Best countries to study in Latin America
Introduction
Choosing the Best Country for Your Academic Exchange: Inspiring Testimonials
In this quest to find the perfect destination for your university exchange, we have gathered the stories of five students, each of whom studied in a different country in Latin America: Argentina, Colombia, Brazil, Peru and Mexico.
Their testimonials offer valuable insight into the benefits and challenges of each destination, helping you to make the best decision for your academic exchange in Mexico on the other side of the world. Discover the captivating experiences awaiting you, and be inspired by their stories. Your trip to Latin America starts now!
Studying in Argentina - Testimony of Mathieu
Why choose Argentina for your university exchange?
Advantages and disadvantages
Among the most attractive destinations for study in South America, Argentina stands out for its diversity, dynamism and unique cultural heritage (We can also add his love of soccer ⚽️). But is it the right choice for you? Mathieu, an exchange student from Buenos Aires, shares his experience to help you decide 🇦🇷
The advantages of doing an exchange in Argentina ✅ :
- A cosmopolitan and welcoming city: Buenos Aires, Argentina's capital city, has a warm, cosmopolitan atmosphere. Mathieu points out that the city is "super-developed", offering an atmosphere similar to Europe while retaining a touch of Latin warmth and hospitality. Whether you prefer lively evenings or cultural activities, Buenos Aires is sure to please.
- A rich and dynamic cultural life: In Argentina, you'll never be bored! Mathieu says there are "always a thousand things to do", from festivals to cultural events and activities. The city is packed with museums, theaters and concerts, allowing you to discover the country's rich cultural heritage.
- Unique adventure opportunities: If you're an adventure-lover, Argentina is the place for you, with opportunities to discover breathtaking landscapes such as Patagonia, with its majestic glaciers, and the famous 7-Lake Road in Bariloche. You can also explore emblematic destinations such as Ushuaïa, nicknamed "the end of the world", or Uruguay, just around the corner.
Disadvantages to consider ❌ :
- Strong Western influence : Despite its undeniable charm, Buenos Aires can be a disappointment for those looking for a change of scenery. As Mathieu points out, "there's still a strong Western imprint on the city", whether in its architecture or its way of life. If you're looking for total immersion in a culture very different from your own, you might want to consider other destinations.
Study in Argentina: Essential guide to your student exchange 🗺️
Ah, Argentina! Get ready to plunge into a university adventure like no other, with its share of discoveries and unique experiences 🌟 Whether you're considering Buenos Airesthe iconic capital, or let yourself be seduced by other university towns like Córdoba or RosarioHere are a few essential tips to make the most of your stay.
Argentina's university nuggets 🎓
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA) Argentina's largest university and one of the most prestigious in the Americas. Master's degrees in strategic digital marketing management and international economic relations are taught and recognized here. Fact: Four of Argentina's five Nobel Prize winners were students and professors at this university.
- Universidad Nacional de Córdoba (UNC) Córdoba: Ideal for students of economics, business and international relations, it offers a rigorous academic environment with an international outlook. What's more, Córdoba offers a dynamic student experience with a lower cost of living than Buenos Aires.
- Instituto Tecnológico de Buenos Aires (ITBA) ITBA: Argentina's oldest university, it offers a different, quieter setting than Buenos Aires. If engineering and technology are your fields, ITBA will be your springboard to innovation and the development of ambitious projects.
Specific advice for an exchange in Argentina
Once you've chosen your university and prepared for the big departure, it's time to think about how to live this Argentine adventure to the full. Let me guide you so that every day is a day of discovery and enrichment. Your university exchange in Argentina is a unique opportunity to grow, learn and open up to the world. By following these tips, you'll ensure a rich and unforgettable experience 🥩
- Fluency in Argentinean Spanish 💬: Spanish spoken in Argentina has its own peculiarities, including the use of "vos" instead of "tú" for "tutoiement", and a distinct accent. Immersing yourself in the specifics of Argentine Spanish before you leave or as soon as you arrive will make daily life and integration easier.
