Studying in Uruguay: key information to make the best out of your experience

Below are some of the most common requirements for exchange students, as well as other important details:

• To apply for the exchange, you must fill out a form at the university, to receive an admission letter.
• You’ll have to get an academic transcript from your home university.
• Make sure your passport’s valid for the whole time you’ll be in Uruguay — and has at least six months left from when you arrive. Don’t forget to make a few photocopies too.
• You’ll need international health insurance covering your entire stay, plus a bit extra (at least 15 days).
• They might ask for proof of enough funds to cover all your expenses while you’re there.
• A student visa is only needed if you’re from certain countries, so check if it applies to you. Usually, this visa lasts 30 days from entry, and if you’re staying longer, you’ll have to apply for a residence permit during that time.
• If your stay goes over a year, all international students must apply for a temporary residency process with the National Directorate of Migration.
• Classes are mostly in Spanish, so if it’s not your first language, you’ll need to show you have a good enough level, usually intermediate (B1/B2), but some courses might ask for advanced (C1/C2).

There are loads of reasons to study in this Latin American gem! Here’s just a few: Uruguay’s culture is a cool mix of tradition and modern life, with a strong identity tied to music, “mate”, and football. In Montevideo, you’ll hear tango and candombe echoing through the streets, while out in the countryside, things are a bit more laid-back with local festivals and customs that really make you feel part of the community.

People in Uruguay are known for being friendly and easy-going. They love sharing a “mate” (traditional beverage) and having a good talk, so it’s pretty easy to fit right in. It’s not unusual to get invited to a barbecue or be made to feel at home from day one.

Uruguay is considered one of the safest countries in South America. It’s got a great quality of life and offers the perfect vibe if you want to study in a city without all the chaos of a massive metropolis.

Spanish is the official language, so it’s ideal if you want to learn or improve your Spanish level. Plus, the Uruguayan accent is clear and fairly neutral, which makes it easier to understand if you’re still learning.

Uruguay might be small, but there’s loads to discover while you’re studying there. Take Montevideo, the capital—full of history, culture, and a proper fun vibe. You can wander around the Old City with its arty streets, get to the Port Market for some classic grilled meat, and take a stroll along the Rambla, a lovely coastal walk by the Río de la Plata.

If you happen to be there during the Montevideo Carnival, don’t miss it! It’s one of the longest and liveliest carnivals in the world. For over 40 days, the city’s buzzing with candombe parades, murgas, drumming, and street performances.

Colonia del Sacramento is a must-see if you’re into history. This quaint little town’s old centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with cobbled streets, vintage lanterns, and colonial buildings. It’s perfect for a chilled weekend trip and to catch one of the best sunsets on the Río de la Plata.

If you’re more about beaches and a buzzing atmosphere, Punta del Este is the spot. With beaches like La Barra and José Ignacio, you’ll find everything from chill-out spots to lively nightlife. It’s a top place to enjoy the Uruguayan summer and meet fellow students from all over.

And don’t forget the food! Uruguay’s famous for its barbecues and the classic “chivito” sandwich, but there’s loads more to try: fried pastries, homemade bread, “dulce de leche” and “alfajores” are all everyday treats. Plus, “mate” culture is huge here; you’ll see loads of people carrying a thermos of hot water everywhere, sharing the beverage whether they’re at the beach or hanging out in the park. It’s a proper local tradition.