The University of Santo Tomas (UST), established in 1611, is the oldest and one of the most prestigious universities in the Philippines. Ranked 851–900 in the QS World University Rankings 2025, UST offers over 50 undergraduate programs and 40 graduate programs, attracting students worldwide. With tuition fees averaging ₱30,000–₱50,000 (₹44,400–₹74,000), UST is an affordable yet academically rigorous choice for international students seeking quality education in Southeast Asia.
The sprawling 21.5-hectare campus in Manila is equipped with modern facilities like a central library, hospital, and sports pavilion, ensuring an enriching learning environment. UST also provides on-campus accommodation at affordable rates ranging from ₱3,000 to ₱7,000 (₹4,440–₹10,360) per month and off-campus options to suit various budgets. Additionally, Scholarships like the Santo Tomas Academic Scholarship, which offers up to 100% tuition fee discounts, and the San Martin de Porres Scholarship, which provides financial aid for deserving students, make UST an accessible choice for international students.
Popular Programs at Santo Tomas
Here’s a table showcasing the popular programs offered at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) for international students, along with their duration and tuition fees:
| Program Name | Duration | Tuition Fees (PHP) | Tuition Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Business Administration | 2 years | ₱33,000 | ₹48,840 |
| Master of Science in Medical Technology | 2 years | ₱33,000 | ₹48,840 |
| Master of Science in Nursing | 2 years | ₱33,000 | ₹48,840 |
| Master of Science in Engineering | 2 years | ₱35,000 | ₹51,800 |
| Master of Arts in Philosophy | 2 years | ₱30,000 | ₹44,400 |
| Bachelor of Science in Accountancy | 4 years | ₱45,000 | ₹66,600 |
| Bachelor of Science in Architecture | 5 years | ₱50,000 | ₹74,000 |
| Bachelor of Science in Biology | 4 years | ₱50,000 | ₹74,000 |
| Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering | 5 years | ₱50,000 | ₹74,000 |
| Bachelor of Science in Nursing | 4 years | ₱50,000 | ₹74,000 |
Admission Requirement at Santo Tomas
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) offers over 50 undergraduate programs and 40 graduate programs, welcoming both local and international students. Admissions primarily open during the August intake, with application deadlines typically between February and April.
Below is a table showcasing the admission requirements for the University of Santo Tomas (UST) for internationals students:
| Requirement Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Documents | National Senior High School Certificate or equivalent for high school applicants. |
| Official Transcript of Records (TOR) for undergraduate or graduate applicants. | |
| Application Form | Fully accomplished application form, accessible from the Universities Official Website. |
| Photographs | Passport-sized photo with a white background. |
| Valid Passport | A photocopy of the bio-data page of the applicant's passport. |
| Visa | Valid student visa or appropriate visa for study purposes. |
| English Proficiency Test | TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (internet-based) or equivalent. |
| IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.0 or equivalent. | |
| Recommendation Letters | Two recommendation letters from academic or professional sources. |
| Proof of Financial Capacity | Bank statement or affidavit of support to demonstrate financial capability to study. |
| Certificate of Good Moral Character | Issued by the previous school or institution. |
| Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) | Required after arrival in the Philippines. |
| Health Clearance | Medical certificate and proof of vaccination (including COVID-19 and other immunizations certificates from diseases like Measles, Mumps, Hepatitis B etc.). |
| Program-Specific Requirements | Additional requirements Can apply, such as a portfolio for Fine Arts or an audition for Music programs. |
Santo Tomas Campus and Accommodation
The University of Santo Tomas (UST), founded in 1611, is the oldest university in Asia and a symbol of rich history blended with modern academic excellence. Its iconic main building, recognized as the first earthquake-resistant structure in the Philippines, highlights the university's legacy of innovation and resilience.
Located on a sprawling 21.5-hectare campus in Sampaloc, Manila, UST offers state-of-the-art facilities, including academic halls, a hospital, a sports pavilion, and recreational spaces. To ensure student convenience, UST provides affordable on-campus accommodation with fully furnished dormitories, ranging from ₱3,000 to ₱7,000 per month, making it an ideal choice for students seeking both comfort and accessibility.
