Universidad de Valparaíso
About the university
The University of Valparaíso is a public university in Chile established in 1981, with its main campus in Valparaíso and additional campuses across the region and in Santiago. In 2025–2026, it is recognized as one of Chile’s leading regional universities, offering over 40 undergraduate and numerous graduate programs across 10 faculties. The university is particularly strong in medicine, law, engineering, marine sciences, and social sciences. It emphasizes research, public service, and regional development, supported by research centers and partnerships. Located near the Pacific Ocean, it provides a dynamic academic and cultural environment.
Key information
- Location: Valparaíso, CL
- Ranking #12
- QS #1201
- THE #1501
- National ranking #11
- Institution type: public
Popular faculties
- Medicine
- Law
- Engineering
- Business
- Marine Science
- Psychology
Programs (9)
- Architecture
- Business Administration
- Dentistry
- Engineering
- Law
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Pharmacy
- Psychology
Student body
- Total students: 16,500
- Undergraduate: 15,500
- Graduate: 1,000
- International students: 3%
Campus life
In 2025–2026, campus life at the University of Valparaíso is integrated into the urban environment of Valparaíso, a historic coastal city. Students benefit from proximity to cultural landmarks, the ocean, and a vibrant artistic scene. The university offers libraries, research centers, and active student organizations, creating a dynamic academic and social experience.
Housing & accommodation
Housing cost: $250 - $700 / per month
Housing options
- Shared apartments
- private rentals
- student residences
Student clubs and organizations
- Academic clubs
- cultural organizations
- student unions
- research groups
Sports
- Football
- basketball
- volleyball
- athletics
Career & internships
Employment rate: 85%
Partner companies
- Hospitales Públicos De Chile
- Banco De Chile
- Deloitte
- PwC
- Empresas Portuarias De Chile
Internships: In 2025–2026, the University of Valparaíso integrates internships into most academic programs, particularly in medicine, law, engineering, and business. The university collaborates with hospitals, public institutions, law firms, and private companies, ensuring students gain practical experience as part of their degree.
Admission requirements
Required documents
- High school diploma
- academic transcripts
- national admission exam scores
- identification
- application form
Minimum GPA: 3
Tuition costs
- $3,500 - $8,000 / per year
- Acceptance rate: 60.00%
- Scholarships available: In 2025–2026, the University of Valparaíso offers access to Chilean government scholarships such as “Gratuidad” (free tuition program) for eligible students, along with merit-based and need-based financial aid. The university also provides institutional scholarships and research funding, especially in health sciences, engineering, and social sciences.
Quick facts
- Founded: 1981
- Teaching languages: spanish
- Study formats: offline
Contact
- [email protected]
- +56 32 250 7000