Chile is growing in popularity as a study abroad location because it provides top-notch instruction, a lively cultural environment, and breathtaking scenery. The abundance of fully supported scholarships in Chile is among the strongest arguments in favor of studying there for a higher degree.
These grants help students concentrate on their academics by paying for living expenses in addition to tuition. In this article, we shall examine the several scholarship options in Chile that will be open to foreign students in 2025.
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Why Should You Study in Chile?
Chile provides a distinctive combination of top-notch instruction and cultural encounters. World-class research opportunities, highly skilled faculty, and state-of-the-art infrastructure are what draw students to Chilean universities.
Furthermore, the availability of multiple fully financed scholarships greatly reduces the financial burden of studying abroad, making Chile a desirable location for international students.
What are the Language Proficiency Requirements for International Students to study in Chile?
Most universities and colleges in Chile require applicants to be proficient in Spanish in order to be admitted. With a recommended level of B2, competency can be proven through exams like DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) for bachelor (BS) programs. It is frequently necessary to have a higher level of competency, like DELE C1, in order to enroll in master’s and doctorate programs.
Furthermore, with scores typically around TOEFL iBT 80 or IELTS 6.5, some colleges may accept international English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS, especially for programs taught in English. The criteria for each university can differ, so always double-check.
List of Scholarships for International Students in Chile
In 2025, you can apply for scholarships offered in Chile by the four organizations listed below:
#1. Chilean Government Scholarships
The Chilean government offers a variety of scholarships, mostly for postgraduate courses, to students from abroad. These scholarships frequently pay for living expenses, health insurance, and tuition. Among the renowned government scholarships are:
- ANID PhD Scholarship: Aimed at high-achieving students to pursue PhD programs in Chile. Applications are open from October to December (opening November 15, 2024)​.
- ANID Master’s Degree Scholarship: Supports master’s degree programs, excluding business, finance, and marketing. Applications are open from November to January​ (Learn Chile)​.
#2. Chilean University Scholarships
For overseas students, a number of Chilean colleges provide their own scholarships. These grants could pay for living expenses, tuition, or both. Depending on the university, different scholarships have different conditions for eligibility. Among the well-known instances are:
- University of Atacama, INCT UDA Fully Funded International PhD Scholarship: Supports PhD studies in astronomy and planetary sciences​ (Ref).
- Masters Scholarships in Engineering at Pontifical Catholic University of Chile: Available for Geotechnical Engineering Programs​ (Ref)​.
#3. International Scholarships
Numerous global organizations provide scholarships geared toward particular academic specialties or demographic segments. Among the illustrious organizations are:
- Fulbright Commission: Provides scholarships for master’s and PhD programs.​
- Organization of American States (OAS): Offers scholarships for various programs in Chile​.
- German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD): Scholarships for research and higher education in Chile​.
#4. Juan Gómez Millas Scholarship for Foreign Students (BJGME)
The Juan Gómez Millas scholarship for foreign students (BJGME) is intended for students from Latin America and the Caribbean who have acquired their high school diploma in Chile or have had it validated there if it was obtained in another country and have permanent residency in Chile. The scholarship offers up to CLP 1,150,000 in annual tuition support.
- Benefits: Up to CLP 1,150,000 per year for tuition fees.
- Eligibility: Students from Latin America and the Caribbean with permanent residency in Chile.
- Application Period: Up to November 2024.
#5. Nelson Mandela Master’s Degree Programs
This scholarship is for professionals in South Africa, Mozambique, and Angola. As long as students meet the conditions outlined in the agreement with the Chilean International Cooperation Agency for Development (AGCID) regarding academic performance, length of stay in the nation, and other matters, the scholarship will cover tuition fees, health insurance, and maintenance costs for a maximum of two years.
- Benefits: Tuition fees, health insurance, and maintenance costs.
- Eligibility: Professionals from Angola, Mozambique, and South Africa.
- Application Period: May to October 2024.
#6. Pacific Alliance Scholarships
Undergraduate students who have completed at least half of their degree and have a grade point average of 5.0 out of 7.0 are eligible to apply for a one-semester exchange program funded by the Pacific Alliance’s Student and Academic Mobility Platform, a collaborative effort involving Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru.
Public administration, political science, international commerce, economics, finance, engineering, innovation, science and technology, the environment and climate change, business and international relations, and tourism are among the priority areas for this scholarship.
- Benefits: One-semester exchange opportunities, airfares, accommodation, maintenance, and health insurance.
- Eligibility: Undergraduate students from member countries who have completed at least half of their degree.
- Application Period: Varies depending on the institution​.
How to Apply for Chile Study Visa
International students who get any of these scholarships in Chile can apply for a Student Visa, known as a “Visa de Estudiante“. For the duration of their program, students with this visa are able to study full-time in Chile.
- Validity: Issued for a maximum of one year, renewable annually for the duration of the study program. For shorter courses, the visa is issued for a specific period of study.
- Scholarship Advantage: Student visas for scholarship recipients are often granted for the entire duration of the scholarship.
- Renewal: Can be renewed at the Departamento de Extranjeria y Migracion in Chile before the current visa expires.
- Processing Time: Typically takes 2–6 weeks.
Required Documents for the Visa Application
- Passport and three passport-sized photos
- Proof of funds to cover studies and living expenses
- Letter of acceptance from a recognized Chilean educational institution
- Police clearance certificate
- Health insurance
- Birth certificate
- Medical certificate
- Proof of scholarship award (if applicable)
- Paid visa fee receipt
- Return or onward ticket
Conclusion
Chile’s wide array of scholarships offers you top-notch education, cross-cultural interactions, and significant financial assistance by selecting Chile for your postsecondary studies. Get started on your scholarship search as soon as possible, put together a compelling application, and begin your journey toward a rewarding academic experience in Chile.
References: DAAD
