Higher Education in Argentina
Higher education in Argentina is divided into three levels. The first, tertiary education level, provides degrees in education or technical professions such as teachers or technicians degree programs typically last 1-3 years. The second, university level, provides professional education at universities across a wide range of academic disciplines resulting in degrees, licenses and titles (for attorneys and doctors); these programs range from 4 to 6 years. The third, post-graduate level, is research-oriented and includes specialist degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees.
Why Study in Argentina?
More than 25,000 international students study in Argentina each year, with small private institutions attracting the most students. Argentina has a very multiethnic and multicultural environment that welcomes international students.
The quality of education is very high and the costs of studying are low compared to many countries. Nearly all graduate programs are taught in Spanish, so students should be proficient in Spanish or plan to take Spanish courses before their arrival. Students who are non-native Spanish speakers will find that the immersion they enjoy in Argentina will increase their proficiency and make them more valuable to multinational corporations.
Universities in Argentina
There are more than 100 higher education institutions in Argentina, including 38 national universities, 42 private universities, 6 national and 14 private higher education institutes, 1 provincial university, 1 foreign university and 1 international university. The University of Buenos Aires is the most prestigious public university and other top schools include the University of Belgrano and the Universidad Torcuato Di Tella, which is especially known for its top-ranked MBA program.
Tuition and Program Duration
Some public universities have free graduate programs and most others are very low cost. Private schools can cost $US 5,000-15,000 per year. The length of master’s degree programs varies widely, but most programs last 1-2 years.
Academic Year
Because Argentina is located in the southern hemisphere, the academic year begins in March and runs through December. The academic year is based on semesters at most schools. Most courses focus on lectures and grades are based on a single exam or paper at the end of the course.
Post-Graduate Opportunities
There are many employment opportunities in Argentina for both citizens and foreigners. Industries that employ significant international workers include export-oriented agribusiness, food-processing, manufacturing and construction. In addition, service industries are growing in popularity.
Visa Requirements
International students must have a visa to study in Argentina. Students enter the country as tourists and then switch to a student visa. All students must enter the country with a passport that is valid for at least six months past the end date of their studies. Students should
check with the Argentine embassy or consulate in their home country to see specific requirements for entering Argentina as a tourist and to see what documents they will need for changing to the student visa. Students planning to study for more than six months in Argentina must also obtain a police report/certificate of good conduct for entry into the country;
the document must be translated by a certified translator after arrival in Argentina. Applying for the required residency permit once in the country requires a visit to immigrations which must be made by appointment.
US, Australian and Canadian students must also pay an entry fee online prior to departing for Argentina.
Health Insurance
Students are advised to obtain health insurance in their home country that is valid in Argentina. Some international study programs may also have health insurance that is mandatory or optional.
Tips
American Express, Visa, MasterCard and Diners Club are widely accepted, but students should carry cash when visiting small towns or rural areas. Travelers checks can be expensive and difficult to cash, so students may want to use ATMs and credit cards instead.
A 10 percent tip is normally given for services rendered in restaurants, hotels and theaters.