Is College Free In The Philippines?

There’s been a lot of talk about the cost of college in the United States and how it can be better funded and more affordable for students, but what about people from other countries? Is college free in the Philippines? And if so, what do students need to know before enrolling in their local colleges? Let us know Is College Free In The Philippines?

Is College Free In The Philippines?

Is college free in the Philippines?

Since January 2011, tuition has been free for all public colleges and universities. However, there are other expenses to consider when it comes to college, like food and dorm fees. Dorm fees alone can cost over P15,000 per semester. Whether you’re looking for a college in Manila or one elsewhere in the country like Cebu or Davao City, make sure you do your research first to ensure you won’t go broke trying to complete your education!  

The history of free education in the Philippines

Higher education in the Philippines has a long history of free public education, but private schools only became popular and affordable after World War II. Because of the socio-economic conditions in the country, the government decided to open free public schools for everyone that does not have exclusive courses and focused on labor skills instead of academic disciplines. 

This resulted in mostly vocational schools being created with low enrollment rates and high dropout rates. The Philippine government was able to change its policies in favor of free college education because it had been receiving aid from foreign countries such as Japan, China, the United States, and many others. 

The current state of free higher education: After decades of economic development, there are now more than 100 colleges and universities in all parts of the country which are offering thousands of programs at all levels. However, these institutions have very different characteristics from each other. Some are considered elite while others are just starting or struggling to survive.

How much will it cost to study at the Philippines university?

The cost of studying at a Philippines university is notoriously affordable. All public universities are tuition-free, so paying for classes isn’t an issue. However, there are additional costs to consider, such as room and board, supplies, and other living expenses. 

Depending on where you choose to study, you could pay anywhere from $200 to $2,000 per month. The Philippines is home to several high-quality private universities that provide great value, but these schools come with hefty price tags. 

If you plan to attend college in the Philippines, it’s important to note that your school may have specific entry requirements related to your foreign education or English proficiency. It’s also wise to look into scholarships and grants offered by both your prospective school and by local organizations like your embassy.

The Philippines has many well-regarded colleges and universities, including Ateneo de Manila University, De La Salle University, and the University of Santo Tomas. Additionally, some countries offer scholarships specifically designed for students looking to study abroad in the Philippines. These programs can help cover tuition costs while allowing you to earn valuable international experience.

Scholarships and grants available to Filipino students

You need to research different scholarship and grant programs available to Filipino students. Local schools can offer you a wide range of opportunities that vary from full or partial tuition waivers to study abroad grants. Aside from these, scholarships and grants are coming from other countries as well. 

Scholarships are one of many financial aid opportunities available to Filipino students. The most common grants are subsidized and unsubsidized loans which you can use to pay for your school fees, education expenses, and living costs while enrolled. 

If you can’t get a grant or a scholarship, there are other alternatives like getting a job, taking out a student loan, or borrowing money from your parents or relatives. You should apply for scholarships as early as possible because some programs have deadlines. 

You can also find sources that offer private scholarships online. These may not be free but they will help lessen your tuition burden. Some schools also offer college scholarships that cover full tuition fees, but these are usually only given to top-performing students with excellent academic records.

Best Universities in the Philippines

Having one of the Philippines’ top universities on your CV may help you land your dream job when you graduate. If you want to stand out from other candidates, then it might be worth studying at one of these institutions: 

  1. University of Santo Tomas (UST)
  2. De La Salle University (DLSU) 
  3. Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) 
  4. Far Eastern University 
  5. Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) 
  6. Adamson University 

The first four in our list are private and considered among some of the country’s best educational institutes. ADMU is known for its reputation for excellence in academics and research, while UST is recognized as a prestigious Catholic university with Jesuit traditions; DLSU also regularly appears near to or at the top of various national rankings. 

PUP is one of Manila’s most popular universities due to its excellent standards across several disciplines. Meanwhile, Adamson University was established by businessman Lope K. Santos (who would later become president of the Philippines) in 1907, making it one of Asia’s oldest institutions.

Conclusion

Yes, college is free in the Philippines. In 2012, President Benigno Aquino signed Republic Act No. 10533 which states that all citizens who have finished high school and are pursuing a bachelor’s degree, vocational course, or technical-vocational course will be exempted from paying tuition fees. Whether you’re staying at home or studying abroad, it’s guaranteed to make your life easier knowing that your four years of university education won’t cost you a single centavo.

FAQ

Is the Philippines a good place to study?

The Philippines is a desirable country for studying abroad, due to its low tuition rates and high-quality education. A fact worth noting is that more than 3000 Indian students move to the Philippines annually to study. Before it was an independent country, the education system of the country was modeled after Spain and the United States.

What is the number 1 university in the Philippines?

University of the Philippines Diliman

What university has the lowest tuition in the Philippines?

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) is renowned for its affordable tuition. Furthermore, since it is a state university, international students don’t have to pay any tuition fees at all. They only have to pay the school’s student services fee.