National University of San Marcos
San Marcos: America's oldest, Peru's finest.
📍 Lima, Peru 🇵🇪
🏆 #2 in Peru · QS World #951 · THE World #1501
Quick Facts about National University of San Marcos
- Type: Public
- Students: 37,468
- Campus: Urban
- Tuition: $200 – $800/year
- Language: Spanish
- Intakes: Spring, Fall
About National University of San Marcos
Academics
UNMSM offers a wide array of disciplines across 20 faculties and 62 academic schools, covering health sciences, basic sciences, engineering, economic and management sciences, and humanities and legal and social sciences. The university is a leading center for scientific research, with around 500 research groups and 37 academic research units. Notable programs include those in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Financial Criminalistics, Nuclear Energy, Water Engineering, and Digital Supply Chain Management. The teaching approach emphasizes rigorous undergraduate and graduate programs, distinguished by exemplary teaching and innovative curricula.
International Students
While specific support services for international students are not extensively detailed, UNMSM fosters a vibrant and diverse campus life, encouraging cultural integration through various student organizations and cultural events. The university has a student body of over 30,000 undergraduates and 6,602 postgraduates, including some international students. Tuition fees for international students start from approximately 1,000 USD per year. Students can engage with a wide range of student organizations catering to diverse interests and passions, providing opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Campus & Location
The main campus, known as "University City," is located in Lima, Peru's capital, offering students access to a bustling city environment with numerous opportunities. The campus houses 17 of the 20 faculties, the Central Library, the San Marcos University Stadium, and university residences. The University City also includes the archaeological complex of Huaca San Marcos. Additionally, the university has cultural centers in historic buildings, such as the Casona de San Marcos, which is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Historic Center of Lima.
Career Outcomes
UNMSM graduates generally find employment without difficulty, partly due to the university's strong reputation among employers. The university's career services provide guidance on internships, job opportunities, and career planning. Many of Peru's leaders, thinkers, and artists are alumni of UNMSM, including a Nobel Prize laureate, highlighting the institution's significant impact on national and international spheres. The university is actively developing programs in fields like Artificial Intelligence and Digital Supply Chain Management, aligning with future industry needs.
Information for International Students at National University of San Marcos
National University of San Marcos in Lima, Peru welcomes international students.
- No visa support offered
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
- Teaching languages: Spanish
Admissions Requirements for National University of San Marcos
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to National University of San Marcos:
- GPA minimum: 2
- Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%)
- Application deadline: February 26, 2026
Programs at National University of San Marcos (20 programs)
National University of San Marcos offers 20 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (10)
- Psychology (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
Students explore human behavior, cognitive processes, and emotional development, learning various psychological theories and research methodologies.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Psychologist, Counselor, Researcher - Medicine (BSc) — 84 months · Spanish · STEM
This program trains future medical professionals with a strong foundation in human biology, clinical practice, and ethical principles, preparing them for diverse healthcare roles.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Physician, Surgeon, Medical Researcher - Systems Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
This program focuses on the design, implementation, and management of complex systems, integrating computer science, engineering principles, and project management.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Systems Engineer, IT Consultant, Software Developer - Architecture (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
Students learn the art and science of designing buildings and spaces, focusing on aesthetics, functionality, sustainability, and urban planning.
