Established in 1810, Universidad de Los Andes (University of the Andes) is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Merida (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants). This institution also has a branch campus in Trujillo and Tachira. Officially recognized by the Ministerio del Poder Popular para Educación Universitaria, Ciencia y Tecnología, Venezuela (Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology of Venezuela), Universidad de Los Andes (ULA) is a very large coeducational Venezuelan higher education institution. Universidad de Los Andes (ULA) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as master degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 212 years old Venezuelan higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic record and grades. The admission rate range is 70-80% making this Venezuelan higher education organization a somewhat selective institution. ULA also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, sports facilities, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.