The UNMSM eliminates minimum score in the admission process for 2024-II.

The National University of San Marcos (UNMSM) has made an unprecedented decision for the upcoming admission process 2024-II: to eliminate the minimum score of 900 that used to be a requirement to enter the prestigious institution. This measure, discussed and approved in the last meeting of the University Council, aims to ensure the occupation of the 1,320 vacancies that were left unfilled in previous calls. Rector Jerí Ramón Ruffner, along with other university authorities, has justified this extraordinary action due to the high number of unfilled spaces in various academic areas. By eliminating the minimum score, the intention is to provide the opportunity to those applicants who, despite not reaching the required qualification, demonstrate aptitudes and competencies to study at UNMSM, as long as there are available spots in the career of their choice. This decision, which will be governed by the merit order of the applicants, has sparked a debate in the academic community about its implications and repercussions. According to data provided by the Central Admission Office (OCA), the areas of Health Sciences, Engineering, Humanities and Legal and Social Sciences, Economics and Management Sciences, as well as Basic Sciences, had a considerable percentage of vacant spots in the last call. The Vice-Rector for Research and Postgraduate Studies, Dr. José Segundo Niño Montero, has supported the measure as a way to ensure coverage of spots and diversity of academic profiles at the university. However, he has also pointed out that areas such as Mathematics, Chemistry, and Operational Research may face difficulties in filling their spots due to lack of interest from applicants in these careers. This decision to eliminate the minimum score will need to be formalized through a rectoral resolution before its effective application in the next admission process. Although it aims to broaden access opportunities to higher education, this measure poses important challenges and reflections regarding equity, academic quality, and vocational guidance for students aspiring to enter UNMSM.