Founding and History:
The University of Antofagasta was officially established in 1981 through the merger of two pre-existing institutions: the University of Chile’s Regional Campus (founded in 1957) and the Technical University of the State’s Regional Campus.
It has grown significantly since its foundation, becoming one of the most important higher education institutions in the north of Chile.
Campus:
The university is located in Antofagasta, a coastal city and the capital of the Antofagasta Region. The city is known for its proximity to the Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on Earth, and its role in Chile’s mining industry.
The main campus offers modern facilities, research centers, and student services, with an emphasis on innovation and community outreach.
Academic Structure:
The University of Antofagasta offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various faculties and departments, such as:
Faculty of Engineering
Faculty of Health Sciences
Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry
Faculty of Education
Faculty of Basic Sciences
Faculty of Law and Business Sciences
Faculty of Marine Resources
These faculties cover diverse fields including engineering, natural and social sciences, healthcare, education, business, and law.
Research and Innovation:
The university is known for its emphasis on research, particularly in areas that align with the needs of the northern region of Chile, such as mining, desert studies, renewable energy, marine science, and medicine.
The Center for Renewable Energy is particularly noteworthy, as the Antofagasta region is ideal for solar energy research due to its high levels of solar radiation.
Community Engagement and Role in the Region:
The University of Antofagasta plays a crucial role in the development of the Antofagasta region, contributing to sectors such as mining, energy, and environmental studies.
The university’s research is often focused on addressing local challenges, including water scarcity, desertification, and the sustainable management of natural resources.
UA collaborates closely with industries, particularly the mining sector, which is vital to the regional and national economy.
Internationalization:
The University of Antofagasta fosters relationships with international universities and research institutions. These collaborations help to enhance academic quality, promote student and faculty exchanges, and contribute to international research efforts.
The university participates in global research networks, which is particularly important in fields like renewable energy and environmental science.
Student Life:
The university offers various extracurricular activities for students, including sports, arts, cultural events, and opportunities for volunteering.
There are also student organizations, academic societies, and opportunities for professional development and internships, particularly in fields tied to the regional economy, like engineering and geology.
The Faculty of Engineering is one of the university's strongest departments, offering programs that align with the region’s industrial and mining sectors.
Civil Engineering
Industrial Civil Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Mining Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Computer Engineering
Construction Engineering
Metallurgical Engineering
Engineering in Renewable Natural Resources
Master’s in Industrial Engineering
Master’s in Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Master’s in Environmental Engineering
Doctorate in Engineering Sciences
The Faculty of Health Sciences addresses the growing demand for healthcare professionals in the region, offering programs in both medicine and related fields.
Nursing
Obstetrics and Neonatology
Physical Therapy (Kinesiology)
Speech Therapy
Nutrition and Dietetics
Master’s in Health Science
Master’s in Kinesiology
Master’s in Public Health
This faculty is relatively new and offers programs in clinical sciences that prepare students for roles in medicine and dental care.
Medicine
Dentistry
Specialization in Internal Medicine
Specialization in Pediatrics
Specialization in Gynecology and Obstetrics
Specialization in Maxillofacial Surgery
Given its proximity to the coast and the Humboldt Current, the university is heavily involved in marine and environmental sciences.
Marine Biology
Aquaculture Engineering
Environmental Engineering
Master’s in Marine Sciences
Doctorate in Marine Sciences
This faculty supports fundamental scientific education and research, providing core scientific training for students in many technical and scientific fields.
Bachelor of Science in Physics
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
Master’s in Applied Physics
Master’s in Mathematics
Master’s in Chemistry
Doctorate in Sciences with a specialization in Physics or Chemistry
This faculty focuses on preparing students for careers in law, economics, and business, addressing regional and national needs in these fields.
Law
Public Administration
Commercial Engineering (Business Administration)
Accounting and Auditing
Master’s in Business Administration (MBA)
Master’s in Public Management
Master’s in Law
This faculty trains future teachers and educators, which is crucial for the development of the northern region of Chile.