- Adapt to the Argentine rhythm ⏳ : Argentinians live at their own pace. Here, days start later and end later. Let yourself be carried away by this new routine: enjoy your dinner at 9pm or later and discover the emblematic nightlife of Buenos Aires or Córdoba long after midnight.
- Participate in local events 🎉 Argentina is famous for its tango, folk music and film festivals. Take part in these events to immerse yourself fully in the culture.
- Understand the local economy 💹 Argentina has a volatile economy with a fluctuating exchange rate. Find out about "Cambio Blue," the unofficial exchange rate, which is often more favorable for foreigners. Use local apps and websites to track exchange rates and plan your spending accordingly.
- Explore geographical diversity 🏞️ : Don't limit yourself to the capital. Argentina is incredibly diverse, from Iguazú Falls in the north to the glaciers of Patagonia in the south. Plan excursions to explore the country's natural wealth.
- Taste Argentinian cuisine 🍽️ Argentina: Take advantage of your stay to discover the local cuisine, including the famous asado (Argentine barbecue), empanadas and mate, a traditional drink.
Conclusion of Argentina to study in Latin America
Argentina offers a unique university exchange experience, combining modernity, cultural diversity and exciting adventures. As Mathieu sums up, "Argentina is a great country, very adventurous". If you're ready for an unforgettable experience and want to explore a country with many facets, then Buenos Aires and Argentina are the place for you. ¡Buena suerte for your choice of university exchange in Argentina! 🍀
Studying in Colombia - Florence's story
Discover Colombia: A colorful destination for studying in Latin America
What makes Colombia unique? Its many landscapes, sunny culture and unique welcome. Let's explore the pros and cons of doing an exchange in Colombia, based on the experience of Florence, an exchange student from Bogotá! 🇨🇴
The advantages of doing an exchange in Colombia ✅ :
- Warm welcome and international community Florence shares her experience at the Livin university residence, located in the heart of Bogotá. The residence welcomes international and Colombian students from different parts of the country, as well as a large number of international students, offering a friendly environment conducive to cultural exchange.
- Diversity of landscapes and travel experiences Colombia offers an incredible diversity of landscapes, from the paradisiacal beaches of the Caribbean coast to the majestic mountains of the Andes. Florence describes the wealth of travel possibilities in Colombia, with varied destinations such as Medellín, the desert region and the Amazon. What's more, its proximity to other South American countries such as Peru and Chile means the region can be explored even further.
- Authenticity and tranquillity Colombia is not yet a highly developed tourist destination, which means that travelers can discover authentic, less-frequented places. Florence recalls her travels in northern Colombia, where she was able to enjoy spectacular scenery without the usual tourist crowds.
Disadvantages to consider ❌ :
- Safety and vigilance Florence: Florence stresses the need to be vigilant in Colombia, especially after 6pm, due to certain security risks. It is advisable to take precautions, such as using an Uber to avoid problems on the streets.
- Limited culinary diversity Florence mentions that culinary diversity in Colombia can be less pronounced than in other countries such as Mexico. While Mexico is renowned for its tacos and burritos, Colombia offers a different, less diverse and repetitive cuisine, which can be an adjustment for some travelers used to a variety of dishes. Spending time eating out in Colombia can therefore be a little more limited in terms of choice, which can be a challenge for those who like to experiment with different flavors and cuisines.
Study in Colombia: Essential guide for your student exchange 🗺️
Listo for your Colombian adventure and university life? Whether you're heading for the symbolic city of Bogotáthat you have chosen the eternal spring of Medellín or whether you're drawn to the historic charm of Cali, get ready: it's going to be a unique experience 🌟 Let us give you a few tips to make this adventure as rewarding as it is fun.
Colombia's university nuggets 🎓
- Universidad Nacional de Colombia (UNAL) Bogotá welcomes you to this not-to-be-missed institution, where the most renowned Masters programs are in Environment and Development and Economics.
