Earning an advanced degree from a credible institution can help students develop the knowledge and skills needed to advance their careers. Nursing is a challenging yet compassionate field centered on providing safe, effective, and patient-focused care.
Students from around the world seek nursing programs at reputable institutions to earn recognized qualifications and prepare for careers in healthcare. One country that attracts students interested in nursing education is the Philippines.
The Philippines offers students opportunities to pursue affordable and high-quality education. The country has a long-established nursing education sector, although students should confirm each program’s current authorization, admission requirements, and professional recognition before applying.
Located in Southeast Asia, the Philippines has a culturally diverse academic environment and numerous universities with international partnerships and exchange opportunities.
For more information about some of the leading nursing schools in the Philippines for international students, refer to the guide below.
Top Schools Offering Nursing Programs in the Philippines
1. University of Philippines Manila
The University of the Philippines Manila is the health sciences campus of the University of the Philippines system. Its College of Nursing offers undergraduate and graduate nursing programs and provides several scholarship and financial-aid opportunities.
One available award is the Cesarea P. Tan Scholarship Grant, which currently provides PHP 10,000 per semester. Applicants must meet the scholarship’s academic, enrollment, and participation requirements.
The university’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a four-year, competency-based, community-oriented, and value-based program. It prepares entry-level nurses to provide safe, high-quality, and holistic care to individuals, families, and communities.
2. University of Santo Tomas
Founded in 1611, the University of Santo Tomas is a private Dominican Catholic university and describes itself as the oldest existing university in Asia. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, UST is placed in the 1501+ band worldwide.
The university’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a four-year program consisting of general education and professional courses. Nursing concepts and related learning experiences are incorporated throughout the four years, followed by an intensive nursing practicum designed to develop the competencies expected of an entry-level nurse.
3. Silliman University
Established in 1901, Silliman University is a private university in Dumaguete City. Its academic offerings include programs in nursing, theology, marine biology, business, education, and the sciences.
The university offers a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for professional nursing practice by developing their clinical knowledge, practical skills, understanding of community health needs, and ability to use the nursing process.
4. Cebu Doctors’ University
Cebu Doctors’ University is a private, nonsectarian university specializing in medical and health-related education. Its College of Nursing has held PAASCU accreditation for its Bachelor of Science in Nursing program since 1985 and currently reports Level III accreditation.
The College of Nursing offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing. The graduate program lists majors including medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child nursing, psychiatric nursing, geriatric nursing, and family health nursing.
Prospective students should confirm the current curriculum, clinical placement arrangements, professional recognition, and admission requirements directly with the university.
5. Far Eastern University
Far Eastern University was established in 1928 and offers undergraduate and graduate programs across several academic fields. Its Institute of Health Sciences and Nursing offers programs in nursing, medical technology, and other health-related disciplines.
FEU also offers scholarships and financial-aid programs. The Nicanor Reyes Science Scholarship Program provides full tuition and an assessed miscellaneous-fee discount to eligible students who satisfy its admission and retention requirements.
The university’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a four-year program consisting of general education, major, and professional nursing courses. Professional courses and related learning experiences are incorporated from the first through the fourth year, followed by an intensive nursing practicum.
6. University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center
The University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center is a health sciences institution in Quezon City. Its academic units include colleges of medicine, nursing, allied health professions, and rehabilitation sciences, as well as a graduate school.
Its Bachelor of Science in Nursing is a four-year program consisting of general education and professional nursing courses. Professional subjects and related learning experiences are taught from the first through the fourth year, with an intensive practicum designed to prepare graduates for entry-level positions in healthcare facilities and community settings.
7. De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute
De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute is a health sciences institution in Dasmariñas, Cavite. Its academic and clinical environment includes health-related degree programs, research activities, and training connected with the De La Salle University Medical Center.
The institution offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing through its College of Nursing. Its Graduate Studies in Medical and Health Sciences also lists a Master of Arts in Nursing, which supports advanced nursing education, professional development, and research.
Overall, the Philippines has a long history of nursing education and offers nursing programs at public, private, faith-based, and health sciences institutions. Program availability, accreditation, scholarship coverage, tuition, admission rules, and clinical requirements can change, so applicants should verify all details with the university and the relevant Philippine authorities before applying.
We hope this article helps you compare nursing schools for international students in the Philippines. For more information about studying abroad, visit the Available Courses for International Students and Study in the Philippines.
