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Study in Chile

Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.

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About studying in Chile

Chile is along the Pacific coast of South America, and its universities and colleges welcome students from many countries. International students can look at undergraduate, postgraduate and, in some fields, research programmes, as well as shorter courses where institutions offer them. Study options span broad areas such as business, engineering, health, the sciences and the humanities, with mining, conservation and agriculture shaping much of the country’s economy.

Santiago, Valparaíso and Concepción are among the places students often consider. The main language is Spanish; the availability of English-taught programmes varies between institutions. Use this guide to explore subjects, typical intakes, costs, scholarships and visa steps, then check the details with each institution.

Why study in Chile?

What makes Chile worth considering depends on what you want from your studies. Its location along the Pacific coast of South America, the local language and the subjects on offer all shape the experience, alongside your budget and career goals.

  • Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Engineering, Agriculture & Environmental Sciences and Business & Management, with options differing between universities.
  • Industry context: Mining, conservation and agriculture matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
  • Cities and campus life: Santiago, Valparaíso and Concepción each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
  • Culture and language: living in Chile means everyday contact with Spanish and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.

Chilean universities are active in research linked to the country's geography, including astronomy, mining and the earth sciences.

Compare the structure of each programme, how it is assessed and what support is available for international students before you decide.

Top subjects to study in Chile

Below is an editorial selection of subject areas often worth exploring in Chile. It is not a ranking: the best subject is the one that fits your interests and goals.

Because mining, conservation and agriculture matter locally, students in related fields may find useful context for projects and internships. Each subject has its own page for Chile on this site, with its specializations.

When choosing between these areas, think about what you enjoy studying, the entry requirements for each course and the kind of work you would like to do afterwards. A specialization can matter as much as the broad subject.

Subjects to study in Chile

Explore subject areas available for students planning to study in Chile.

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Universities in Chile

Explore universities in Chile and discover study options for international students.

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Scholarships to Study in Chile

Scholarships for studying in Chile are offered by different kinds of organisations, each with its own rules and deadlines.

  • government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Chile
  • universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
  • foundations, charities and international organisations
  • research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students

Eligibility, the amount of support and deadlines vary, and competition can be strong. Apply to several suitable options and confirm what each award covers. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.

Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.

Intakes to study in Chile

The academic year in Chile commonly begins around March. Some institutions also admit students around August, although this second intake is usually available for fewer courses. Exact dates vary by institution and programme.

Plan early. Popular courses can close well before the start date, and international applicants usually need extra time for translations, language tests, scholarship applications and visas. Each institution publishes its own deadlines, so check them for every course on your list.

Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.

A simple planning checklist:

  • shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
  • prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
  • apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
  • allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation

Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.

Cost of studying in Chile

Tuition in Chile varies widely: public and private institutions, subjects and study levels can all have different fees.

When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:

  • application and registration fees
  • course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
  • health insurance and any visa or permit costs
  • accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme

Check the latest fees on each institution’s website and confirm whether they can change during your course.

It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.

Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.

Student visa requirements to study in Chile

Whether you need a visa to study in Chile depends mainly on your nationality and the length of your programme.

Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:

  • an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
  • a valid passport and passport photos
  • evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
  • health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
  • proof of language ability or previous qualifications

Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. The embassy or consulate of Chile in your country, and its official immigration authority, are the right places to confirm what applies to you.

Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.

Cost of living in Chile

A realistic budget for life in Chile starts with housing, which is usually the largest single expense. Costs in Santiago can differ noticeably from those in Valparaíso or Concepción and smaller towns.

The main costs to plan for are:

  • Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
  • Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
  • Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
  • Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
  • Insurance and health: any required health cover
  • Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life

Universities often publish current estimates of living costs; use them as a starting point and add a buffer for unexpected expenses.

Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.

FAQs about studying in Chile

What are the advantages of studying in Chile?

It depends on your goals. Chile offers programmes across many subjects, a location along the Pacific coast of South America and study in Spanish (with some English-taught options). Students interested in mining, conservation and agriculture may find the local context especially relevant.

What subjects can I study in Chile?

Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Engineering, Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Business & Management and Computing & Information Technology. The subjects page for Chile lists every subject available here with its specializations.

When should I apply to universities in Chile?

Many programmes start around March. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.

How much does it cost to study in Chile?

Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.

Do international students need a visa to study in Chile?

Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources and the embassy or consulate of Chile.

Are scholarships available for international students in Chile?

Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.

Where do international students live in Chile?

Santiago, Valparaíso and Concepción are among the places students often consider. Living costs, housing and the student experience can differ between cities, so compare them alongside your course options.

Can I study in English in Chile?

Many courses are taught in Spanish. Some institutions offer English-taught programmes, but availability varies, so check the language of instruction and language requirements for each course.

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