Elementary Education
Secondary Education (with specializations in Mathematics, Language, History, or Science)
Early Childhood Education
Master’s in Education
Master’s in Educational Leadership
This faculty offers programs related to architecture, arts, and design, with a strong focus on the cultural and environmental aspects of northern Chile.
Architecture
Visual Arts
Master’s in Sustainable Architecture and Urbanism
Course Program |
Duration (Years) |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Civil Engineering |
6 |
$4,200 |
|
Industrial Civil Engineering |
6 |
$4,200 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
6 |
$4,200 |
|
Mining Engineering |
6 |
$4,300 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
6 |
$4,200 |
|
Chemical Engineering |
6 |
$4,200 |
|
Computer Engineering |
5 |
$4,000 |
|
Construction Engineering |
5 |
$3,800 |
|
Metallurgical Engineering |
6 |
$4,300 |
|
Engineering in Renewable Natural Resources |
5 |
$3,800 |
|
Nursing |
5 |
$3,700 |
|
Obstetrics and Neonatology |
5 |
$3,600 |
|
Physical Therapy (Kinesiology) |
5 |
$3,600 |
|
Speech Therapy |
5 |
$3,600 |
|
Nutrition and Dietetics |
5 |
$3,700 |
|
Medicine |
7 |
$6,500 |
|
Dentistry |
6 |
$6,000 |
|
Marine Biology |
5 |
$3,600 |
|
Aquaculture Engineering |
5 |
$3,500 |
|
Environmental Engineering |
5 |
$3,700 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Physics |
4 |
$3,500 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry |
4 |
$3,500 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics |
4 |
$3,500 |
|
Law |
5 |
$4,500 |
|
Public Administration |
5 |
$3,800 |
|
Commercial Engineering (Business Administration) |
5 |
$4,000 |
|
Accounting and Auditing |
5 |
$3,800 |
|
Elementary Education |
5 |
$3,500 |
|
Secondary Education (Mathematics) |
5 |
$3,500 |
|
Secondary Education (Language) |
5 |
$3,500 |
|
Secondary Education (History) |
5 |
$3,500 |
|
Secondary Education (Science) |
5 |
$3,500 |
|
Early Childhood Education |
5 |
$3,500 |
|
Architecture |
6 |
$4,500 |
|
Visual Arts |
5 |
$3,500 |
Master's Course Program |
Duration (Years) |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master’s in Industrial Engineering |
2 |
$4,000 |
|
Master’s in Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
2 |
$4,200 |
|
Master’s in Environmental Engineering |
2 |
$4,000 |
|
Master’s in Health Science |
2 |
$3,800 |
|
Master’s in Kinesiology |
2 |
$3,700 |
|
Master’s in Public Health |
2 |
$3,700 |
|
Master’s in Marine Sciences |
2 |
$4,200 |
|
Master’s in Applied Physics |
2 |
$4,000 |
|
Master’s in Mathematics |
2 |
$3,800 |
|
Master’s in Chemistry |
2 |
$3,800 |
|
Master’s in Education |
2 |
$3,500 |
|
Master’s in Educational Leadership |
2 |
$3,500 |
|
Master’s in Sustainable Architecture and Urbanism |
2 |
$4,500 |
|
Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) |
2 |
$4,500 |
|
Master’s in Public Management |
2 |
$4,200 |
|
Master’s in Law |
2 |
$4,000 |
Doctorate Course Program |
Duration (Years) |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctorate in Engineering Sciences |
4 |
$4,500 |
|
Doctorate in Marine Sciences |
4 |
$4,200 |
|
Doctorate in Applied Sciences |
4 |
$4,200 |
|
Doctorate in Physics |
4 |
$4,000 |
|
Doctorate in Chemistry |
4 |
$4,000 |
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs that are open to international students. Key areas of study that may be of particular interest include:
Engineering (Mining, Renewable Energy, Civil, Mechanical, Chemical)
Health Sciences (Medicine, Nursing, Physical Therapy)
Marine Sciences (Marine Biology, Aquaculture)
Natural Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics)
Environmental Engineering
Business and Law
For postgraduate and PhD students, the university offers specialized research programs in fields like renewable energy, desert studies, and marine science, often in collaboration with industry and international institutions.
