São Paulo, Brazil – February 6, 2025 – Dubai-based MetaApply has acquired IE Intercâmbio, one of Brazil’s leading student recruitment companies, in a strategic move aimed at expanding international education opportunities. The acquisition marks a major step in MetaApply’s global expansion, particularly into Latin America and Europe, while strengthening IE’s presence in Asia and Oceania.
Merger Creates One of the World’s Largest Student Recruitment Agencies
The acquisition resulted in a merger of the two companies, forming what is now one of the largest student recruitment agencies in the world, according to Cesar Vieira, CFO of IE Intercâmbio and the executive responsible for the investment process.
“MetaApply had a strong presence in Asia and Oceania and was looking to expand into Latin America and Europe,” Vieira explained. “Through our negotiations, MetaApply acquired control of IE, merging the companies to create a truly global student recruitment powerhouse.”
Expanding Beyond Exchange Programs
With this merger, IE Intercâmbio is set to diversify its offerings beyond language study and cultural exchange programs, now including higher education opportunities such as undergraduate, MBA, and postgraduate programs.
“We already have a strong presence in language study programs and temporary work abroad. Now, with MetaApply, we will also offer access to higher education programs in top universities worldwide,” Vieira added.
Latin America: A Key Growth Market
Latin America has been identified as a priority region for MetaApply’s expansion, with Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico standing out as key markets.
“The Latin American student recruitment sector is growing at double-digit rates annually, with high demand for international education. Additionally, visa approval rates for students from this region are significantly higher than in some Asian markets,” Vieira noted.
Top Destinations for Brazilian Students
Among the most popular study-abroad destinations for Brazilian students are Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Australia—all English-speaking countries with established international education programs.
Strong Investments Planned for 2025
The first major developments from the merger are expected to be seen this year, with planned investments in marketing, service enhancements, and customer experience improvements.
“We are very excited about this new phase and are committed to expanding our services and making studying abroad more accessible for Latin American students,” Vieira concluded.
With the MetaApply-IE Intercâmbio merger, students across Latin America, Asia, and Europe will have access to a broader range of international education opportunities, further solidifying the company’s status as a global leader in student recruitment.
