Location:

Valparaiso, Chile

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Summer

Program Overview

Program Description:

The history of the Pontifícia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso began in 1924, though its doors did not open to the Chilean community until 1928. The fourth university to be established in Chile, it is recognized as the leading university in the region of Valparaíso and attracts Chilean students with top scores on the national university entrance exam. It enrolls approximately 14,000 students and has 100 programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Housing its academic departments throughout the picturesque city of Valparaíso, students will enjoy the urban landscape and the opportunity to attend a university that is integrated into city life. Visiting students enjoy taking Spanish courses at all levels, as well as Chilean culture courses. Advanced Spanish speakers are encouraged to take coursework with Chilean students.

Students who choose to study abroad in Valparaíso in API’s Chilean Culture and Spanish Language Program have the opportunity to complete 6 semester credits of language and culture coursework. Beginning and intermediate-level Spanish speakers will complete a Spanish grammar course along with a conversation and culture course. Advanced Spanish speakers may choose to complete a grammar course along with an elective course or simply select two elective courses. All courses are available only to visiting international students and are taught in Spanish. All courses are equivalent to three semester credits.

Setting Description:

Built upon dozens of steep hillsides overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Valparaíso boasts a labyrinth of streets and cobblestone alleyways, embodying a rich architectural and cultural legacy. Nicknamed “The Jewel of the Pacific”, Valparaíso was declared a UNESCO world heritage site based upon its improvised urban design and unique architecture. Founded in 1536, Valparaíso is not only one of Chile’s most important port cities, it is also its third largest city. Valparaíso remains a source of inspiration for artists of all types, including the well-known Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda. Students can visit Neruda’s seaside home in Valparaíso, as well as the Chilean Congress. Offering strikingly beautiful views from the top of its numerous hills, it is reminiscent of San Francisco. Valparaíso, or Valpo for short, is a city where students can amble away an afternoon exploring its steep and winding streets, peppered with colored houses and electric lines, and admire the sparkling Pacific Ocean below.

Cost:

Pre-departure, On-site, and Re-entry services included, such as advising and online resources, airport reception, resident directors, housing, tuition, tutoring, medical & life insurance, excursions, social & cultural activities, alumni network, Learning and Engagement Badge Program and more!

Additional Program Information

Requirements:

Minimum 2.5 G.P.A. Open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors. No previous Spanish language study required.

Scholarships:

Yes

Scholarships Description:

API awards approximately $500,000 in study abroad scholarships annually ranging from $250 -$1,000 per student.