Chile is a land of extreme and sublime beauty. It has the world's driest desert in the north and glaciers that extend to the end of the world in the south. The Andes and the Pacific Ocean create the perfect setting for a country that is bordered by mountains and sea all along its length.  Raging rivers, snow-capped mountains, glaciers and endless coastline make Chile the adventure traveler's dream.

With a growing economy and political stability unparalleled in Latin America, Chile is the perfect place to find new opportunities. Our programs are primarily based in Santiago, the capital of the country. Santiago is a vibrant metropolis considered one of the most modern and exciting cities in Latin America. Santiago is a place full of culture and entertainment, with a strong European influence, where economic development is tangible and the lights never go out. There are also limited placements available in Valparaiso and Viña del Mar.

ELI offers a number of volunteer and internship options in both nonprofit organizations and companies. We have long-term internships in a variety of fields including Law, Engineering, and Health. Our programs are the perfect opportunity to develop your skills in a professional work environment and learn about the functioning of a country in the process of economic growth. Chile is also a country committed to reduce social inequality, a pressing issue throughout Latin American. Volunteer opportunities for social aid projects are available in a number of areas and can be arranged on an individual basis.

Volunteer and Internship Programs

• Youth

  Children's Home

  These children’s homes are places that care for children who are survivors of some sort of abuse, e.g. children who have suffered from domestic violence. The staff provides care and support, working together with the children to analyze their problems and help them in their daily routines. The goal is to reestablish the children’s violated rights to reunite them with their families. During their stay, the children are treated with utmost attention so that their state of health improves and they can develop at their fullest potential. Volunteers support teachers and staff in supervising the children, facilitating activities and games, helping to prepare and serve meals, etc. Questions? Click here

  Volunteer at a Kindergarten

  The kindergartens and day-cares where our volunteers work are dedicated to the education and care of children in their early development. Most of the time the children come from low-income families but we also work with kindergartens where children typically come from intact dual-earner families. Volunteers work with professionally trained teachers in supporting the children’s education and teaching them different subjects such as numbers, colors, simple words in English, etc. Volunteers might help in looking after the children, preparing educational activities, organizing events with the parents and preparing meals for the children. Questions? Click here

  Volunteer with At-Risk Youth

  The volunteers work in children’s homes with at-risk children and adolescents, some of whom have been in trouble with the law or are a part of the court system. Many of these homes work directly with the government and serve as receiving centers as well as rehabilitation centers. The SENAME (Servicio Nacional de Menores) often oversees these organizations. The aim is it to take in youth ages 6-16, rehabilitate them, help reintroduce them into society, and help them overcome traumatic experiences. Volunteer tasks can include creating workshops to carry out with the youth, supporting staff, assisting the teachers in the personal development of individual youth, assisting with educational activities such as homework/tutoring, cultural excursions, etc. Questions? Click here

  *Volunteers for any of these programs must have functional Spanish and the flexibility, patience, and energy needed to work with children.

  Apply Now

  After you fill out the Application Form on our website, our Application Advisor will be in touch to help you with the next steps.

  

• Women's Programs

  Women's Shelter

  The women’s shelter takes care of girls and young women who have survived domestic violence. Often times these women arrive with babies or small children to seek refuge. For the children, life in the shelter is kept as normal as possible. If the mothers are employed, we help them maintain their jobs and make sure the schooled-aged children continue to attend school. The younger children are looked after by on-site teachers. Particular attention is given to the girls/women who have experienced very traumatic situations. Gaining back the women’s dignity and meeting the children’s basic needs are important goals for the shelter.

  Volunteers assist the shelter by helping to watch over the children, assisting with meals, and generally supporting the mothers and children in their growth, recovery, and rehabilitation. Questions? Click here

  Apply Now

  After you fill out the Application Form on our website, our Application Advisor will be in touch to help you with the next steps.

