OBJECTIVE: To analyze the potentialities and challenges of stricto sensu graduate programs in the health field from the perspective of post-graduate students and graduates. METHODS: This study is a qualitative meta-synthesis analyzing 23 studies selected from the following databases: BDENF, LILACS, MEDLINE via PubMed, PsycINFO and Scopus in Spanish, English and Portuguese, published between 2002 and 2022. Data were analyzed using the constant comparative analysis technique. RESULTS: The synthesis identified the potentialities and challenges of stricto sensu graduate studies across four domains: personal, academic, professional, and social. Key potentialities included the development of research skills, the production of rele-vant studies, the training of highly qualified professionals, and interdisciplinary collaboration. However, significant challeng-es were also noted, such as time management difficulties, high academic demands, competitiveness, workload overload, financial constraints, and professional undervaluation. CONCLUSION: The qualitative studies reviewed highlight both the potentialities and challenges of stricto sensu graduate programs in the health field, emphasizing their impact on personal, academic, professional, and social aspects. It is essential for training institutions to develop and implement strategies that support graduate students in overcoming the challenges inherent in this formative process.