Chile has a reputation as a country of great contrasts, filled with mystery and adventure. There is the urban buzz of sophisticated cities like Santiago and Valparaiso, the ancient mysteries surrounding the Easter Island, tropical heat in one part and icy cold a short distance from Antarctica, the world’s driest desert, snowcapped mountains and thundering Pacific Ocean waves. Chile will mesmerize you with all it has to offer!
Why Study Abroad in Chile?
Access to untouched wilderness contrasted by modern metropolitan cities, a fascinating history, quickly evolving culture, unparalleled opportunities for outdoor experiences and one of Latin America’s most well-developed infrastructures – all these make Chile a perfect destination for study abroad.
For students with advanced Spanish skills as well as complete beginners, Viňa del Mar in Chile provides a supportive as well as challenging environment. Our programs are for students who want to improve their knowledge of the Spanish language and gain an understanding of Latin American culture and society. Intensive Spanish classes complemented by elective courses taught in English and Spanish provide the academic backbone of the program. Your CEA program is rounded out and made into an unforgettable immersion experience through volunteer experiences, cultural exchange with Chilean university students and life with a Chilean family or in a Casa (pension), all of which provide unique insight into Chilean culture.
Chile Fast Facts
- Country name: Republic of Chile
- Area: 756,950 sq km (including Easter Island and Isla Sala y Gomez)
- Capital city: Santiago
- Population: 16,454,143 (July 2008 estimate)
- People: white and white-Amerindian 95.4%, Mapuche 4%, other indigenous groups 0.6%
- Language: Spanish (official), Mapudungun, German, English
- Religion: Roman Catholic 70%, Evangelical 15.1%, Jehovah's Witness 1.1%, other Christian 1%, other 4.6%, none 8.3%
- Major industries: copper, other minerals, foodstuffs, fish processing, iron and steel, wood and wood products, transport equipment, cement, textiles
