Established in 1981, Universidad de Talca (University of Talca) is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the medium city of Talca (population range of 250,000-499,999 inhabitants), Maule. This institution also has branch campuses in the following locations: Santiago, Curicó, Santa Cruz. Officially recognized by the Comisión Nacional de Acreditación, Chile (National Accreditation Commission), Universidad de Talca (UTALCA) is a large coeducational Chilean higher education institution. Universidad de Talca (UTALCA) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor degrees, master degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 40 years old Chilean higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic record and grades. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. UTALCA also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.