Universidad del Cauca
A well-established university providing quality higher education. Offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs with dedicated faculty and supportive learning environment.
- Acceptance Rate
- 59.6%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.4
- Size
- Large (21,783 students)
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- 1:21
- Setting
- urban
- Graduation Rate
- 68.0%
- Retention Rate
- 70.0%
- Tuition (In-State)
- $4,000
- Tuition (Int'l)
- $8,000
Academic Programs
STEM
Business
Social Sciences
Humanities
Health
Arts
English Proficiency Requirements
Student Life & Environment
Student life at Universidad del Cauca reflects the character of Popayán and the broader Colombian university experience. Political engagement runs strong, with student organizations debating national issues and participating in university governance. Cultural activities celebrate the region's heritage, including indigenous traditions, Afro-Colombian contributions, and the Spanish colonial legacy. The university operates student welfare services including cafeterias, health services, and recreational facilities. Sports teams compete at regional and national levels in popular Colombian sports. Student groups organize around academic interests, cultural identities, political perspectives, and social causes. Many students come from the Cauca region and live with family while attending university. Others rent rooms in Popayán, which remains affordable compared to Colombia's major cities. The student economy supports restaurants, cafes, and entertainment options near campus, creating a neighborhood atmosphere where students gather between and after classes. The security situation in the Cauca region requires awareness, as the area has faced challenges from armed groups and social conflict. The university works to maintain a safe campus environment, and most students navigate daily life without incident. However, prospective students should understand the regional context and take appropriate precautions.
Location & Surroundings
Popayán, known as the White City for its colonial architecture, serves as capital of the Cauca department in southwestern Colombia. The city of about 300,000 sits in a valley in the Andes, surrounded by mountains that define the landscape and climate. The historic center, with its whitewashed churches and colonial mansions, earned UNESCO World Heritage consideration and attracts tourists during major religious celebrations. The climate at Popayán's elevation of about 1,800 meters is mild year-round, with temperatures averaging around 19°C (66°F). This eternal spring contrasts with the heat of Colombia's coastal cities and the cooler temperatures of higher Andean locations. Rain falls regularly, keeping the surrounding hills green. The Cauca region extends from the Pacific coast through the Andes to the Magdalena river valley, encompassing remarkable geographic and cultural diversity. Indigenous communities, Afro-Colombian populations, and mestizo farming communities create a cultural richness that students can explore. Natural attractions include volcanoes, national parks, and the Pacific coastline. Transportation connections link Popayán to Cali, Colombia's third-largest city, about three hours north by bus. Air service from the small local airport connects to Bogotá and Cali. For international students, Colombia offers relatively affordable living costs and a chance to experience a country of growing global interest.
Costs & Career Outcomes
As a public university, Universidad del Cauca offers dramatically lower tuition than private institutions in Colombia. Fees vary based on socioeconomic assessment, with students from lower-income backgrounds paying reduced rates. Even for students paying standard rates, annual costs typically remain below $1,000 USD, making university education accessible to families who could not afford private alternatives. Living costs in Popayán are moderate by Colombian standards and quite low by international comparison. Housing, food, transportation, and personal expenses can be managed on budgets that would seem impossible in major world cities. This affordability expands access to higher education for students from rural and low-income backgrounds. Career outcomes for Unicauca graduates depend significantly on field and individual initiative. Graduates who remain in the Cauca region often find employment in public sector positions, education, healthcare, and regional businesses. Those seeking opportunities in major Colombian cities or internationally may face more competition but carry credentials from a respected institution. The alumni network is strongest within Colombia, particularly in the Cauca region and the southwest. Graduates have reached high positions in Colombian government, judiciary, academia, and business. For students committed to regional development or public service, Unicauca provides preparation and connections that serve career advancement in those contexts.
Campus Location
Explore More
See your match score for Universidad del Cauca
Find out how you compare to admitted students with a personalized admission assessment.
See your match score — Sign up free