Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Valparaiso

What were the biggest cultural differences you experienced?

One of the biggest cultural differences I experienced in Chile was the emphasis on personal relationships. They value strong connections with family and friends, and they prioritize social gatherings and spending quality time together. I had a more individualistic approach so I wasn’t very used to it. Additionally, meal times are different. The late dinner schedule, often around 9 PM or so. I knew to expect this because I have Chilean family in Canada but I never really ate so late.

What is the best form of transportation within the city?

The best form of transportation within the city depends on your priorities, but for me, the metro was the most convenient option. It was reliable, fast, and avoided the traffic that buses often face. However, it did require a bit of a walk from where I lived, which was manageable most days. The micros, as they call buses in Chile, are incredibly frequent and run until very late, making them a convenient option. However, they are often very crowded, and the atmosphere inside can feel a bit strange at times. That said, they are a fast way to get around the city. For more flexibility, there are apps like Uber and Didi are widely available and are great as well. Overall, I found a combination of these options worked best depending on the time of day and my destination.

What was your favourite place to visit within the city?

My favorite place to visit in Viña del Mar and Valparaíso, are their beaches. But, In Valparaíso specifically, exploring the hills was a wonderful experience. The city is famous for its colorful houses, street art, and the historic elevators (ascensores) that take you up the steep hills.

Were there any special events, festivals, or holidays in the city you would recommend others attend? Or anywhere you travelled to that you loved?

One of the most memorable holidays in Chile is the 18th of September, known as "Fiestas Patrias." It's a celebration of Chilean culture with traditional food, music, and dancing. The entire country celebrates it, especially in fondas (festival fairs). It is also a great way to connect with locals. As for places I traveled to, Pucón and San Pedro de Atacama were unforgettable. Pucón is perfect for outdoor things, because it offers amazing views of the Villarrica Volcano, hot springs, and lakes. San Pedro de Atacama, on the other hand, is completly different but was still lovely, it’s a desert, and some of the things you can see there are Valle de la Luna and geysers at El Tatio.

On average, what was the weather like?

When I first arrived in August, the weather was definitely colder. It was the middle of winter, and it got pretty chilly, especially in the mornings and at night. But as the months went on, by the time December came around, the weather warmed up significantly.

Did the university provide airport pickup?

Yes

Did the university have a buddy program?

No

Were the following provided in your homestay?

• Bedding - yes
• Kitchen - yes
• Pots, pans, utensils, etc. - yes

Please list the furniture that was provided in your room.

Bed, closet, desk, chair, wardrobe.

How long did it take to travel from your homestay to classes?

30 mins.

What would you suggest students pack before leaving Canada if they are studying at your host university?

Clothing (layering pieces), comfortable shoes, power adapter, computer, sunscreen, documents, Chilean pesos (in cash).

One of the most picturesque cities in Chile, Valparaiso is the country’s leading port and second largest city located 120 km northwest of Santiago. Valparaíso is renowned for its colorful, hilly neighborhoods filled with brightly coloured houses, vibrant street art, numerous staircases, funiculars, and distinctive architecture. With many higher education institutions, the city has a reputation as an educational centre. The city has a thriving arts scene featuring several art galleries, theatres, and annual festivals.

Since its founding in 1928, the Pontífica Universidad Católica de Valparaíso has established itself as one of the most prestigious institutions of the Chilean higher educational system. Located in the port city of Valparaiso, the university offers a wide variety of professional programs to over 11,600 students. PUCV has developed several integrated learning experiences to bring an innovative approach to teaching. For example, architecture professors at PUCV live and teach in an experimental city in houses that their classes have designed.

Chile’s breathtaking geography ranges from desert to glaciers, cliffs, valleys, lakes, volcanoes, forests, beaches, islands, and canals. From east to west, it is squeezed between the Andes mountain range and the Pacific Ocean. The country’s climate is as diverse as its geography. Aside from the obviously extreme climatic conditions of the Andes and the Atacama, the country enjoys a comfortable temperate climate.

Courses in English

Exchange students may take up to 6 credits of Spanish courses. (Exceptions can only be made in special circumstances). The remaining credits must be completed with 'regular' UPCV courses.

Language Courses

• All exchange students are required to take at least one Spanish language course from the following list:
  • Español Comunicacional y Cultura Chilena (90 Hours, 6 credits)
  • Written Spanish Course (60 Hours, 3 credits)
  • Ortophony and pronunciation (60 hours, 2 credits)
  • Grammar Course for Foreigners (60 hours, 4 credits)
• UPCV offers optional pre-semester Spanish and Culture courses. These courses are offered during May–July and January. Each course has 45 contact hours oriented to improving Spanish communication and cultural skills, and includes a weekly city tour through Valparaíso.

Departments at PUCV include:

• Agronomic and Food Sciences
• Architecture and Urbanism
• Economic and Administrative Sciences
• Engineering
• Law
• Marine Sciences and Geography
• Philosophy and Education
• Science
• Technology

You are eligible for this exchange if you are:

• A full-time U of L student
• In at least the 2nd year of your program
• In good academic standing, with a GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Fluent in Spanish (successfully completed at least three university-level Spanish courses)

For detailed information about vaccination recommendations when visiting Chile, please visit the Government of Canada's website.

Students studying in Chile must obtain a MANDATORY study visa.

After receiving an Official Acceptance Certificate from PUCV, students must apply in person to the Consulate General of Chile, located in Vancouver.

As part of the application process, the applicant must have a Health Certificate signed by an Official Physicians designated by the Consulate General of Chile, the nearest of which is in Calgary. After submitting the complete visa application package in person, the visa is usually issued within 24 hours.

For further details about this visa application process, click here.

Homestays

• Information regarding costs can be obtained by emailing dii@pucv.cl
• Fully immerse yourself in the Chilean culture and language
• Includes: room and board, three meals per day, internet, and laundry service

Private Accommodations

• Students wishing to find independent accommodations can contact PUCV for a list of B&Bs, hostels, hotels, and residences that are good, affordable, and safe housing options.

Students going on an exchange pay regular U of L tuition and fees. For up-to-date tuition information, visit the U of L's Financial Services website.

Please contact us for further information at outgoing@uleth.ca.