Uruguay is home to five universities that are among the best universities in the world. These top universities make Uruguay a clear choice for international students. Enrolling for a degree program in Uruguay in 2024?
This article compiles a list of the best universities in Uruguay that are high-standing and well-known in the education and academic communities.
These schools are officially accredited and recognized by the Ministry of Education, Uruguay, and offer courses and programs leading to officially recognized prestigious Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. programs for bright, intelligent, and ambitious people.
In this article, we will link you with the best degree programs in Uruguay, so feel free to choose from some of the most competitive programs in the best universities in Uruguay.
We will also discuss some interesting facts about Uruguay and the benefits of enrolling in any of the schools there.
Table of contents
- Why Uruguay?
- How Is The Academic Calendar In Uruguay?
- What Are The Admission Policies of Uruguayan Universities?
- What Languages Are Spoken at Uruguayans Universities?
- How Do I Become an International Student in Uruguay?
- How Much Does It Cost To Attend Uruguay Universities?
- Notable Alumni From Uruguay Universities
- What Are The Top Universities In Uruguay?
- Frequently Asked Questions For Best Universities In Uruguay
- We Got Our Source From
- We Also Recommend
Why Uruguay?
Uruguay is one of the most exciting places to consider spending your years of study. It is a country in the southeastern region of South America. It borders Argentina to its west and Brazil to its north and east, with the Río de la Plata (River of Silver) to the south and the Atlantic Ocean to the southeast.
Uruguay has over twenty (20) colleges and universities offering an extensive range of programs. However, only six universities in Uruguay are among the ten different university rankings (by the institution) and 3 other subject-specific rankings. However, the principal city preferred for international students is Montevideo.
Below are some interesting facts about Uruguay that you may like to know.
- Uruguay is considered one of Latin America’s most socially advanced countries; It ranks high on global measures of personal rights, tolerance, and inclusion issues.
- It is the third-best country on the continent in terms of HDI, GDP growth, innovation, and infrastructure.
- The country is a significant global exporter of combed wool, rice, soybeans, frozen beef, malt, and milk.
- Uruguay contributes more troops to United Nations peacekeeping missions than any other country.
- Ranks second in the region on economic freedom.
How Is The Academic Calendar In Uruguay?
The academic year in Uruguay is divided into two semesters; a summer semester and a winter semester.
Most courses begin in the summer semester, which depending on the university, can start as early as January, but usually in March or April and end in June or July. The winter semester usually begins in August or September and ends in December.
Registration, payments, entrance exams, and enrollment can be as early as 2 or 3 months before the semester starts. So, it’s advisable to check the dates with each university individually.
What Are The Admission Policies of Uruguayan Universities?
Each university determines its admission policies. So, procedures and requirements vary.
However, most universities in Uruguay have a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. For instance, if you attended a “preferred” school in Uruguay or took a particular preparation course.
Nevertheless, you may have to usually register on the university’s website, pay a fee, and submit the necessary documents, including the documents listed below.
Admission Process and Requirements
The following are the admission requirements for Most Uruguayan Universities.
- A completed enrollment form from the Student Services Department
- Tuition fee payment
- Original Certificate of Studies endorsed and legalized by the Ministry of 4. Education and Culture (MEC)
- 3×3 color photos
- Letter of recommendation from your undergraduate university
- Copy of your undergraduate transcript
- Photocopy of your passport
- Passport photo
What Languages Are Spoken at Uruguayans Universities?
The official language of instruction and conversation at Uruguay universities is Spanish. The language family in Uruguay consists of Indo-European Italic Romance, Western Ibero-Romance, West Iberian Spanish Rioplatense, and Spanish Uruguayan Spanish.
Also, the writing system is Latin (Spanish alphabet). However, specific courses and a few specially designed for international students are in English or other languages.
How Do I Become an International Student in Uruguay?
Suppose you’re an international student that wants to study for a semester or two in Uruguay. In that case, you can apply for enrollment either as an exchange student from a university abroad or having a student exchange agreement with the university in Uruguay.
The second option is to apply as an international visiting student. Ensure to arrange admission, courses, payments, etc., directly with the Uruguay university.
