The Universidad Católica "Nuestra Señora de la Asunción" (UC), specifically its campus in Villarrica (Guairá), is one of the most prestigious and traditional medical schools in Paraguay. Unlike the border-city universities that primarily serve international students, the Villarrica campus is known for its academic rigor, historical heritage, and deep roots in Paraguayan society.
Established: The Faculty of Health Sciences in Villarrica was established in 1971, making it one of the oldest private medical programs in the country.
Accreditation: It holds the prestigious ANEAES Accreditation (Res. N° 499/2023), which is a gold standard in Paraguay, and is authorized by CONES.
Reputation: Ranked among the Top 300 universities in Latin America, UC is known for its high ethical standards and conservative, traditional academic environment.
Admission: Admission is not direct. Students must complete a mandatory Admission Course (Curso de Admisión) and pass entrance exams in subjects like Mathematics, Communication, and Ethics.
The Villarrica campus is famous for its "Edificio Histórico" (Historical Building), which offers a unique, classic university atmosphere.
Academic Focus: The curriculum is traditional, emphasizing strong theoretical foundations followed by intensive clinical practice.
Facilities: * Historical Architecture: The campus is a landmark in Villarrica, combining traditional buildings with modern laboratory extensions.
Laboratories: Equipped with modern Anatomy, Histology, and Microbiology labs that serve a smaller, more elite group of students compared to larger border universities.
Community: The campus has a strong "vocation" focus, integrating Catholic values with medical ethics.
Leading tertiary care hospital attached to the institution
Villarrica is a major regional health hub, providing students with stable and high-quality clinical training.
Main Affiliation: The university has a primary agreement with the Regional Hospital of Villarrica (Hospital Regional de Villarrica).
Clinical Rotations: Students begin rotations in their 4th and 5th years, covering all major specialties.
Internship: The 6th year consists of a rotating internship (Internado) in Surgery, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and OB-GYN within the public healthcare network of the Guairá department.
State University Affordability
UC is a premium institution, and its fees reflect its high accreditation status. Fees are generally higher for international students than for locals.
Admission Course: Approx. $200 – $300 USD.
Enrollment Fee (Matrícula): Approx. $350 – $500 USD (paid every semester).
Monthly Tuition: Approx. $350 – $550 USD (roughly 2.5M to 4M Guaraníes, depending on the year).
Annual Total: Roughly $4,500 – $6,500 USD.
Atmosphere: Villarrica is known as a center of culture and education. It is much quieter, safer, and more "European" in feel compared to the busy border cities like Ciudad del Este.
Vibe: It is a walkable city with beautiful parks (like Parque Manuel Ortiz Guerrero) and a very academic-focused social life.
Location: Located about 150 km from Asunción, it is easily accessible by bus.
Accommodation: The university does not offer official dorms. However, Villarrica is a traditional "University City" (the city of spirits and flowers).
Rentals: Many students rent colonial-style houses or apartments near the campus.
Cost: Living in Villarrica is generally cheaper than in Asunción. A comfortable room or small flat costs between $150 – $250 USD/month.
Mess/Food: There is no centralized mess hall. Students eat at local "Comedores" or the university cafeteria.
Monthly Food Budget: Approx. $150 – $200 USD.
NRI/International Seats: Unlike border universities, UC Villarrica does not heavily market to international "quotas." International students are welcome but must go through the same rigorous admission process as local students.
Documents:
Apostilled High School Diploma & Transcripts (Translated to Spanish).
Birth Certificate (Apostilled).
Valid Passport/Identity Card.
Life & Health Insurance (often required for international enrollment).
Indian Students: This university is excellent for students who want a highly recognized degree that meets all NMC (India) requirements, including the mandatory 54 months of study plus 12 months of internship.
Well-equipped Library
Experienced Faculty
Computer Lab
Sports Activities
Heritage Campus