Transitioning from Portuguese to English Academic Writing Exams: A Practical Guide
By Muntasir • Published Apr 08, 2026 • Updated Sep 20, 2026 • Guides
Brazilian and Portuguese scholars transitioning to English academic exams must adapt to linear sentence structures, active voice, and strict repetition rules to meet B2 or C1 score thresholds.
Key Differences Between Portuguese and English Academic Writing
Writing academic texts in English requires a complete shift in sentence structure, tone, and organization. While Portuguese academic discourse favors complex, multi-clause structures and lexical variety, English academic writing prioritizes directness and precision.
| Linguistic Attribute | Portuguese Academic Writing | English Academic Writing |
|---|---|---|
| Sentence Structure | Long, coordinate, and subordinate clauses | Short, direct, linear structures |
| Agentive Voice | Impersonal passive constructions | Active voice with first-person pronouns |
| Word Choice | Avoids repetition, seeks high lexical variety | Prioritizes precision, permits technical repetition |
| Article Usage | Prefers definite articles | Omits definite articles |
Official English Language Proficiency Exam Requirements
Brazilian funding agencies require specific minimum English scores for international scholarship programs. The CAPES PDSE program enforces standard scores to verify foreign language competency.
| Standard English Exam | Minimum Score Requirement | Reference CEFR Level |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 72 points | B2 |
| TOEFL ITP | 543 points | B2 |
| IELTS Academic | 6.0 overall (minimum 5.0 in each band) | B2 |
| Duolingo English Test | 100 points | B2 |
Structural Adaptations for the Academic Writing Section
You must structure your essays logically to achieve high scores in the writing sections of these exams. Direct organization allows the grader to follow your argument without confusion.
- Use the Create a Research Space model to establish your argument in the introduction.
- State your thesis statement within the first three sentences of your essay.
- Limit each paragraph to a maximum of four sentences focusing on a single supporting argument.
- Place a clear topic sentence at the start of every body paragraph.
Grammar and Style Adjustments for Portuguese Speakers
Linguistic habits from Portuguese often create errors when you write in English. Applying specific grammar rules corrects these errors and improves your writing score.
- Insert explicit subject pronouns in every clause to avoid dangling or implied subjects.
- Remove wordy introductory phrases and replace nominalizations with direct action verbs.
- Replace passive verbs with active voice to clarify who performs each research task.
- Delete extra words to increase sentence clarity and reduce overall complexity.