Established in 1940, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro (Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro) is a non-profit private higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the large metropolis of Rio de Janeiro (population range of over 5,000,000 inhabitants). Officially recognized by the Ministério da Educação, Brazil (Ministry of Education of Brazil), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro (PUC-RIO) is a large coeducational Brazilian higher education institution formally affiliated with the Christian-Catholic religion. Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro (PUC-RIO) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor degrees, master degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 81 years old Brazilian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. The admission rate range is 30-40% making this Brazilian higher education organization a very selective institution. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. PUC-RIO also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.