FEN’s International Office is excited to welcome you to FEN Uchile and Santiago!

Once you receive your acceptance letter, you need to carefully check your email for important updates and onboarding instructions.

Our team will provide you with helpful materials and online orientations to guide your preparation for arrival. It is essential that you take part in these sessions, as they will help you get ready, set realistic expectations, and make the most of your exchange.

In addition, our team will provide helpful materials and online orientations to guide your preparation before arrival. Your participation is essential, as these sessions will help you set realistic expectations, adjust smoothly, and make the most of your exchange experience.

Please review the table below to see when you can expect these resources and orientations.

 The International Office will send specific dates to your FEN email and update here

Things to do prior to arrival:

1. Book your flights to Chile:
   As soon as you receive your acceptance email you can book plane tickets using the semester dates here to ensure you arrive before the mandatory International Student Orientation. Remember; though we want you to explore Chile and the region, attendance at FEN courses is mandatory and test dates can change even during the semester, so be sure to travel before or after your semester at FEN!

    

2. Visa Information:
   Please see the Chilean Embassy or Consulate nearest you for information relevant to your nationality. We highly encourage students to come on a student visa. Details can be found here regarding visa information. Our International Office hosts an online Visa Information Session after acceptance letters are sent. It is highly recommended that you attend.

    

3. Find Compulsory International Health Insurance:
   Exchange students at FEN must be covered by an international health insurance plan that includes repatriation for the entire duration of their period of study. It is a question of physical and financial security, since medical care in Chile can be expensive. You will have until the first Friday of classes to submit proof that you are covered by insurance for the semester dates you will be here in Chile. Please review Chile´s entry requirements here. Students who fail to provide proof of health insurance will not be able to continue attending classes.

Should you have a medical condition that requires special attention or needs, you must provide a medical certificate from your doctor.

4. Housing
   Some students choose to arrange housing before their arrival in Chile, while others use the first week or two to find accommodations in person. Please find general housing information here. The International Office will share a specific guide after FEN does not provide housing, nor can we make recommendations.

    

5. Planning Budget:
   Costs add up quickly when you are traveling and living abroad. Short trips here, metro fare there, rent, and expected expenses. Please check recent information on the cost of living in Santiago, in order to plan your finances during your stay in Chile.

    

6. Get to know FEN:
   We want you to connect and prepare for your Chile experience even before your arrival! Explore our website and instagram pregradofen.uchile for more information regarding FEN and your semester in Chile. Be sure to check out the Let’s Chat and FEN Buddy programs, as well as the International Student Association of FEN (ISA FEN)! 

Checklist
Here’s a checklist to help you remember everything you need to do and bring with you.

Pre-Departure

• I have received my FEN Acceptance letter (if required).
• I have received my student visa (if required).
• I have my proof of international health insurance for my duration in Chile that includes repatriation.
• I have booked my flights.
• I have registered online for my courses.
• I have discussed alternative course options with my academic advisor.
• I have marked the important and mandatory dates on my calendar.
• I have reserved my temporary/ permanent accommodation.
• I know what the sanitary measures and requirements are to enter Chile.

Packing List

Don’t overpack! Many items (toiletries, bedding, kitchenware, second hand clothes) can be bought cheaply after arrival. Focus on essentials, key documents, and things that bring you comfort.

• Clothing: Despite the Mediterranean climate, Santiago’s position at the base of the Andes Mountains can cause drastic temperature changes throughout the day so layers will be your best bet year-round! Summers tend to be dry and hot with cool evenings and mornings while winter can feel even chillier than other cities as there are few houses that have central heating. For more details, we suggest you check the weather closer to the date of your arrival.
• Adapters Type C (also known as Europlug) and Type L

The following should be kept with you at all times (not in your suitcase!):

•  Photocopy of my passport
•  Instructions on how to use my health insurance while in Chile
•  My means of payment (credit cards, cash, etc. – though ATM’s are plentiful in Santiago)
•  A photocopy or scan of my credit cards and the numbers to call if they are blocked or stolen (report your travel plans to your companies!)
•  My medication (be sure to bring a copy of the original prescription just in case!)

Arrival to Santiago

•  I have organized my transportation from the airport (we will share options and instructions during our online Pre-Departure Information Session).
•  I have my hostel/accommodation address printed.
•  I have some Chilean pesos for my first day in Chile (to avoid lines at the airport ATM or currency exchange office).