Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso (PUCV) deeply values internationalization as an essential pillar for the growth of its students in their educational process. Although this institution has maintained a tradition of international focus, the last year has seen a renewed commitment to expanding and improving exchange opportunities for its students. This encompasses both the arrival of students from various parts of the world and the departure of PUCV students to institutions on different continents.
Guiding this internationalization strategy is the General Directorate of International Affairs (DGAI), headed by Professor Orlando de la Vega. Its innovative approach seeks to align these initiatives with the global vision of the PUCV, taking into account its position as a regional university with national reach.
One of the highlights is student mobility, where the DGAI-PUCV is working to enrich the possibilities for young people who venture abroad and also to receive foreign students at the PUCV. In terms of preferences, Spain tops the list for Chilean students traveling abroad, while the majority of foreign students who choose PUCV come from the United States. The DGAI is striving to increase the numbers of incoming and outgoing students, with the goal of surpassing historic pre-pandemic levels.
Ivania Yáñez, Director of International Exchange of the DGAI, emphasizes the importance of this enriching exchange for the integral formation of students. In addition, PUCV focuses on promoting the participation of foreign students in its graduate programs, further strengthening internationalization.
The DGAI-PUCV also contributes to regional development, as Valparaíso receives a remarkable 28% of foreign students nationally, second only to Santiago. This recognition of Valparaíso as an attractive city and the willingness of the PUCV to lead this transformation make the region a destination of choice for exchange.
Spanish language instruction continues to be a strong point, attracting foreign students to improve their language proficiency. The diverse academic offerings allow foreign students to combine learning experiences with life in the captivating city of Valparaíso.
The focus on internationalization also extends to PUCV's academic units, working collaboratively to foster a comprehensive process that meets the university's objectives and enriches the student experience. Ultimately, PUCV is committed to preparing its students with a global and multicultural mindset, contributing to the country's development in various fields.
Overall, PUCV is taking significant steps to enhance internationalization and strengthen the experience of its students in an increasingly interconnected world.
