Colombia

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Colombia is an increasingly popular exchange destination. From the bustling streets of Bogotá to the historic charm of Cartagena and the lush coffee regions, Colombia offers a blend of urban and rural experiences. Colombia's diverse ecosystems, from the Andes mountains to tropical rainforests and Caribbean beaches, provide ample opportunities for exploration. Students can also immerse themselves in the country’s history, art, and music, with opportunities to explore indigenous cultures and colonial heritage. 

Colombia’s universities are gaining recognition for their academic programs, particularly in fields like environmental science, social sciences, and business. The cost of living is generally lower than in many Western countries, making it an affordable option for students.

The University of Helsinki offers exchange opportunities at the following universities in Colombia:

  • For students of all faculties: Universidad de los Andes and Pontifícia Universidad Javeriana
  • Students of specific Faculties: Universidad Externado de Colombia (Faculty of Social Sciences)

In order to see the Faculty specific destinations, please sign in or choose your degree programme on top of the page.

You can find comprehensive instructions for going on exchange under the Study Abroad theme.

Pontificia Universidad Javeriana
Universidad de los Andes (UniAndes)

Pontificia Universidad Javeriana

Student testimonials

 “Master level courses In Javeriana usually had 5-10 students, while the  undergraduate courses I took had around 20 students. This made it easy to get to know other students in class and to ask professors for personal assistance when needed." "The university is located in a nice neighborhood, with a short distance to both the historical center and the northern parts of the city, where you can find many cute restaurants, bars, and shops.”

Who can apply?

  • Students of all faculties
  • Bachelor’s and Master’s students
  • Students with Spanish  skills at least on level B1

What can you study here?

How many credits do you need to complete?

Minimum 12 local credits per term, recommended workload up to 17 credits.
1 Javeriana credit = 2 ECTS.

Terms

January - June / July - November/December

Housing, costs and fees

Housing US$ 200-500/month, Javeriana does not have any own housing, but offers support in finding housing. Other costs: food US$ 150-180/month, public transportation US$ 50-60/month.

Other important matters

Academic year starts in January. If you want to apply for an academic year, notice that the exchange period is January-November/December.

Exchange opportunities available 

2 students for one academic year or 5 students for one term

Universidad de los Andes (UniAndes)

Student testimonials

"At UniAndes, the teaching was of high quality, and the professors were enthusiastic. Compared to Finland, the attendance requirements were quite strict. The campus is stunning! It has several buildings, green areas, restaurants, and a sports center that includes a gym, a swimming pool, a beach volleyball court, a video game room, and a billiard room."

Who can apply?

  • Students of all faculties
  • Bachelor’s and Master’s students
  • Students with Spanish skills at least on level B2
Faculties not open to exchange students
  • School of Medicine
  • Master’s level courses at the School of Management  

What can you study here?

How many credits do you need to complete?

Minimum 12 local credits per term, recommended workload up to 18 credits.
1 UniAndes credit = 2 ECTS.

Terms

January - June / August - December

Housing, costs and fees

UniAndes does not provide in campus housing. Each student is responsible to find their own accommodation. There are multiple housing alternatives near the university campus, for example:

Popular neighbourhoods for exchange students near campus are La Candelaria, Las Nieves, La Macarena, Germania.

Other costs: Food US$ 100-150/ month, public transportation US$ 50/month.

Other important matters

Academic year starts in January. If you want to apply for an academic year, notice that the exchange period is January-December.

Exchange opportunities available 

5 students for one academic year or 10 students for one term.