has been a vocal advocate for this initiative, framing it as a vital step toward a more robust and socially responsible university. She asserts that the presence of older students does not just benefit the individuals enrolled but enriches the entire academic community.
“The University strengthens itself when it recognizes that learning happens throughout life. The presence of people aged 60 or more in undergraduate courses expands dialogue between generations and reaffirms the social role of UFMS.”
This perspective highlights the university's dedication to breaking down ageist stereotypes and proving that intellectual curiosity knows no age limits. By integrating these students into the classroom, UFMS is actively constructing a learning environment that mirrors the diversity of society itself.
Looking Ahead
The UFMS 60+ program stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of higher education in Brazil. It challenges the traditional notion that university is solely for the young, opening doors for experienced individuals to gain new skills, pursue passions, and contribute to academic discourse. As the registration deadline of February 13 approaches, anticipation builds for the cohort of seniors who will soon join the university's ranks.
Ultimately, this initiative serves as a model for other institutions seeking to foster inclusivity and lifelong learning. By prioritizing accessibility and valuing the wisdom of older generations, UFMS is not just educating students—it is strengthening the social fabric of the community it serves.
Frequently Asked Questions
The UFMS 60+ program is an initiative by the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul designed to offer free undergraduate education to individuals aged 60 and older. It aims to promote healthy aging, inclusivity, and intergenerational dialogue within the university setting.
Interested candidates must register online by February 13, 2026. Eligibility requires being 60 years or older and having a complete high school education. Selection is based on documents such as ENEM or Vestibular scores from 2018 to 2025, or high school transcripts accompanied by a letter of intent.
The preliminary results for the UFMS 60+ selection process are scheduled for release on February 19, 2026. The final list of admitted students will be published on February 24, followed immediately by the call for enrollment.
According to Rector Camila Ítavo, the presence of older students strengthens the university by fostering a diverse learning environment. It reaffirms the social role of UFMS and validates the concept that education is a lifelong pursuit, breaking down age barriers in higher education.
