Studying in the Philippines is becoming an increasingly attractive option for international students due to its affordability, welcoming culture, and widespread use of English. As the Philippines emerges as a rapidly growing study destination, more students are discovering its vibrant campuses, rich cultural heritage, and accessible cost of living.
The country has seen significant growth, with 17,202 international students enrolled in 2022 — a 57.4% increase compared to the previous five years.
Why Study in the Philippines?
The Philippines is gaining recognition as a leading destination for international students, offering a wide range of globally-recognized degrees from top-ranked universities. Here are some key reasons to choose the Philippines for your education:
- Affordable but Quality Education: Tuition fees and living costs are much lower than in other popular destinations, making the Philippines a budget-friendly option without compromising the quality of education.
- English Proficiency: As one of the national languages, English is widely spoken, minimizing language barriers for international students.
- Welcoming Culture: Filipinos are known for their hospitality. International students often find themselves warmly welcomed and highly respected in Filipino society.
- Tourist-Friendly: The Philippines is home to some of the world’s most beautiful tourist destinations, including pristine beaches, lush mountains, and vibrant cities. This makes studying here a great opportunity for travel and exploration.
What It’s Like to Study in the Philippines
The higher education system in the Philippines follows the American academic model, where students earn credits to complete degrees. Undergraduate programs typically take four years to complete, but this can vary depending on the course of study. For instance, nursing degrees can be completed in 2-3 years, and medical school can take up to seven years. Master’s programs range from one to three years, while doctoral programs generally take five to seven years of full-time study.
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) oversees all higher education institutions to ensure the quality of education and to address any conflicts that arise between students and institutions. International students can expect friendly interactions with both local students and faculty, with many Filipinos fluent in English. However, it’s common for classes to be rescheduled or adjusted, so always check with the school’s announcements.
International Student Origins in the Philippines
The Philippines is seeing a growing number of international students, with the majority coming from Asian and African countries. In 2024, of the 17,202 international students:
- 8,973 were Indian students
- 5,334 were from China
- 838 were from Nigeria
This shows the diversity of international students choosing the Philippines as their study destination.
Popular Cities for International Students
Some of the top cities where international students choose to study include:
- Manila: The bustling capital city with a rich mix of modern and historical landmarks.
- Cebu: Known for its blend of urban life and access to stunning beaches.
- Quezon City: The largest city in Metro Manila, home to prestigious universities.
- Makati: The business and financial hub of the Philippines.
- Taguig: A rapidly developing city with modern amenities.
- Pasig: Known for its educational institutions and central location.
- Davao City: A peaceful, eco-friendly city with a low cost of living.
- Caloocan: An urban city with easy access to Metro Manila’s major centers.
- Pampanga: Known as the “Food Capital of the Philippines”.
- Baguio: Hailed as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, a cool, mountainous retreat popular with students seeking a relaxed, academic environment.
Top Programs to Study in the Philippines
International students can choose from a wide range of academic programs, with some of the most popular being:
- Business
- Education
- Computer Science and IT
- Medical and Allied Health Sciences
- Engineering
Top Universities in the Philippines
The Philippines boasts some of the best universities in Southeast Asia, recognized globally for their academic excellence.
| University | QS World Rankings 2025 | THE World Rankings 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| University of the Philippines | 336 | 1201-1500 |
| Ateneo de Manila University | 516 | 1001-1200 |
| De La Salle University | 641-650 | 1501+ |
| University of Santo Tomas | 851-900 | 1501+ |
| University of San Carlos | 1401+ | n/a |
Levels of Study Available in the Philippines
The Philippines offers education at various levels, catering to students of all academic backgrounds:
- Primary Education
- Secondary Education
- Technical and Vocational Education
- Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Degree)
- Postgraduate (Master’s Degree)
- Doctoral (PhD)
Grading System in the Philippines
Most Common Secondary
| Scale | Description | US Grade |
| 95.00 – 100.00 | Excellent | A |
| 90.00 – 94.99 | Very Good | B+ |
| 85.00 – 89.99 | Good | B |
| 80.00 – 84.99 | Satisfactory | C |
| 75.00 – 79.99 | Fairly Satisfactory | C |
| 0.00 – 74.99 | Needs Special Help | F |
Most Common Tertiary
Excludes other universities that use a 4.0 grade point scale as the highest grade (e.g., De La Salle University and FEU-East Asia College).
