PROMISES AND LIMITS: SISU AND ITS IMPLEMENTATION AT THE FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF MINAS GERAIS

ABSTRACT: Based upon data provided by the university itself, this paper investigates the implications of the adhesion to the Unified Selection System (Sisu) by Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG). The analysis considers three aspects. The first one is the degree of efficiency achieved in the occupation of the vacancies offered in Sisu by the university, considering the phenomena of the non-enrollment of approved students, the dropouts, and the changing courses by the enrolled students. The second one is the possible diversification of the student body, considering their geographical origin. Finally, the third one is the possible effects of Sisu and the so-called “Quota Law” (a form of affirmative action implemented in Brazil) on the social profile of the enrolled students. The article shows the significant changes that Sisu is producing in the university. It points out the need to consider that the system induces applicants to adopt a strategic behavior and that it submits them to a strong competition, even within the different kinds of quotas.