Study in Chile

Who this applies to

International (foreign) students at Chilean universities. Admission is per-university; instruction in Spanish.

Governing authority

Ministerio de Educación; CNA-Chile (quality accreditation); DEMRE administers the national admission test.

Degree system

Licenciatura/professional title (Bachelor) ~4–6 yrs · Magíster (Master) 1–2 yrs · Doctorado (PhD) 4 yrs.

Admission

Undergraduate

Domestic admission via the PAES (Prueba de Acceso a la Educación Superior, which replaced the PSU). International applicants typically enter via 'admisión especial' (special admission) using their home qualifications + the university's evaluation, or via the PAES; foreign secondary diplomas may need recognition (reconocimiento/convalidación).

Graduate

Apply directly to the program; recognized prior degree + Spanish proficiency.

Language Requirements

Spanish (most programs) — DELE/SIELE B2 commonly expected; limited English-taught offerings (mainly some graduate courses).

Tuition Per Year

Note

Chile's 'gratuidad' (free tuition) applies to lower-income CHILEAN students only — international students generally PAY full fees.

Intl Undergrad USD

~US$4,000–US$9,000/yr (avg ~US$6,300 per TopUniversities); medicine/dentistry higher

Intl Undergrad Clp

~CLP 3,000,000–7,000,000/yr

Source

TopUniversities — cost of studying in Chile

Student visa & residence permit

Student residence visa ('visa de residencia temporaria' / student permit) at a Chilean consulate; register with the PDI / obtain RUT after arrival.

Scholarships

Becas Chile / AGCID scholarships for international students; university scholarships; OAS/bilateral programs.

Sources & references

• cost — https://www.topuniversities.com/student-info/student-finance/how-much-does-it-cost-study-chile (2026-06-10)