University of El Salvador

San Salvador, El Salvador

The University of El Salvador (UES) is the oldest and largest public university in the country, known for its strong commitment to social transformation and academic excellence. It offers a wide range of programs across diverse fields, serving as a vital hub for research, innovation, and civic engagement in El Salvador.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Founded in 1841, UES is El Salvador's oldest and only public university, headquartered in San Salvador with satellite campuses in Santa Ana, San Miguel, and San Vicente . It serves over 50,000 students, offers a wide range of programs, and plays a key role in national higher education, research, and social impact.
UES is known for its academic excellence in law, medicine, engineering, social sciences, arts, and agronomy. It’s ranked as the top public university in the country and recognized among Latin America’s top 200 institutions. Its faculties and research labs produce influential studies, particularly in engineering, public policy, and health .
Student life is vibrant, featuring media clubs, sports teams, cultural events, and academic societies. UES publicity teams run its own radio (Radio YSUES) and TV channels, and multiple student clubs and societies host extracurricular workshops, cultural festivals, and leadership programs.
Applicants must submit a high school diploma or proof of pending graduation, official transcripts, birth certificate, valid ID (DUI & NIT), photos, and an admission fee receipt. Some programs require the PAES or AVANZO standardized exam (minimum score 7)
Yes, high-demand programs like medicine, engineering, law, and computer science require an admissions test. If not accepted initially, candidates can retake it—admission depends on test scores and available slots relative to applicant volume
Foreign students must apostille and have their diplomas and transcripts validated by the Ministry of Education. Additional documents include passport, birth certificate, photos, health certificate (for some faculties), proof of fee payment, and possibly proof of Spanish proficiency
UES campuses are generally secure, with the university working under national security frameworks. Visitor access is monitored, and emergency support systems are in place. The country’s broader ‘State of Exception’ since 2022 has reduced crime, benefiting campus safety
Students should avoid peripheral areas in San Salvador after dark, refrain from flaunting valuables, travel in pairs, and be vigilant in crowded places. Emergency and campus security lines should be saved in phones; remaining aware is strongly advised despite overall safer conditions.
The university provides psychological counseling, medical services, and a Social Projection office that coordinates with security forces. Students have access to wellbeing programs and mental health support to address stress, crisis, and post-trauma needs.
UES offers a broad portfolio: bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in fields like law, engineering, medicine, sciences, education, social sciences, arts, and agronomy. Over 70 master’s and nine doctoral programs are available .
Yes. UES offers online and blended learning, especially after recent digital upgrades. Faculties now include ICT-enabled lecture recording, virtual labs, and remote access to academic resources—facilitating flexible study options.
Programs emphasize real-world learning: medicine students rotate through teaching hospitals; engineering students engage in innovation labs; law students participate in clinics; research-active faculty secure grants and collaborate through innovation hubs.
UES provides need-based scholarships, fee waivers, and academic grants. Opportunity programs like “Beca al Estímulo” reward athletic and academic excellence. Financial aid is coordinated through the Dirección de Becas and Social Projection office.
Yes. International students can apply for need-based aid, though criteria may differ. Some scholarships cover tuition only. Additional support may come from government aid, bilateral agreements, and non-profit funding partnerships.
Applicants must complete a socioeconomic form, submit academic transcripts, proof of enrollment, ID, and possibly essays or letters of recommendation. Deadlines vary by scholarship, so international and national students must check specific calls carefully.
The main campus is in San Salvador. Satellite campuses are in Santa Ana, San Miguel, and San Vicente, serving regional student populations and reducing central-congestion.
UES offers limited on-campus residences, including women's dorms for 36 students, and plans to convert former athletes’ housing post-2023 Games . Most students rent in nearby neighborhoods (US $160–200/month).
Campus-adjacent neighborhoods vary; some areas of San Salvador pose moderate risk, so students should choose safe zones, live with vetted roommates, and follow university safety advice on secure rentals.
Yes, students from most countries (outside US, EU, UK, Canada, Australia) need a Salvadoran student visa for program durations beyond 90 days .
Generally: admission letter, valid passport, proof of funds and fee payment, health insurance, and sometimes police clearance. Work is restricted for student visa holders, so verify conditions prior to arrival .
El Salvador offers temporary residency visas for graduates securing professional employment. Students must apply through immigration with job contracts, proof of degree, background checks, and medical insurance to switch from student to work/resident status.

University Of University of El Salvador Application Statistics

50000
1000
35000
10000
452
33:1
75 %
$ 7530
$ 5000
3
33
75 %

University Of University of El Salvador Application Statistics

50000
1000
35000
10000
452
33:1
75 %
$ 7530
$ 5000
3
33
75 %

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Connect With University of El Salvador

  • University City "Dr. Fabio Castillo Figueroa", End of Av.Martires and Heroes of July 30
  • +503 2511 2000

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