Study in Philippines: Top Universities, Costs, Application, Deadlines, Visa Process & Job Opportunit

Studying in the Philippines offers international students a unique blend of nature, culture, and quality education. With top universities like the University of the Philippines, Ateneo de Manila University, and De La Salle University ranked 336, 561 and 641 as per QS world university rankings 2025, students can be assured of receiving world-class education. The country offers a variety of programs, from business to IT master’s degrees, with affordable tuition fees ranging from PHP 40,000 to PHP 600,000 ( INR 60,000 to INR 9,00,000) per year, making it an accessible option for many.

The Philippines' strategic location in Southeast Asia, close to global economic hubs like Japan, China, and Singapore, enhances its appeal as a study destination. With over 22,000 international students already studying there, the country has become a growing educational hub. The use of English as the primary medium of instruction makes it easier for international students to adapt and thrive in their academic journey.

Upon graduation, students can expect excellent career opportunities with top recruiters such as Accenture, IBM, Jollibee, and Globe Telecom. These companies offer competitive roles in fields like IT, customer service, and business management. Graduates can earn between PHP 15,000 to PHP 100,000 (INR 22,500 to INR 1,50,000) per month, depending on the industry, making the Philippines a promising place for career growth.

Table of Contents

Top Colleges in Philippines for Indian Students
Why Choose Philippines for Your Academic Journey?
Top Courses in Philippines for Indian Students
Study Options in Philippines: A World of Opportunities
Admission Requirements to Study in Philippines
Philippines Study Visa
Cost of Studying in Philippines for Indian Students
Scholarships to Study in Philippines
Jobs Opportunities after Studying in Philippines
FAQs

Top Colleges in Philippines for Indian Students

Here are tables showcasing some of the top universities in the Philippines as per the QS World University Rankings 2025 and QS Asia University Rankings 2025:

University Name	Location	QS World University Ranking 2025
University of the Philippines (UP)	Quezon City	=336
Ateneo de Manila University	Quezon City	516
De La Salle University (DLSU)	Manila	641–650
University of Santo Tomas (UST)	Manila	851–900
University of San Carlos (USC)	Cebu City	1,401

Top Philippine Universities QS Asia Rankings 2025

University Name	Location	QS Asia University Rankings 2025
University of the Philippines	Quezon City, Philippines	86
Ateneo de Manila University	Quezon City, Philippines	142
De La Salle University	Manila, Philippines	163
University of Santo Tomas	Manila, Philippines	181
Adamson University	Manila, Philippines	411-420
University of San Carlos	Cebu City, Philippines	481-490
Polytechnic University of the Philippines	Manila, Philippines	541-560
Mapúa University	Manila, Philippines	561-580
Silliman University	Dumaguete, Philippines	601-620
Far Eastern University	Manila, Philippines	681-700

Why Choose Philippines for Your Academic Journey?

Following are some reasons why you should choose to study in Philippines as an international student:

1. Recognized Academic Excellence

Four Philippine universities are ranked among the top 1000 in the QS World University Rankings 2025, including University of the Philippines (336) and Ateneo de Manila University (516). In Asia, the Philippines boasts 25 universities in the QS Asia University Rankings 2025, with UP leading at 86th place.

2. Affordable Education

With tuition fees ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 per year, education in the Philippines is significantly more affordable than in many Western and Asian countries, offering quality without the financial strain.

3. English-Medium Instruction

As the third-largest English-speaking country globally, the Philippines offers courses primarily in English, facilitating easier communication and learning for international students.

4. Growing International Student Community

In 2024, the Philippines attracted 22,247 international students, a 52.7% increase from the previous year, indicating its rising popularity as a study destination.

6. Strategic Location

Located in the heart of Southeast Asia, the Philippines is close to major countries like Japan, Singapore, and China, offering easy travel and enriching cultural exposure.

7. Emphasis on STEM Education

As per statista reports of 2024 74% of international students in the Philippines pursue STEM subjects, reflecting the country's strength in these fields.

8. Opportunities for Global Exposure

Philippine universities are actively enhancing their global presence through international collaborations. For instance, in May 2024, several institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Perak, Malaysia, aiming to boost the global competitiveness of Philippine higher education.

