The Université des Sciences de la Santé de Dakar (USSD) is a private medical university in Senegal’s capital. Recognized by the Senegalese state, it was established to provide high-quality medical training through modern pedagogical approaches, including a strong emphasis on digital resources and practical simulation.
Established: Relatively recently (Private Sector).
Location: Point E, Avenue Birago Diop x Rue de Thiès, Dakar, Senegal.
Status: Private Institution recognized by the State of Senegal.
Degrees Awarded: Diplôme d'État de Docteur en Médecine (Doctor of Medicine).
Duration: 8 Years (inclusive of clinical internship and thesis).
Language of Instruction: French.
Accreditation: Recognized by the Senegalese Ministry of Higher Education and Research. Its programs are often developed in alignment with CAMES standards.
Infrastructure: Located in the upscale Point E district, the campus features modern classrooms and a specialized digital library.
Innovation: USSD focuses on "Soft Skills" and leadership training alongside medical science to prepare graduates for management roles in the healthcare sector.
Digital Learning: The university uses a digital library and IT centers to supplement traditional textbook learning, allowing students access to global medical journals.
Leading tertiary care hospital attached to the institution
Clinical Network: As a private institution in Dakar, USSD leverages partnerships with several public and private hospitals in the capital.
Practical Focus: Students undergo early clinical exposure, with an emphasis on diagnostics and the latest treatment techniques.
Career Integration: The university has a dedicated mission to promote professional insertion, helping students transition into public hospitals, private clinics, or biomedical research after graduation.
State University Affordability
Tuition at USSD is structured as a private university, which is significantly higher than public institutions like UCAD.
| Category | Cost in FCFA | Cost in USD (Approx.) |
| Administrative Registration | 120,000 FCFA | $200 |
| Annual Tuition (Monthly Installments) | 2,800,000 FCFA | $4,600 |
| Total Annual Cost | 2,920,000 FCFA | $4,800 |
Payment Plan: Tuition is typically payable in 10 monthly installments of 280,000 FCFA.
Vibe: A bustling, cosmopolitan Atlantic port city. It is the political and economic hub of French-speaking West Africa, offering a rich cultural life but with heavy traffic and higher costs.
Safety: Generally safe, though students should exercise standard urban precautions in crowded markets and coastal areas.
Connectivity: Served by Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS), located about 45–60 minutes from the city center via the toll highway.
Accommodation: USSD does not have large-scale on-campus dormitories like public universities. Students usually rent private studios or apartments in Dakar.
Private Housing (Point E/Nearby): Point E is an expensive area; studios range from 150,000 to 300,000 FCFA/month (~$250 – $500).
Living Budget: Dakar is the most expensive city in Senegal. A student should budget $500 – $800 per month for housing, food, and transport.
Academic: High School Baccalaureate (Series S1 or S2) or equivalent.
Selection Process: Admission is based on a file review (Étude de dossier) and potentially an interview or entrance test.
Required Documents:
Certified copy of the Baccalauréat certificate and transcripts.
High school report cards (Grades 10, 11, and 12).
Birth certificate and valid ID/Passport.
Medical fitness certificate.
Timeline: * Applications Open: June 30, 2025.
Primary Intake: October 31, 2025.
Secondary Intake: March 16, 2026.
Well-equipped Library
Experienced Faculty
Computer Lab
Sports Activities
Heritage Campus