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Program Overview
Program Overview
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Popular Subject Areas
Latin American Studies & Courses with Locals
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Location
Valparaíso & Viña del Mar
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Host University
Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso
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Term
Spring 2BSL 2026
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Program Dates
Late Feb, 2026 - Mid Jul, 2026
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Program Length
Semester
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Application Deadline
Nov 01, 2025
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Forms and Payment Deadline
Nov 15, 2025
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Credit
180 - 240 Contact Hours
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Eligibility
2.50 Minimum GPA*
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Cost
TBA
- Apply Now
Study Abroad Program Description
Designed to expand your knowledge of the Spanish language and granting you the opportunity to enroll in courses with local Chileans, this program allows you to experience a typical and fully immersive semester abroad. This program requires an advanced or higher Spanish proficiency level to which you can choose from a wide range of courses that fall under the host university's curriculum. All courses are taught at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso by local university professors. Please note that should you not wish to enroll in at minimum one course with locals, you will be required to enroll in the Spanish Language & Latin American Studies program.
What is the difference between the A and B programs?
- The A program includes a month-long intensive Spanish program. Fall students who choose this option will enroll in two 45 contact hour Spanish courses.
- The B program does not include the month-long intensive Spanish program. You will be taking normally scheduled semester-long courses.
You can combine the Spring + Fall OR Fall + Spring sessions at a discounted price. For more information about this option, please contact your ISA Chile Site Specialist.
*Eligibility
MINIMUM GPA
Students must have a minimum grade point average of 2.50.
MINIMUM ADMISSIONS PREREQUISITES
Students must have completed or tested out of a minimum of four semesters (six quarters) of college-level Spanish
What's Included
Comprehensive Advising and Support
Comprehensive Advising and Support
A team of helpful ISA staff members is here to support you through the entire study abroad process, from finding the perfect program through re-entry. The Program Advisors will help you choose your program based on your unique objectives. Once you’ve selected your program, you will work with your Program Manager on the application process as well as pre-departure forms and finances. Your Program Manager will also assist with academics, housing, visas, and city-living/cultural guidance.
In addition to individual advising, you will receive virtual resources to help prepare you for your time abroad. This includes the ISA Student Portal, which houses your program application, pre-departure forms/resources, and the online orientation. The online orientation is a pre-cursor to the on-site orientations and offers city-specific resources about living in your host city, communication, packing, diversity abroad, how to be academically successful, and more.
24-Hour Emergency
24-Hour Emergency
The ISA Health, Safety, and Security team facilitates an in-house on-call system with a U.S.-based employee and manager who are on-call and available in case of emergency 24-7. ISA regular office hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:00am - 7:00pm and Friday, 7:00am - 5:00pm Central Time.
If you are a parent or student needing assistance in an emergency situation outside of the regular office hours, please call the ISA office at 512-480-8522 to access the ISA emergency contact information for that particular week. Students who experience an emergency while abroad will also have access to on-site staff 24-hour emergency assistance.
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Health, Safety, and Security (HSS) for ISA students is jointly managed by our resident staff and HSS team. This team works to monitor risk at program locations, respond to any crises that may arise, and develop policies to further ensure the health, safety, and security of students abroad with ISA.
Airport Reception*
Airport Reception*
Ground transportation is provided from the airport as long as you arrive during the ISA designated arrival date and time and at the appropriate airport. Upon acceptance into your program, you will receive the “How to Book Your Flight” form which outlines the specific details for airport reception.
*Airport reception is not provided for most Intensive Month or J-Term programs, as well as programs that combine 2 intensive months, such as Quarter programs.
Visa Support
Visa Support
Your ISA Program Manager will be available to help you with the visa process for your program country, if applicable. They will provide resources, guidance on necessary steps to obtain your visa, and deliver supporting visa application materials to you as needed.
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition and administrative fees at the host university are included in the program price. Classes are held at the host university and are taught by local and/or visiting faculty. Some classes will have additional fees that are not included in the program price.
Housing
Housing
Housing is guaranteed and included in the price of all ISA programs, with the exception of Pacific programs, in which housing is offered at an additional cost. Accommodation options will vary according to program site and session. For more details about ISA's housing options and applicable security deposits, please refer to the housing tab for your program of interest.
Meals and Laundry Service*
Meals and Laundry Service*
*The possibility for included meals and/or laundry services vary per location and housing option. Meals and laundry services are provided with most homestays to a degree. For more details, please refer to the housing tab for your program of interest.
Bridging Cultures Orientation
Bridging Cultures Orientation
The Bridging Cultures Orientation will be delivered to you in the first few days of your time abroad. It is designed to prepare you for a successful, positive, and rewarding experience that will influence the rest of your life. This is accomplished through introducing you to your host city’s culture and infrastructure as well as through goal setting, intercultural awareness, diversity and professional development activities.
