Founded: 1988
Location: Its main campus is in Santiago, but the university also has significant campuses in Viña del Mar and Concepción.
Named after: The university is named after Andrés Bello, a Venezuelan-born scholar, poet, and one of the most influential intellectuals in Latin America. He played a central role in developing education and legal systems in Chile, including the drafting of Chile's civil code.
Private Institution: Though private, UNAB has gained recognition for its academic excellence and contribution to research in Chile.
UNAB offers undergraduate and graduate programs across a variety of disciplines, including law, medicine, business, engineering, humanities, education, social sciences, and the arts.
The university is organized into multiple faculties or departments, such as:
Faculty of Law
Faculty of Engineering
Faculty of Medicine
Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities
Faculty of Business and Economics, etc.
UNAB has earned accreditation in Chile, which assures that it meets the educational standards set by national higher education authorities.
It is part of the Laureate International Universities network (although this affiliation has changed recently), which connects universities worldwide and enables collaborative programs, student exchanges, and global partnerships.
UNAB has a growing reputation for scientific research. The university emphasizes research, particularly in fields like biomedicine, environmental science, engineering, and social sciences.
It hosts several research centers, and UNAB researchers frequently collaborate with other institutions both locally and internationally.
Santiago Campus: The main campus, located in the capital of Chile. It is known for its urban setting and proximity to Santiago's cultural and commercial hub.
Viña del Mar Campus: Located near the Pacific Ocean, this campus serves students from Chile's coastal regions and offers a unique student experience in a maritime environment.
Concepción Campus: Situated in southern Chile, this campus is focused on regional development and educational access for students in the area.
UNAB is one of the largest universities in Chile in terms of student population. It has over 45,000 students, making it a significant educational institution in the country.
The university employs a diverse and qualified faculty, many of whom are active researchers and professionals in their respective fields.
UNAB is committed to providing its students with international exposure through various study abroad programs, internships, and exchange programs.
The university also attracts international students and collaborates with universities worldwide, providing a global dimension to its academic offerings.
UNAB places importance on social responsibility and has various programs aimed at promoting sustainability, community engagement, and social equity.
Students often participate in service-oriented projects, both as part of their coursework and through extracurricular activities.
UNAB provides a variety of undergraduate degrees (licenciaturas, títulos profesionales) across many faculties and academic areas. These include professional degrees, bachelor's degrees, and technical programs.
Medicine
Nursing
Dentistry
Kinesiology (Physical Therapy)
Nutrition and Dietetics
Medical Technology
Occupational Therapy
Speech Therapy (Fonoaudiología)
Pharmacy
Veterinary Medicine
Law
Social Work
Psychology
Political Science
Public Administration
Civil Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Computer Science Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Environmental Engineering
Telecommunications Engineering
Mining Engineering
Construction Engineering
Biotechnology Engineering
Data Science Engineering
Commercial Engineering (Ingeniería Comercial) – similar to Business Administration or Management
Accounting
Business Administration
Economics
Architecture
Graphic Design
Interior Design
Fashion Design
Fine Arts
Philosophy
History
Spanish Language and Literature
Translation and Interpretation (English/Spanish)
Pedagogy (Teaching) in various subjects (Math, Language, History, Sciences, etc.)
Early Childhood Education (Educación Parvularia)
Primary Education (Educación Básica)
Special Education
Biology
Marine Biology
Environmental Sciences
Chemistry
Geology
Biochemistry
Journalism
Audiovisual Communication
Advertising
Tourism and Hospitality Management
Ecotourism
UNAB offers several master’s degrees (magísteres) and doctoral programs (doctorados) in various fields. The university focuses on both academic and professional training, with an emphasis on research and specialized professional development.