The table below showcases all the details about the University of Santo Tomas campus and accommodation facilities for international students:
Campus
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | España Boulevard, Sampaloc, Manila, Philippines |
| Area Covered | 21.5 hectares |
| Campuses | Main Campus (España, Manila); other campuses include UST Santa Rosa, Laguna, and UST General Santos City |
| Facilities | UST Main Building (Central Seminary, Faculty Offices) |
| P. Noval Hall (Science and Research) | |
| Quadricentennial Pavilion (Sports and Events Center) | |
| Central Library | |
| UST Hospital | |
| Chapel of St. Thomas Aquinas (used for religious worship and ceremonies) | |
| Open Grounds for Recreational Activities | |
| Student Services | Student Counseling and Guidance |
| Scholarship and Financial Assistance Programs | |
| Health Services and Clinics | |
| Career Placement Services | |
| Student Housing and Dormitories | |
| Nearby Attractions | Intramuros Historical District |
| Rizal Park | |
| National Museum of the Philippines | |
| Quiapo Church and Market | |
| SM City Manila and local cafes near Sampaloc |
Accommodation
On Campus Accommodation
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Accommodation Type | Dormitories and Residence Halls |
| Location | Within or near the UST Main Campus in Sampaloc, Manila |
| Capacity | Varies per dormitory; generally caters to hundreds of students |
| Room Types | Single Occupancy Rooms |
| Shared Rooms (2-4 occupants) | |
| Gender-Specific Floors or Dormitories | |
| Amenities | Fully Furnished Rooms (bed, desk, chair, wardrobe) |
| Air-Conditioned and Non-Air-Conditioned Options | |
| High-Speed Internet Access | |
| Shared Bathrooms with Cleaning Services | |
| Common Areas (lounges, study rooms) | |
| Laundry Facilities | |
| Security Systems (CCTV, 24/7 guards) | |
| Dining Options | Cafeterias within the dormitory premises |
| Access to nearby canteens and restaurants | |
| Eligibility | Open to UST students |
| Priority for out-of-town or international students | |
| Application Process | Submit an application to the UST Office for Student Affairs (OSA) |
| Requirements: Student ID, proof of enrollment, and application form | |
| Cost | ₱3,000 to ₱7,000 per month depending on room type and amenities |
| Additional Services | Academic and emotional support from dorm staff |
| Recreational activities organized for residents |
Off Campus Accommodation
| Accommodation Name | Description | Monthly Rent (PHP) | Monthly Rent (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| España Grand Residences | Fully furnished studio and 1-bedroom units with modern amenities, located a 5-minute walk from UST. | ₱8,000–₱15,000 | ₹11,600–₹22,100 |
| UST Tower Dormitory | High-rise dormitory offering shared rooms, study lounges, and 24/7 security, designed for students. | ₱5,000–₱9,000 | ₹7,200–₹13,300 |
| La Casarita | Serviced apartments with affordable single and shared rooms, including meal plans and housekeeping. | ₱7,000–₱12,000 | ₹10,200–₹17,700 |
| Dominican Place | Dormitory-style accommodation with shared spaces, Wi-Fi, and recreational facilities near UST. | ₱4,000–₱8,000 | ₹5,800–₹11,600 |
| España 913 | Modern apartments offering 1 to 3-bedroom units with access to cafes, restaurants, and transport. | ₱10,000–₱18,000 | ₹14,500–₹26,500 |
| P. Noval Residences | Budget-friendly shared apartments ideal for students, located within walking distance of UST. | ₱4,500–₱8,500 | ₹6,500–₹12,500 |
Cost of Living at Santo Tomas
Here’s a table breaking down the monthly cost of living for international students at the University of Santo Tomas:
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (PHP & INR) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | ₱3,000–₱15,000 (₹4,440–₹22,200) |
Costs depend on the type of accommodation (shared apartments, dormitories, or private rooms). |
| Food & Dining | ₱3,000–₱6,000 (₹4,440–₹8,880) |
Includes groceries and dining at affordable restaurants or canteens near UST. |
| Transportation | ₱1,000–₱2,500 (₹1,480–₹3,700) |
Primarily jeepneys, tricycles, or taxis. UST is accessible via public transport. |
| Utilities | ₱1,500–₱3,000 (₹2,220–₹4,440) |
Includes electricity, water, and internet for off-campus accommodations. |
| School Supplies | ₱500–₱1,500 (₹740–₹2,220) |
Covers notebooks, photocopying, and other materials needed for studies. |
| Health & Insurance | ₱500–₱1,500 (₹740–₹2,220) |
Includes medical consultations, basic medications, or student health insurance. |
| Recreation & Leisure | ₱1,000–₱3,000 (₹1,480–₹4,440) |
Includes gym memberships, movies, coffee shops, or occasional outings. |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | ₱500–₱2,000 (₹740–₹2,960) |
Covers personal expenses like toiletries, laundry, or other small purchases. |
University of Santo Tomas, Scholarships
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) offers a range of scholarships for international students, recognizing academic excellence, talent, and financial need. To apply, students must fill out the San Martin de Porres Scholarship Application Form and submit it to the Office for Student Affairs (OSA) with proof of financial need, existing scholarships, or achievements in their chosen field.