Full-Time Resident Staff
Full-Time Resident Staff
The full-time resident staff is available to assist you with all aspects of your experience abroad. The resident staff provides support during official course registration and arranges the Bridging Cultures Program orientation, excursions, weekly meetings, cultural activities, and much more. Staff members are trained to ensure the well-being of each program participant and are dedicated to facilitating a positive and meaningful study abroad experience.
On-Site ISA Offices
On-Site ISA Offices
Most program locations have an on-site ISA office within the program city. The on-site offices provide you with an additional comfortable space in the city and serve as a common meeting place and resource center.
Internet Access
Internet Access
As an ISA student, you will enjoy free internet access at ISA on-site offices, computer labs at the host university, and/or your ISA housing.
ISA Discovery Model
ISA Discovery Model
ISA programs facilitate learning and development through co-curricular activities. We rely on host universities to provide quality instruction in the classroom, but ISA is the main facilitator of learning outside of the classroom. Efforts to promote student learning are shaped by a teaching and learning framework we call the ISA Discovery Model.
According to this model, student learning and development is organized into five areas of discovery: 1. Intercultural, 2. Historical, 3. Sociopolitical, 4. Professional and 5. Environmental
Throughout the duration of your ISA program, we provide you with the opportunity to pursue these five areas of discovery through the Bridging Cultures Orientation, excursions, cultural activities, and references to non-ISA sponsored events and opportunities.
Excursions*
Excursions*
Organized excursions are included with each program to complement the academic component of your abroad experience. These complementary experiences are designed to engage student learning outside of the classroom in the five areas of the Discovery Model. Transportation and guided tours are included, as well as hotel accommodations and breakfast during multi-day excursions. Additional optional excursions may be offered during each program that are not included in the program cost.
*Excursions are not included for Intensive Month, J-Term, some summer sessions, as well as some programs that combine 2 intensive months, such as Quarter programs.
Cultural Activities
Cultural Activities
The ISA program staff develops unique cultural activities custom-designed to invite you to experience the local color of your host city, while learning about the history and culture of your new surroundings. Speaking the native language with locals, tasting the regional cuisine, and partaking in the native traditions are only a few of the ways these cultural activities lead to full appreciation of the program city.
Insurance
Insurance
A Blanket Accident and Sickness Policy is included in the program and covers you during the official on-site period of the program. This is not an optional benefit; every ISA participant will be covered by this policy. A full description of coverage can be found on the ISA website.
We recommend that you maintain comprehensive health insurance while abroad. This is particularly important if you have any pre-existing conditions but is also beneficial if you have an injury or illness while abroad and require further treatment upon your return home. Please be sure to consult with your current insurance provider to confirm coverage policies while traveling abroad.
Official Transcript from the Host University
Official Transcript from the Host University
Upon completion of the ISA program, your host university will issue an official transcript with all coursework taken abroad. ISA's Academic Records Department will process and forward the official transcript to the appropriate office at your home university, and a photocopy will be sent to your permanent home address for your records. ISA will provide a cover letter to accompany the transcript with important academic information, including the host university's grading system and recommended U.S. letter grade equivalencies, translated course titles, and credit conversion recommendations.
Professional Development Toolbox
Professional Development Toolbox
The Professional Development Toolbox, available in the online orientation section of the student portal, will help you identify the skills and key competencies you have developed through your personal, academic, and cultural experiences. This toolbox helps you to articulate the transferable skills developed through study abroad in a way that shows potential employers or post-graduate universities the benefits our you will provide them as a direct result of your experience abroad.
Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarship Opportunities
As an ISA participant, you will have the opportunity to apply for scholarships or grants that can be applied directly to assist with your study abroad program. ISA offers over $1,000,000 in scholarships and grants each year. To see what opportunities are available, please visit the Support & Funding page.
Academics
Credits
Contact Hours
180 - 240
Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
12 - 16
Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
18 - 24
Academic Information
Course Selection
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Students must enroll in 180 - 240 PUCV contact hours per semester. Students are required to enroll in at least one "regular" course with locals and three to four additional courses of their choice. Students have the option of taking any course offered with international students through the Spanish Language & Chilean Culture program. However, in order to optimize the academic rigor of this program, ISA strongly recommends that students enroll primarily in regular courses with locals.
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Please note that there are three different types of courses offered at the PUCV-- Regular, General Electives and Spanish Language & Latin American Studies.