Master's in Public Health (Magíster en Salud Pública)
Master's in Clinical Epidemiology
Master's in Nursing
Master's in Dentistry
Master's in Physical Therapy
Doctorate in Biomedical Sciences (Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas)
Master’s in Law (Magíster en Derecho)
Master's in Criminology
Master's in Psychology
Master's in Social Work and Family Intervention
Master's in Public Policy
Master’s in Human Rights
Master’s in Civil Engineering
Master’s in Industrial Engineering
Master’s in Environmental Engineering
Master's in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
MBA (Master of Business Administration)
Master’s in Finance
Master's in Marketing
Master's in Human Resource Management
Master’s in Economics and Public Policy
Master's in Education
Master's in Educational Leadership and Management
Master's in Early Childhood Education
Master’s in Special Education
Master's in Curriculum and Instruction
Master’s in Marine Biology
Master's in Environmental Sciences
Doctorate in Conservation Biology
Doctorate in Neurosciences
Master's in History
Master's in Literature
Master's in Philosophy
Master's in Visual Arts
Course Program Name |
Duration (Years) |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Medicine |
7 |
$10,000 – $13,000 |
|
Nursing |
5 |
$4,000 – $5,500 |
|
Dentistry |
6 |
$9,000 – $11,000 |
|
Kinesiology (Physical Therapy) |
5 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Nutrition and Dietetics |
5 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
Medical Technology |
5 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Occupational Therapy |
5 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
Speech Therapy (Fonoaudiología) |
5 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
Pharmacy |
5 |
$5,000 – $6,000 |
|
Veterinary Medicine |
5 |
$4,000 – $5,500 |
|
Law |
5 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Psychology |
5 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Social Work |
5 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Political Science |
5 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Public Administration |
5 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Commercial Engineering (Business Administration) |
5 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Accounting |
5 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Civil Engineering |
6 |
$5,000 – $6,500 |
|
Industrial Engineering |
6 |
$5,000 – $6,500 |
|
Computer Science Engineering |
5 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
6 |
$5,000 – $6,500 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
6 |
$5,000 – $6,500 |
|
Environmental Engineering |
5 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
Biotechnology Engineering |
5 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
Architecture |
6 |
$5,000 – $6,000 |
|
Graphic Design |
4 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Interior Design |
4 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Journalism |
5 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Audiovisual Communication |
5 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Advertising |
5 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Biology |
5 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Marine Biology |
5 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Environmental Sciences |
5 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
History |
5 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Philosophy |
5 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Spanish Language and Literature |
5 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Tourism and Hospitality Management |
4 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Ecotourism |
4 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
Master’s Course Program Name |
Duration (Years) |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master’s in Public Health (Magíster en Salud Pública) |
2 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
Master’s in Clinical Epidemiology |
2 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
Master’s in Nursing (Magíster en Enfermería) |
2 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Master’s in Dentistry (Magíster en Odontología) |
2 |
$6,000 – $7,000 |
|
Master’s in Kinesiology (Physical Therapy) |
2 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Master’s in Medical Technology |
2 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Master’s in Nutrition and Dietetics |
2 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
Master’s in Veterinary Medicine |
2 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Master’s in Law (Magíster en Derecho) |
2 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
Master’s in Criminal Law and Criminology |
2 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
Master’s in Psychology |
2 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Master’s in Social Work and Family Intervention |
2 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Master’s in Political Science |
2 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Master’s in Public Policy |
2 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Master’s in Human Rights |
2 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Master’s in Industrial Engineering |
2 |
$5,000 – $6,000 |
|
Master’s in Civil Engineering |
2 |
$5,000 – $6,000 |
|
Master’s in Environmental Engineering |
2 |
$5,000 – $6,000 |
|
Master’s in Computer Science Engineering |
2 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
Master’s in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence |
2 |
$5,000 – $6,000 |
|
Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) |
2 |
$6,000 – $7,000 |
|
Master’s in Finance |
2 |
$5,000 – $6,000 |
|
Master’s in Marketing |
2 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
Master’s in Human Resource Management |
2 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