- Universidad de los Andes (Uniandes) Ambitious in finance, marketing or political science? Uniandes is the place for you. A private university in Bogotá that prepares you to become a leader, with an ultra-modern approach to teaching.
- Universidad de Antioquia (UdeA) UdeA: Head for Medellín for a green and welcoming campus, perfect for future experts in health, the environment and engineering. UdeA guarantees quality teaching in a friendly community.
Specific advice for an exchange in Colombia
- Immerse yourself linguistically and culturally 💬: Your Spanish will take on a Colombian accent, clear and lilting. Don't be afraid to make mistakes, talk to everyone. And for culture, let yourself be drawn into a cumbia class or become a fan of vallenato.
- Adapt to the Colombian lifestyle 🌦: Whether you find yourself in Bogotá with its cooler climate or in Medellín where it's spring all year round, immerse yourself in the local way of life. Here, social ties are king. Soak up the human warmth, and you'll soon feel right at home.
- Explore every corner of this paradise 🌴: Colombia is a land of contrasts, with breathtaking biodiversity and landscapes. Don't stay cooped up in your university bubble. Go and see the beaches, the mountains, the jungle. Every excursion will be a discovery of life.
- Discover Colombian culinary delights ☕ Between a bandeja paisa that fills you up for the day and arepas at all hours, your palette of tastes will expand. And the coffee? A real treat. If you can, visit a coffee plantation to find out why Colombian coffee is so famous.
- Stay safe 🔒 As everywhere, a few precautions are called for. But as you know, Colombia has come a long way from the clichés you see on Netflix. It's a country in full transformation, vibrant and welcoming. Find out about places to avoid, go out in groups at night, and use safe means of transport.
Conclusion of Colombia to study in Latin America
Colombia offers a rich and varied university exchange experience, with challenges to be met but also unforgettable discoveries to be made. Whether you're attracted by the breathtaking scenery, the cultural richness or the adventure, Colombia will charm and seduce you. May your choice of university exchange in Colombia be crowned with success, if that's what you choose! ¡Bienvenido a Colombia! 🇨🇴
Studying in Brazil - Victor's story
Discover why Brazil is a unique university exchange destination
Doing a university exchange in Brazil is an incomparable experience, immersing you in the world of To Brazil! culture. Victor, who spent his exchange in Ribeirão Pretoshares her impressions of this fascinating country to help you decide if it's the right destination for you 🇧🇷
The advantages of doing an exchange in Brazil ✅ :
- Hospitality and conviviality : Brazilians are renowned for their kindness, warm welcome and openness to meeting new people. Victor emphasizes that the people are "ultra-gentile" and "ultra-welcoming", which makes for a very pleasant and rewarding travel experience.
- Festive atmosphere and enchanting music Brazilian music is famous for its festive, upbeat character, which creates a joyful, dynamic atmosphere wherever you go in the country. Victor particularly appreciated this atmosphere during his stay in Brazil.
- Exceptional natural landscapes Brazil offers a breathtaking variety of natural landscapes, from paradisiacal beaches to spectacular national parks such as Diamantina and Jericoacoara. Victor also mentions the Pantanal, a unique region home to a diverse and fascinating fauna.
Disadvantages to consider ❌ :
- Insecurity: As in many Latin American countries, insecurity can be a problem in Brazil, especially in big cities like São Paulo. It's important to remain vigilant and take precautions to avoid trouble.
- Weather conditions : Brazil's tropical climate can be hot and humid, which can be uncomfortable for some travelers. In addition, some regions can experience heavy rainfall, which can affect outdoor activities.
Study in Brazil: Essential guide to your student exchange 🗺️
Pronto for Brazilian adventure and university life? Whether you're heading for the iconic São Paulothe heavenly beaches of Rio de Janeiro or whether you're drawn to the dazzling story of Salvador, get ready: it's going to be a unique experience 🌟. Let us give you some tips and tricks to make this adventure unforgettable.