The University of Antofagasta is involved in several cutting-edge research areas, especially in the fields of:
Solar Energy and Renewable Resources: The Antofagasta region has one of the highest solar radiation levels in the world, making it an ideal location for solar energy research.
Mining and Metallurgy: As northern Chile is home to some of the world’s largest copper mines, the university has strong ties to the mining industry.
Marine Science and Aquaculture: Given its location along the coast and near the Humboldt Current, the university excels in marine biology and aquaculture research.
Desert and Environmental Studies: The Atacama Desert provides unique opportunities for desertification research, environmental management, and biodiversity studies.
International students interested in research can collaborate with faculty members or participate in projects funded by both national and international bodies.
The University of Antofagasta has partnerships with numerous universities around the world, allowing for student exchange programs. International students from partner universities can spend a semester or academic year at UA. These partnerships offer opportunities for collaboration in academic research, joint degrees, and faculty exchanges.
Most undergraduate programs are taught in Spanish, so international students are usually required to have proficiency in the Spanish language. However, some postgraduate programs, especially those with an international focus or collaboration, may offer courses in English. It's recommended that students confirm the language requirements for their specific programs.
For students needing to improve their Spanish language skills, UA or other institutions in Antofagasta may offer Spanish language courses for international students.
International students must have completed their secondary education (high school) and hold a certificate equivalent to the Chilean high school diploma (Licencia de Educación Media).
Proficiency in Spanish is generally required, as most undergraduate programs are taught in Spanish.
Research Programs:
Review the available undergraduate programs on the university's website and make sure you meet the specific admission requirements for your desired program (e.g., Science, Engineering, Health, etc.).
Submit the Application:
Applications are typically submitted through the university’s admission portal or by contacting the admissions office.
Some undergraduate programs may require additional documentation, such as an entrance exam for competitive programs like Medicine or Engineering.
Required Documents:
Completed application form (available online).
High school diploma or equivalent.
Academic transcripts (translated into Spanish if necessary).
Proof of Spanish language proficiency (such as a DELE certificate or other recognized exam) if applicable. Some programs may offer language tests.
Copy of passport or national ID.
Medical certificates (if required for health-related programs).
Entrance exam results (for competitive programs like Medicine, which might have a national entrance exam such as the PSU/PDT test for Chilean students or a similar requirement for international students).
Visa Application:
Upon receiving an admission offer, you will need to apply for a student visa at the nearest Chilean consulate. You will typically need your acceptance letter from the university and proof of financial means.
Interview (if required):
Some programs, especially in health sciences, may require an interview as part of the application process.
Admission Confirmation:
Once admitted, you will receive an official letter of acceptance, which is required to apply for your student visa.
The application period for undergraduate programs typically starts between October and December of the previous year for programs starting in March of the following year.
Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree (Licenciatura) or equivalent from an accredited institution in a related field.
Proficiency in Spanish is generally required, though some Master’s programs may be offered in English.
Research Programs:
Explore available Master’s programs (e.g., Engineering, Marine Sciences, Business Administration) and ensure you meet the specific entry requirements for your chosen field.
Submit the Application:
Applications can typically be submitted online via the university’s graduate admissions portal or sent directly to the relevant faculty.
Required Documents:
Completed application form.
Bachelor’s degree diploma and academic transcripts (official and translated into Spanish if necessary).
Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé.
Letters of recommendation (usually 2 or 3, from academic or professional referees).
Statement of purpose explaining your interest in the program and how it fits your academic or professional goals.
Research proposal (for research-oriented programs).
Proof of Spanish language proficiency or English proficiency, depending on the program.
Copy of passport.
Entrance exam results (some programs may require standardized test scores, such as GMAT or GRE, particularly for MBA programs).
