Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso

Introduction

The university is located in the city of Valparaíso, the third largest city in the country. The city is known as "The Jewel of the Pacific", and UNESCO declared the city as a world heritage in 2003 based on its improvised urban design and unique architecture. Students can spend their free time enjoying colonial-era architecture in downtown area, colorful houses, beaches, and the view of Valparaíso from the top of the funicular railway.
 

Academics

A full course load at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso consists of four to five classes for a total of 12-18 credits. Students can participate in both courses taught for local students and courses taught for study abroad students, all of which will be in Spanish. Classes for study abroad students should be taught in "easy Spanish", so it is not required to be fully fluent in the language.
 

Accommodations

In order to make the most of a semester abroad, the program arranges for each participant to have a host family. This allows students to practice their Spanish in a low-key, natural setting every day, as well as immerse themselves in Chilean culture. Host families provide students with three meals a day, which encourages both impromptu conversation and lessons in Chilean cuisine. Rooms are singles and have wireless internet. Accommodations include one load of laundry per week. Applicants can visit the PUCV website to learn more.