Universidad de La Sabana

About Universidad de La Sabana

Universidad de La Sabana stands as one of Colombia's most distinguished private universities, founded in 1979 and located in the picturesque municipality of Chía, just north of Bogotá in the Sabana region that gives the institution its name. With approximately 27,666 students enrolled across undergraduate and graduate programs, the university has established itself as a leading center for academic excellence, research innovation, and holistic education in Latin America. The suburban campus spans over 170 hectares of stunning Colombian highlands, featuring modern academic buildings, green spaces, and facilities that create an inspiring environment for intellectual growth and personal development. La Sabana operates under Catholic principles while welcoming students of all backgrounds, emphasizing values of integrity, service, and the pursuit of truth alongside academic rigor. The university has achieved national and international accreditations recognizing the quality of its programs across business, engineering, health sciences, communications, law, and humanities. International partnerships with universities in Europe, North America, and throughout Latin America provide students with study abroad opportunities, dual degree programs, and exposure to global perspectives. The institution's mission focuses on developing well-rounded professionals who contribute positively to Colombian society and the broader world community.

Admission to Universidad de La Sabana is competitive, with the university seeking students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and alignment with the institution's values of integrity and service. The acceptance rate of approximately 67% reflects selective admission standards applied to a strong applicant pool from throughout Colombia and international locations. Prospective undergraduate students must complete Colombian secondary education or equivalent international credentials, submit standardized test scores from the ICFES Saber 11 examination or appropriate international assessments, and participate in the university's admission evaluation process. Some programs, particularly medicine and engineering, have additional requirements including specific subject prerequisites and supplementary evaluations. International students may apply with credentials from their home countries, with evaluation of equivalency to Colombian educational standards. English proficiency is required for programs taught in English and is assessed through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. Graduate programs require relevant undergraduate degrees, professional experience in some cases, and demonstration of capacity for advanced study through applications that typically include statements of purpose, letters of recommendation, and interviews. The university maintains several application deadlines throughout the year corresponding to different entry semesters. Financial aid options include merit-based scholarships, need-based assistance, and payment plans that make La Sabana education accessible to qualified students from various economic backgrounds.

The academic offerings at Universidad de La Sabana encompass a comprehensive range of programs organized into multiple schools and faculties that address both traditional disciplines and emerging fields of study. The School of Business and Economics offers highly regarded programs in business administration, economics, finance, and international business, with graduates holding leadership positions in major Colombian and multinational corporations. The Faculty of Engineering provides programs in industrial, mechanical, chemical, civil, and systems engineering, with modern laboratories and industry partnerships that ensure practical, hands-on learning experiences. The School of Medicine and Health Sciences has earned recognition for its medical education program, nursing school, and allied health programs, with clinical training conducted at affiliated hospitals and healthcare facilities. The Faculty of Communication offers innovative programs in journalism, audiovisual production, advertising, and organizational communication that prepare students for careers in Colombia's dynamic media landscape. The School of Law trains future legal professionals with emphasis on ethics, human rights, and social justice within the Colombian legal framework. The Faculty of Education prepares teachers and educational administrators who shape the next generation of Colombian students. Research centers across all disciplines support faculty and graduate student projects addressing challenges in sustainability, public health, business innovation, and social development.

Student Life & Environment

Student life at Universidad de La Sabana benefits tremendously from the university's beautiful suburban campus setting in the Colombian highlands, where green spaces, mountain views, and modern facilities create an environment conducive to both academic focus and personal wellbeing. The university promotes a vibrant campus culture with numerous student organizations covering academic interests, cultural expression, community service, athletics, and religious life. Sports facilities include soccer fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, swimming pools, and fitness centers where students compete in intercollegiate athletics and participate in recreational activities. Cultural organizations celebrate Colombian traditions including dance, music, and festivals while also embracing international cultural exchange through events featuring visiting students and scholars from partner institutions. The university maintains a strong tradition of community service, with students participating in volunteer programs that address social needs in surrounding communities and throughout Colombia. Residential facilities provide housing options for students from outside the Bogotá metropolitan area, creating close-knit communities where lasting friendships develop. Dining facilities offer varied cuisine options, while cafés and study spaces encourage informal academic discussions and collaboration. The campus atmosphere blends academic intensity with warmth and hospitality characteristic of Colombian culture, creating a welcoming environment for both local and international students.

Location & Surroundings

The Universidad de La Sabana campus is situated in Chía, a charming municipality in the Cundinamarca department approximately 25 kilometers north of Bogotá, Colombia's capital and largest city. The suburban location in the Bogotá Savanna region provides an ideal balance between peaceful academic retreat and proximity to a major metropolitan center with over 10 million residents. The campus sits at an elevation of approximately 2,600 meters above sea level, enjoying the temperate climate typical of Colombia's Andean highlands with average temperatures around 14°C year-round. Students benefit from the spectacular natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, with views of the Eastern Cordillera mountains and access to outdoor recreational opportunities in the region. The proximity to Bogotá means students can easily access the capital's cultural attractions, entertainment venues, internship opportunities, and transportation connections while enjoying a more tranquil campus environment for their studies. Chía itself offers restaurants, shopping, and services that complement campus amenities. The region has excellent transportation infrastructure including highways connecting to Bogotá and the El Dorado International Airport, one of Latin America's busiest aviation hubs. The university provides transportation services connecting the campus with Bogotá, making commuting convenient for students who reside in the city.

Costs & Career Outcomes

As a private institution, Universidad de La Sabana's tuition rates are higher than Colombia's public universities but remain competitive within the landscape of premium private education in Latin America. Tuition varies significantly by program, with professional programs such as medicine and law carrying higher fees than humanities and social sciences programs. The university provides transparent information about all costs including tuition, fees, and estimated living expenses to help families plan for educational investments. Scholarship programs recognize academic achievement, athletic talent, and financial need, with opportunities available for both Colombian and international students. Living costs in the Bogotá metropolitan area are moderate by international standards, with housing, food, and transportation affordable for students managing budgets carefully. Career outcomes for La Sabana graduates are excellent, with the university's reputation and alumni network opening doors to leadership positions in Colombian business, government, healthcare, and media sectors. The career services office provides internship placement, job search assistance, networking events, and professional development programs that support students' transition from university to careers. Many programs include practicum experiences that provide real-world professional exposure before graduation. Graduate programs and continuing education offerings allow alumni to advance their careers through additional credentials. International graduates often find their La Sabana degrees recognized and valued as they pursue careers in other Latin American countries, Europe, and North America.