  

• Animal Programs

  Animal Rescue

  This program was created to help the dogs and cats that are abandoned on the streets and struggling to survive. Many of the dogs are desperately awaiting someone to adopt them who will care for them in a loving manner. Help is always needed in this project for the protection of animals. Volunteers may help in one of the following areas: in a temporary rescue shelter where ill and abused animals are received for short-term care; in an organization that takes care of old dogs; in a home for cats; at a vet, or in an initiative that feeds and looks after animals that remain living on the streets. Volunteers may work in each area; the organization always checks where the most support is needed. Questions? Click here

  Equine Therapy

  This well-regarded foundation receives children from the age of 2 years up to adolescence and adulthood. Most of the patients suffer from brain paralysis, down-syndrome, autism, visual disorders and other disabilities. They have 20 specially trained horses and a groomer that takes care of them. Since its conception, the institution has relied on volunteer support to keep their doors open! Volunteers are in charge of patient security on the horses, and in supporting them throughout their therapy. They may also help the certified therapists with their daily work.

  To participate in this program volunteers must be caring, responsible in their contact with patients and animals, and comfortable in working with disabled individuals, many of whom are children. Questions? Click here

  The working hours of this project are Tuesday- Friday from 3 pm until 6.30 pm and on Saturday from 10.30 am until 1 pm (optional).

  *The horses are only used for therapy and are not available for volunteers to ride!

  Apply Now

  After you fill out the Application Form on our website, our Application Advisor will be in touch to help you with the next steps.

  

• Physical Therapy

  Physical Therapy Internship

  ELI partners with some great organizations aimed to help children with disabilities, athletes and individuals offering unique opportunities for internships for professionals and advanced students of Physical Therapy.

  Interns in these programs have the opportunity to assist therapists during the sessions, assist with the implementation of rehabilitation programs, and observing the forms of care and treatments applied to children and young people with various forms of disabilities or injuries. Questions? Click here

  Apply Now

  After you fill out the Application Form on our website, our Application Advisor will be in touch to help you with the next steps.

  

• Engineering

  Engineering

  The biggest commercial activity in Chile is mining. However, the field of engineering in Chile is widespread due to its strong infrastructure development and expansion in recent years. Therefore many engineering firms are looking for interns, students preferably in their final year and require a minimum stay of three months to ensure they are integrated into the company and its work. Possibilities include: Civil Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, mining and more. All placements will be based on the relevant education and work experience of the applicant. Questions? Click here

  Apply Now

  After you fill out the Application Form on our website, our Application Advisor will be in touch to help you with the next steps.

  

• Business and Marketing

  Business and Marketing

  ELI partners with a variety of small and medium sized firms in Santiago looking for interns in the following areas:  international business, marketing, entrepreneurship, consulting, internet advertising, web design and online marketing. All internships are made on an individual basis depending on the length of your proposed stay, your interests and availability.

  Marketing and Tourism in Wineries

  The first vineyard in Chile was planted almost 500 years ago by a Spanish monk. Since then, Chile has become one of the main wine exporting countries in the world. Interns can work in one of several wineries in and around Santiago. Among typical duties, interns lead winery tours and work in the tasting room or the marketing and business development department. Questions? Click here

  Apply Now

  After you fill out the Application Form on our website, our Application Advisor will be in touch to help you with the next steps.

  

• Law

  Law

  In 2007, Chile finished implementing new criminal procedure code throughout the legal system. The new system is now similar to codes followed in North America and Europe. Interns with this project will work with Chilean lawyers and non profit organizations assisting with research, case preparation, and record keeping. Some past interns with this program have been invited to observe courtroom proceedings. This internship is a great opportunity to gain experience in the Chilean legal system, learn about international and human rights law, and gain first hand knowledge about the effects of country-wide legal reforms. Questions? Click here

  Apply Now

  After you fill out the Application Form on our website, our Application Advisor will be in touch to help you with the next steps.

  

• Media and Journalism

  Media and Journalism

  For participants interested on developing their journalism skills in English and Spanish, we have positions available in Santiago in the areas of web writing, journalism, photography and radio.

  Participants can work as writers or photographers for online or printed media, focusing on news and cultural stories. Radio and television interns direct their own shows and work independently with the equipment to develop their creative ideas.

  Limited positions are available in Patagonia for journalism interns, working with a quarterly magazine in English and Spanish about the people and nature of the Patagonia region of Chile and Argentina.

  Marketing and Advertising positions are also available for participants interested on creating commercial relationships between the media and other organizations. Questions? Click here

  Apply Now

  After you fill out the Application Form on our website, our Application Advisor will be in touch to help you with the next steps.

