Study abroad
Study in the Philippines
Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.
About studying in the Philippines
Higher education in the Philippines, an archipelago in South-East Asia, gives international students a chance to study in a new academic and cultural setting. Universities and other institutions offer programmes at different levels, from first degrees to postgraduate study, across subjects such as business, engineering, health, science and the humanities.
The economy has strengths in healthcare, digital technology and business services, which is reflected in many study options. Because English is an official language, many programmes are taught in English. Start with the subjects available here, then compare institutions, costs and application steps.
Why study in the Philippines?
There is no single reason to study in the Philippines. For some students it is the programme itself; for others it is the setting in South-East Asia, the language or links to a particular industry. It is worth being clear about what matters most to you before comparing options.
- Industry context: Healthcare, digital technology and business services matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
- Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies, Computing & Information Technology and Business & Management, with options differing between universities.
- Cities and campus life: Manila, Cebu and Davao each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
- Culture and language: living in the Philippines means everyday contact with Filipino and English and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.
Compare the structure of each programme, how it is assessed and what support is available for international students before you decide.
Top subjects to study in the Philippines
Students heading to the Philippines often start by exploring the areas listed here. The selection is editorial and does not rank one subject above another.
- Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies
- Computing & Information Technology
- Business & Management
- Maritime & Shipping
- Hospitality, Tourism & Events
- Engineering
Courses connected to healthcare, digital technology and business services can be a good fit for students who want their studies to relate closely to the local economy. Each subject has its own page for the Philippines on this site, with its specializations.
Before settling on a subject, compare a few programmes side by side: their modules, how they are taught and assessed, and the options they open up after graduation.
Universities in the Philippines
- Ateneo de Manila UniversityQuezon City, Philippines
- THE 2026 1001–1200
- University of the PhilippinesQuezon City, Philippines
- THE 2026 1201–1500
- De La Salle UniversityManila, Philippines
- THE 2026 1501+
Scholarships to Study in the Philippines
Paying for study in the Philippines can involve more than one source of support, and it is worth researching them before you apply for a course.
- government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by the Philippines
- universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
- foundations, charities and international organisations
- research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students
Funding is never guaranteed: check eligibility, deadlines and what the award includes, and have a plan in case you are not successful. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.
Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.
Intakes to study in the Philippines
Start dates in the Philippines are set by each institution, and they can change from year to year.
Plan early. Popular courses can close well before the start date, and international applicants usually need extra time for translations, language tests, scholarship applications and visas. Each institution publishes its own deadlines, so check them for every course on your list.
Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.
A simple planning checklist:
- shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
- prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
- apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
- allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation
Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.
Cost of studying in the Philippines
Tuition in the Philippines varies widely: public and private institutions, subjects and study levels can all have different fees.
When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:
- application and registration fees
- course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
- health insurance and any visa or permit costs
- accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme
Check the latest fees on each institution’s website and confirm whether they can change during your course.
It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.
Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.
Student visa requirements to study in the Philippines
Studying in the Philippines usually involves an immigration step as well as an admission step, and the two often depend on each other.
Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:
- an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
- a valid passport and passport photos
- evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
- health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
- proof of language ability or previous qualifications
Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. The embassy or consulate of the Philippines in your country, and its official immigration authority, are the right places to confirm what applies to you.
Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.
Cost of living in the Philippines
Planning your living budget for the Philippines early helps you avoid surprises during your first months. Costs in Manila can differ noticeably from those in Cebu or Davao and smaller towns.
The main costs to plan for are:
- Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
- Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
- Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
- Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
- Insurance and health: any required health cover
- Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life
On islands and in remote areas, imported goods can raise everyday prices. Current cost estimates from your institution and official sources will help you build a realistic budget for the whole course.
Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.
FAQs about studying in the Philippines
Is the Philippines a good place to study?
It depends on your goals. The Philippines offers programmes across many subjects, a location in South-East Asia and study in Filipino and English. Students interested in healthcare, digital technology and business services may find the local context especially relevant.
What subjects can I study in the Philippines?
Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies, Computing & Information Technology, Business & Management and Maritime & Shipping. The subjects page for the Philippines lists every subject available here with its specializations.
When should I apply to universities in the Philippines?
Start dates vary between institutions. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.
How much does it cost to study in the Philippines?
Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.
Do international students need a visa to study in the Philippines?
Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources and the embassy or consulate of the Philippines.
Are scholarships available for international students in the Philippines?
Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.
Where do international students live in the Philippines?
Manila, Cebu and Davao are among the places students often consider. Living costs, housing and the student experience can differ between cities, so compare them alongside your course options.
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