SMCM-Worldstrides in Chile

Pre-Requisites

Minimum GPA: 2.5
Must have taken either ILCS 202 or ILCS 260 before applying
Approval from SMCM Spanish faculty
Judicial Check
Academic Conduct Check

Currently Accepting Applications for:

Spring 2026 Estimated Program Dates: Mid-February – Late June 2026
- SMCM Application Deadlines: October 1st for Scholarship Consideration, October 15th Final Deadline on Via TRM
- Worldstrides Application Deadlines: Apply by the same deadline on Worldstrides website for admission

Highlights

Includes an orientation in Santiago and a trip to the Playas del Norte
Live with a supportive and immersive homestay host in Viña del Mar
Explore the eclectic port cities on the NW Pacific Coast of Chile

Course Equivalencies

Start Course Planning Here

Study Abroad Budget

View Estimated Semester Budget

Financing Studying Abroad

Office of International Education Scholarships (Need-Based, Merit-Based, Region Specific, Language Study)

Worldstrides Scholarships (Full Ride, DEI, Merit-Based, Need-Based)

External Scholarships

Speak with the Office of Student Financial Assistance for Options

About the Program

SMCM partners with Worldstrides to offer students the opportunity to study Spanish language and Latin American Studies for a semester in Valparaíso and Viña del Mar, Chile. On-site staff members provide 24/7 support, coordinate the arrival orientation, and host several excursions throughout the semester. The orientation and excursions are designed to introduce students to Chile’s history and culture, daily life in Chile, and the academic culture at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso (PUCV).

Location

The cities of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar are neighboring port cities filled with bohemian, colorful vibes. Valparaíso is a World Heritage City filled with a maze of hills, panoramic views, and historic architecture. It is known as the “Jewel of the Pacific” in Chile! Viña del Mar, called the “Garden City” is a peaceful waterfront town filled with resorts, seafood, and museums. You can’t go wrong living and studying in these beautiful locations! On weekends or academic breaks, take the opportunity to explore the breathtaking nature of Chile, such as the Patagonia National Park, and more!

Academics

PUCV is a traditional catholic university which offers students immersive Chilean culture and Spanish language courses, along with a variety of elective topics. At PUCV, students will have the opportunity to select from a list of Spanish-taught courses, depending on their proficiency in the Spanish language. Applicants will take an online Spanish Assessment to find the best level for them. Students who have a high intermediate, advanced, or higher level of Spanish language are eligible to choose from among the PUCV’s 38-hour general elective courses instructed in Spanish with local Chilean students. Advanced students will be able to take courses alongside local Chilean students in a variety of courses.

Housing and Meals

All SMCM students will be living in a homestay with a local family. Students will be provided with three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and laundry service once per week for the duration of the program. Students will usually share a host family with another Worldstrides student.

Student Life

The Worldstrides on-site staff assists students with all aspects of their experience abroad. Students can enjoy free computer and internet access at the office, and will also have access to computer labs and WiFi at the university.

Important Links

Faculty Liaison

Dr. Joanna Bartow, Spanish Faculty: jrbartow@smcm.edu

Transfer Credit Policy

See the following for how grades and credits are translated back to SMCM. Note: grade equivalencies between U.S. and international institutions are subject to change without notice. the equivalencies provided here are understand to be accurate and up to date as of September 2024.

Grading System
Score	SMCM Grade
7.0	A+
6.5-6.9	A
6.0-6.4	A-
5.5-5.9	B+
5.0-5.4	B
4.5-4.9	B-
4.0-4.4	C
0.0-3.9	F



Credit Conversion
The contact hours for courses with international students at the PUCV is taught at 45 minutes. It is recommended that 38 PUCV contact hours = 34 US. The contact hour for courses with locals is taught at 35 minutes. 38 PUCV contact hours for these = 26 US contact hours. Generally, contact hours divided by 15 equals the number of semester hours.