  

• Architecture

  Architecture

  ELI has opportunities for students of architecture and related fields working with private companies and public institution in the design and construction of residential and commercial properties as well as conservation of historical buildings. Participants can develop and collaborate on projects in the area of design for residential and commercial properties as well as participation in international competitions or participate in the current conservations projects. Questions? Click here

  Apply Now

  After you fill out the Application Form on our website, our Application Advisor will be in touch to help you with the next steps.

  

• Working Holiday

  Working Holiday

  Our working Holiday program is a great option for someone looking to experience Chile and learn Spanish while covering some of the expenses by working! You won’t receive a salary, but all Working Holiday programs provide free board (all of your meals) and lodging. In some cases, even compensation money. These unique programs are offered in the tourism sector and give you the opportunity to explore Chile and get to know people from around the world!

  Placements can be arranged with:

  Ski Centers: Possible tasks include helping with ski rental services, selling ski tickets, reception, or helping out in the kitchens.

  Surf Schools: Possible tasks include assisting with surf students, maintaining equipment, marketing and sales, translation, etc.

  Hostels/Hotels: Possible tasks include reception of guests, assisting with sales of tours and excursions, administrative tasks, etc

  Tour Operators: Possible tasks include reception, organizing and guiding tours (horse back, rafting, sightseeing, wine tours), marketing, etc.

  Please note that placements with Ski Centers and Surf Schools are very limited and that Chilean seasons are opposite to the USA and Europe (ski season is June- Aug and surf season is Oct- April). Hotel and Tour Operator positions are only offered in Santiago as internships and not as work holiday programs.

  Farm Stay

  Our Farm Stay programs are a great way to escape your everyday life and experience rural Chile. The Farm Stay programs primarily take place on horse ranches, farms with other animals (husky dogs, goats, sheep, cows, etc.), touristy farms, agricultural plantations, zoos, etc. The program sites are usually located in beautiful areas allowing the participants to explore the scenic nature of Chile. Some of the farms are dedicated to tourism and offer horseback rides lasting from a few hours to several days and accommodations for guests in rustic and cozy guest houses. Participants help staff care for animals (grooming, feeding, and training), organize and guide horseback tours, assist with harvesting and planting, help with administrative and marketing tasks, etc.

  Cost: The Working Holiday and Farm Stay program cost $915 (for any duration) and include full board (3 meals/day) and lodging. Questions? Click here

  Apply Now

  After you fill out the Application Form on our website, our Application Advisor will be in touch to help you with the next steps.

  

• Other Internships

  Other Internships

  ELI can customize internship programs in a number of fields and areas. We offer diverse opportunities including placements with national and international companies, a variety of NGO’s, as well as a number of governmental institutions. If you do not see your field of study listed, please inquire! Opportunities are always changing.

  Industry Sectors and Business Areas Include:

  Agriculture and Forestry Banking Construction/Real Estate Consulting Controlling Culture and Arts Design (Web, Photography, Fashion) Economics Education Energy Sector Engineering Finance/Insurance

  Geology/Mining Green Technology Human Resources Human Rights Import/Export International Business Journalism and Media Law Logistics Marketing Medicine/Health Non Profits

  Politics Production Project Management Psychology Public Services Research (scientific) Social Services Software Development/IT Tax/Accounting Tourism/Hotels Questions? Click here

  * Please note that all internship placements in Chile require a high level of Spanish proficiency and a minimum commitment of 4 weeks.

  Questions? Click here

  Apply Now

  After you fill out the Application Form on our website, our Application Advisor will be in touch to help you with the next steps.

  

Cost and Details

• Cost - Chile

  See our off-season discounts! Click here for a complete list.