Interview (if required):
Certain programs, particularly research-based ones, may require an interview or a discussion about your research interests.
Visa Application:
International students must apply for a student visa after receiving an official acceptance letter from the university.
Application deadlines for postgraduate programs vary but typically fall between September and January for the academic year beginning in March. Some programs may also offer mid-year admissions in August.
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field or an equivalent qualification.
Strong research background and academic references are required.
Proficiency in Spanish is usually required, though some PhD programs may allow for research in English.
Research PhD Programs:
Identify the Doctoral program that aligns with your research interests (e.g., Doctorate in Engineering Sciences, Marine Sciences, Physics, or Chemistry).
Contact potential supervisors to discuss your research proposal and their availability.
Submit the Application:
Applications can typically be submitted online or through direct communication with the relevant faculty or department.
Required Documents:
Completed application form.
Master’s degree diploma and academic transcripts (translated into Spanish if required).
Detailed research proposal outlining the topic you wish to investigate.
Curriculum Vitae (CV) including academic achievements and publications (if any).
Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
Statement of purpose explaining your motivation and alignment with the PhD program.
Proof of Spanish language proficiency (or English, depending on the research focus).
Copy of passport.
Interview:
An interview with the prospective PhD supervisor or faculty committee is usually required to discuss your research proposal and academic background.
Visa Application:
After receiving an acceptance letter, you must apply for a student visa at the Chilean consulate in your home country.
The application timeline for doctoral programs varies depending on the department but typically follows the university's general academic calendar, with deadlines between September and December for programs starting in March.
Main Intake:
The primary intake for undergraduate programs occurs once a year, with classes beginning in March (the start of the academic year in Chile).
Application submissions typically open in October and close in December of the previous year.
Mid-Year Intake:
Some programs may allow mid-year intake in August, but this is less common. It’s important to check with the specific department.
Main Intake:
For postgraduate and PhD programs, the primary intake is also in March.
Application periods typically run from September to January for programs starting in March.
Mid-Year Intake:
Some postgraduate programs may allow a mid-year intake in August, depending on the availability of spots or special arrangements.
Rolling Admissions:
Certain PhD programs may have rolling admissions, allowing students to apply throughout the year based on research interests and supervisor availability. This is more common in research-oriented doctoral programs.
Educational Qualification:
International students must have completed their secondary education and hold a diploma equivalent to the Chilean high school diploma (Licencia de Educación Media).
Applicants from countries with different educational systems should have their qualifications validated by the Chilean Ministry of Education or provide official certifications of equivalency.
Entrance Exam:
Domestic students typically take the Prueba de Selección Universitaria (PSU) or the Prueba de Transición (PDT), Chile’s national university entrance exam.
International students may need to provide equivalent standardized test results or other academic qualifications based on the country of origin. For certain programs, an entrance exam or interview may be required (especially for competitive programs like Medicine or Engineering).
Language Proficiency:
Most programs are taught in Spanish, so international students must demonstrate proficiency in Spanish. This can be done through:
DELE (Diploma of Spanish as a Foreign Language) or other recognized language certifications.
A Spanish language test offered by the university (if applicable).
For programs with English components or offered in English, English proficiency may be required (TOEFL, IELTS).
Additional Requirements:
Some programs, particularly in Medicine, Nursing, Engineering, and Law, may have additional requirements like interviews, entrance exams, or aptitude tests.
Certain artistic or architecture programs may require a portfolio or entrance interview.
Educational Qualification:
Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree (Licenciatura) or an equivalent qualification from an accredited institution in a related field.
Specific programs may have additional academic requirements, such as a certain GPA or relevant work/research experience.
Language Proficiency:
For programs taught in Spanish, applicants must provide evidence of Spanish language proficiency (e.g., DELE or other recognized tests).
Some postgraduate programs may be offered in English. In this case, applicants must demonstrate English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS).
Additional Requirements:
Letters of recommendation (usually 2-3, from academic or professional references).
A statement of purpose or motivation letter explaining the applicant's academic and professional goals.
