Established in 1969, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande (Federal Foundation University of Rio Grande) is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the small city of Rio Grande (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Rio Grande do Sul. Officially recognized by the Ministério da Educação, Brazil (Ministry of Education of Brazil), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande (FURG) is a medium-sized coeducational Brazilian higher education institution. Universidade Federal do Rio Grande (FURG) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor degrees in several areas of study. This 53 years old Brazilian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. FURG also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, sports facilities, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.