The Universidad María Auxiliadora (UMAX), particularly its Facultad de Medicina, is one of the most prominent private medical schools in Paraguay for international students. Located in the Loma Pytá neighborhood of Asunción, it is widely recognized for its high volume of international students (especially from Brazil) and its modern infrastructure.
| Feature | Detail |
| Official Name | Universidad María Auxiliadora (UMAX) - Facultad de Medicina |
| Location | Barrio Loma Pytá, Asunción, Paraguay. |
| Institutional Status | Private University. |
| Degree Awarded | Medical Doctor (Médico). |
| Program Duration | 6 Years (12 Semesters), including the Rotatory Internship. |
| Instruction Language | Spanish (Fundamental for hospital rotations). |
| Accreditation | Accredited by ANEAES (National Agency for Evaluation and Accreditation of Higher Education). This is the gold standard for degree recognition in the MERCOSUR region. |
UMAX is known for having a streamlined admission process designed to accommodate international applicants.
Academic Records: High school diploma and transcripts, which must be Apostilled (Hague Convention) or legalized by the Paraguayan Consulate.
Preparatory Course: Most students enter through a Curso de Nivelación (Leveling Course) that lasts a few weeks to a month before the first semester.
Identification: Passport or National ID. Students must process their Paraguayan Temporary Residence permit to be officially matriculated.
Language: While the university is welcoming, a basic to intermediate grasp of Spanish is necessary to follow lectures and essential for clinical practice.
Basic Cycle (Years 1–2): Intensive study of Anatomy, Histology, and Physiology. UMAX uses a combination of traditional and modern teaching methods.
Clinical Cycle (Years 3–5): Students begin rotations in various public and private hospitals, covering core specialties like Cardiology, Nephrology, and Emergency Medicine.
Rotatory Internship (Year 6): A full year of supervised practice in General Surgery, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and OB-GYN.
Leading tertiary care hospital attached to the institution
UMAX has invested heavily in simulation and has strong ties with the Ministry of Public Health.
Hospital Agreements: Students rotate at major public facilities, including the Hospital Materno Infantil de Loma Pytá and other regional hospitals.
Laboratories: The university features high-end Anatomy labs, Histology labs, and a specialized Clinical Simulation Center where students practice on high-fidelity manikins.
Social Outreach: UMAX frequently organizes health campaigns in local communities, providing students with early patient contact.
State University Affordability
UMAX offers a very competitive pricing structure compared to other private institutions in the region.
Monthly Tuition: Approximately $160 – $230 USD (approx. 1,200,000 – 1,700,000 Gs.).
Annual Enrollment: Paid once or twice a year, roughly $150 – $200 USD.
Total Degree Cost: The entire 6-year program is estimated at $15,000 – $19,000 USD in total tuition.
Miscellaneous Admin Fees: Small charges for certifications, exams, and diploma processing.
Vibe: A residential area on the outskirts of the capital. It is quieter than the city center, which is conducive to intensive medical study.
Safety: Generally safe for students, as the neighborhood revolves around university activities.
Climate: Humid Subtropical; extremely hot and sunny summers (exceeding 38°C) and short, mild winters.
Transport: Well-connected to the rest of Asunción via several bus lines and affordable rideshare apps like Uber and Bolt.
The Loma Pytá area has transformed into a student hub due to the university's presence.
Student Rentals: There are countless "Pensiones" and apartment complexes built specifically for UMAX students within walking distance of the campus.
Rent Prices: A private furnished studio costs approx. $180 – $300 USD per month.
Utilities: Generally affordable, ranging from $30 – $50 USD monthly.
University Canteen: Offers daily meals for approx. $3.00 USD.
Supermarkets: Major supermarkets are nearby, where fresh produce is extremely affordable.
Monthly Food Budget: Estimated at $180 – $250 USD.
NRI/Management Seats: There are no NRI seats. All international students are charged the same tuition as local students, which is very advantageous.
NEET (For Indians): If you are an Indian national, you must be NEET-qualified for the degree to be recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC).
Recognition: Because UMAX is ANEAES-accredited, it is much easier for students to validate their degrees in Brazil (via Revalida) or other neighboring countries.
Well-equipped Library
Experienced Faculty
Computer Lab
Sports Activities
Heritage Campus