CV/Resume outlining academic and professional background.
Some programs (e.g., MBA or Engineering) may require work experience or a research proposal for research-oriented Master’s programs.
Interview: Certain programs, especially in the health sciences and business, may require an interview as part of the admission process.
Educational Qualification:
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field, or in some cases, an exceptional Bachelor’s degree with a high academic standing.
Previous research experience or relevant work in the field is often required.
Language Proficiency:
Most doctoral programs are conducted in Spanish, so students must demonstrate Spanish proficiency.
If the program or research involves international collaborations or is conducted in English, proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) may be required.
Additional Requirements:
Research Proposal: A detailed proposal outlining the research the applicant intends to pursue during the PhD.
CV/Resume: A record of academic qualifications, professional experience, publications (if any), and previous research work.
Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references (usually 2-3).
Interview: An interview with the PhD supervisor or admissions committee to discuss the research proposal and the applicant's academic background.
Supervisor Consent: In some cases, students are required to secure the agreement of a PhD supervisor before applying to the program.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Level of Study |
Scholarship Coverage |
Application Deadline |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Beca Juan Gómez Millas (International Students) |
International students from Latin America & Caribbean |
Undergraduate |
Partial or full tuition coverage |
(typically November) |
For high-achieving international students from partner countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. |
|
Beca Bicentenario |
Low-income Chilean or international students residing in Chile |
Undergraduate |
Full tuition coverage |
Typically December |
Needs-based scholarship for students from vulnerable socioeconomic backgrounds. |
|
Beca Chile (CONICYT) |
Chilean and international students |
Master’s and PhD |
Tuition, monthly stipend, research funding |
N/A |
Administered by ANID, focuses on postgraduate programs in science and technology. |
|
ANID National Doctoral Scholarship |
High-achieving Chilean and international students |
PhD |
Full tuition, stipend, research funds |
N/A |
For PhD students pursuing research in high-priority fields. |
|
University of Antofagasta Merit Scholarship |
High-achieving students based on academic excellence |
Undergraduate |
Partial tuition coverage |
Typically December |
Awarded based on academic merit, with limited spots for international students. |
|
Beca de Mantención para la Educación Superior |
Chilean and international students residing in Chile |
Undergraduate/Postgraduate |
Monthly living stipend |
N/A |
Financial assistance for students facing economic hardship. |
|
Beca de Excelencia Académica (Academic Excellence Scholarship) |
Top-performing undergraduate students |
Undergraduate |
Partial tuition coverage |
Typically December |
Merit-based scholarship for top academic performers in undergraduate programs. |
|
Beca Presidente de la República |
Chilean students or students with permanent residence |
Undergraduate/Postgraduate |
Monthly living stipend |
Typically January |
Scholarship for students showing academic excellence and financial need. |
|
Beca Antofagasta Mining Research |
Master’s and PhD students specializing in mining and related fields |
Master’s/PhD |
Research funding, tuition coverage, stipend |
N/A |
Supports research in mining and metallurgy, a priority field in the Antofagasta region. |
|
Beca Talento Joven (Young Talent Scholarship) |
Outstanding Chilean or international high school graduates |
Undergraduate |
Full or partial tuition coverage |
N/A |
Aimed at new students with exceptional academic records or leadership potential. |
|
Beca de Investigación de Energías Renovables (Renewable Energy Research Scholarship) |
Students pursuing research in renewable energy (Solar, Wind) |
Master’s/PhD |
Full tuition, research funding, stipend |
N/A |
Supports students focused on renewable energy research, given the university’s strength in solar energy research. |
|
Beca de Movilidad Internacional (International Mobility Scholarship) |
Chilean and international students |
Undergraduate/Postgraduate |
Travel and living expenses for study abroad |
N/A |
Supports international exchange programs, covering part of the travel and living expenses. |
|
Beca Indígena (Indigenous Peoples Scholarship) |
Chilean indigenous students |
Undergraduate |
Tuition, living stipend |
Typically November |
Available to students from Chilean indigenous communities, based on socioeconomic need and academic achievement. |
Facility/Accommodation Option |
Description |
Cost (USD) (Approx.) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
University Residences (On-Campus Housing) |
Dorm-style housing located on or near the main campus, typically shared rooms for students. |
$200 - $350 per month |
Limited availability, priority for international students and students from other regions. |
|
Private Student Residences (Off-Campus) |
Private dormitories or residences located near the university, offering private or shared rooms. |
$300 - $500 per month |
May include utilities (water, electricity, Wi-Fi). Some offer meal plans or kitchen facilities. |
|
Shared Apartments (Off-Campus) |
Apartments shared among students, often located near the city center or close to the university. |
$250 - $450 per month |
Costs depend on location, number of roommates, and apartment size. |
|
Studio Apartments (Off-Campus) |
Small, private apartments for one person or couples, typically fully furnished with basic amenities. |
$400 - $600 per month |
More independence, but higher cost compared to shared housing. |
|
Homestay with Local Families (Off-Campus) |
Living with a local Chilean family, includes meals and utilities. |
$350 - $500 per month |
Good option for international students looking to improve Spanish and experience local culture. |
|
Hostels or Temporary Accommodation |
Short-term accommodation for students looking for temporary housing until they secure long-term options. |
$150 - $300 per month |
Temporary stay; ideal for students arriving early and seeking permanent housing. |
|
Student Boarding Houses (Pension-style) |
Basic room and board, usually including meals, shared with other students. |
$250 - $400 per month |
More affordable but fewer amenities compared to private housing. |
Campus Facility |
Description |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
Main Campus (Coloso Campus) |
Located in the southern part of Antofagasta, near the coast. It houses most of the university faculties. |
Includes academic buildings, libraries, computer labs, and student services. |
|
Library |
Extensive library with access to academic journals, books, and research materials. |
Available to all students. Online access to databases provided. |
|
Sports Facilities |
Includes soccer fields, basketball courts, and gyms. |
Free or low-cost access for students. Organized sports and fitness programs available. |
|
Cafeterias and Dining Areas |
Several cafeterias and snack bars located across the campus. |
Affordable meal options available for students. |
|
Student Health Services |
Basic health services and medical consultations for students. |
Free or low-cost services. Psychological counseling available. |
|
Student Union and Common Areas |
Spaces for student organizations and activities, with meeting rooms and recreational areas. |
Active student life with clubs, cultural events, and social gatherings. |
|
Wi-Fi Access |
Free Wi-Fi access across the main campus for students and staff. |
Available in academic buildings, library, and common areas. |
Strong Focus on Science, Engineering, and Renewable Energy: The university’s academic programs focus on areas such as engineering, renewable energy, marine sciences, and health sciences, with a commitment to applied research.
Research Opportunities: Students, especially those in graduate and PhD programs, have access to research in fields like mining, solar energy, marine biology, and environmental sustainability.
Academic Support: The university provides various academic support services, including tutoring, libraries, online databases, and career counseling for students in need of additional assistance.
Student Organizations: The university has several student-led organizations, clubs, and societies that cater to a wide range of interests. These include academic societies (e.g., for engineering and science students), cultural clubs, environmental advocacy groups, and more.
Cultural and Arts Clubs: Students can participate in drama, music, and visual arts, which are encouraged through the Faculty of Arts and student clubs. The university often holds art exhibitions, music concerts, and theater performances.
International Student Support: The university has a dedicated office for international students, which provides help with orientation, visa matters, and integration into campus life. Language exchange programs and cultural activities are organized to help international students adapt and engage with the local culture.
Events and Festivals: The university and the city of Antofagasta host various cultural events throughout the year, including:
University Week (Semana Universitaria): A week filled with student competitions, cultural performances, and social events.
Antofagasta Festival: A major annual event in the city that includes music, food, and cultural exhibitions.
Sports Facilities: The university provides access to multiple sports facilities, including:
Soccer fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, and gyms.