Brazilian university nuggets 🎓
- Insper Instituto de Ensino e Pesquisa Based in São Paulo, Insper is known for its modern, hands-on approach to business education, offering undergraduate, MBA and PhD programs with a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) Passionate about communications, economics or cultural management? UFRJ, located in the heart of Rio, prepares you to excel, with a breathtaking view of Sugarloaf as a bonus.
- Universidade Federal da Bahia (UFBA) Explore Salvador and embark on studies in management or engineering sciences at UFBA, in a dynamic and welcoming student community.
Specific advice for an exchange in Brazil
- Immerse yourself linguistically and culturally 🎉: Brazilian Portuguese is full of life. Don't be afraid to take the plunge and learn from the locals. Immerse yourself in samba, forró or bossa nova to fully experience Brazilian culture.
- Adapt to the Brazilian lifestyle 🌞: From the hectic pace of São Paulo to relaxing on the beaches of Rio, every city has its own atmosphere. Brazilians are welcoming and festive; let yourself be carried away by their joie de vivre.
- Explore Brazil's diversity 🌄: This continental country offers you unique ecosystems, from the Amazon to the Pantanal, not forgetting the bustling metropolises. Each destination reveals a new face of Brazil.
- Discover Brazilian gastronomy 🍽️: From churrascarias and acarajés to some of the best coffee in the world, every meal is excellent. Don't miss the feijoada on Saturday!
- Stay safe 🔒: Safety is crucial, especially in big cities. Stay alert, find out about neighborhoods and get around safely, especially at night.
Conclusion about studying in Latin America in Brazil
Brazil offers a unique university exchange experience, full of challenges but also unforgettable joys and discoveries, spectacular natural landscapes and a warm, welcoming population. Whatever your passions, Brazil has something to offer you. If you're ready to experience an unforgettable adventure and explore a multi-faceted country, then Brazil is the place for you. Open yourself up to the discovery of this colorful country and let yourself be captivated by its captivating charm! 🇧🇷 ¡Bem-vindo ao Brasil!
Studying in Peru - Testimony of Mathilde
Discover why Peru is a unique university exchange destination
Peru, with its cultural richness, geographical diversity and reputation as a gastronomic capital of South Americais an exceptional destination for university exchanges. Mathilde, a student at the Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola in Lima, shares its experience to enlighten you on the benefits and challenges of student life in the heart of this fascinating country 🇵🇪
The advantages of doing an exchange in Peru ✅ :
- A gastronomic capital open to the world: Lima boasts a vibrant culinary scene, recognized as the gastronomic capital of South America. The city offers an unforgettable experience for the most discerning palates, with a diversity of typical dishes and a unique fusion of flavors.
- A strategic location for travellers: Lima's location means that students can easily explore the rest of Peru, a country with diverse landscapes ranging from the Andes mountains to the Amazon jungle, deserts and the Pacific coast. "Peru is a true paradise for adventurers," says Mathilde.
- Rich cultural and natural diversity: Peru is a country where geographical diversity rhymes with cultural richness. From iconic sites like Machu Picchu to historic towns and indigenous communities, the country offers a deep immersion in ancestral traditions and breathtaking landscapes.
The challenges ahead ❌ :
- . Vigilance with regard to administrative formalities: Although it's easy to enter Peru on a tourist visa, the laws are constantly changing. So it's vital to find out what you need to do, especially if you're planning a longer stay.
- Health precautions: Vaccinations against yellow fever, typhoid and hepatitis A are strongly recommended for travel to Peru. It is advisable to consult specialized centers such as the Institut Pasteur for a safe trip.
- Budget management : Although the cost of living in Peru is generally lower than in Europe, Lima can be more expensive due to its active lifestyle and numerous opportunities for travel and outings.
