International Relations
Why to study in Chile
Chile is one of Latin America’s most interesting countries in terms of professional activities and tourism. The fact that Chile has recently signed free trade agreements with China and Japan makes it a strategic destination, and it is expected to have considerable impact on business affairs throughout South America. Chile also enjoys some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes, many still untouched by man. It is a country of marked contrasts, with deserts, icebergs and the Andes Mountain range, excellent ski resorts and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Furthermore, it has splendid wines and an exceptional cuisine enriched by both the quality and variety of its abundant fresh fruit, vegetables and seafood. The export of these primary products worldwide is an important part of the Chilean economy. Chile enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate, with four well-defined seasons in the year.
Santiago and Valparaíso
Santiago is the capital of Chile and home to almost one-third of the country’s population. It is a safe and modern city located at the foot of the Andes Mountains, 42 km. from Chile’s best ski resorts and 100 km. from the Pacific coast. Santiago has many upscale restaurants as well as modern housing, yet it remains a very affordable city to visit.
Located some 120 km. (72 miles) northwest of Santiago, Valparaíso is Chile’s principal port and its second-largest city. Despite its size, it is Chile’s most distinctive city and one of South America’s most captivating. Valparaíso is a colourful port that is home to two important institutions, the Chilean Navy and the National Congress. In 2003, the city was added to Unesco’s World Heritage List. Chile’s premier beach resort, Viña del Mar, is only 10 km. (6 mi) north of Valparaíso.
The city of Viña del Mar offers a wide range of hotels and modern facilities.
The following web sites provide more information about tourism in Chile.
High Ratings from International Institutions
Chile leads Latin American countries and most other developing nations in the rankings from different credit rating agencies such as Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s. It is also favourably rated by other international organizations such as Transparency International, the World Economic Forum, United Nations Development Program, The Economist Intelligence Unit, the Heritage Foundation and most international investment banks.
Competitiveness: The 2008 World Competitiveness Yearbook, prepared by the International Institute for Management Development, has ranked Chile 26th among the 55 economies that were evaluated. In Latin America, Chile is at the top of the list, followed by Peru (35th), Colombia (41th), Brazil (43th), Mexico (50th), Argentina (52th) and Venezuela (55th).
Chile is also the most competitive country in Latin America, according to the 2007-2008 Global Competitiveness Report, released by the World Economic Forum (WEF). In the overall ranking, Chile is number 26 among 131 economies.
Transparency: Chile stands as the most transparent country in Latin America and finds itself in 22nd place among 179 economies, according to the 2007 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) published by transparency International.
Economic Freedom: The 2008 Index of Economic Freedom prepared by the US-based Heritage Foundation ranks Chile in 8th place among 157 countries.
Human Capital: According to the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), Chile has achieved a high level of social development and scores particularly high on healthcare, life expectancy, education andhousing. Education spending currently represents over 7.2% of GDP (according to a study by OECD) and has markedly contributed to the advancement of a highly qualified workforce.
Practical information for exchange students
Cost of living (for a four month stay in Chile)
- Housing: Ch$ 1.200.000
- Food: Ch$ 500.000
- Books, academic materials: Ch$ 200.000
- Transportation: Ch$ 100.000
- Telephone (cellular): Ch$ 100.000
- Clothing: Ch$ 200.000
- Other (*) Ch$ 600.000
- Total in Chilean pesos: Ch$ 2.900.000
(*) includes mail, laundry, dry cleaning, pharmacy expenses, entertainment.
Health Insurance: Exchange students must arrive in Chile with an international health insurance policy covering illness and accidents that may occur in Chile. The Chilean health system is very professional, and the risk of contracting illnesses in the country is the same as in any industrialized country.
Housing: Though we do not have residential housing, we help exchange students find apartments near the University. Students can also stay with a Chilean family, which will allow them to practice their Spanish and learn Chilean customs. There is also a Welcoming Committee of UAI undergraduate students.
Student Visa: Student Visa is mandatory for all exchange students in Chile. UAI International Office would assist the students in their visa applications.
