The Philippines has thousands of islands, making it an excellent tourist destination. However, a couple of isles remain uninhabited. Therefore, when people go fishing and diving, they have their spots to go to since countless islands have yet to be discovered. Because of their interactions with foreigners and tourists, Filipinos speak English very fluently.
That’s why the Philippines are also renowned for their English skills, as they speak it as a second language. Many of this nation’s universities offer English-taught programs, ideal for many international students interested in studying here. Unfortunately, you might be unable to afford the high tuition costs of schools outside your home country.
That’s why this article will list some of the cheapest universities in the Philippines. If you want to pursue a degree with low tuition fees in the country, make sure to read carefully below.
Affordable Schools in the Philippines for International Students
1. Polytechnic University of the Philippines
The largest state school in the Philippines, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, is also known as the first polytechnic higher institution established in the country. Ranked in some international competitions, PUP is known for its high-quality education and its renowned professors.
First established as a business school for Filipinos, this cheap university in the Philippines continued to transform into a college, and it continues to prosper and grow to this present day. Always transforming to fit the needs of its students, the PUP is one of the top universities in the Philippines, and it offers low tuition even to international students.
2. University of the Philippines Diliman
The University of the Philippines Diliman follows our list of the cheapest universities in the Philippines. Established in 1908, this institution provides higher education to national or international students regardless of their background. When first established, UP was located in Manila, but because of World War II and the damage it caused, it had to relocate to Diliman. That’s why the name “Diliman” is attached at the end.
UPD is home to many academic programs that provide baccalaureate and postbaccalaureate degrees in human behavior and development. It offers over 200 degree programs in the country, 70 of which are at the undergraduate level, 105 at the master’s level, and 48 at the doctorate level.
3. University of Santo Tomas
Also known as the Catholic University of the Philippines, the University of Santo Tomas is the oldest institution in Asia. Founded by St. Thomas Aquinas, it is committed to the cause of this religious faith and has faithfully carried out its principles throughout the years. Because they served the city and the Catholic faith, the popes officially named the University of Santo Tomas, the Pontifical University.
UST has over 40,000 students and 22 academic degree-granting units and has provided education in the country for over 400 years. Moreover, their graduates have contributed to society by being elected as the Philippines president or in other influential positions.
4. Ateneo De Manila University
Established more than 150 years ago, Ateneo De Manila University was inspired by the word Athens in the Roman Empire. Growing into a fully accredited school, ADMU boasts graduate programs in the arts, sciences, law, management, education, medicine, and government. Rooted in the principles of the Jesuits, it is affiliated with the Catholic religion. It also uses religious principles to teach its students to develop good character.
According to the 2024 QS World University Rankings—Asia, it’s currently ranked #137 in Asia, which shows the high-quality education provided in the institution. Moreover, its programs are not only nationally accredited but also internationally accredited.
5. De La Salle University
De La Salle University is established to teach Catholic principles in the capital of the Philippines. Seeking to provide a brighter future to its students, DLSU offers quality education to its incoming students, giving them many opportunities since it is located in Manila. Affiliated with a Catholic organization, it strives to better its education by combining religious principles with quality education.
Because of its teaching methods, this renowned university in the Philippines transforms lives physically and spiritually. Since it was located on the outer edge of Manila, DLSU had some privileges that other colleges located in the city did not have.
FAQs: Studying in the Philippines
What Are the General Requirements to Study in the Philippines?
When applying to Philippine universities, you must apply directly to your chosen institution of choice by making an online application. However, it must also meet the general requirements for it to be considered. Some of the most common requirements include completing high school or a higher level, having a valid passport for over six months, and having enough financial resources to cover your studies and living expenses.
Learn More: Cost of Studying and Living in the Philippines
Do Universities in the Philippines Offer English-Taught Programs?
Several universities in the Philippines offer English-taught programs, making it favorable for international students to enroll in their programs. Depending on the school and the program, you need to meet specific English language requirements. With tests such as TOEFL and IELTS accepted by various Philippine universities, you must ensure you understand the accepted scores and prepare well for your exams.
For example, to enroll in an English program at the University of the Philippines Manila, a candidate whose first language is not English or whose school uses English as an instructional medium must have a TOEFL score of 500 (or 173 on the computerized version) or above.
In conclusion, the Philippines is such an exciting place where international students can study in different degree programs in Southeast Asia because of the abundance of schools that offer programs taught in English. Moreover, with the help of affordable universities in the country, they can easily enroll in them without worrying about the expensive costs they may encounter when studying here. So, consider the schools above if you want to pursue a degree in the Philippines!
We hope this article on the cheapest universities in the Philippines was helpful. If you’re interested in studying abroad, feel free to check out the Philippines Page and the Available Programs for International Students to explore your study options.
