CELPE-BRAS Registration Guide 2026: How to Sign Up Step by Step

Where to Register

All CELPE-BRAS registrations are handled through the official INEP portal at celpebras.inep.gov.br. This is the only authorized registration website. Do not use third-party sites or agencies that claim to register you — they may charge extra fees or fail to complete your registration properly.

You will need to create an account on the INEP portal if you do not already have one. The portal is available in Portuguese, so having a basic understanding of the language or using a browser translation tool can help you navigate the registration forms. Keep your login credentials safe, as you will need them to check your registration status, download your admission card, and later access your results.

2026 Exam Dates

CELPE-BRAS is offered twice per year in Brazil and at authorized testing centers worldwide. Here are the key dates for 2026:

• 1st Edition (April 2026): Registration is now closed. The written exam takes place in April, with oral interviews scheduled in the following weeks. Results are typically released 60-90 days after the exam.
• 2nd Edition (October 2026): Registration is expected to open between July and August 2026. The exact dates will be published in the official edital (public notice) on the INEP website. Set a reminder — registration windows are typically only 2-3 weeks long.
• International testing centers: Dates may vary slightly for centers outside Brazil. Check with your nearest posto aplicador for their specific schedule, as some centers have earlier deadlines.
• Late registration: INEP does not accept late registrations under any circumstances. If you miss the deadline, you must wait for the next edition.

Registration Fee

The registration fee for CELPE-BRAS in 2026 is R$167.10 (Brazilian reais). Payment is made via boleto bancario (bank slip), which can be generated through the registration portal. International candidates may also have the option to pay via bank transfer, depending on their testing center.

The fee is non-refundable once paid, even if you decide not to take the exam. If you need to change your testing center after registration, contact INEP directly — changes are not guaranteed and depend on availability. Some international testing centers may charge an additional local fee to cover operational costs, so confirm the total cost with your chosen center before registering.

Required Documents

To complete your registration, you will need the following documents ready:

• Valid passport: International candidates must provide their passport number. The passport must be valid on the exam date. If your passport expires before the exam, renew it first.
• CPF number: If you are a resident of Brazil, you need your CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Fisicas). International candidates taking the exam outside Brazil generally do not need a CPF.
• Recent photo: A digital passport-style photo with a white background. The photo must clearly show your face and match your identification document. Follow the exact specifications listed on the registration portal.
• Contact information: A valid email address and phone number. INEP sends important updates about your registration, exam location, and results via email.
• Testing center preference: You must select your preferred posto aplicador during registration. Popular centers fill up quickly, so register early to secure your preferred location.

Common Registration Mistakes

Every year, candidates run into problems during registration. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Waiting until the last day: The registration portal often experiences heavy traffic and technical issues near the deadline. Register in the first week to avoid server problems and payment processing delays.
• Incorrect document numbers: Double-check your passport number and personal details. Errors in your registration data can prevent you from being admitted to the exam room on test day.
• Not paying the boleto on time: The boleto has a payment deadline, usually a few days after the registration closes. If you do not pay before the deadline, your registration is automatically cancelled.
• Choosing the wrong testing center: Research available testing centers and their locations before registering. Changing centers after registration is difficult and sometimes impossible.

What Happens After Registration

After you submit your registration and pay the fee, your status will show as 'confirmada' (confirmed) on the INEP portal. Approximately 2-3 weeks before the exam, INEP publishes the cartao de confirmacao (admission card), which contains your exam date, time, room assignment, and testing center address. You must print this card and bring it to the exam along with your identification document.

On exam day, arrive at least 30 minutes early. Bring your printed admission card, your identification document (the same one used during registration), a black ink pen, and a watch. Electronic devices including smartphones are not allowed in the exam room. The written exam lasts 3 hours, and the oral interview is scheduled separately — check your admission card for both dates.

Start Preparing While You Wait

Registration is just the beginning. The weeks between signing up and sitting for the exam are your most valuable preparation time. Do not wait until the last minute to start studying — begin practicing writing tasks, building vocabulary, and developing your speaking skills now. Consistent daily practice, even for just one hour, will make a significant difference in your performance.

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