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Regular courses are unique to each department, and for this reason are exclusive to those who study within the specific major or track. These course offerings are part of a fixed course curriculum and are very demanding for local students alike. In addition, these courses can be worth up to four to six credit hours and are offered two to three times a week.
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General elective courses are offered by different schools at the PUCV and are open to local and international students. These particular courses are offered once a week, and are worth two credit hours. Elective courses generally have more international students than locals enrolled.
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Spanish Language & Latin American Studies courses were designed through the PIIE (Programas Internacionales de Intercabio) International Exchange Program, with international students in mind. These course offerings were specifically created for international students, and offer a variety of courses related to Spanish language and Latin American studies.
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The courses listed below are only a sampling of what the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso offers. For a full list of course options, feel free to reference the Facultades y Carreras page on the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso's website.
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Students who possess a high intermediate, advanced or higher level of Spanish language are eligible to choose among the PUCV's 38-hour general elective courses instructed in Spanish with local Chilean students. It is important to mention that these general elective courses are not to be confused with "Regular" courses with Chilean students.
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Requests for sample syllabi can be made to the Chile Program Manager.
Course Credit
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Credits earned vary according to the policies of the students’ home institutions. According to ISA policy and possible visa requirements, students must maintain full-time enrollment status, as determined by their home institutions, for the duration of the program.
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The courses with locals are a 35-minute contact hour and the courses with International Students (PIIE) are 45-minute contact hours. ISA will recommend 1 U.S. semester credit for every 15 hours, or 3 U.S. credits for every 45 contact hours, after they have been adjusted. Credit Transfer is ultimately determined by the student's home university.
Language Placement and Recommendation
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Enrollment in Spanish courses is determined by the results of a language placement exam administered by the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso. Please note that your performance on the placement exam may not reflect the number of semesters of language instruction you've already completed at your home university. We strongly suggest that students who are trying to place into any level of language beyond true beginning prepare for the language placement exam by reviewing previous coursework.
Transcript Information
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The transcript from the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso will reflect the local host university contact hours for each course listed below. Please be in touch with your home university regarding credit transfer for this program.
Online Courses
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ISA does not recommend that students sign up for online courses through their host university. If enrolling in an online course is necessary for you to meet your degree requirements, you may only enroll in one online class. It is your responsibility to confirm with your home university that you will receive credit for online courses taken through your host university.
Courses
select allclear all
Course Disclaimer
- Courses and course hours of instruction are subject to change.
Support & Funding
ISA is here to support you when it comes to navigating your questions about traveling abroad, providing resources and information for your accessibility needs, and identifying funding for your program abroad.
SUPPORT TEAM
Our U.S. staff is available to support you though every stage of your study abroad journey. Please reach out with any questions about ISA programs or life on-site to your country-specific Program Manager.
Our on-site staff are there for you as soon as you arrive in country and will support you throughout your time abroad.
U.S. Team
Michelle McRaney
Senior Program Manager, Latin America
Michelle graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and a focus on International Management. She studied International Business in Caen, France and Spanish and International Management in Monterrey, Mexico. Michelle joined the ISA team in 1998. Michelle has led programs in Guanajuato, Mexico; Salamanca, Spain; Granada, Spain; Santander, Spain; Sydney, Australia; and Santiago, Dominican Republic. She also accompanied several ISA site visits in Chile and Argentina, and conducted new program research and staff training in Mexico and Brazil. In 2006, Michelle moved to Lima, Peru, where she set-up ISA's first program in Peru, which expanded to include Cusco. Michelle is excited about sharing the Peruvian culture and cuisine with all ISA participants and helping to adjust to life in Lima.
VALPARAÍSO & VIÑA DEL MAR TEAM
Lorna Arredondo
Student Services, Chile
Lorna Arredondo
Student Services
Lorna is a true local, born and raised in Quilpué, Chile, a suburb of Valparaíso. She studied Hotel and Restaurant Management at the Universidad de Valparaíso. Lorna got her first taste of international education while participating in a multicultural exchange with the organization "Youth With a Mission" in Buenos Aires, Argentina. She joined the ISA Chile team in 2006 and has found tremendous gratification working with international students. Lorna enjoys sharing the Chilean culture and language with others, as well as learning from others regarding their own culture and personal experiences. Lorna's hobbies include music, especially singing, and watching movies.
Lizette Arredondo Castillo
Director of ISA Chile Programs, Chile
Lizette Arredondo Castillo
Director of ISA Chile Programs
Resources
Access & Accommodations
With our wide portfolio of program types and locations, we’re confident there is a suitable, accessible program for each student.
Securing accommodations abroad can take time, so we ask that those with requests inform ISA early in the advising process. We recommend reaching out to your Program Manager or our Accessibility Team (accessibilityteam@worldstrides.com) to discuss your accessibility needs or accommodations abroad.
