Universidad Austral Argentina
The Universidad Austral has emerged as one of Argentina's most respected private universities since its founding in 1991, affiliated with Opus Dei and committed to integrating academic excellence with ethical formation. The institution serves approximately 9,000 students through campuses in Pilar, Rosario, and Buenos Aires. Austral's Hospital Universitario is considered among the best in Latin America, supporting exceptional medical training and health research. The IAE Business School, Austral's graduate business program, consistently ranks among Latin America's top MBA programs with international accreditation. The university distinguishes itself through emphasis on professional ethics, personalized education, and integration of academic programs with practical experience. International partnerships and exchange agreements connect Austral to the global academic community. The main campus in Pilar provides modern facilities in a suburban setting north of Buenos Aires. Austral has rapidly achieved recognition and prestige in Argentine higher education.
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
- N/A
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
- N/A
- Graduation Rate
- N/A
- Retention Rate
- N/A
- Tuition (In-State)
- N/A
- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
Student Life & Environment
Student life at Universidad Austral reflects the university Catholic identity and professional orientation. Campus culture tends to be more formal and conservative than at many universities, with an emphasis on personal responsibility and ethical behavior. Student organizations exist across various interests, from academic and professional groups to cultural and recreational activities. The university provides spiritual programming including Mass, retreats, and opportunities for personal counseling, though participation is voluntary. Athletics and fitness options are available, with the Pilar campus offering space for various sports and physical activities. The student body is relatively homogeneous, drawn largely from Argentine upper-middle-class families and international students from similar backgrounds. This creates a professional networking environment but may feel limiting to those seeking more social or political variety. The suburban Pilar location means campus life is central, as there is less to do in the immediate surroundings than in central Buenos Aires. Many students commute from the city, particularly for programs based there. Housing options near the Pilar campus include residences and shared houses. The professional atmosphere extends to student interactions, with networking and career preparation woven into social life.
Location & Surroundings
The main campus in Pilar occupies a spacious suburban setting that offers a contrast to congested Buenos Aires. The town of Pilar has grown considerably in recent decades as Buenos Aires has expanded northward, with gated communities and shopping centers transforming what was once farmland. Access to Buenos Aires requires about an hour by car or bus, depending on traffic, which can be significant during peak hours. Students without cars rely on university transportation services or public buses. The Buenos Aires facilities, used for some professional and graduate programs, are more centrally located. Living costs in Argentina have been volatile due to the country recurring economic challenges, including periodic inflation spikes that make budgeting difficult. However, costs in dollar terms often remain quite reasonable compared to North American or European universities. The climate is temperate, with warm summers and mild winters. Argentine culture offers incredible food, particularly the famous beef and wine, along with vibrant nightlife, arts, and entertainment in Buenos Aires. The country has faced political and economic instability, something international students should consider, though universities have generally continued to function through difficult periods.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Universidad Austral is a private institution that charges tuition, unlike Argentine public universities where undergraduate education is free for citizens. Tuition costs vary by program, with medicine and MBA programs at the higher end. When converted to dollars, fees have sometimes appeared quite reasonable due to currency fluctuations, though this can change rapidly given Argentine economic conditions. Living expenses in Argentina can be kept moderate, with housing, food, and transportation costing less than in North American or European cities, though inflation requires ongoing budget adjustments. The university strong reputation opens doors in the Argentine job market, with graduates from business, law, and medicine programs particularly well-placed. The IAE Business School alumni network provides valuable connections for careers in corporate leadership and entrepreneurship. The medical programs lead to positions in hospitals and clinics throughout Argentina and potentially abroad. The university career services assists with job placement and internship connections. Many graduates remain in Argentina, often in Buenos Aires, while others pursue opportunities internationally or continue to graduate study abroad. The professional networks formed during study often prove valuable throughout careers, reflecting the university emphasis on relationships and community.
Campus Location
Explore More
See your match score for Universidad Austral Argentina
Find out how you compare to admitted students with a personalized admission assessment.
See your match score — Sign up free