Master’s in Economics and Public Policy |
2 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
Master’s in Education |
2 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Master’s in Educational Leadership and Management |
2 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Master’s in Early Childhood Education |
2 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Master’s in Special Education |
2 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Master’s in Marine Biology |
2 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Master’s in Environmental Sciences |
2 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Master’s in Conservation Biology |
2 |
$4,000 – $5,000 |
|
Master’s in Neurosciences |
2 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
Master’s in History |
2 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Master’s in Literature |
2 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Master’s in Philosophy |
2 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
|
Master’s in Visual Arts |
2 |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
PhD/Doctorate Course Program Name |
Duration (Years) |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Biomedical Sciences |
4 |
$5,000 – $6,500 |
|
PhD in Neurosciences |
4 |
$5,000 – $6,500 |
|
PhD in Conservation Biology |
4 |
$5,000 – $6,500 |
|
PhD in Marine Biology |
4 |
$5,000 – $6,500 |
|
PhD in Complex Systems Engineering |
4 |
$5,500 – $7,000 |
|
PhD in Environmental and Evolutionary Biology |
4 |
$5,000 – $6,500 |
|
PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology |
4 |
$5,000 – $6,500 |
|
PhD in Education |
4 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
PhD in Psychology |
4 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
PhD in Public Policy and Governance |
4 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
PhD in Law |
4 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
PhD in Social Sciences |
4 |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
UNAB offers a range of programs that are open to international students, including:
Undergraduate Programs (Licenciaturas y Títulos Profesionales) in areas such as engineering, business, health sciences, law, social sciences, education, and the arts.
Graduate Programs (Master’s and Doctorates) in fields like public health, education, engineering, environmental sciences, law, and psychology. There are also specialized research programs in areas like biomedical sciences, conservation biology, and neuroscience.
Exchange Programs: UNAB has partnerships with several universities around the world, allowing international students to participate in student exchange programs for one or two semesters.
Study Abroad Programs: UNAB offers a Study Abroad program where international students can take courses in English or Spanish for one or two semesters.
Online Programs: Some programs are available online, making it easier for international students to access UNAB’s education from their home country.
Spanish: The primary language of instruction at UNAB is Spanish. A good level of proficiency in Spanish is required for most undergraduate and graduate programs.
English Programs: For international students, certain programs and courses, especially in business, engineering, and social sciences, are offered in English, particularly at the graduate level. However, the availability of English-taught programs may be limited compared to Spanish programs.
Spanish Language Support: UNAB provides Spanish language courses for international students to help them improve their language skills before or during their studies.
International students applying to undergraduate programs must meet the following requirements:
High School Diploma (or equivalent): You must have completed secondary education, and your diploma must be officially validated in Chile. This can usually be done through the Chilean Ministry of Education (Ministerio de Educación).
Spanish Language Proficiency: Since most undergraduate programs are taught in Spanish, international students must demonstrate proficiency in Spanish, usually through a DELE or SIELE certification, or through UNAB’s own language proficiency test.
Additional Requirements: Some programs, like Medicine, Dentistry, and Engineering, may require entrance exams or other specific academic prerequisites.
You will need to submit the following documents as part of your application:
Completed Application Form: Available on UNAB’s admissions portal or by contacting the admissions office.
High School Diploma (and official translations if not in Spanish)
Academic Transcripts: Showing your grades from secondary school.
Spanish Language Certificate: If applicable.
Copy of Passport: As proof of identity.
Entrance Exam Scores: For certain programs (e.g., Medicine, Law).
Personal Statement or Letter of Intent: In some cases, a written statement explaining why you want to study at UNAB and your academic goals.
Portfolio: Required for programs in arts and design.
International students can apply online through UNAB's admissions portal or by emailing the admissions office. Ensure all required documents are attached. Applications are usually open during specific periods of the year, so it's essential to check the university's deadlines.
For certain competitive programs like Medicine, Law, or Architecture, you may be asked to attend an interview as part of the selection process. This can sometimes be done online for international students.
Once your application is complete, the admissions committee will review it, and you will receive a decision. If accepted, you'll receive an offer letter with details on how to confirm your enrollment.
Once admitted, you will need to apply for a student visa to study in Chile. This can be done through the Chilean consulate or embassy in your home country. You will need to submit your admission letter from UNAB, proof of financial resources, and other documents required by the consulate.