| Grade | Scale | Scale 2 | Grade Description | US Grade |
| 1.00 – 1.24 | 96.00 – 100.00 | Excellent | A+ | |
| 1.25 – 1.49 | 94.00 – 95.99 | Superior | A | |
| 1.50 – 1.74 | 91.00 – 93.99 | Very Good | A- | |
| 1.75 – 1.99 | 89.00 – 90.99 | Good | B+ | |
| 2.00 – 2.24 | 86.00 – 88.99 | Very Satisfactory | B | |
| 2.25 – 2.49 | 83.00 – 85.99 | High Average | B- | |
| 2.50 – 2.74 | 80.00 – 82.99 | Average | C+ | |
| 2.75 – 2.99 | 77.00 – 79.99 | Fair | C | |
| 3.00 – 3.99 | 75.00 – 76.99 | Pass | C- | |
| 4.00 – 4.99 | 70.00 – 74.99 | Conditional | D | |
| 5.00 – 5.00 | 0.00 – 69.99 | Failing | F | |
| P | Passed | S | ||
| W | Withdrawal | - | ||
| INC | Incomplete | - | ||
| DRP | Dropped | - |
Student Life in the Philippines
- Quality of Life: The Philippines offers a relatively affordable cost of living, making it a great destination for international students on a budget. With a range of accommodations, from dormitories to apartments, students can find options that fit their financial situation. The availability of affordable public transportation, food, and healthcare further enhances the quality of life for students. Additionally, the country is home to numerous recreational activities, from beautiful beaches to urban entertainment hubs, allowing students to balance academic life with relaxation and adventure.
- Culture: Filipino culture is known for its hospitality and warmth, making it easier for international students to feel welcomed. English is widely spoken, which eliminates many communication barriers and helps students integrate into academic and social settings quickly. Filipino festivals, traditions, and strong family-oriented values are often celebrated nationwide, giving students a rich cultural experience during their stay. Moreover, the country’s diverse food, vibrant music, and active sports culture offer plenty of opportunities for students to immerse themselves in local life.
- Weather: The Philippines enjoys a tropical climate, which means students can expect warm temperatures year-round. The country has two main seasons: the dry season (November to April) and the rainy season (June to October). The temperature typically ranges from 25°C to 32°C, with cooler periods in the highlands or during the evenings. However, students should be aware of typhoons, which can occur mainly between June and November.
How to Apply to Philippine Universities
Eligibility for international students is based on specific criteria. Foreign students and Filipino graduates from secondary schools abroad can apply for automatic admission if they have completed high school and meet specific international exam requirements such as SAT, GCE, or IB. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources and comply with the Philippine Immigration Act (Section 9(f)), which requires students to enter the Philippines temporarily for study purposes.
Unlike other countries, the Philippines does not have a national application portal. Instead, applicants must apply directly to each institution. The application process typically involves:
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS scores) if English is not the applicant’s first language.
- Submission of academic transcripts and diplomas.
- A copy of your passport for nationality verification.
- A personal statement outlining your reasons for applying.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Certified translations if documents are in a language other than Filipino, English, or Spanish.
Some programs may have additional requirements such as entrance exams, medical certificates, or interviews. It’s important to check with the specific institution for a comprehensive list of requirements.
Document Requirements for Studying in the Philippines
To study in the Philippines, you are generally required to submit the following documents (requirements may vary by university):
- Passport.
- Application form for the admission test (for bachelor’s degree applicants).
- National Medical Admission Test (NMAT) Result Certificate (for medical students).
- Certificate of Eligibility for Admission (CEA) from CHED (for medical students).
- Two copies of your Official Transcript of Records (authenticated by the Philippine Foreign Service Post, Embassy, or Consulate).
- Medical Fitness Certificate (authenticated by the Philippine Foreign Service Post).
