Free higher education in Chile: progress, limitations, and projections

This study analyses the effects of implementing free tuition in Chilean higher education, examining both overall system trends and the characteristics of students who receive benefits. A quantitative, exploratory, and cross-sectional approach is applied. Official data from the Chilean Ministry of Education are analysed. The results show a significant increase in total university enrolment, especially in both traditional and newly created private institutions. However, this growth has not translated into a significant improvement in first-year retention rates, although a positive impact on timely graduation rates is observed. The free tuition program has proven to be a catalyst for access to higher education, expanding opportunities for students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Nevertheless, challenges in its implementation are identified, such as the need to strengthen monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure educational quality and equitable access.