International students applying for master’s programs need:
Bachelor’s Degree: You must have a relevant bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized university.
Spanish or English Language Proficiency: Depending on the program’s language of instruction, you may need to demonstrate proficiency in either Spanish or English. Most programs are in Spanish, but some master’s programs are available in English.
Program-Specific Requirements: Some programs may require specific academic backgrounds or professional experience.
To apply for a master’s program, you will generally need to submit:
Completed Application Form: Available online.
Copy of Bachelor’s Degree: Along with official translations, if not in Spanish.
Academic Transcripts: From your previous degree(s).
Language Proficiency Test: Such as DELE or SIELE for Spanish or TOEFL/IELTS for English.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailing your academic and professional experience.
Letters of Recommendation: Typically from academic or professional references.
Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose: Explaining why you want to pursue the master’s program and how it fits into your career goals.
Research Proposal: For certain research-based programs.
Copy of Passport: For identification purposes.
You can submit your application through the university’s online application system. Ensure all required documents are uploaded. Be aware of application deadlines, which can vary depending on the program.
For some master’s programs, especially those involving research or highly competitive programs, you may be required to attend an interview or submit additional work (e.g., a portfolio for design-related programs).
After submission, the admissions committee will review your application. If accepted, you will receive an admission offer outlining the next steps.
Once accepted, begin the student visa application process, which requires an admission letter, proof of financial support, and other documents.
To apply for a PhD program, you generally need:
Master’s Degree: In a related field.
Research Experience: Demonstrated by previous academic or professional research work.
Language Proficiency: Most programs are in Spanish, so proficiency is required unless the program is conducted in English.
PhD applications typically require:
Completed Application Form: Available online.
Copy of Master’s Degree: Along with official translations, if necessary.
Academic Transcripts: From both undergraduate and master’s degrees.
Research Proposal: A well-defined research proposal in your field of interest.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailing academic qualifications and research experience.
Letters of Recommendation: From academic referees who can comment on your research potential.
Personal Statement: Explaining your research interests and why you wish to pursue a PhD at UNAB.
Proof of Language Proficiency: For Spanish or English, depending on the program.
Copy of Passport: As proof of identity.
PhD applications are submitted through the university’s online admissions system. Ensure your research proposal and other documents are well-prepared, as these are crucial for doctoral admissions.
Most PhD applicants will be required to attend an interview with the PhD admissions committee. This may be conducted online for international students.
After reviewing your application, the admissions committee will inform you of their decision. If accepted, you will receive an offer letter with details on your PhD program and enrollment steps.
Once accepted, start your student visa application process as outlined for undergraduate and master’s students.
Main Intake: March (first semester)
This is the primary intake, and most undergraduate programs start in the first semester of the academic year.
Second Intake: August (second semester)
Some programs may also offer an August intake, but this is less common and may vary by faculty and campus.
High School Diploma:
International students must have completed secondary education equivalent to a Chilean high school diploma. The diploma must be officially validated by the Chilean Ministry of Education or through the Apostille process in your home country.
Academic Transcripts:
You need to provide academic records from your secondary school showing your grades. These may need to be officially translated into Spanish if they are in another language.
Entrance Exam (Prueba de Transición/PTU):
For some competitive programs, such as Medicine, Law, and Engineering, international students may need to take an entrance exam. However, for many programs, this may be waived, and admissions can be based on your high school academic performance.
Language Proficiency:
Since most undergraduate courses are taught in Spanish, you need to demonstrate proficiency in the language. Accepted proof includes:
DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) certification
SIELE (Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española)
Passing UNAB’s own Spanish language proficiency test (if available)
If you are applying for a program offered in English, you may need to provide TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Additional Program Requirements:
Portfolios may be required for arts and design programs.
Interviews or aptitude tests may be required for specific programs like medicine or architecture.
Main Intake: March (first semester)
Most master’s programs at UNAB begin in March.
Second Intake: August (second semester)
Some master’s programs may have a second intake in August, but this depends on the faculty and specific program.
Bachelor’s Degree:
You must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized university in a relevant field. Your degree must be officially validated if obtained outside Chile.
Academic Transcripts:
Submit official transcripts from your undergraduate studies, which should detail your academic performance. These may need to be translated into Spanish if in another language.
Language Proficiency:
For master’s programs taught in Spanish, you need to demonstrate proficiency in the language (DELE, SIELE, or equivalent).
For programs taught in English, you need to provide TOEFL or IELTS scores. Some programs require a minimum score:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score around 80–90
IELTS: Minimum score around 6.5
Letters of Recommendation:
You may need to submit 2-3 letters of recommendation from academic or professional references who can speak to your qualifications and readiness for graduate study.
Statement of Purpose (SOP):
A written statement of intent outlining your academic and career goals and explaining why you want to pursue a specific master’s program at UNAB.
Interview (if applicable):
Some programs may require an interview, which can often be conducted online for international students.
Work Experience (if applicable):
Certain professional programs, such as MBAs, may require work experience, typically 2-5 years in a relevant field.
Main Intake: March (first semester)
Most PhD programs begin in March.
Second Intake: Some doctoral programs may also offer a second intake in August, depending on the program and research opportunities.
Master’s Degree:
A master’s degree in a relevant field from a recognized institution is typically required for admission to PhD programs. The degree must be validated if earned outside of Chile.
Academic Transcripts:
Submit official transcripts from both undergraduate and master’s degrees. Transcripts may need to be translated into Spanish.
Research Proposal:
A detailed research proposal outlining the topic you wish to investigate, the research questions, and the methodology you plan to use. This is a key part of your application and should align with UNAB’s research strengths.
Language Proficiency:
As with other levels, PhD programs taught in Spanish require proficiency in Spanish (DELE, SIELE, etc.).
For PhD programs offered in English, you will need to provide TOEFL or IELTS scores, with minimum requirements similar to those of master’s programs.
Curriculum Vitae (CV):
You should provide a CV that outlines your academic background, research experience, publications, and any professional experience relevant to your field of study.
Letters of Recommendation:
Submit 2-3 letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees, particularly those who can speak to your research experience and potential.
Interview:
Most PhD programs require an interview with the admissions committee. This can often be conducted online for international students.
Ranking Source |
Ranking/Rating |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
801–1000 globally |
|
QS Latin American University Rankings |
Top 100 (ranked in the range of 51-100 regionally) |
|
U.S. News Best Global Universities |
1345–1500 globally |
|
U.S. News Best Universities in Latin America |
Top 100 |
|
QS Stars Rating |
4 Stars (out of 5) |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Type of Support |
Target Group |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Academic Merit Scholarship |
High academic performance in high school or university studies |
Partial or full tuition coverage |
Domestic and international undergraduate students |
|
UNAB Talent Scholarship |
Demonstrated talent in sports, arts, or leadership |
Partial tuition waiver |
Domestic and international students |
|
Socioeconomic Scholarship |
Financial need (requires submission of financial documentation) |
Partial tuition reduction |
Domestic students, some international students may qualify |
|
Sports Excellence Scholarship |
Proven achievement in national or international sports |
Partial tuition reduction |
Domestic and international students |
|
Master’s Scholarship (Postgraduate Students) |
Academic excellence in prior undergraduate studies |
Partial tuition coverage for master's programs |
Domestic and international master’s students |
|
Doctoral Scholarship |
Research potential and academic excellence |
Full or partial tuition coverage and potential stipend |
Domestic and international PhD students |
|
Academic Excellence Scholarship for International Students |
High academic achievement |
Partial tuition waiver |
International undergraduate and graduate students |
|
Laureate International Universities Scholarship |
Students from Laureate International Universities network |
Tuition reduction or partial scholarship |
International students from Laureate network |
|
Special Needs Scholarship |
Students with documented disabilities |
Partial tuition coverage |
Domestic students, possibly international |
|
UNAB Research Scholarship |
Research potential in graduate studies |
Research funding, partial or full tuition |
Domestic and international master's and PhD students |
|
External Government Scholarships (e.g., Chilean Government Scholarships) |
International students from countries with agreements with Chile (e.g., Latin America, Africa) |
Full tuition and living expenses |
International students via government programs |
Campus |
Location |
Accommodation Options |
Cost of Accommodation (USD/Month) |
Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Santiago Campus |
Santiago, Metropolitan Region |
- University does not offer on-campus housing |
$300 – $700 |
- Located in Chile's capital city |
|
Viña del Mar Campus |
Viña del Mar, Valparaíso Region |
- University does not offer on-campus housing |
$250 – $600 |
- Coastal city with a relaxed lifestyle |
|
Concepción Campus |
Concepción, Biobío Region |
- University does not offer on-campus housing |
$200 – $500 |
- Industrial and academic hub |
|
Los Leones Campus |
Santiago, Metropolitan Region |
- No on-campus housing |
$300 – $700 |
- Located in a central district in Santiago |
|
Casona de Las Condes Campus |
Santiago, Metropolitan Region |
- No on-campus housing |
$300 – $700 |
- Historical campus with spacious gardens |
Diverse Student Body: UNAB hosts a large number of international students from Latin America, Europe, North America, and beyond, creating a multicultural and inclusive campus atmosphere.
International Exchange Programs: Students can participate in various international exchange programs and collaborate with students from other countries. The university also regularly hosts exchange students through its global partnerships.
Student Organizations: UNAB offers a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and societies catering to interests such as sports, arts, music, debate, volunteerism, and academic pursuits.
Popular clubs include environmental conservation, business innovation, photography, theater, and coding clubs.
Volunteering and Social Outreach: UNAB students are encouraged to get involved in community service projects, which focus on social justice, sustainability, and supporting underprivileged communities. Volunteering is an integral part of the student experience and fosters civic engagement.
Cultural and Arts Events: The university frequently organizes cultural festivals, art exhibitions, music performances, and workshops for students to explore their creative talents and celebrate diverse cultures.
Sports Facilities: UNAB has a variety of sports facilities that include gymnasiums, sports courts, and fields. Popular sports among students include soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and swimming.
Intramural and Competitive Teams: Students can join intramural sports teams for recreation or participate in competitive university leagues. The university’s sports teams regularly compete at regional and national levels.
Fitness Programs: The university offers fitness classes, such as yoga, Pilates, Zumba, and strength training, which are popular among students.
Libraries and Study Spaces: UNAB provides well-equipped libraries, with access to extensive resources, study rooms, and quiet zones. The university’s online library system also offers access to a wide range of academic journals and research materials.
Cafeterias and Food Options: Each campus has cafeterias offering affordable and diverse food options. The Santiago campus in particular has several cafes and dining options nearby, catering to different dietary preferences.
Wi-Fi and Digital Access: The university offers free Wi-Fi throughout its campuses, making it easy for students to access course materials and connect online.
Annual Events: UNAB hosts numerous events throughout the academic year, such as welcome weeks for new students, festivals, student fairs, academic conferences, and sports days. These events are great for making friends and getting involved in campus life.
Social Gatherings: Students often organize parties, BBQs, and outings to explore the local culture. In coastal cities like Viña del Mar, beach outings are a popular weekend activity.
Cultural Celebrations: The university celebrates national holidays, such as Fiestas Patrias (Chile’s Independence Day), with special events like parades, food fairs, and traditional dance performances. International students can immerse themselves in Chilean traditions through these events.
Academic Advising: UNAB provides academic advising services to help students navigate their course schedules, career paths, and academic goals.
Career Development Center: The career services office offers students resources for internships, job placements, and career counseling. They also organize workshops on resume writing, interview skills, and professional networking.
Psychological and Counseling Services: UNAB takes student well-being seriously and offers counseling services for students facing academic stress, personal challenges, or mental health concerns. These services are confidential and provided by qualified professionals.
Student Affairs Office: The student affairs office helps students with administrative matters, including visa issues for international students, housing assistance, and general support services.
Santiago Campus: Students in Santiago enjoy the benefits of living in Chile’s capital city. Santiago is a bustling metropolis with a rich cultural scene, plenty of social activities, and easy access to parks, museums, and shopping districts. Students often live in shared apartments or student residences near the university.
Viña del Mar Campus: Known for its relaxed, beach-town atmosphere, Viña del Mar offers students the opportunity to balance their studies with access to beaches, parks, and cultural sites. The city is a popular destination for both local and international students, and it offers more affordable accommodation compared to Santiago.
Concepción Campus: Students in Concepción benefit from living in an academic hub with a more relaxed and affordable lifestyle. It’s a smaller city compared to Santiago, but still offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, like hiking and visiting nearby nature reserves.
Accommodation: As noted earlier, the cost of accommodation depends on the city and type of housing. On average, international students can expect to spend between $300 and $700 USD per month on accommodation, with Santiago being the most expensive and Concepción the most affordable.
Living Expenses: Monthly living expenses (excluding rent) such as food, transportation, and entertainment typically range between $200 and $400 USD.
Transportation: Public transportation is well-organized, especially in Santiago, where students use the metro system and buses. Students can purchase a student transportation card for discounted fares.
Food: On average, students spend around $150–$300 USD per month on food, depending on their lifestyle and whether they cook or dine out frequently.
International Student Office: UNAB’s International Relations Office provides specific services to international students, helping them with:
Visa requirements
Cultural adjustment
Language support
Orientation sessions
Academic advising for exchange programs
Language Support: UNAB offers Spanish language courses for international students who wish to improve their Spanish proficiency before or during their studies.
Green Campus Initiatives: UNAB is committed to sustainability and has implemented various initiatives, such as recycling programs, energy efficiency projects, and environmental awareness campaigns.
Social Responsibility: UNAB students are encouraged to participate in social outreach programs to support local communities. Volunteering opportunities include educational initiatives, health campaigns, and environmental conservation projects.
UNAB’s Career Development Center (Centro de Desarrollo Profesional) is dedicated to helping students and graduates with career guidance, employability skills, and networking opportunities. The main services include:
Job Fairs and Employment Events:
UNAB regularly organizes job fairs, career expos, and networking events where students can interact with companies and potential employers. These events often include workshops, career talks, and direct recruitment opportunities.
Industry partnerships with leading companies provide students with access to internships and job openings in various sectors, including engineering, business, healthcare, and law.
Internship Programs:
Many programs at UNAB require students to complete internships as part of their curriculum, especially in fields like medicine, engineering, business, and social sciences. The university helps students connect with relevant companies and organizations to find suitable internships.
Internships provide real-world experience, often leading to full-time job offers after graduation.
On-Campus Recruitment:
Some large national and international companies participate in on-campus recruitment by hosting interviews, presentations, and workshops for students nearing graduation.
The university also maintains a job board where companies post job openings and internship opportunities for students and alumni.
Job Placement Portal:
UNAB provides students and graduates access to its online job portal (Empleabilidad UNAB), where they can view job listings, internship opportunities, and connect with recruiters.
The portal is open to both current students and alumni, and it also provides resources for preparing resumes, cover letters, and interview techniques.
Workshops and Career Guidance:
The university organizes regular career development workshops to help students improve their job-seeking skills, including resume writing, interview preparation, networking strategies, and professional communication.
Students can also schedule one-on-one career counseling sessions to receive personalized advice on career paths and job search strategies.
UNAB has developed strong connections with national and international companies across various industries, providing its students with access to a wide range of professional opportunities. These connections are especially strong in the fields of:
Engineering and Technology: Partnerships with tech firms, construction companies, and engineering consultancies give students in programs like civil, industrial, and computer engineering access to internships and potential job placements.
Health Sciences: Medical students often complete internships and residencies at hospitals and clinics across Chile, and many students in nursing, dentistry, and physical therapy are recruited directly from their internships.
Business and Economics: UNAB collaborates with top firms in finance, marketing, and management consulting, providing commercial engineering and business administration students with internship placements and job offers.
Law and Public Policy: Students in law and political science programs have access to internships in law firms, government offices, and NGOs. UNAB’s law students frequently participate in legal clinics to gain practical experience.
Environmental Sciences and Marine Biology: Students in environmental sciences and marine biology often find placements in government agencies, NGOs, or research institutes, thanks to the university’s strong focus on environmental research.
While specific employment rates for UNAB graduates can fluctuate depending on the industry and economic conditions, the university generally sees strong placement in fields such as:
Healthcare: UNAB is known for its strong medical programs, and graduates from health-related fields like medicine, nursing, and dentistry have high employability due to the growing demand for healthcare professionals in Chile.
Engineering: Graduates from the engineering programs, particularly in civil, mechanical, and industrial engineering, have good job prospects, both in Chile and abroad.
Business and Economics: Graduates with degrees in commercial engineering, business administration, and finance are in demand, especially in Chile’s corporate and financial sectors.
Law and Social Sciences: Graduates in law and public policy often pursue careers in legal firms, public service, or NGOs.
According to QS Graduate Employability Rankings, UNAB ranks favorably within Latin America for preparing its graduates for the workforce, although exact numbers may vary by discipline and year.
UNAB Alumni Network: The university has an active alumni network that supports students after graduation. The network helps foster professional connections, mentorship opportunities, and access to job opportunities.
Alumni often return to the university for guest lectures, networking events, or company recruitment fairs.
Mentorship Programs: UNAB organizes mentorship programs where alumni working in various industries mentor current students, providing career guidance and helping them build professional networks.
Study Abroad and Exchange Programs: UNAB has numerous international agreements with universities across the globe, allowing students to participate in exchange programs. This exposure helps students gain international experience and can lead to employment opportunities abroad.
Laureate International Universities Network: Although UNAB was previously part of the Laureate International Universities network, it has retained strong global connections with universities and companies, providing its students with international job prospects.
Dual Degrees and Global Mobility: Certain programs offer dual degrees or collaborative programs with foreign institutions, enhancing students' global employability.
UNAB has a growing list of successful graduates who have found employment in top companies, research institutes, and government positions, both in Chile and internationally. The university regularly highlights these success stories to showcase the career potential of its graduates and inspire current students.
While there are no official published acceptance rates, being a large private university with multiple campuses and a broad range of programs, the acceptance rate is estimated to be moderately competitive compared to some of Chile’s most selective public universities like University of Chile or Pontifical Catholic University of Chile.
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 50% to 60%
Undergraduate Programs: UNAB offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across its faculties, and the admission difficulty varies depending on the program. Highly competitive programs like Medicine, Law, and Dentistry tend to have more selective admissions, while other programs in social sciences, arts, or business may have a higher acceptance rate.
Graduate Programs: For master's and doctoral programs, the acceptance rate could be lower due to more specific entry requirements such as academic performance, research potential, and professional experience.
Program Popularity: Programs like Medicine, Dentistry, Law, and Engineering tend to be more selective, with higher competition for spots.
Entrance Exams: For some programs, students are required to take standardized tests or have high academic performance from previous studies, which can affect admissions selectivity.
International vs. Domestic Applicants: International students may have different entry pathways and criteria, especially for programs conducted in English or through partnerships with international universities.
Santiago, the capital of Chile, is home to several of UNAB’s main campuses. As the largest and most urban campus location, it offers students access to the country’s cultural and economic hub.
Campus Name |
Location |
Features |
|---|---|---|
|
Santiago Campus (República) |
República neighborhood, Santiago Centro |
- Located in the heart of the city, in a historic district. |
|
Los Leones Campus |
Providencia, Santiago |
- Centrally located in Providencia, a well-connected and modern part of the city. |
|
Casona de Las Condes Campus |
Las Condes, Santiago |
- Located in a more suburban area with large green spaces and historic buildings. |
|
Bellavista Campus |
Bellavista, Santiago |
- Situated near Santiago's bohemian Bellavista neighborhood. |
