Australian study specialist Go Study Australia has entered the Chilean market, after announcing that it opened an international office in the country’s capital, Santiago. The move represents part of a broader strategy of expanding into the Latin America market.
Go Study recently started operating in Colombia and Mexico, and the Chilean office will be the agency’s 14th around the globe.
“For us its important to establish our presence early”
“Chileans have access to the working holiday visa, and the student visa so there are great opportunities to promote work, travel and study,” Go Study general manager Simon Costain said.
“Chilean students also fit in really well with the community we are trying to create in Australia. They have a sophisticated outlook, but are super social and keen to interact with students from all cultures.”
Europe remains a key market for the agency – Spain, Italy and France are performing well, and both Spain and France have seen increases in student and working holiday visa enrolments over the last year.
“For us, it’s important to establish our presence early and become the most famous name for Australian education in Chile,” Costain added.
The Santiago office is a response to a rise in enquires from Chilean students, he explained.
“We felt we could deliver a better service to our students by having an office in Santiago, rather than managing our clients from Australia.
“Our key advantage is we have five offices across Australia in Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast, Brisbane and Perth to support our students onshore and make sure they are comfortable and successful in Australia – no other agency in Chile can offer this level of personal service.”
Melly Arias, who will be Chile country manager for Go Study Australia said: “We are starting in the WeWork co-working space to keep costs down, but will look to secure a dedicated office within six months once we can better project our needs.”
Australian education represents exceptional value for money Arias added, explaining that students are predominantly interested in ELICOS programs.
“Go Study hopes to start sending high school students to Australia too, a market that traditionally favours the UK and Canada,” she continued.
“Students can receive a high-quality experience with amazing living conditions, and the exchange rate is great right now.
“With all the problems and negative press regarding the US and the UK, Australia is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for Chileans looking to access global opportunities.”
