The Universidad María Serrana (UMS), specifically its Facultad de Medicina, is a private institution in Paraguay that has gained significant popularity among international students (primarily from Brazil and other South American countries). The university is known for its practical approach and its main campus located in the capital, Asunción.
| Feature | Detail |
| Official Name | Universidad María Serrana (UMS) - Facultad de Medicina |
| Main Location | Asunción (with another significant branch in Ciudad del Este). |
| Status | Private University. |
| Degree Awarded | Medical Doctor (Médico). |
| Program Duration | 6 Years (12 Semesters), including the Rotatory Internship. |
| Instruction Language | Spanish. |
| Accreditation | Accredited by ANEAES (National Agency for Evaluation and Accreditation of Higher Education). This is crucial for degree recognition and validation abroad. |
| Legal Status | Legally authorized by the CONES (National Council of Higher Education). |
Admission to UMS is more flexible than public universities, making it a viable option for many international applicants.
High School Documentation: Diploma and transcripts must be Apostilled (Hague Convention) or legalized by the Paraguayan Consulate.
Preparatory Course: Most students enroll in a Curso de Nivelación (Leveling Course) before the first semester starts.
Identity: Copy of passport or ID. Non-resident students must initiate their Paraguayan Temporary Residence permit upon arrival.
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.
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.
Leading tertiary care hospital attached to the institution
UMS has established various agreements with the Paraguayan health system to ensure clinical training.
Hospital Agreements: Students rotate at various Public Hospitals under the Ministry of Public Health (MSPyBS) and private clinics in Asunción.
Laboratories: The university features modern Anatomy labs with synthetic and natural models, as well as Microbiology and Biochemistry labs.
Simulation: Early training includes simulation-based learning for vital signs, first aid, and basic clinical procedures.
State University Affordability
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.
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.
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.
NRI Seats: There is no specific NRI category. All international students pay the same tuition fees as local students, which is a major advantage.
NEET (For Indians): Indian students must be NEET-qualified to ensure their degree is recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC) back home.
Residency: Foreign students must budget approx. $350 – $500 for their initial residence permit and document legalizations in Paraguay.
Well-equipped Library
Experienced Faculty
Computer Lab
Sports Activities
Heritage Campus