Is College Free in Uruguay?
In Uruguay, public education is entirely free for the country’s citizens. Citizens who attend public schools do not pay fees from childhood to the university level.
However, there is just one public university in Uruguay where citizens pay fees. Aside from this university, college is free in Uruguay except in private universities.
How Much Does It Cost To Attend Uruguay Universities?
The enrollment cost in any Uruguay University depends on the program and course of study.
However, there is a significant difference in the cost of attending a Private institution to that of a public school.
The factors that usually influence tuition costs include selected careers or courses, the number of semester credits, and the socio-economic situation of the student.
Additionally, fees and costs for registration, materials, books, and photocopies must be covered. Students should expect to pay tuition for the bachelor’s programs around 13,000 USD annually.
How much does it cost to live in Uruguay?
The average monthly household income in Uruguay is about $1900. The minimum salary for workers is about $400. Citizens and residents who pay social security contributions are entitled to free public health insurance.
Generally, other residents also enjoy inexpensive and efficient private health systems.
In fact, in Montevideo, a single person’s living cost is about 621.17$ (26,743.74$U) monthly without rent. A family of four will spend approximately 2,192.27$ (94,385.21$U) monthly without rent.
The cost of living in Uruguay, when compared to the cost of living in New York, is 50.94% lower.
Notable Alumni From Uruguay Universities
Below are some of the recognized celebrities of Uruguay Universities.
- Tabaré Vázquez – President of Uruguay
- Jorge Batlle – Former President of Uruguay
- Danilo Astori – Former Vice President of Uruguay
- Jorge Larrañaga – Uruguayan Politician
Click here to see scholarship opportunities for international students
What Are The Top Universities In Uruguay?
We have compiled a list of the best Universities in Uruguay. Our list consists of Private and public Universities.
Our selection criteria for these schools are the tuition and fees, acceptance rates, graduation rates, number of programs, and many other ranking factors.
Other factors we took into consideration are;
- Proper accreditation or approval by the appropriate Ministry of Education, Uruguay.
- Offering at least four-year undergraduate degrees (bachelor’s) or postgraduate degrees (master’s or doctoral degrees).
- Delivering courses predominantly in a traditional, non-distance education format.
Below are Government schools that make the list of Best Universities in Uruguay.
- Catholic University of Uruguay(Universidad Católica del Uruguay)
The Private institutions that make our list of best universities in Uruguay are;
- the University of the Republic (Universidad de la República)
- ORT Uruguay University (Universidad ORT Uruguay)
- University of Montevideo(Universidad de Montevideo)
- University of Enterprise(Universidad de la Empresa)
- Technological University of Uruguay (Universidad Tecnológica)
- Bios University Institute (Instituto Universitario Bios)
#1 Universidad de la República
The Universidad de la República (University of the Republic) is a leading higher education institution in training professionals in various disciplines. It is listed as one of the best Universities in Uruguay.
Universidad de la República (UDELAR) has the largest student body in South America, with a total enrollment of 137,757 undergraduate and 6,351 postgraduate students.
UDELAR is a non-profit public institution located in the city of Montevideo, founded in 1833.
According to QS World University Rankings, UDELAR ranks #801-1000 position worldwide and remains #38 in Latin America.
School Program
UDELAR consists of 15 Schools, 7 Schools, and Institute. The University also has a law school. There are 85,905 undergraduate students and 6,351 postgraduate students (2012).
The House of General Studies houses the departments of Latin, philosophy, mathematics, theology, and jurisprudence.
In addition to the programs, the school is currently one of the Uruguayan institutions that present the best indicators in research and international networks.
#2 Universidad ORT Uruguay
Universidad ORT Uruguay (ORT Uruguay University) started in 1943. It is a non-profit private higher education institution located in Montevideo. Has a total enrollment of about 4,999 students.
The school is committed to imparting knowledge of the highest standard to its students to serve the community, the nation, and all mankind.
School Program
ORT features undergraduate degrees and other academic and pre-professional programs. The academic areas are divided into Arts & Humanities, School of Business, Mathematics, Science & Technology.
