Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María

Overview

Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María (UTFSM), founded in 1926, is one of Chile’s best-known public universities, based in Valparaíso with additional campuses in Santiago and other cities. It is widely recognized for its strengths in engineering, technology, and applied sciences, which is why many applicants look at UTFSM when planning careers in technical and research-focused fields.

UTFSM consistently attracts students interested in hands-on learning, innovation, and international academic exchange. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs across engineering disciplines, natural sciences, business, and computer science, supported by a network of labs and research centers. For prospective students evaluating options in Chile, UTFSM is often compared with other highly regarded universities such as the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile and the Universidad de Concepción.

2. General Information

Name	Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María (UTFSM)
Established	1926
Type	Public University
Location	Valparaíso, Chile
Website	www.usm.cl

3. Fee Structure

Program	Tuition Fee (Approx.)
Engineering	USD 4,500 per year
Computer Science	USD 4,200 per year
Business and Management	USD 4,000 per year
Science	USD 3,800 per year

Note: Tuition fees vary by program, student category, and enrollment year. Fees shown here are approximate—always verify the most recent amounts on the UTFSM official website or directly with the admissions office.

4. Academic Programs

Faculty of Engineering
Faculty of Computer Science and Informatics
Faculty of Science
Faculty of Business and Management
Faculty of Maritime Studies
Graduate School of Engineering and Technology

If you are comparing technical-focused universities in the region, you may also want to review other research-oriented options such as the Universidad Austral de Chile, particularly for students interested in applied science and environmental studies.

5. Facilities

Advanced engineering labs and workshops
Science and technology research centers
Comprehensive university libraries
Innovation and entrepreneurship centers
Student recreational and sports facilities

UTFSM’s facilities are designed to support both theoretical learning and applied projects—important for students building portfolios through lab work, capstone projects, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

6. Accommodation

UTFSM provides accommodation assistance and maintains student residences near campus. Private housing options and university-affiliated residences are generally available for both local and international students. Availability and eligibility can change by intake, so it’s recommended to confirm housing timelines and requirements early in the admissions process.

7. Contact Information

Email: admision@usm.cl
Phone: +56 32 265 4000
Address: Av. España 1680, Valparaíso, Chile

More Universities in Chile

For applicants who want a broader comparison across Chile’s higher-education system, it can also help to explore how different universities structure their academic offerings and student support services—see, for example, the overview of the University of Chile alongside UTFSM.

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