  Volunteer Prices
  Length of Program	Homestay (No Meals)	Homestay (2 Meals)
  2 weeks	US$922	US$1090
  3 weeks	US$1072	US$1325
  4 weeks	US$1222	US$1565
  5 weeks	US$1372	US$1795
  6 weeks	US$1525	US$2030
  7 weeks	US$1675	US$2265
  8 weeks	US$1825	US$2498
  9 weeks	US$1975	US$2735
  10 weeks	US$2125	US$2970
  11 weeks	US$2275	US$3200
  12 weeks	US$2405	US$3435

  Volunteer Program without accommodations: $610

  Internship Prices
  Length of Program	Homestay (No meals)	Homestay (2 meals)
  2 weeks	NA	NA
  3 weeks	NA	NA
  4 weeks	US$1380	US$1715
  5 weeks	US$1530	US$1950
  6 weeks	US$1680	US$2185
  7 weeks	US$1830	US$2425
  8 weeks	US$1980	US$2655
  9 weeks	US$2130	US$2890
  10 weeks	US$2285	US$3125
  11 weeks	US$2435	US$3355
  12 weeks	US$2570	US$3595

  Internship Program without accommodations: $710

  Application Fee: $200
  The application fee is a separate administrative charge for all programs. It does not apply to the program fee. (Please see our application fee refund policy here)

  Credit card payments: Payment by credit card will be assessed a 3.5% surcharge. This is the fee that we will be charged for the transaction. Contact us about alternative forms of payment.

  Spanish Classes: $225 (1 week, 20 hrs) *Please contact us for the most current pricing. Cost can vary depending on duration and type of class (private, group, etc). 

  Program Fee Deposit: $200

  Prior to confirming the placement, a $200 deposit must be submitted. This deposit will be credited towards the overall program fee. If the program is cancelled after the placement has been accepted by the participant, the deposit will not be reimbursed.

  Apply Now

  After you fill out the Application Form on our website, our Application Advisor will be in touch to help you with the next steps.

  

• What's Included/Not Included

  Program Includes: *Pre-Departure Materials  *Airport Pickup  *Housing *Orientation Session  *Volunteer placement  *In-country support  *US based staff support

  Does Not Include: *Airfare *Transportation to and from placement *Insurance *Return trip to airport *Shared apartment doesn't include meals

  Apply Now

  After you fill out the Application Form on our website, our Application Advisor will be in touch to help you with the next steps.

  

• Accommodation

  Accommodations

  Homestay

  During your internship in Chile, you will be accommodated in a local homestay.ELI truly believes that this is the best way to fully immerse in another culture and get the most from an international experience. You will have a single room and share common areas with your house mates. Our homestays are of different size, some only rent one room others rent several rooms. Half-board (breakfast + dinner) is not usually provided but can be added for an additional fee. All families are carefully screened and are well-respected members of the community. Most host families do not speak English, creating a full immersion environment to help participants improve their Spanish language skills. We carefully select the accommodations and make sure that they are located in nice and safe neighborhoods with good infrastructure and public means of transportation. Typically, you can find supermarkets, restaurants, bars, and shopping centers nearby. Internet access is available at 100% of our accommodations!.

• Start Dates and Airport Pick-up

  Arrival Dates

  Arrival dates are flexible. You may choose your own dates. Remember that you will need some time to rest after your trip (Most flights are overnight!). Placements begin Monday morning.

  Airport Pick-up

  Airport pick-up is only available in Santiago. If you are traveling to a project in a different city, we will provide transport from the airport to the bus station in Santiago to continue your trip to your final destination.

• Language Requirement and Optional Classes

  Spanish skills

  Functional Spanish skills are required for all programs. You will need to be able to communicate in past and present tense. We recommend taking Spanish classes at your arrival if you think your language skills need improvement before starting your program.

  Optional Spanish Classes: 

  *US$220per week
  *20 academic hours of Spanish Classes per week (45 minutes each)
  *3 levels offered (Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced) 
  *Class size : Maximum of 7 students 
  *Class materials

• Notes and Helpful Links

  Notes & Helpful Links

  Read up on Chile before arriving. Having some background information on the culture, history, politics will make your adjustment easier. You are going to be in a 100% Spanish speaking environment so practice your Spanish as much as you can before arriving. Duolingo is a great FREE option! Participants will fly into SCL Aeropuerto de Santiago. Many of the internships will require a brief phone/Skype interview before offering you a position. Here's a handy tool to see what time it is in Santiago: Time Conversion Tool.  If you live in the northern hemisphere, remember that seasons are the opposite!  Check the Weather in Santiago.  There is so much to see and do in Chile.

  Apply Now

  After you fill out the Application Form on our website, our Application Advisor will be in touch to help you with the next steps.