Swimming pools and volleyball courts for recreational and competitive sports.
Organized Sports: Students can join various sports teams and clubs. The university has competitive teams in soccer, volleyball, basketball, and other sports.
The university participates in local and national inter-university competitions.
Outdoor Activities: Due to its unique location near the Atacama Desert and the Pacific coast, students have opportunities for outdoor activities such as:
Hiking and trekking in the nearby desert and coastal areas.
Beach activities such as swimming, surfing, and beach volleyball.
Astronomy trips to take advantage of the world-renowned clear skies of northern Chile.
On-Campus and Off-Campus Housing: Students can choose from university-managed on-campus dormitories or off-campus housing such as shared apartments or private accommodations. International students are often given priority for on-campus housing.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Antofagasta is generally moderate, with rent prices varying based on the type of accommodation. Students can expect a range of $250 to $600 per month depending on whether they live on or off-campus.
City Life in Antofagasta: The city itself offers a range of amenities, including:
Restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers.
Museums, cinemas, and theaters.
The city’s coastal location means students can enjoy the beach and seaside activities, as well as the backdrop of the Atacama Desert for adventurous weekend excursions.
Social and Environmental Initiatives: The University of Antofagasta encourages students to engage with local communities through volunteering and social programs.
Environmental projects focused on desert ecology, water conservation, and renewable energy are common.
Health brigades: Students in health sciences often participate in outreach programs to provide health services to underserved communities in the region.
Local Community Engagement: Students can volunteer to help with educational programs, environmental cleanups, and events in collaboration with local organizations.
Health and Counseling Services: The university provides healthcare services, including medical consultations, mental health counseling, and psychological support.
Free or low-cost medical services are available to students through the university clinic.
Mental health services and counseling are available for students facing academic or personal challenges.
Student Support Office: Offers guidance on academic matters, career development, and personal concerns. The office also organizes workshops and career fairs to help students transition to the job market.
Cafeterias and Dining: Several cafeterias and dining areas are located across the campus, offering affordable meals and snacks for students. Local food, international cuisine, and healthy options are available.
Orientation and Integration: The International Office at the University of Antofagasta helps international students with orientation, including tours of the campus, information sessions, and guidance on settling in.
Language Support: The university may offer Spanish language courses or support for international students to improve their language skills. In return, local students often seek language exchange opportunities to practice English or other languages.
Cultural Exchange: The university holds events to promote cultural exchange between local and international students, such as international food fairs, language cafes, and country-themed events.
Internship and Job Placement Support: The university has strong connections with industries in the Antofagasta region, especially in mining, engineering, and renewable energy. Students often have access to internships, co-op programs, and job placements in these fields.
Career Counseling: The university provides career counseling services, helping students with CV writing, interview preparation, and career planning.
Job Fairs and Networking Events: The university hosts job fairs and networking events, connecting students with potential employers in both the public and private sectors.
Safe Campus: The University of Antofagasta is considered safe for students, with campus security services and 24/7 monitoring to ensure the safety of both local and international students.
Safe City: Antofagasta is a relatively safe city, but students are advised to take normal precautions, particularly when exploring urban areas or traveling at night.
Mining Industry: The Antofagasta region is one of the world’s most important mining hubs, producing large quantities of copper, lithium, and other minerals. Many companies, such as Codelco, Antofagasta Minerals, and BHP Billiton, have operations in the region and frequently recruit graduates from the University of Antofagasta for positions in engineering, geology, metallurgy, and mining operations.
Renewable Energy: The university has a strong emphasis on solar energy and renewable energy research, benefiting from its location in the Atacama Desert, one of the best regions for solar energy production. Graduates often find opportunities in solar energy projects, engineering firms, and research positions.
Marine Sciences and Aquaculture: Due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and the Humboldt Current, the university is a leader in marine biology and aquaculture. Students in these programs have opportunities to work with local fisheries, marine research centers, and environmental organizations.
