Universidad María Serrana (UMS)

Admission to UMS is more flexible than public universities, making it a viable option for many international applicants.

Admission Requirements (2025–2026)

1. High School Documentation: Diploma and transcripts must be Apostilled (Hague Convention) or legalized by the Paraguayan Consulate.

2. Preparatory Course: Most students enroll in a Curso de Nivelación (Leveling Course) before the first semester starts.

3. Identity: Copy of passport or ID. Non-resident students must initiate their Paraguayan Temporary Residence permit upon arrival.

4. Language: While specific proficiency tests like DELE are not always mandatory, a functional command of Spanish is required for clinical interaction starting in the 3rd year.

Curriculum Structure

• Basic Cycle (Years 1–2): Focus on Anatomy, Histology, and Physiology. The university emphasizes laboratory practice from the early stages.

• Clinical Cycle (Years 3–5): Students begin rotations in hospitals, covering internal medicine, surgery, and public health.

• Internship (Year 6): Full-time clinical rotation in four major areas: Surgery, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and OB-GYN.

UMS has established various agreements with the Paraguayan health system to ensure clinical training.

1. Hospital Agreements: Students rotate at various Public Hospitals under the Ministry of Public Health (MSPyBS) and private clinics in Asunción.

2. Laboratories: The university features modern Anatomy labs with synthetic and natural models, as well as Microbiology and Biochemistry labs.

3. Simulation: Early training includes simulation-based learning for vital signs, first aid, and basic clinical procedures.

Private medical education in Paraguay is among the most affordable in the Western Hemisphere.

• Monthly Tuition: Approximately $150 – $220 USD (approx. 1,100,000 – 1,600,000 Gs.), depending on the current semester.

• Annual Matriculation: Approx. $180 – $250 USD per year.

• Miscellaneous: Books, lab equipment, and scrubs are extra. Some clinical fees may apply in the final years.

• Total Estimated Degree Cost: Approx. $14,000 – $18,000 USD for the entire 6-year program.

• Vibe: The capital and largest city. It is a mix of colonial charm and modern commercial centers. It is very green and generally safe, though standard urban precautions are advised.

• Climate: Humid Subtropical; extremely hot and sunny summers (often reaching 40°C) and very mild winters.

• Transport: Extensive bus network. Taxis and Uber are also widely available and affordable.

Asunción is the most developed city in Paraguay, offering a range of living standards.

Accommodation (Living)

• Student Rentals: There are many "Pensiones" and shared apartments in the neighborhood near the university.

• Rent Prices: A private studio or 1-bedroom apartment in Asunción costs roughly $250 – $400 USD per month.

• Sharing: Most international students share apartments to reduce costs to approx. $150 – $200 USD per person.

Dining (Food)

• University Canteen: Provides affordable daily meals for students.

• Supermarkets: Paraguay has high-quality, very affordable produce and meat.

• Monthly Food Budget: Estimated at $200 – $300 USD.