25 Best Universities In Philippines For International Students 2024

If you are looking to study in Philippines, you are surely making a great choice. This location has a lot to offer for international students, including world-class universities and exciting student experiences. With more than 243 universities and colleges in Philippines, you’ll surely have a wide range of choices.

Out of 243 universities in Philippines, Ateneo de Manila University and University of the Philippines Diliman are the top-performing schools in Philippines. This list covers both public and private institutions in Philippines.

To help you narrow down your school options, we’ve compiled the best universities in Philippines. We based our rankings on academic reputations from reputable sources and the number of international students. By doing this, you’ll have an efficient way of comparing your target universities and choose your host university in Philippines.

Rank University Founded Year City Type
1 Ateneo de Manila University 1859 Quezon Private
2 University of the Philippines Diliman 1949 Quezon Public
3 University of Santo Tomas 1611 Manila Private
4 De La Salle University 1911 Manila Private
5 Mapúa University 1925 Manila Private
6 University of the Philippines Los Baños 1909 Los Banos Public
7 University of the Philippines Manila 1905 Manila Public
8 University of San Carlos 1783 Cebu Private
9 Polytechnic University of the Philippines 1904 Manila Public
10 Visayas State University 1924 Baybay Public
11 Silliman University 1901 Dumaguete Private
12 De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde 1988 Manila Private
13 University of the East 1946 Manila Private
14 Asian Institute of Management 1968 Makati Private
15 Adamson University 1932 Manila Private
16 Our Lady of Fatima University 1973 Valenzuela Private
17 Batangas State University 1902 Batangas City Public
18 Ateneo de Davao University 1948 Davao Private
19 Far Eastern University 1928 Manila Private
20 Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology 1968 Iligan Public
21 University of San Jose-Recoletos 1947 Cebu Private
22 Caraga State University 1946 Butuan Public
23 Mindanao State University 1961 Marawi Public
24 University of the Philippines Visayas 1947 Iloilo Public
25 Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan 1933 Cagayan de Oro Private

How do I get admission to the best universities in Philippines?

Applying to the universities in Philippines involves submitting requirements and following specific admissions procedures set by your chosen university. The requirements often include a student visa, application packages, and language scores. Check out our guide for international students who want to study in Philippines to learn more about applying for admission in this country’s universities!

How much are the tuition fees at the best universities in Philippines?

Tuition fees at Philippines’s universities can vary depending on which university, degree, and program you will be enrolling in. Generally, tuition fees for the bachelor’s level range from 0 Pesos to 237,400 Pesos , while tuition fees for the master’s level range from 0 Pesos to 1,677,900 Pesos. If you are interested, check out the affordable universities in Philippines!

As we cover the best universities in Philippines for international students, feel free to check out the university’s information on Admission, Tuition, Courses, and Language Requirements by looking at the individual university pages.

Top Universities in Philippines for International Students

1 Ateneo de Manila University

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#1 in Philippines
#167 in Asia
#765 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 15,269

One of the Philippines’ most prestigious private schools is the Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU). It is part of the elusive Big Four, a moniker given to the top 4 universities in the country. As a Jesuit-run institution, the university offers programs related to religious studies and ministry. It is one of the oldest of its kind in Asia, being established in 1859.

AdMU does not just provide tertiary-level education. Young students may also pursue basic studies and high school education at the university. Meanwhile, tertiary-level students have various courses they can choose from, such as the arts, religious studies, sciences, and more. Double-degree programs are also offered, such as their illustrious MD-MBA program.

Communications Technology Management
Electronics Engineering
Theater Arts
Restaurant Entrepreneurship
Life Sciences

2 University of the Philippines Diliman

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#2 in Philippines
#227 in Asia
#953 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 21,482

The honor of being the nation’s top-ranking academic institution belongs to the University of the Philippines Diliman. It is the flagship campus of the UP system, a state-funded and prestigious university system with campuses across the country. As a state-funded institution, local students may enjoy free tuition subject to certain conditions.

Various programs are available at UP Diliman, ranging from the sciences to the humanities. The university’s extension programs and annex campus may also offer these courses. UPD is also home to crucial research establishments, such as the National Science Complex and the Sentro ng Wikang Filipino.

Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
Visual Communication
Sport Science
Philippine Studies
Industrial Engineering

3 University of Santo Tomas

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#3 in Philippines
#248 in Asia
#1014 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 45,000

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) is a private Catholic research university in Manila, Philippines. It is one of the older universities in Asia, founded by the Dominican Order in 1611. The Main Building of UST, known as the “Arch of the Centuries,” is also recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site. This iconic structure serves as the university’s symbolic entrance and has witnessed centuries of history. The university offers degree programs in multiple faculties to equip students with world-class knowledge. In addition to these, UST also boasts a rich cultural and artistic heritage. The UST Museum of Arts and Sciences houses an extensive collection of ecclesiastical art, Asian ethnography, and natural history specimens.

Architecture
Advertising Arts
Creative Writing
Pharamacy
Biology

4 De La Salle University

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#4 in Philippines
#335 in Asia
#1242 in World
Percentage of International Students
3%
Total Number of students - 16,704
International Number of students - 500

De La Salle University is one of the most prestigious private universities in the Philippines. Founded in 1911, it has a long history of excellence in teaching and research. This Catholic university was originally established as an elementary and high school exclusively for boys but has since expanded into a coeducational university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

Computer Science
English Language Studies
Development Studies
History
Psychology

5 Mapúa University

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#5 in Philippines
#631 in Asia
#2029 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 60,000

Regarded as the Philippines’ engineering powerhouse, Mapua University is one of the country’s most renowned private universities. Besides being a premier producer of engineering graduates, Mapua also has one of the best information technology and computer science programs.

Such excellence and specialization may not be surprising once you discover the backgrounds of its founders. Mapua University was named after Tomas Mapua, a Cornell University architecture alumni. His children, one of which was an MIT civil engineering graduate, continued Tomas Mapua’s legacy at the university.

Electrical Engineering
Manufacturing Engineering
Energy Engineering
Technical Communication

6 University of the Philippines Los Baños

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#6 in Philippines
#823 in Asia
#2781 in World
Percentage of International Students
18%
Total Number of students - 14,160
International Number of students - 2,500

The University of the Philippines Los Banos is a very traditional institution that was established in 1909. This university focuses on providing great educational service to local and international students. The main aim of this university is to offer affordable tuition fees and excellent programs in order to build a bustling academic community in the Philippines.

Agricultural Biotechnology
Food Technology
Agricultural Chemistry
Philosophy
Sociology

7 University of the Philippines Manila

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#7 in Philippines
#862 in Asia
#2956 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 5,525

University of the Philippines Manila (UP Manila) is part of the University of the Philippines System. It provides the best health sciences and allied medical programs in the country. It is also known for offering other top-rated academic programs in management, social sciences, and natural sciences. UP Manila is known for cultivating responsible and competent professionals, leaders, and experts. And it is among the top choices for aspiring local and prospective international students wanting to pursue a degree in the country.

Speech Pathology
Computer Science
Public Health
Organizational Communication
Nursing

8 University of San Carlos

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#8 in Philippines
#1005 in Asia
#3474 in World
Percentage of International Students
1%
Total Number of students - 16,000
International Number of students - 200

The University of San Carlos (USC) is a prominent private Catholic research university in Cebu City, Philippines. It is one of the oldest educational institutions in the country, tracing its roots back to 1783 when it was originally established as a school by the Spanish Jesuit missionaries. USC is known for its rich history and strong academic reputation. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields of study. The university’s comprehensive curriculum aims to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for professional success and personal growth.

Anthropology
Communication
English Language Studies
International Relations and Foreign Service
Architecture

9 Polytechnic University of the Philippines

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#9 in Philippines
#1063 in Asia
#3637 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 70,000

Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) was established in 1904 to answer the need to generate more human resources for private and government sectors. It started as an institution offering vocational and technical programs primarily dedicated to working individuals. Since then, the university has flourished over the years and has positioned itself as one of the top leading institutions in the country. Additionally, it is one of the most affordable public higher education schools that provide high standards of teaching and research.