ISA Student Blog
ISA offers students the opportunity to blog about their experiences abroad from their own diverse perspectives. These posts can be found on the ISA Student Blog.
Funding
All students should have the opportunity to study abroad. To help make this a reality, ISA offers a variety of scholarships to help cover your study abroad costs. To learn more about our scholarship opportunities, check out our scholarships & grants page!
If you receive financial aid from your home university, you can likely use those funds for study abroad, as well. Speak with your home university’s financial aid office to learn about your options. Check out steps for using financial aid.
Questions about scholarships and funding? Email us at higheredfinaid@worldstrides.org
Housing
Living in ISA housing will give you the opportunity to experience aspects of the Chilean lifestyle that are inaccessible to the average visitor to Chile. With an open-mind and flexibility, the experience of living in another culture can be highly rewarding.
We strive to match your housing preferences with our available accommodations; however, housing preference requests cannot be guaranteed.
Homestay
For those seeking full linguistic and cultural immersion, living with a host family is the perfect housing option during your time abroad. Carefully selected by ISA’s resident staff, each host family is dedicated to providing a welcoming and comfortable environment tailored to your needs. Homestays include daily breakfast,...
Apartment
For those seeking complete independence during their time abroad, apartments offer an excellent housing option. Assigned on a first-come, first-served basis with limited availability, each apartment is fully furnished and includes rent and utilities as part of the program price. Located in the vibrant city of Viña del...
Independent Housing
If you prefer to secure your own housing, you have the option to arrange accommodations independently. By choosing this option, you will receive a discount equivalent to the housing portion of the program price. Please note that you are solely responsible for researching, booking, and managing your chosen...
Excursions
THERE’S MORE TO DISCOVER WITH ISA
Cultural Activities in Chile
The ISA on-site team inspires you to dive into the vibrant city and culture of Valparaíso. To support your journey, they curate a rich and diverse calendar of events that highlights the unique charm and character of this extraordinary city. Activities change each term and have previously included historical tours, language exchanges with local students, visits to Neruda’s Valparaíso home, and explorations of the fascinating art museum, Museo Fonck.
Cultural Activities in Chile
The ISA on-site team inspires you to dive into the vibrant city and culture of Valparaíso. To support your journey, they curate a rich and diverse calendar of events that highlights the unique charm and character of this extraordinary city. Activities change each term and have previously included historical tours, language exchanges with local students, visits to Neruda’s Valparaíso home, and explorations of the fascinating art museum, Museo Fonck.
Santiago
Begin your program with the perfect introduction to Chile on an exciting three-night, four-day excursion to Santiago, the nation’s vibrant capital. Explore the city's most iconic landmarks, including La Moneda, Cerro Santa Lucía, the Plaza de Armas and Catedral de Santiago, as well as the lively Central Market and the charming Los Domínicos village. This experience offers an incredible start to your Chilean adventure.
Santiago
Begin your program with the perfect introduction to Chile on an exciting three-night, four-day excursion to Santiago, the nation’s vibrant capital. Explore the city's most iconic landmarks, including La Moneda, Cerro Santa Lucía, the Plaza de Armas and Catedral de Santiago, as well as the lively Central Market and the charming Los Domínicos village. This experience offers an incredible start to your Chilean adventure.
Playas del Norte
On this day trip, you will visit the relaxing beach towns of Horcon and Zapallar. Horcón is a small fishing village just north of Viña del Mar and is often times considered an artisan's colony. Here you will find crafts of all types and also have the opportunity to sample delicious seafood empanadas. After an afternoon of treasure hunting, you will then have a chance to relax on the beautiful beaches of Zapallar.
Playas del Norte
On this day trip, you will visit the relaxing beach towns of Horcon and Zapallar. Horcón is a small fishing village just north of Viña del Mar and is often times considered an artisan's colony. Here you will find crafts of all types and also have the opportunity to sample delicious seafood empanadas. After an afternoon of treasure hunting, you will then have a chance to relax on the beautiful beaches of Zapallar.
Historical Tour in Santiago
You will return to the capital of Santiago to discover captivating details of Chile's history before, during, and after the Military Coup of 1973. You will take this opportunity to engage and learn about Chile's political trials that has left such an important mark in their overall identity. During this excursion you will visit the Cementerio General, Villa Grimaldi, and Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos.
Historical Tour in Santiago
You will return to the capital of Santiago to discover captivating details of Chile's history before, during, and after the Military Coup of 1973. You will take this opportunity to engage and learn about Chile's political trials that has left such an important mark in their overall identity. During this excursion you will visit the Cementerio General, Villa Grimaldi, and Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos.