Founded in 1969, Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos (University of the Rio dos Sinos Valley) is a non-profit private higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of São Leopoldo (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Rio Grande do Sul. This institution also has a branch campus in Porto Alegre. Officially recognized by the Ministério da Educação, Brazil (Ministry of Education of Brazil), Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos (UNISINOS) is a large coeducational Brazilian higher education institution formally affiliated with the Christian-Catholic religion. Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos (UNISINOS) 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 53 years old Brazilian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. UNISINOS also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, sports facilities, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.