Overview
Founded in 1551, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (UNMSM) is widely recognized as the oldest university in the Americas and a cornerstone of Peru’s higher education history. Based in Lima, the university is known for its academic breadth, active research environment, and cultural influence across disciplines. If you’re comparing university options in Peru, UNMSM is often considered for its strong reputation in both traditional and research-focused fields.
UNMSM offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in areas such as science, humanities, law, engineering, medicine, and economics. The university draws students from across Peru and neighboring countries, supported by research centers, laboratories, and extensive library resources. Note: some program availability and requirements can vary by faculty and admission cycle, so it’s best to confirm details directly with UNMSM before applying.
2. General Information
| Name | Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos |
| Established | 1551 |
| Type | Public |
| Location | Lima, Peru |
| Website | https://www.unmsm.edu.pe |
3. Fee Structure
Tuition can differ depending on the program, student status, and admission route. For international applicants, costs are typically higher than for domestic students.
| Program | Tuition Fee (Annual, Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Programs | Free (for national students) |
| Postgraduate Programs | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| International Students | $1,500 – $3,000 |
4. Academic Programs
UNMSM is organized into faculties that cover both professional degrees and academic pathways. Below are common areas students explore, though the exact degree names and specializations can vary by year and admissions process.
- Medicine
- Engineering
- Law and Political Science
- Business and Economics
- Natural Sciences
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Veterinary Medicine
- Education
5. Facilities
The campus experience is supported by academic and support services, including study spaces and research infrastructure. Students generally have access to on-site resources such as libraries and laboratories, alongside health and administrative services.
- Central Library and Digital Resources
- Scientific Research Laboratories
- Medical and Health Services
- Sports Complex and Gymnasium
- Computer Labs and Wi-Fi Access
- Museum and Cultural Center
- Student Support and Counseling Services
6. Accommodation
UNMSM does not typically run large-scale dormitories. Most students live in private housing, shared apartments, or student-oriented rentals near the campus. This can make day-to-day commuting easier—especially for those who prefer to study on campus between classes.
- Private hostels near campus
- Shared student apartments
- Homestay options
- Affordable rental rooms in Lima
If you’re comparing student life across Lima, you may also want to review how accommodation needs may differ at other universities such as Universidad de Lima or Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú.
7. Contact Information
- Email: info@unmsm.edu.pe
- Phone: +51 1 6197000
- Address: Av. Venezuela s/n, Lima 1, Lima, Peru
Explore More Universities Peru
- Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú
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- Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas
- Universidad de Lima
- Universidad del Pacífico
- Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina
- Universidad de Piura
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