Location:

Valparaiso, Chile

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Academic Year, Fall Semester, Spring Semester

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.

API students studying at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso (PUCV ) have the option of taking a Spanish language course at the beginning, intermediate or advanced level with other visiting international students, as well as elective coursework in English or Spanish. No minimum study of Spanish is required for Spanish language courses and English electives. Four semesters of college-level Spanish or the equivalent is required for coursework in Spanish for study abroad students. Students who place into the advanced level of Spanish on the PUCV placement test are welcome to take coursework with local Chilean students in lieu of some elective courses. Advanced Spanish proficiency is also a requirement of students wishing to earn the Latin American Studies Certificate.

Courses with Chilean students will end later than courses with international students, and will require an extra fee for extended housing.

Students selecting the Early Start option arrive four weeks prior to the start of the standard university semester and complete a 90-contact hour Spanish course to improve their Spanish skills.

Business courses at PUCV are AACSB accredited.

 

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. Open to a variety of language levels.

Scholarships:

Yes

Scholarships Description:

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