How Much Does it Cost to Study in Chile?

Thanks to its strong economic growth, Chile is one of the more expensive countries in Latin America in terms of living costs, but also boasts of the highest standards of living in the region. Your exact costs will depend on your location, spending habits and lifestyle, but students generally need about US$700-1,100 each month, or at least US$8,400 per year.  It’s important to note that international students legally cannot work while they study in Chile, so you can’t supplement your finances with part-time work after you’ve arrived. Capital city Santiago was ranked 58^th in the Affordability category of the latest QS Best Student Cities, putting it in the mid-range of the 100 cities featured. As with many countries, living costs are lower outside of big cities.

In terms of accommodation, students might live in university halls, rent privately, or live with a Chilean host family (this may be the most affordable option, at US$600 per month with all bills and food included, and will also be an ideal way to perfect your Spanish).

Here are some examples of typical living costs in Chile, according to Numbeo:

• Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: US$8
• Bottle of water: US$1
• A liter of milk: US$1.20
• Loaf of bread: US$0.95
• One-way ticket on local transport: US$1
• Monthly transport pass: US$47.50
• Monthly gym fee: US$42
• Clothing (a summer dress): US$37
• Monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a city center: US$343
• Monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside a city center: US$274
• Monthly internet bill: US$30

You’ll also need to budget for additional costs, such as health insurance and the application fee for your student visa, which will vary depending on your nationality.

There are a range of scholarships available for international students to study in Chile, including:

Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile

A range of international scholarships awarded based on academic merit.

Universidad Diego Portales

A range of scholarship awards for students with financial need, as well as those awarded based on academic excellence.

Nelson Mandela Scholarship Program

This is for international students from South Africa, Angola and Mozambique to study a master’s degree at selected universities in Chile.

CONICYT National Master Scholarship

Another scholarship to study a master’s degree in Chile. CONICYT also offers scholarships for PhD students.

To find scholarship opportunities, you can consult the official website of the Chilean institution/s you’re interested in, check government agencies, independent scholarship database sites, and other online listings. You can read more advice on how to find scholarships to study abroad here.

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