Pontifical Catholic University of Chile (Faculty of Law)

The Pontifical Catholic University of Chile Faculty of Law is one of Latin America’s most respected legal institutions, known for academic rigor, influential scholarship, and a legacy dating back to 1888. Located in Santiago’s historic Casa Central, the faculty combines strong legal training with a mission rooted in justice, public policy, and ethical leadership. Its reputation is reinforced by national impact and global recognition, supported by a university ranked among the region’s best.

With expert faculty, diverse programs, and an emphasis on research aligned to Chile’s societal needs, it remains a leading destination for students pursuing legal education with global relevance and local influence.

Graduates benefit from a powerful alumni network that includes national leaders such as presidents, human rights advocates, and prominent legal scholars. This legacy strengthens employability in fields like judiciary roles, policy advisory, corporate law, and academic research. The faculty’s reputation provides a competitive advantage in both national and international markets.

Strong ties with law firms, NGOs, government agencies, and global institutions open pathways for internships and early career experiences. Career services enhance preparation through advising, mentorship, and direct employer engagement, creating a dynamic ecosystem that accelerates professional growth.

Students choose PUC Chile Law for its prestige, quality, and enduring influence. As one of Latin America’s highest-ranked law faculties, it combines tradition with innovative teaching methods and access to world-class academic resources. Its integration of ethics and leadership—rooted in its pontifical identity—distinguishes it from regional peers.

The faculty also offers unique strengths such as dual-degree options, international partnerships, and interdisciplinary training that links law to economics and public policy. This holistic approach equips graduates to navigate complex legal challenges while contributing meaningfully to local and global legal developments.

The faculty has a longstanding role in shaping national legal reforms, contributing expertise to Chile’s constitutional processes and public policy debates. Its research excellence is supported by specialized resources such as a premier Roman law library, fostering scholarship across civil, procedural, and theoretical legal studies.

Innovation extends into sustainability and digital transformation, where interdisciplinary collaborations address emerging issues in environmental regulation, technology governance, and AI. Partnerships with international universities and sector organizations enhance knowledge transfer, reinforcing the school’s leadership in advancing legal thought in Chile and beyond.

What language skills are required? Programs are taught mostly in Spanish, so students need solid proficiency, while select English courses support international participants.

Can international students access internships? Yes, practical placements with NGOs, government bodies, and legal organizations are available and may count for credit.

How is grading handled? Assessments use exams, projects, and papers, with results released at the end of each academic term.

The undergraduate law program requires Chile’s centralized admissions process, including national exam scores and academic evaluations. Graduate applicants must present a law degree, transcripts, and interviews, while doctoral candidates also submit research proposals. Admissions cycles vary, though many programs begin in the Chilean fall.

Tuition aligns with national standards, with scholarships and partnership-based financial support available. Students may choose private housing near campus, and international arrivals must secure visas and health insurance. Orientation programs and academic advising ensure a smooth transition into the university’s rigorous academic environment.