- Police Clearance from the applicant’s country of origin.
- A notarized Affidavit of Support from parents and a Bank Certificate proving financial capacity.
You should check with the university to ensure they meet all requirements, as incomplete or incorrect documentation can result in delays or denial of admission.
University Application Process in the Philippines
While the process may vary by institution, here is a general outline of the steps involved when applying to a university in the Philippines:
- Present Entrance Credentials: Submit the necessary academic credentials to the Office of Admissions.
- Pay Application and Testing Fees: A non-refundable fee is usually required to cover application processing and admission tests.
- Obtain Application Forms: Get the official forms from the university’s Office of Admissions.
- Submit Completed Forms: Return the filled-out forms to the Office of Admissions.
- Take the Admission Test: For undergraduate applicants, most universities require you to pass an admission test.
- Receive a Letter of Acceptance: Once your application is successful, you will receive a Letter of Acceptance or Notice of Acceptance (NOA).
- Submit Additional Documents: The university will inform you of the additional documents needed, which may include transcripts, certificates, and personal information.
Student Visa in the Philippines
International students need a student visa to study in the Philippines. After receiving admission from a Filipino university, apply for the visa at the Philippine embassy or consulate in your home country. This visa is typically valid for one year and is renewable each semester. Below are the general documents you’ll need to provide:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the Philippines.
- Visa Application Form: Complete and submit the official visa application form.
- Medical Health Certificate: A DFA Form 11 with a life-size chest x-ray and laboratory reports.
- Photographs: Provide three recent passport-size photos.
- Police Clearance Certificate: A certificate confirming you have no criminal record.
- Notice of Acceptance: Proof of your acceptance to a Filipino university.
- Proof of Financial Means: Documentation showing you can financially support yourself during your stay, such as bank statements or a scholarship award.
- Visa Fee: Pay the visa application fee as required by the embassy.
Make sure to schedule an interview with the embassy or consulate, as this is often a requirement for obtaining the student visa.
How to Apply for a Student Visa in the Philippines
There are two ways to secure a student visa for the Philippines. You can either apply in their country of origin or obtain a temporary visitor visa and convert it into a student visa upon arrival in the Philippines.
1. Procedure for Securing a Student Visa in the Country of Origin
Follow these steps to secure a student visa in your home country:
- Submit Documents to the University: You must send the following documents to the university:
- Six (6) copies of the Original Personal History Statement (PHS), signed by the applicant in English and the national alphabet, accompanied by handprints and photos.
- Transcript of Records (original and photocopies), authenticated by the Philippine Foreign Service Post, Embassy, or Consulate in the applicant’s country of origin.
- Medical Fitness Certificate, authenticated by the Philippine Foreign Service Post.
- A notarized Affidavit of Support and proof of financial support (Bank Statement), authenticated by the Philippine Foreign Service Post, to cover living expenses and school fees.
- Photocopy of Passport pages where name, photo, birthdate, and birthplace appear.
- Certificate of Eligibility for Admission (CEA) for students of Medicine (certified copy).
- University Endorsement: The university sends the student’s Notice of Acceptance (NOA) and the above documents to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in the Philippines.
- Submit to Consular Officer: The student presents the following documents to the Philippine Foreign Service Post in their home country for the visa interview:
- Original copy of the NOA with the university’s dry seal.
- Original copy of the CEA issued by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) (for restricted courses like Medicine).
- Police Clearance or certification that the applicant has no criminal record.
- Medical Health Certificate from an authorized physician, including a chest x-ray.
- Birth Certificate.
- Authenticated Passport pages with name, photo, birthdate, and birthplace.
2. Procedure for Securing a Student Visa in the Philippines (Conversion from Temporary Visitor Visa)
For students who enter the Philippines on a Temporary Visitor Visa and wish to convert it to a Student Visa, follow these steps:
Before Arriving in the Philippines:
Prepare Required Documents:
- Six copies of the Original Personal History Statement (PHS).
- Police Clearance, authenticated by the Philippine Foreign Service Post.