9. Supportive Government Policies

The Philippine government is committed to fostering international student mobility. The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has implemented reforms like the K+12 Education System and the adoption of the University Mobility in Asia and the Pacific (UMAP) Credit Transfer Scheme to facilitate student exchanges and academic collaborations.

Top Courses in Philippines for Indian Students

The table below highlights the top courses in Philippines for Indian students, along with universities offering them and the associated tuition fees:

Course Name	Duration	University Offering	Annual Tuition Fees (PHP)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)	2 years	Ateneo de Manila University, University of Asia and the Pacific	PHP 500,000 – PHP 600,000 (INR 735,000 – INR 882,000)
Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT)	2 years	De La Salle University, University of the Philippines Diliman	PHP 450,000 – PHP 550,000 (INR 661,500 – INR 808,500)
Master of Public Health	2 years	University of the Philippines Manila, Ateneo de Manila University	PHP 80,000 – PHP 100,000 (INR 117,600 – INR 147,000)
Master of Engineering	2 years	Mapúa University, University of Santo Tomas	PHP 400,000 – PHP 500,000 (INR 588,000 – INR 735,000)
Master of Science in Nursing	2 years	University of Santo Tomas, University of the Philippines Manila	PHP 120,000 – PHP 150,000 (INR 176,400 – INR 220,500)
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration	4 years	De La Salle University, Ateneo de Manila University	PHP 220,000 – PHP 250,000 (INR 323,400 – INR 367,500)
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology	4 years	University of the Philippines Diliman, De La Salle University	PHP 40,000 – PHP 50,000 (INR 58,800 – INR 73,500)
Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management	4 years	Lyceum of the Philippines University, University of the Philippines Diliman	PHP 60,000 – PHP 80,000 (INR 88,200 – INR 117,600)
Diploma in Culinary Arts	1 year	Center for Culinary Arts, Manila, Enderun Colleges	PHP 500,000 – PHP 600,000 (INR 735,000 – INR 882,000)
Diploma in Information Technology	1 year	AMA Computer Learning Center, Informatics College	PHP 30,000 – PHP 50,000 (INR 44,100 – INR 73,500)

Study Options in Philippines: A World of Opportunities

Here is a table highlighting study options in Philippines tailored for international students, with details on education levels, durations, and tuition fee ranges:

Level of Education	Duration of Study	Tuition Fees Range (PHP/Year)	Tuition Fees Range (INR/Year)
Bachelor’s Degree	4 years	PHP 40,000 – PHP 237,400	INR 58,800 – INR 349,978
Master’s Degree	1.5 – 2 years	PHP 80,000 – PHP 1,677,900	INR 117,600 – INR 2,468,523
Doctoral Programs	3 – 5 years	PHP 280,000 – PHP 300,000	INR 411,600 – INR 441,000
Medical Degrees	4 – 6 years	PHP 145,000 – PHP 149,500	INR 213,150 – INR 219,765
Engineering Degrees	4 – 5 years	PHP 122,000 – PHP 137,000	INR 179,340 – INR 201,390
Preparatory Courses	Few months to 1 year	PHP 160,000	INR 235,200
Summer Schools	3–8 weeks	PHP 450,000	INR 661,500

Admission Requirements to Study in Philippines

Here is a table outlining the essential admission requirements for Indian students wishing to study in the Philippines:

Requirement	Details
Educational Qualifications	Minimum 50% in 10+2 for undergraduate programsBachelor’s degree with at least 55% for master’s programs.
English Proficiency	IELTS (minimum 5.5–6.0) or TOEFL (minimum 60–80); not required for students from English-medium schools.
NEET Exam	Mandatory for MBBS/medical courses; minimum NEET qualifying score of 137 for General Category.
Entrance Exams	Some universities may require entrance exams for admission.Examples: Ateneo College Entrance Test (ACET), De La Salle University Admission Test (DLSUAT)
Passport & Visa	Valid passport and Philippines student visa required; visa process typically includes a personal interview.
Letter of Admission	Issued by the chosen university upon acceptance; essential for visa application.
Financial Proof	Bank statement showing PHP 300,000 – PHP 400,000 (INR 441,000 – INR 588,000) for tuition and living expenses.
Statement of Purpose (SOP)	Required for MBA and master's courses; should highlight career goals, reasons for pursuing the program, and future plans.
Letter of Recommendation (LOR)	Minimum two LORs required for MBA programs; one from an academic reference and one from a professional reference (if applicable).
Work Experience	1–3 years of relevant work experience often required for MBA courses.
Medical Fitness Certificate	A certificate from a registered medical practitioner confirming absence of infectious diseases or chronic illnesses.