Field: Architecture
Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Planner, Interior Designer - Business Administration (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish
This program provides a strong foundation in business principles, management strategies, finance, and marketing, preparing students for leadership roles in various industries.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Financial Analyst, Marketing Specialist - Economics (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish
Students analyze economic systems, policies, and markets, developing analytical and quantitative skills to understand and address economic challenges.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Policy Advisor - Law (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
Students gain a comprehensive understanding of legal systems, jurisprudence, and various branches of law, developing critical thinking and analytical skills essential for legal professions.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Legal Advisor - Education (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
Students develop pedagogical skills, knowledge of educational theories, and practical experience to become effective teachers and educational leaders.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Teacher, Educational Administrator, Curriculum Developer - Chemical Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
This program focuses on the design, operation, and optimization of chemical processes, applying principles of chemistry, physics, and mathematics to industrial applications.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, Research Scientist - Veterinary Medicine (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
This program provides comprehensive training in animal health, disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, preparing students for careers in veterinary practice and research.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Veterinarian, Animal Scientist, Researcher
Master Programs (5)
- Master in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
This program offers advanced study in algorithms, artificial intelligence, software engineering, and data science, preparing students for cutting-edge roles in technology.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Architect, AI Engineer, Data Scientist - Master in Public Health (MSc) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
This program focuses on promoting and protecting the health of populations through epidemiology, health policy, environmental health, and health education.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Health Administrator - Master in Education with mention in Educational Management (MA) — 24 months · Spanish
This program focuses on leadership and management in educational institutions, covering curriculum development, educational policy, and organizational administration.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: School Director, Educational Consultant, Policy Analyst - Master in Clinical Psychology (MA) — 24 months · Spanish
Students acquire advanced knowledge and practical skills in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders, preparing them for clinical practice.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Clinical Psychologist, Therapist, Counselor - Master in Environmental Management (MSc) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
Students learn to address complex environmental issues through sustainable management practices, policy development, and conservation strategies.
Field: Environmental Sciences
Career outcomes: Environmental Consultant, Sustainability Manager, Conservation Scientist
PhD Programs (5)
- PhD in Biological Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish · STEM
This doctoral program involves advanced research in various biological fields, including molecular biology, genetics, ecology, and biotechnology, contributing to scientific discovery.
Field: Biological Sciences
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Biotech Innovator - PhD in Literature (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish
Students engage in in-depth literary analysis, critical theory, and historical research, contributing original scholarship to the field of literature.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: University Professor, Literary Critic, Editor - PhD in Chemistry (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish · STEM
This program involves advanced research in various areas of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, leading to significant scientific contributions.
Field: Natural Sciences
Career outcomes: Research Chemist, University Professor, Industrial Scientist - PhD in Social Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish
This program offers rigorous training in social science research methodologies and theories, allowing students to conduct original research in areas like sociology, anthropology, and political science.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: University Professor, Social Researcher, Policy Analyst - PhD in Engineering Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish · STEM
This doctoral program focuses on advanced research and development in various engineering disciplines, fostering innovation and problem-solving skills for complex technical challenges.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Research Engineer, University Professor, R&D Director
Scholarships & Tuition at National University of San Marcos
Annual tuition for international students: $200 – $800/year
✅ National University of San Marcos offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of National University of San Marcos
- National Ranking: #2 in Peru
- QS World University Ranking: #951
- Times Higher Education (THE): #1501
- Ranking tier: Unranked
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at National University of San Marcos
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Urban
Key Highlights
- Oldest university in the Americas
- Leading Peruvian research institution
- Diverse academic disciplines
- Vibrant Lima campus life
- Affordable international tuition
Accreditation
- National Superintendency of Higher Education (SUNEDU)
- ABET
- Union of Universities of Latin America and the Caribbean (UDUALC)
- Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
- Consejo Mexicano para la Acreditación de la Educación Médica (COMAEM)
Fields of Study at National University of San Marcos
- Medicine
- Engineering
- Sciences
- Literature
- Law
Notable Alumni
- Mario Vargas Llosa
- José María Arguedas
- Jorge Basadre
Frequently Asked Questions about National University of San Marcos
What is National University of San Marcos?
National University of San Marcos is a public university located in Lima, Peru. It has approximately 37,468 students.
How much does it cost to study at National University of San Marcos?
Tuition fees at National University of San Marcos for international students range from $200 – $800/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for National University of San Marcos?
GPA minimum: 2. Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%). Application deadline: February 26, 2026.
What language are courses taught in at National University of San Marcos?
Courses at National University of San Marcos are taught in Spanish.
How many programs does National University of San Marcos offer?
National University of San Marcos offers 20 programs: 10 Bachelor's, 5 Master's, and 5 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is National University of San Marcos ranked?
#2 in Peru · QS World #951 · THE World #1501.
Does National University of San Marcos offer scholarships?
Yes, National University of San Marcos offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
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