- Transcript of Records from the previous school (authenticated by the Philippine Foreign Service Post).
- Honorary Dismissal from the previous school (if applicable).
- Medical Fitness Certificate, authenticated by the Philippine Foreign Service Post.
- A notarized Affidavit of Support and proof of financial support (Bank Statement), authenticated by the Philippine Foreign Service Post.
- A valid tourist visa of at least 59 days.
After Arriving in the Philippines:
Secure Additional Requirements:
- National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) Clearance: Apply for this upon arrival.
- Original Notice of Acceptance (NOA) from the university, with the school’s official dry seal and signed by the University Registrar.
- A notarized letter of request from the applicant.
- A General Application Form (BI Form No. MCL-07-01), notarized and completed by the applicant (can be downloaded from the Bureau of Immigration website).
- Medical Clearance from the Bureau of Quarantine, certifying the applicant is free of contagious diseases and mentally fit.
- ACR I-Card: This must be secured after the student visa is approved.
Cost of Studying and Living in the Philippines
One of the main attractions for international students considering studying in the Philippines is the affordability of both tuition and living expenses. Compared to other popular study destinations, the Philippines offers an excellent balance of low costs and quality education.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees in the Philippines vary depending on the institution and program of study. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Public Universities: On average, tuition fees at public universities range from US$1,000 to US$1,200 per year. Public universities tend to be more affordable, but they also offer competitive academic programs recognized globally.
- Private Universities: For private institutions, tuition fees can range from US$1,200 to US$5,000 per year. Private universities are known for providing a more personalized education experience with smaller class sizes and additional resources.
Certain specialized programs, such as medical degrees, may have higher tuition fees due to the advanced facilities and extended length of the program.
Living Costs
Living in the Philippines is relatively inexpensive compared to other countries. International students will typically need around US$5,200 to US$6,000 per year to cover basic living expenses, including food, transport, accommodation, and other day-to-day needs.
Accommodation Costs in the Philippines
- University Dormitories: Many universities in the Philippines offer on-campus dormitory accommodations. These dorms are usually very affordable, with rates ranging from US$50 to US$100 per month. However, space can be limited, so early application is recommended.
- Off-Campus Accommodation: If university dormitories are unavailable or full, off-campus housing is a popular alternative. There are plenty of affordable options near universities, and students can search online through platforms like Facebook Marketplace or dedicated housing websites. Off-campus rent typically costs around US$150 to US$300 per month, depending on the location and type of accommodation.
Transportation Costs in the Philippines
Transportation in the Philippines is quite cheap and convenient. There are many transportation options such as jeepneys, buses, trains, and motorcycle taxis. Here’s a breakdown of the typical transport costs:
| Transportation | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | $0.26 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | $11.44 |
| Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | $0.71 |
| Taxi per km (Normal Tariff) | $0.26 |
| Taxi 1-hour Waiting (Normal Tariff) | $2.64 |
| Gasoline (1 liter) | $1.17 |
Source: Numbeo
For motorcycle taxi services, apps like Angkas, Move It, and Joyride are popular for getting around cities quickly. Taxis are also widely available, though it’s recommended to use ride-hailing apps such as Grab to avoid scams. Public trains are available in metro areas but can be crowded, especially during rush hours.
Food Costs in the Philippines
Food costs vary depending on where you eat and what you order. A simple meal at a local restaurant can cost around US$3 to US$5 per meal, while dining at more upscale establishments may cost more. Cooking at home can save even more on food expenses.
Work While Studying in the Philippines
Is it possible to work while studying in the Philippines? Working while studying in the Philippines can be challenging, especially with the intensive class schedules for bachelor’s degree programs, which can last 7-10 hours per day, depending on the university. Balancing work and academic commitments can become overwhelming, and it may affect your academic performance.
International students should consult the nearest Philippine embassy or consulate in their home country to confirm whether they are legally permitted to work while studying. Be mindful that a student visa in the Philippines typically does not allow full-time employment. Therefore, you should not rely on part-time work to fully cover your education and living expenses. However, you may explore remote online work options to supplement their income while studying.
Study in the Philippines
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