Top 5 student cities in Chile

Chile has become one of Latin America's most attractive destinations for higher education, and more and more students are seeking out the top five student cities in Chile for the quality of their universities, their stability, and their international reputation. From large capitals with vibrant cultural life to quieter university towns, the country offers options for a variety of experiences.

 

In this article, we review the best university cities in Chile, analysing the pros and cons of each destination, the most prominent universities, and student accommodation. In addition, we explain how to find accommodation easily and safely through our online platform specialising in student accommodation.

 

Santiago

Santiago de Chile is undoubtedly the city with the largest number of university students. As the country's capital, it’s also Chile's main economic and cultural centre. Studying in Santiago not only gives you access to a wide variety of degree programmes and professional internships, but also to a lively atmosphere, with neighbourhoods strongly influenced by the presence of students.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Santiago

Student life in Santiago has many positive aspects, but also some disadvantages that may affect your daily routine.

 

Pros of studying in Santiago

• The widest range of leisure and cultural activities in the country.
• Diversity of universities and programmes.
• Possibility to enjoy the mountains and the coast easily.

 

Cons of studying in Santiago

• It’s the most expensive city in the country to live in.
• It usually has very poor air quality, as it’s located in a valley.

 

Top Universities in Santiago

Santiago is home to some of the most prestigious institutions in the country.

 

Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (Pontifical University of Chile)

This prestigious institution is recognised throughout Latin America for the quality of its teaching. It also has a wide range of exchange programmes and strong links with the business sector, making it one of the most popular choices for both domestic and international students.

Find out everything you need to know about the university and its surroundings in our guide to accommodation near the Pontifical University of Chile.

 

Student housing in Santiago

Rental prices in Santiago de Chile are usually among the highest in the country. However, it always depends on the neighbourhood where the accommodation is located and its proximity to the city centre and universities. In general, the average cost of a room in a shared flat is usually between CLP $234,000 and $375,000 (around €210-340) per month.

 

Are you planning to study in Chile? Don't miss our guide to student housing in Santiago, with up-to-date neighbourhoods and prices.

 

Valparaíso

Valparaíso is one of Chile's most iconic university cities, known for its bohemian character, colourful architecture and strong cultural identity. It’s a popular choice for students seeking a creative environment, proximity to the sea and easy access to the capital.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Valparaíso

Studying in Valparaíso can be a great experience because of its advantages, although it also involves some challenges.

 

Pros of studying in Valparaíso

• It’s more affordable than living in Santiago.
• Active and bohemian cultural life, and a lively student atmosphere.
• Close to the sea and easy access to the capital by public transport.

 

Cons of studying in Valparaíso

• It may be considered a dirty city or have peculiar smells in certain areas.
• The range of employment and leisure opportunities is more limited than in Santiago.

 

Top Universities in Valparaíso

Valparaíso has institutions with a long history.

 

Universidad de Valparaíso (Valparaíso University)

The city's main public university is one of the best in the country and in South America. Many of its faculties are located in the Playa Ancha area of the city, although there are also buildings in various more central neighbourhoods.

 

Student housing in Valparaíso

Rent for students in Valparaíso is usually more affordable than in Santiago. Rooms in shared flats remain the most affordable option for students, and prices vary depending on the area.

 

Concepción

Concepción is one of the most important university centres in southern Chile. In fact, it’s characterised by its strong student identity. It’s a dynamic city with a good quality of life, more moderate costs than the capital, and an ideal environment for those who want to live in a city with a more relaxed pace than Santiago.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Concepción

Concepción offers many academic opportunities, although it isn’t without certain drawbacks for students.

 

Pros of studying in Concepción

• Very good university atmosphere.
• The cost of living is more affordable than in Santiago.
• Good cultural offerings and a well-organised city.

 

Cons of studying in Concepción

• The climate is rainy most of the year.
• Distance from the capital, which makes travelling more complicated.

 

Top Universities in Concepción

Some renowned institutions in Chile have offices in Concepción.

 

Universidad de Concepción (University of Concepción)

The University of Concepción is one of the most renowned universities in the country, standing out for its high academic standards, investment in research and iconic campus. In fact, it has several campuses in this city and others in the region, but the one in Concepción is considered one of the most important in Chile.

 

Student housing in Concepción

In Concepción, the cost of student accommodation is usually cheaper than in Santiago and Valparaíso. Single rooms in shared flats are affordable, including in neighbourhoods close to university campuses.

 

Viña del Mar

This modern coastal city is another of the country's university centres. It offers a very good quality of life with the chance to enjoy the sea and modern infrastructure with its tall buildings. It’s also close to Valparaíso and has good connections to Santiago. All this makes it an ideal destination in Chile for students looking for a quieter university environment with good leisure facilities and connections to other cities.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Viña del Mar

Choosing Viña del Mar to study brings with it great advantages, although certain disadvantages may affect the experience.

 

Pros of studying in Viña del Mar

• Very good quality of life.
• Close to the sea and easy access to Valparaíso and Santiago.
• It’s a clean city with modern infrastructure.

 

Cons of studying in Viña del Mar

• The cost of living is higher than in other cities in the region, mainly because it’s a tourist destination.
• It has fewer university options.

 

Top Universities in Viña del Mar

Viña del Mar is home to institutions that are renowned throughout Chile.

 

Universidad Andrés Bello (Andrés Bello University)

This private university stands out above all for its practical approach, with programmes tailored to the demands of the job market and employability. It has several campuses in Viña del Mar, most of which are located in the city centre.

 

Student housing in Viña del Mar

Rent for students in Viña del Mar tends to be higher than in other nearby university towns, mainly due to the amount of tourism it receives. Rooms in shared flats vary in price depending on the area and proximity to the coast.

 

Valdivia

Valdivia is a university town par excellence. It stands out for its natural surroundings, its peaceful pace of life and its strong academic identity. It’s an ideal alternative for students seeking a more relaxed environment, with good quality education and constant contact with nature.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Valdivia

The academic experience in Valdivia has many advantages, but certain disadvantages could influence your stay.

 

Pros of studying in Valdivia

• Privileged natural environment.
• Close-knit student life and a pleasant university atmosphere.
• It’s more affordable than larger cities.

 

Cons of studying in Valdivia

• It rains for most of the year.
• Fewer job and cultural opportunities compared to Santiago or other large cities.

 

Top Universities in Valdivia

Valdivia is home to several higher education institutions.

 

Universidad Austral de Chile (Austral University of Chile)

This is one of the most prestigious institutions in the south of the country and has a very good academic reputation. It has several campuses in the city, as well as some in surrounding towns.

 

Student housing in Valdivia

Rent for students in Valdivia is usually cheaper than in the country's major cities. Rooms in shared flats offer affordable prices and wide availability near campuses, making it easy to find accommodation that fits a student's budget.

 

Find accommodation in Chile with Erasmus Play

Choosing between the top five student cities in Chile depends on each student's profile, budget, and desired lifestyle. Santiago stands out for its academic offerings and professional opportunities, while Valparaíso and Viña del Mar offer a coastal environment with a strong cultural identity. Concepción and Valdivia, meanwhile, are highly valued options due to their university atmosphere and good balance between educational quality and cost of living.

 

Regardless of the city you choose, having suitable accommodation is key to a good academic experience. Through our online student accommodation platform, you can compare options in different cities in Chile and find an option that suits your needs in a simple and secure way.

Other guides on studying and living in Chile

Here you can find more information relevant to your experience:

• Studying in Chile