The university encourages students, particularly in fields like engineering, health sciences, and business, to take internships as part of their studies. Internships often lead to job placements after graduation.
Mandatory Internships: Many programs, especially in engineering and health sciences, include mandatory internships or professional practicums in their curriculum. These internships are often arranged through the university’s contacts in local industries, hospitals, or research institutions.
For example, mining engineering students are required to complete internships at mining companies in the region, which can lead to future employment.
Career Counseling and Job Search Assistance: The university’s student support services and career development office provide guidance on job search strategies, including CV writing workshops, interview preparation, and career counseling.
Networking Events and Job Fairs: The university regularly hosts career fairs, networking events, and industry-specific workshops where students can meet with potential employers, learn about job opportunities, and establish professional connections.
These events are often focused on industries dominant in the Antofagasta region, such as mining, energy, and marine sciences.
Job Portals: The university provides access to job portals and listings of available internships and job opportunities in the region and across Chile. Students can use these platforms to apply for jobs directly.
The University of Antofagasta has a growing alumni network, especially in industries such as mining, engineering, and renewable energy. Alumni often return to the university to participate in career fairs, give guest lectures, and offer networking opportunities for current students.
Mentorship Programs: Alumni and industry professionals sometimes serve as mentors for students, offering career advice, internship opportunities, and job referrals. This can be particularly helpful for students looking to enter competitive fields.
National Admission Process (PSU/PDT) for Undergraduate Students:
In Chile, public universities like the University of Antofagasta use the Prueba de Selección Universitaria (PSU), recently replaced by the Prueba de Transición (PDT), as a key admission requirement for undergraduate programs. Students are ranked based on their scores, and those with the highest scores are admitted to their chosen programs.
High-Demand Programs like Medicine, Nursing, Engineering, and Law tend to be more competitive and selective, with limited spots available. These programs may have lower acceptance rates due to high applicant numbers and limited capacity.
Less competitive programs (e.g., in the humanities or basic sciences) might have higher acceptance rates, as the demand is generally lower.
International Students:
For international students, the process is different, and acceptance often depends on academic qualifications, language proficiency (Spanish for most programs), and specific program availability.
International students may face a slightly less competitive process compared to domestic applicants, as there are often specific spots reserved for international students, depending on the program.
Postgraduate and PhD Programs:
Acceptance to Master's and PhD programs is more selective, particularly for research-intensive fields such as Engineering, Marine Sciences, and Renewable Energy. These programs generally have small cohorts and require a strong academic background, research proposals, and letters of recommendation.
While the acceptance rate is not formally stated, PhD programs are likely to have a lower acceptance rate compared to undergraduate programs due to their specialized nature.
Undergraduate Programs: Based on trends at public universities in Chile, the estimated acceptance rate for undergraduate programs at the University of Antofagasta may range from 30% to 50%, with more competitive programs (like Medicine and Engineering) having a lower acceptance rate (~20%-30%) and less competitive programs potentially having a higher acceptance rate.
Postgraduate and PhD Programs: Postgraduate programs, especially research-based programs, are typically more selective, and their estimated acceptance rate might range from 20% to 40%, depending on the program and the number of available positions.
Location: The Coloso Campus is located in the southern part of the city of Antofagasta, near the coastline. It is the primary and largest campus of the university.
Address: Avenida Universidad de Antofagasta, Coloso, Antofagasta, Chile
Key Features:
This campus houses most of the university’s faculties, including Engineering, Health Sciences, Marine Sciences, and Basic Sciences.
It also includes the main library, administrative offices, research centers, and student services.
The Coloso Campus is close to the coast, offering a scenic environment with access to outdoor activities and proximity to the Pacific Ocean.
Location: The Angamos Campus is located closer to the city center, in the northern part of Antofagasta.
Address: Avenida Angamos 601, Antofagasta, Chile
Key Features:
This campus is home to faculties like Medicine and Dentistry, and it includes facilities such as laboratories, classrooms, and clinical practice centers.
It is near hospitals and health institutions, making it convenient for health science students to gain practical experience.
