Federal Center for Technological Education Celso Suckow da Fonseca (CEFET/RJ) offers an active student life that combines academics with sports, cultural activities, entrepreneurship, research and community engagement. Students can participate in sports such as volleyball, basketball, indoor football, handball, jiu-jitsu and capoeira, while campus facilities such as the Maracanã sports complex provide courts, a gymnasium, swimming pool and athletics track.

Student life also includes academic events, science and technology fairs, extension projects, student organisations and entrepreneurship initiatives. At campuses such as Angra dos Reis, student-led athletic associations organise sports, cultural and social activities that encourage teamwork, leadership and interaction with the wider community. CEFET/RJ also supports initiatives such as Cefet Jr. Consultoria and ENACTUS, giving students opportunities to develop practical and entrepreneurial skills.

The institution places emphasis on student wellbeing and inclusion through counselling, pedagogical guidance, health and wellbeing initiatives, accessibility programmes and financial assistance. In 2026, its Student Assistance Programme continued supporting eligible students facing social or economic vulnerability, while campus pedagogical teams provided academic, psychological and social support. Students at the Maracanã campus also have access to a student restaurant offering affordable meals, with free meals and snacks available to eligible students under the assistance programme. 

Federal Center for Technological Education Celso Suckow da Fonseca (CEFET/RJ) emphasizes industry engagement, internships, applied projects and professional integration rather than a traditional centralized campus-placement model. The institution operates a dedicated Division of Business Integration (DIEMP) and a Directorate of Extension (DIREX) that facilitate internships, industry interactions and professional development opportunities for students.

Students gain practical experience through mandatory and non-mandatory internships, research scholarships, extension projects and collaborations with public and private organizations. CEFET/RJ regularly publishes internship opportunities and selection processes across its campuses, helping students develop workplace skills and industry exposure before graduation.

The institution's strong focus on engineering, technology, industrial processes, information technology, telecommunications and applied sciences enables students to work closely with companies through internships, research partnerships and innovation projects. Its institutional planning documents also highlight interaction with public and private enterprises to align education with regional and national development needs.