Jose Simeon Canas Central American University

San Salvador, El Salvador

José Simeón Cañas Central American University (UCA), founded in 1965 and run by Jesuits in Antiguo Cuscatlán near San Salvador, was the first private university in El Salvador and has since become a leading institution in Central America.
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UCA stands out with its Jesuit tradition that combines academic rigor with social justice. From research centers to community outreach, the university encourages critical thinking focused on ethical leadership, human rights, and sustainable development. It was the first private university in the country and has earned local and international accolades for its stance on social equity and education quality.
UCA hosts a diverse student population comprising undergrad, graduate, and professionals—typically in the thousands. It maintains a robust faculty of academics, researchers, and practitioners across various disciplines. Small-class environments, particularly at graduate level, allow more personalized instruction, mentoring, and close interactions with faculty.
The primary language of instruction at UCA is Spanish. However, certain graduate and professional development courses—especially those tied to international partnerships—may be delivered in English. Students planning to take English-taught programs should verify language requirements with their specific faculty or program office.
Prospective undergraduates submit an online application form, attach documentation (high school diploma, transcripts, photos, identification), complete a standardized aptitude test, and pay the application fee. Some programs may require additional assessments—such as design portfolios or interviews (e.g. architecture, journalism).
While official overall acceptance rates aren't published, selective faculties like law, psychology, and engineering tend to be more competitive. Performance on aptitude tests, academic records, and any program-specific requirements significantly influence admission decisions. Meeting the minimum requirements doesn’t guarantee acceptance—strong exam performance is equally key.
UCA typically runs two intake cycles per year for undergraduate admissions: one starting in January and another in August. Deadlines for applications, aptitude tests, and interviews are announced in advance on the university website and via the admissions office. Late submissions may incur penalties or be rolled into the next cycle, so keeping track of official dates is essential.
UCA enforces secure entry protocols—students must show ID upon entry, and driving within the campus is monitored with strict speed limits to protect pedestrians. Security personnel patrol regularly, and safety cameras cover common areas. Major incidents nearby are tracked and communicated to campus authorities in real time to coordinate with local law enforcement.
Yes. Students can report concerns to campus security via phone or directly at security offices. Suspicious behavior, lost items, or emergencies are documented, investigated, and, if needed, incidents are referred to the national police. Security personnel also regularly conduct safety drills and review evacuation protocols.
The university has clearly marked evacuation routes and emergency shelters. Drills—including fire and earthquake evacuations—are conducted periodically, and information on procedures is distributed in orientations and classrooms. Medical staff and ambulance services are on standby during academic hours so that minor emergencies are quickly addressed.
UCA provides a broad spectrum of undergraduate programs—such as Law, Psychology, Engineering, Architecture, Journalism, and Business—and graduate degrees in fields like Social Sciences, Public Health, Education, Chemistry, Environmental Studies, and Communications. There are also diploma and continuing education courses tailored for professionals.
Undergraduate programs include foundational core courses and specialized courses, while master’s programs feature a mix of coursework, research seminars, practicums, and, often, thesis work. Emphasis is placed on curricular relevance through internships, service learning, and real-world projects—especially in areas like sustainability, human rights, and community development.
Yes, UCA maintains partnerships with universities across Latin America, Spain, and the U.S. It participates in programs like Erasmus+, bilateral exchange agreements, and joint research initiatives. Exchange students benefit from specialized scholarships and orientation assistance—offering academic enrichment and cultural immersion.
UCA offers a mix of merit-based, need-based, and program-specific scholarships. Merit scholarships reward academic excellence or extracurricular merit; need-based aid helps lower-income students; specific programs—like international exchanges—offer targeted funding. Some scholarships also recognize leadership, community service, and STEAM participation.
Applicants complete the standard admissions process, then submit a separate scholarship request form that includes financial background information, academic performance, and motivational essays. Deadlines for scholarships often align with admissions cycles. Supporting documentation—like income proofs or recommendation letters—is usually required.
Graduate students occasionally secure roles as teaching or research assistants within departments for financial support. The university’s Career Center (COP) also advertises part-time on-campus jobs or internships that help students gain experience while covering expenses. Aid recipients may also be expected to maintain academic standards or participate in service activities.
The main campus is located in Antiguo Cuscatlán, near the metropolitan area of San Salvador, offering urban convenience within a calm suburban setting. It's accessible via main roads, public buses, and taxis. Frequent transport services connect the campus to the city center, residential neighborhoods, and transit hubs.
UCA offers structured on‑campus housing through the Romero residential program aimed primarily at scholarship students from rural areas. It includes single rooms, meals, and community-building activities. The university also assists in finding safe off-campus housing—partnering with nearby residences and hotels to help incoming and international students.
Yes. The central facilities—including the library (CRAI), classrooms, and administration areas—are accessible via ramps, elevators, and designated study zones. The Disability Services Office provides support with transportation, learning accommodations, and assistive technology, ensuring equitable access to education for all students.
Absolutely. The International Mobility Office guides foreign students through the student visa application, renewal processes, and residency permits. The university provides necessary documentation—like enrollment certificates and acceptance letters—and liaises with immigration offices to streamline administrative steps
Typically, UCA’s student visa allows limited work authorization—primarily internships or campus employment tied to academic objectives. After graduation, students may apply for a post-study work permit based on local immigration regulations, which often permit temporary work extension linked to graduation and employment
Alumni visa regulations vary but generally allow a transition period (6–12 months) post-graduation to seek employment or prepare for future studies. UCA’s International Office advises on required documentation—such as proof of graduation and job offers—to support visa extensions or transitions to work visas

University Of Jose Simeon Canas Central American University Application Statistics

54200
500
34000
13000
150
2:1
65 %
$ 6570
$ 5000
2
24
55 %

Learn About -

* All cost are in USD

University Of Jose Simeon Canas Central American University Application Statistics

54200
500
34000
13000
150
2:1
65 %
$ 6570
$ 5000
2
24
55 %

Learn About -

* All cost are in USD

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Connect With Jose Simeon Canas Central American University

  • Los Próceres Boulevard, Antiguo Cuscatlán
  • +503 2210 6600

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