Application Process for Philippines University

Choose a Program and University - Start by selecting a program and university that align with your career goals. The Philippines offers over 2,300 universities, including top ones like Ateneo de Manila, De La Salle University, and the University of the Philippines.
Explore Financial Aid - Check funding options such as self-funding, university scholarships, or government sponsorships to manage tuition and living expenses.
Prepare Your Documents - Gather essential documents like academic transcripts, passport, English proficiency test results (if needed), financial proof, and a medical fitness certificate. Ensure all documents are translated into English.
Submit Your Initial Application - Apply directly to your chosen university through its website by submitting the application form, educational certificates, passport copy, and recent photos.
Take Entrance Exams - If required, complete entrance exams like ACET (Ateneo) or DLSUAT (De La Salle). For MBBS, NEET qualification is mandatory for Indian students.
Get Your Admission Offer - Once accepted, you’ll receive an admission letter. Confirm your seat by paying the initial tuition fee, which is essential for the visa process.
Apply for a Student Visa - Visit the Philippine Embassy with your admission letter, financial proof, medical certificate, and other required documents to apply for a student visa.
Submit Final Documents in the Philippines - After arriving, submit your final paperwork, including your admission letter, passport, and educational records, to the university for verification.
Attend Orientation and Start Your Studies - Join the university’s orientation program to learn about campus life and local culture. Once done, register for classes and start your academic journey.

Philippines Study Visa

Indian students can apply for a Philippines Student Visa (9F), which is issued to foreign nationals aged 18 or above pursuing higher education in the country. The visa is valid for the duration of the study program and must be applied for before traveling to the Philippines.

Where to Apply

You can apply for a Philippines Student Visa at the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in India. Students already in the Philippines on a tourist visa may convert it to a student visa with approval from relevant authorities.

Documents Required for Philippines Student Visa

To apply, you will need the following documents:

Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
Visa Application Form: Completed and signed.
Photographs: Recent passport-sized photos with a white background.
Admission Letter: From an accredited Philippine educational institution.
Certificate of Eligibility for Admission (CEA): Issued by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
Affidavit of Support: Notarized proof of financial support from parents or guardians.
Medical Certificate: Including proof of vaccination.
Police Clearance Certificate: From your local police authority.
Academic Records: Transcripts, diploma, and character certificate.

Visa Fees

The fee for a Philippines Student Visa is approximately 1,000 PHP, equivalent to around ?1,500.

Duration of Stay

The student visa is issued for the duration of your course. Upon arrival, students must register with the Bureau of Immigration and obtain an Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR).

Processing Time

Visa processing typically takes 2–10 working days, depending on the workload at the embassy or consulate.

For a smooth application process, ensure all documents are complete and apply well in advance of your intended travel date.

Cost of Studying in Philippines for Indian Students

Here is a table outlining the estimation of monthly expenses for living for international students studying in the Philippines:

Expense	Monthly Cost (PHP)	Monthly Cost (INR)
Accommodation	PHP 10,000 - PHP 20,000	INR 14,700 - INR 29,400
Food	PHP 5,000 - PHP 10,000	INR 7,400 - INR 14,800
Transportation	PHP 1,000 - PHP 3,000	INR 1,500 - INR 4,400
Utilities	PHP 1,000 - PHP 3,000	INR 1,500 - INR 4,400
Entertainment	PHP 1,000 - PHP 3,000	INR 1,500 - INR 4,400
Study Materials	PHP 500 - PHP 2,000	INR 700 - INR 2,900
Phone/Internet	PHP 500 - PHP 1,500	INR 700 - INR 2,200
Personal Expenses	PHP 2,000 - PHP 4,000	INR 2,900 - INR 5,900

Scholarships to Study in Philippines

The table below showcases various scholarship opportunities for Indian students to study in the Philippines, offering financial support for tuition, living expenses, and more:

Scholarship Name	Offered By	Eligibility Criteria	Coverage
Philippine Government Scholarship	Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)	Indian national Must be a graduate or a current student Proficient in English	Full tuition fee coverage, living allowance, accommodation
CHED Scholarship	Commission on Higher Education (CHED)	Indian nationals Must meet the academic requirements of the respective universities	Tuition, monthly allowance, and other study-related expenses
Enderun Colleges Scholarships	Enderun Colleges	Indian students applying for undergraduate or graduate programs Must meet the specific academic requirements	Full/Partial tuition fee coverage
University of the Philippines (UP) Scholarship	University of the Philippines	Indian nationals applying for a degree program at UP Must show academic excellence	Full/Partial tuition fee coverage, living allowance
Ateneo de Manila University Scholarships	Ateneo de Manila University	Indian students accepted into undergraduate or graduate programs Must demonstrate strong academic performance	Full/Partial tuition fee, living stipend
De La Salle University Scholarships	De La Salle University	Indian students applying for undergraduate and graduate programs High academic standing	Full/Partial tuition fee, monthly allowances
Mapúa University International Scholarship	Mapúa University	Indian nationals applying for undergraduate or graduate programs Academic merit-based selection	Full/Partial tuition fee coverage, research grant
Silliman University Scholarship	Silliman University	Indian students applying for undergraduate or graduate programs Financial need-based selection	Tuition fee, housing, and living allowance
Asian Development Bank-Japan Scholarship Program	Asian Development Bank (ADB)	Indian nationals from an ADB member country Must apply for master’s degree programs related to development	Full tuition, travel expenses, living allowance, and health insurance
The Philippines-India Friendship Scholarship	Philippine Embassy in India	Indian students wishing to pursue undergraduate or graduate studies in the Philippines Strong academic record	Tuition, accommodation, and living stipend

Jobs Opportunities after Studying in Philippines

The table below highlights various job opportunities and average salaries for Indian graduates after studying in the Philippines:

Job Role	Average Salary (PHP)	Average Salary (INR)
Healthcare Professional	PHP 30,000 - PHP 80,000	INR 44,100 - INR 117,600
Software Developer	PHP 40,000 - PHP 80,000	INR 58,800 - INR 117,600
Teacher/Professor	PHP 25,000 - PHP 50,000	INR 36,750 - INR 73,500
Business Consultant	PHP 40,000 - PHP 100,000	INR 58,800 - INR 147,000
Marketing Specialist	PHP 25,000 - PHP 60,000	INR 36,750 - INR 88,200
Tourism and Hospitality Manager	PHP 30,000 - PHP 60,000	INR 44,100 - INR 88,200
Financial Analyst	PHP 40,000 - PHP 70,000	INR 58,800 - INR 102,900
Engineer (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, etc.)	PHP 40,000 - PHP 90,000	INR 58,800 - INR 132,300
Customer Service Representative	PHP 15,000 - PHP 30,000	INR 22,050 - INR 44,100

In a nutshell, studying in the Philippines offers a wealth of opportunities for Indian students, from affordable education and living costs to a wide range of scholarships and career prospects. The country’s diverse educational offerings and thriving job market make it an attractive destination for those seeking quality education and professional growth.

FAQs

Ques: What is the medium of instruction at Philippine universities?

Ans: The primary medium of instruction is English, making it easier for international students to adapt and excel in their studies, especially if they already have a basic understanding of the language.

Ques: What is the climate like for international students in the Philippines?

Ans: The Philippines has a tropical climate, with a warm and humid atmosphere throughout the year. The wet season runs from June to November, and the dry season from December to May, so it's important to be prepared for the weather.

Ques: What types of programs are most popular among international students in the Philippines?

Ans: Popular programs include business administration, nursing, engineering, IT, and hospitality management. These fields offer excellent career opportunities both locally and internationally.

What is the grading system like in the Philippines?

Ans: The grading system in the Philippines generally follows a 4.0 scale, with 1.0 being the highest grade and 5.0 being a failing grade. Universities may have variations, but this is the most commonly used system.

Ques: Is it easy to travel around the Philippines for international students?

Ans: Yes, the Philippines has an extensive network of domestic flights, buses, and ferries, making it easy and affordable to travel between cities and islands during breaks.

Ques: What are the most affordable cities for international students in the Philippines?

Ans: Cities like Davao, Iloilo, and Cebu offer a lower cost of living compared to Manila, making them attractive options for students on a budget.