The School of Medicine at the University of Navarra (UNAV) is widely considered the top private medical school in Spain. Its 2025/2026 profile highlights a "Biomedical Campus" model where teaching, high-complexity clinical practice, and translational research are physically integrated.
The school is located on the Pamplona Campus, a 113-hectare green space that recently received the international Green Flag Award for its environmental management.
The Hexagon Building: This is the central hub for medical students. It houses classrooms, administrative offices, and specialized laboratories shared with the Schools of Pharmacy, Science, and Nursing.
Simulation Center: A state-of-the-art facility where students begin practical training in their first year. It includes high-fidelity robotic mannequins, simulated operating theaters, and emergency rooms to practice clinical skills in a risk-free environment.
Anatomy & Dissection Labs: Located in the Los Castaños building, these are among the best-equipped in Europe for morphological study.
CIMA (Center for Applied Medical Research): A global reference point for biomedical research. Students are immersed in an environment where over 350 professionals from 20+ countries work on gene therapy, oncology, and neurosciences.
Leading tertiary care hospital attached to the institution
The clinical training is unique because the university owns its main teaching hospital, ensuring that the academic curriculum and clinical rotations are perfectly synchronized.
Clínica Universidad de Navarra (CUN): With headquarters in Pamplona and Madrid, CUN is the first academic hospital in Spain accredited by the Joint Commission International. It features 25 operating theaters, a Da Vinci robot, and the most advanced Proton Therapy Unit in Europe.
Hospital Universitario de Navarra (HUN): Students also rotate through this major public hospital complex, located just meters from the campus, providing a diverse patient profile.
Clinical Rotations: Rotations begin in the 3rd year. Students can choose to perform their clinical blocks in either Pamplona or Madrid, both offering identical learning standards.
State University Affordability
Note: UNAV offers an "Alumni Scholarship" program that can cover a significant portion of tuition for students with excellent academic records and financial need.
The university manages a decentralized dining system that offers a variety of nutritious, Mediterranean-style options.
Medical students typically gravitate toward the dining halls in the Biomedical District:
The Science Building Cafeteria ("The Hexagon"): The social heart of the medical school, open from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. It is perfect for a quick breakfast or a formal lunch between clinical rotations.
The Science Library Canteen: Offering roughly 80 positions, this cafeteria is ideal for students who need a quiet meal while studying.
The Amigos Building: Located slightly further away but offering the largest variety of meals, including full three-course daily menus (approx. €8.50 – €10.00).
During your 3rd through 6th year, much of your time will be spent within the Clínica Universidad de Navarra (CUN).
The CUN Cafeteria: Offers a bright, spacious environment for clinical staff and students. It provides specialized healthy menus, takeaway options, and is open for extended hours to accommodate irregular hospital shifts.
The UNAV admission process is independent of the Spanish public system and very competitive.
Entrance Exam: A specific exam covering Biology (35%), Chemistry (35%), and Physics (30%). For 2026, the admissions period opens on October 1, 2025.
Weighting: The final admission grade is calculated as:
30% ISAT (for international) or specific UNAV test.
40% School of Medicine admission exam score.
30% GPA from the 1st year of High School (Bachillerato).
Language: For the International Program, a minimum of IELTS 7.0, TOEFL 95, or CAE 180 is required.
Well-equipped Library
Experienced Faculty
Computer Lab
Sports Activities
Heritage Campus