Study abroad
Study in Colombia
Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.
About studying in Colombia
Higher education in Colombia, in north-western South America, gives international students a chance to study in a new academic and cultural setting. Universities and other institutions offer programmes at different levels, from first degrees to postgraduate study, across subjects such as business, engineering, health, science and the humanities.
The economy has strengths in business services, agriculture and digital technology, which is reflected in many study options. The main language is Spanish; the availability of English-taught programmes varies between institutions. Start with the subjects available here, then compare institutions, costs and application steps.
Why study in Colombia?
What makes Colombia worth considering depends on what you want from your studies. Its location in north-western 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 Business & Management, Agriculture & Environmental Sciences and Computing & Information Technology, with options differing between universities.
- Industry context: Business services, agriculture and digital technology matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
- Cities and campus life: Bogotá, Medellín and Cali each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
- Culture and language: living in Colombia means everyday contact with Spanish and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.
Talking to current students and reading official course pages will give you a realistic picture of what studying here is like, beyond what any general guide can say.
Top subjects to study in Colombia
Choosing a subject is the first big decision. For Colombia, the areas below are a sensible place to begin; they reflect local strengths such as business services, agriculture and digital technology, not a league table.
- Business & Management
- Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
- Computing & Information Technology
- Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies
- Creative Arts, Design & Communication
- Engineering
Links to business services, agriculture and digital technology mean that related courses may include practical projects or industry examples, although this varies by institution. Each subject has its own page for Colombia 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.
Universities in Colombia
- Universidad de la CostaBarranquilla, Colombia
- THE 2026 1001–1200
- University of the Andes, ColombiaBogata, Colombia
- THE 2026 1001–1200
- Icesi UniversityCali, Colombia
- THE 2026 1201–1500
Scholarships to Study in Colombia
Paying for study in Colombia can involve more than one source of support, and it is worth researching them before you apply for a course.
- government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Colombia
- universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
- foundations, charities and international organisations
- research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students
Funding is never guaranteed: check eligibility, deadlines and what the award includes, and have a plan in case you are not successful. 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 Colombia
The academic year in Colombia commonly begins around January or February. Some institutions also admit students around July or August, although this second intake is usually available for fewer courses. Exact dates vary by institution and programme.
Because deadlines differ between universities, keep a simple timeline for each application: when it opens, when it closes, when decisions are expected and how long the visa process may take. Leave room for delays in obtaining documents.
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 Colombia
Tuition in Colombia 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 Colombia
Whether you need a visa to study in Colombia 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 Colombia 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 Colombia
Planning your living budget for Colombia early helps you avoid surprises during your first months. Costs in Bogotá can differ noticeably from those in Medellín or Cali 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 Colombia
Is Colombia a good place to study?
It depends on your goals. Colombia offers programmes across many subjects, a location in north-western South America and study in Spanish (with some English-taught options). Students interested in business services, agriculture and digital technology may find the local context especially relevant.
What subjects can I study in Colombia?
Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Business & Management, Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Computing & Information Technology and Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies. The subjects page for Colombia lists every subject available here with its specializations.
When should I apply to universities in Colombia?
Many programmes start around January or February. 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 Colombia?
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 Colombia?
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 Colombia.
Are scholarships available for international students in Colombia?
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 Colombia?
Bogotá, Medellín and Cali 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 Colombia?
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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