Study in Peru: Essential guide for your student exchange 🗺️
You're about to embark on one of the most rewarding experiences of your life: a university exchange to the land of llamas. Are you ready? Here's everything you need to know to make your Peruvian adventure a complete success 🌟
Peruvian university nuggets 🎓
Peru is home to prestigious universities, renowned for their academic excellence and rich student life. Here are a few not to be missed:
- Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú (PUCP) : In Lima, this private university is known for its novel, modern campus and programs in management, operations and finance.
- Universidad de Piura (UDEP) With its campuses in Piura and Lima, its most internationally recognized masters programs are in maritime law and port management, but they also offer excellent courses in international business.
- Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (UNMSM) Founded in 1551, it is the oldest university in the Americas and one of Peru's leading centers of learning, particularly renowned in the social sciences, health and law.
Specific advice for an exchange in Peru
- Immerse yourself in language and culture 📚: Peru is a cultural country that can't be ignored. Mastering Spanish will not only make it easier for you to follow your courses, but will also help you immerse yourself in local life. Take every opportunity to practice the language, whether in class, with friends or even on your adventures.
- Adapt and live like a Peruvian ⏰ Peru offers incredible climatic and cultural diversity. Whether you're in Lima, with its coastal desert climate, or in the Andes, where the weather can be cooler and rainier, each region has its own rhythm of life. Embrace this diversity and make these differences an integral part of your experience.
- Explore Peru's natural and historical wealth 🌄 : This country is full of wonders, from Machu Picchu to the Nazca lines and Lake Titicaca. Each destination reveals a different aspect of this fascinating country. Don't miss the opportunity to travel and discover as much as you can.
- Enjoy Peruvian gastronomy 🍽️ Peru is a foodie's paradise, with dishes such as ceviche, causa rellena and lomo saltado. Peruvian cuisine is a unique blend of indigenous, Spanish, African and Asian traditions. Every meal is a culinary exploration.
Conclusion of Peru to study in Latin America
Peru is a rewarding and adventurous university exchange destination. It's an opportunity to open yourself up to a new culture, to learn and to enjoy unique experiences. Take your curiosity, open-mindedness and enthusiasm with you, and you'll leave with unforgettable memories. Peru awaits you, ready to reveal its best-kept secrets. 🇵🇪
Studying in Mexico Testimony of Axel
Find out why Mexico is an exceptional university exchange destination according to Axel, who lived his experience in Puebla.
Academic exchange in Mexico is an unforgettable adventure. Axel, who spent 6 months in Puebla. Here are her impressions of this fascinating country to help you decide if it's the right destination for you 🇲🇽
The advantages of doing an exchange in Mexico ✅ :
- Kindness and a warm welcome : Mexicans are renowned for their kindness and exceptional hospitality. Axel emphasizes how welcoming they are, always ready to invite you in and show you their culture.
- Exceptional gastronomy : Mexican cuisine is world-renowned for its diversity and richness. Axel emphasizes that the gastronomy goes far beyond tacos and quesadillas, offering a variety of delicious dishes and high-quality products.
- Affordable cost of living to Mexico : Mexico offers a relatively low cost of living, which means you can enjoy wonderful trips throughout the country. What's more, the Mexican landscape is incredibly diverse, offering opportunities for beach relaxation, hiking and cultural discoveries in historic cities.
Disadvantages to consider ❌ :
- Precautions to take in large cities: As in all major cities, it's important to remain vigilant and take precautions, especially when it comes to evening travel in less-frequented neighborhoods or cities like Guadalajra. However, Axel stresses that he never felt any real insecurity during his stay in Mexico.
Study in Mexico: The Essential Guide to Student Exchange 🗺️
Listo for the your university life in Mexico? Let your choice be the pulsating Mexico City, the history Guadalajaraor the cultural Monterrey, fasten your seatbelt: it promises to be an experience like no other 🌟 Here are a few tips to make your stay in Mexico as rewarding as it is exhilarating.