The school fees usually depend on the number of credits you take. In addition, ORT has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. Also, International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.
#3 Universidad Católica del Uruguay
One of the best universities in Uruguay for international students is Universidad Católica del Uruguay(Catholic University of Uruguay). It is a public institution that was established in 1985.
The school has a total enrollment of about 5,999 students and is officially accredited by the Ministry of Education, Uruguay.
School Program
UCUDAL features 21 programs that are grouped under five academic faculties. The school has significantly contributed to the scientific development of Uruguay.
The school is also recognized for the quality of its curricular contents and its competitive admissions process, and it is a center of scientific research.
In addition, UCUDAL features sponsored sports activities, including futsal, volleyball, basketball, women’s handball, swimming, football, and hockey. The university offers students workshops to develop their artistic abilities in the chorus, theater, and visual arts.
#4 Universidad de Montevideo
The Universidad de Montevideo (University of Montevideo) is a private university in Montevideo. It was founded in 1986 and had a total enrollment of 2,999 students.
School Program
The UM features professional careers in Administration, Architecture, Communication, Mathematics, History, and Economics, leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor’s and master’s degrees in several areas of study.
The school also runs an educational benefit program in the form of grants and scholarships to support students who cannot meet their financial needs.
#5 Universidad de la Empresa
One of the most prestigious universities in Uruguay is Universidad de la Empresa (University of Enterprise). It is a not-for-profit private higher education institution located in the large city of Montevideo.
The school started in 1992 as an educational institution based on creativity and innovation, aimed at training future professionals who will transform the country.
School Program
Universidad de la Empresa(UDE) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor degrees certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation degrees, bachelor degrees, master degrees, and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
There are other top-ranked South American universities, Check out the best universities in Guyana for International students
#6 Universidad Tecnológica
Seeking colleges in Uruguay that offer the best program in Technology and Management? The Universidad Tecnológica (Technological University of Uruguay) is the country’s best university in the field of Technological sciences.
Universidad Tecnológica (UTEC) is a non-profit private institution in Montevideo. This institution also has branch campuses in Punta del Este and Tacuarembó.
School Program
UTEC features programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees in several areas of study, including Engineering, Management Science, Communication, and many others.
The campus consists of the national agricultural library (Biblioteca Agrícola Nacional), which is considered the leading agricultural library in the country.
#7 Instituto Universitario Bios
Instituto Universitario Bios (Bios University Institute) is one of the best universities in Uruguay you should consider if you seek a degree in management, Business, and engineering.
It is a private higher education institution located in the metropolis of Montevideo. The school started in 1995.
School Program
Bios University Institute(BUI) offers bachelor’s degrees and courses, including Psychology, Environmental management, Engineering, Information technology, Economics, Management & Finance, and marketing.
In addition to the undergraduate degree, BUI offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees, such as master’s and doctorate degrees, in several areas of study.
Frequently Asked Questions For Best Universities In Uruguay
There are about 30 universities in Uruguay comprising private and government-owned schools.
Most Public university education is free. However, these schools offer financial aid through grants and scholarships to students.
Montevideo is the capital of Uruguay.
Uruguay’s official language is Spanish.
Conclusion
Uruguay has so many top-ranked Universities that are fully accredited and offer various programs such as Medicine, Nursing and Agriculture, Chemistry, and many other courses.
Most of these top institutions feature programs that offer students typical hands-on experience and research. The tuition costs in Uruguay vary according to school. Still, international students generally expect to pay low to middling fees, with many universities charging per credit rather than per semester or year.
Furthermore, Spanish remains the primary language of tuition, but a small handful of courses are designed for international students. In any case, speaking at least some Spanish is a definite plus.
Additionally, schools in Uruguay have proximity to hospitals, Grocery stores, and entertainment centers, and this, put together, provides a conducive learning environment for students.
We Got Our Source From
- Wikipedia.org: Uruguay
- Unirank.com: Top Universities in Uruguay
- Wikipedia.org List of universities in Uruguay
- gotouniversity.com: University Of The Republic Uruguay
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