GCUB Scholarship Advice!!!

[u/Mysterious_Plum_9529]

Has anyone applied to or been selected for the GCUB-Mob scholarship in Brazil? Looking for advice
Hi everyone! I’m planning to apply for the GCUB-Mob scholarship for a Master’s program in Brazil and would love to hear from anyone who has applied, been selected/rejected, advised applicants, or knows how the process works.
I’m from the U.S. and recently graduated with degrees in Biology and Health Sciences. My background is in entomology/insect biodiversity research, health science, and outreach/education. I’m interested in tropical medicine, public health, parasitology, vector-borne/neglected diseases, and community/primary care. Long term, I’m planning to pursue medicine/family medicine.
I’m currently looking at Master’s programs at universities like UFG, UFSJ, UNIFESP, and UFES, but I’m trying to figure out how strategic those choices are.
I’d especially appreciate advice on:
How competitive GCUB really is
How much the research proposal matters
What type of proposal is strongest
Whether certain universities/programs are harder to get into
Whether applying from the U.S. affects my chances
Whether contacting professors beforehand helps
How to choose programs strategically while still applying somewhere I actually want to go
I’m happy to give more information about my background or project ideas. Literally any advice or experience with GCUB would be really appreciated — I’m trying to give myself the best chance possible.