Mexican university nuggets 🎓
- Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) In the heart of Mexico City, UNAM, an educational institution, opens its doors to you. It's the ideal place for future businessmen, auditors( com experts, offering a hypercomplete and verdant campus.
- Universidad de Guadalajara (UdeG) Guadalajara: Dive into Mexican history and culture in Guadalajara, where UdeG offers a variety of programs in a city rich in tradition and modernity. Courses range from marketing management to information technology.
- Instituto Tecnológico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey (ITESM / TEC) With campuses all over the country, TEC is synonymous with excellence in business, technology and engineering, and is ranked 4th in Latin America.
Specific advice for an exchange in Mexico
- Immerse yourself linguistically and culturally 🎶: Discover the dynamism of Mexican Spanish and don't be afraid to make mistakes. Mexico is a land of colorful festivals, Latin and house music, and spectacular arts. Take every opportunity to immerse yourself in its rich culture.
- Adapt to the Mexican lifestyle 🌮 Whether you're exploring the local markets or relaxing on one of the beautiful beaches, life in Mexico is an exquisite blend of tradition and modernity. Mexicans are incredibly welcoming, quickly making you feel right at home.
- Explore Mexico's diversity 🏜️ : From arid northern deserts to Baja California to the jungles of Chiapas, via ancient Mayan and Aztec ruins, Mexico is an array of landscapes and stories. Each trip will give you a new perspective on this fascinating country.
- Discover Mexican gastronomy 🌶️: Mexico is famous for its delicious and varied cuisine, renowned the world over. From authentic tacos to more elaborate mole, not forgetting spicy hot chocolate, every meal is a discovery for your taste buds.
Conclusion about studying in Latin America in Mexico
Mexico is an exceptional university exchange destination, offering a rich cultural experience, delicious cuisine and magnificent landscapes to discover. If you're ready to experience a unique adventure and explore a multi-faceted country, then Mexico is the place for you. Let yourself be carried away by the discovery of this lively country and succumb to its bewitching charm! ¡Bienvenido a México! 🇲🇽
I Love Mexico ranking: Best countries for university exchanges in Latin America
Choosing a destination for a university exchange to Latin America can be a real headache, with so many tempting options, each offering a unique blend of vibrant colors and unique culture. With the invaluable contribution of Mathieu, Florence, Victor, Mathilde and Axel, I Love Mexico has compiled a comprehensive ranking after exploring many of these destinations. Their personal experiences and captivating stories have helped us draw up a list that will guide you in choosing your ideal destination. Here's our ranking of countries to go to on a university exchange in Latin America:
Number 1 - Studying in Mexico
Despite our bias, it's no surprise that Mexico clearly stands out at the top of this ranking (crazy coincidence). With an exceptional wealth of culture, a variety of university towns, a passion for the unparalleled Mexican feastWith its breathtaking scenery, proximity to the United States and, above all, incomparable ease of integration, Mexico is an obvious choice for international students.
Issue 2 - Studying in Brazil
Brazil is also a very popular destination, with its many student cities and strong welcoming culture. Despite some still dangerous areas, Brazil continues to develop as one of South America's economic pillars. The main challenge? "Não ter medo de falar português!
Number 3 - Studying in Colombia
Colombia is currently undergoing a remarkable tourist boom, becoming the new fashionable destination with cities such as Medellín experiencing significant development in both expatriate neighborhoods and favelas. For authentic local immersion and a change of scenery, Colombia is simply ideal.
Issue 4 - Studying in Argentina
Argentina is one of South America's jewels, and would have deserved a much higher place in our ranking. Despite the current economic and social challenges, marked by high inflation, living in Argentina remains an exciting experience, reflecting the passion of Argentines for their country.
Number 5 - Studying in Peru
Less exposed than other countries in terms of development, Peru nevertheless deserves its place in our ranking. Its rich culture and total immersion will appeal to those seeking a truly unique experience.
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