Below is a table highlighting the scholarships offered by the University of Santo Tomas (UST) for international students:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Benefit | Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santo Tomas Academic Scholarship | For students with excellent academic performance. Open to Senior High graduates ranked top 1 or 2. Available to top-performing college students. |
50% to 100% tuition fee discount. | Fill out the Santo Tomas Academic Scholarship Application Form. Submit it to the Office for Student Affairs (OSA) with the UST Entrance Test result or Transcript of Records. |
| San Lorenzo Ruiz Scholarship | For financially needy college students. Must be willing to render 20-30 hours of service weekly. Requires good health for balancing studies and work. |
100% tuition fee discount + monthly allowance. | Complete the San Lorenzo Ruiz Scholarship Application Form. Submit it to the Office for Student Affairs (OSA) along with proof of financial need, such as an income tax return. |
| Santo Domingo Scholarship | For students excelling in arts, music, or sports. Applicable to UST Sports teams, ROTC, Singers, and related groups. |
Varies based on performance evaluation. | Fill out the Santo Domingo Scholarship Application Form. Submit it to the Office for Student Affairs (OSA) along with proof of achievements in the chosen field. |
| San Martin de Porres Scholarship | For financially deserving students. Applicable to those with other scholarships (e.g., DOST, OWWA). |
50% tuition discount; top scholars get allowances for learning materials. | Fill out the San Martin de Porres Scholarship Application Form. Submit it to the Office for Student Affairs (OSA) with proof of financial need and documents for existing scholarships. |
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) in Manila, Philippines, offers a welcoming environment for international students, with a tropical climate averaging 25–32°C year-round. Additionally, students should also look into the Philippines visa requirements and apply for the same at least 60 days before the semester begins, ensuring all necessary documents, like health clearances and financial proof, are prepared. Combining a warm climate, cultural diversity, and academic excellence, UST is an ideal destination for global learners.
FAQs
Ques: What cultural or extracurricular activities can students explore at UST?
Ans: Students at UST can join over 100 student organizations, participate in annual cultural festivals like the Paskuhan Christmas celebration, compete in university-wide sports leagues, and be part of renowned groups such as the UST Singers, a multi-awarded choral group recognized globally. These opportunities enrich student life and foster personal growth.
Ques: Is UST a Catholic university, and how does it incorporate faith into its education system?
Ans: Yes, UST is a Catholic university and incorporates values-based education, regular religious services, and community outreach programs as part of its holistic learning approach.
Ques: Does UST help international students settle into campus life?
Ans: Yes, UST offers orientation programs, counseling, and mentorship to support new students in adjusting to university life.
Ques: Are there specific programs at UST designed for international students?
Ans: Yes, UST offers internationally recognized programs such as Nursing, Medicine, Engineering, and Business Administration, tailored to meet global standards. These programs provide international students with the skills and credentials needed for global opportunities.
Ques: What kind of career support does UST provide to its students?
Ans: UST provides strong career support through its Career and Placement Office, offering job fairs, personalized career counseling, and internship opportunities. These services help students connect with potential employers and prepare for their professional journey.
University of Santo Tomas Program Fees & Deadlines
| Program | Important Dates | Fees | Application Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
M.D 4 years | USD 6,620 /Yr PHP 331,003 /Yr | 320 |
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Attendance Cost
The table shows average yearly cost of attendance for international students. Amount may vary with the course opted, nature of accommodation, and personal spending habits of a candidate.Check Program wise Fees
University of Santo Tomas Campus Location
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