Interior Design
Literary and Cultural Studies
Entrepreneurship
Early Childhood Education
Computer Engineering

10 Visayas State University

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#10 in Philippines
#1151 in Asia
#3873 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data

Visayas State University is a known state university in the Visayas region. The university champions in offering world-class education in various fields of study, specifically in agriculture studies. The institute’s primary goal is to become the leading university to provide higher education in agriculture and environmental sciences. It aims to generate competent and responsible professionals who will contribute significantly to various industry sectors.

Mathematics
Horticulture
English Language Studies
Food Technology
Criminology

11 Silliman University

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#11 in Philippines
#1203 in Asia
#4005 in World
Percentage of International Students
2%
Total Number of students - 8,440
International Number of students - 145

Silliman University is a private research institution that offers all levels of study. It is renowned for its programs in the field of teaching. This institution of higher learning was established in 1901 and it is one of the oldest institutions in the area. Silliman University is the first American and Protestant-founded institution in the Philippines, which is why this university is heavily influenced by western culture.

Agricultural Business
Animal Science
English Language
Creative Writing
History

12 De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde

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#12 in Philippines
#1331 in Asia
#4313 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 9,690

The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) is a prestigious educational institution in Manila, Philippines. Established in 1980 as a college within the De La Salle University system, it has since grown into an independent college offering a wide range of programs. DLS-CSB is situated in the heart of Manila, specifically in the bustling district of Malate. Its prime location provides students easy access to various city cultural, artistic, and commercial establishments, enriching their overall educational experience. Moreover, it maintains strong ties with various industries, allowing students to engage in internships and experiential learning opportunities.

Hotel, Restaurant, and Institution Management
Business Administration
Arts Management
Computer Applications
Governance and Public Affairs

13 University of the East

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#13 in Philippines
#1369 in Asia
#4388 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 35,000

The University of the East adheres to progressive instruction, academic freedom, and innovative education. With its service to God and the youth, the university seeks to promote a just society that is filled with competent experts and professionals. With more than 70 years of experience in higher learning, it has already impacted the morals and values of thousands of Filipinos every year.

Management Accounting
Business Administration
Information Technology
Computer Science
Psychology

14 Asian Institute of Management

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#14 in Philippines
#1390 in Asia
#4453 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data

Asian Institute of Management provides an education that fits the needs of Asian students. It welcomes the dynamics and diversity that come with individuals within the region, which is why it offers teaching materials designed for a global perspective. With its multicultural environment, the institute has been the premier source of competent human resources in the private and public industry sectors.

Data Science
Business Administration

15 Adamson University

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#15 in Philippines
#1436 in Asia
#4549 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 17,768

A Greek chemist established Adamson University as the Adamson School of Industrial Chemistry. Thus, AdU was initially a Greek-run school. After World War II, the university’s founder accepted the Vincentians’ (Fathers of San Vicente de Paul Church) invitation to reopen the university with them. This eventually led to AdU becoming a Catholic institution in 1964, which it remains to be. Academically, Adamson University is one of the best in the Philippines.

Architecture
Chemical Process Technology
Elementary Education
Pharmacy
Information Technology

16 Our Lady of Fatima University

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#16 in Philippines
#1470 in Asia
#4633 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data

Established in 1973, Our Lady of Fatima University is a highly acknowledged institution in the Philippines. They are recognized for their quality programs in nursing, pharmacy, medicine, and more. They deliver real-life learning in classes to open more opportunities in the field. Moreover, as they continue providing opportunities to every learner, they also foster core values within their students.

Psychology
Pharmacy
Business Administration
Civil Engineering
International Tourism Management

17 Batangas State University

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#17 in Philippines
#1477 in Asia
#4648 in World
Percentage of International Students
7%
Total Number of students - 27,717
International Number of students - 1,850

Batangas State University (BatStateU) is a leading state university in Batangas City, Philippines. Established in 1902, it is one of the oldest higher education institutions in the country. BatStateU is known for its commitment to academic excellence, research, and community engagement. BatStateU has multiple campuses spread across different areas in Batangas Province. Its main campus is the Pablo Borbon Main I in Batangas City. The university has strong linkages and partnerships with various industries, businesses, and government agencies, providing students with valuable internships, on-the-job training, and industry exposure opportunities.

Psychology
Mathematics
Chemistry
Biology
Chemical Engineering

18 Ateneo de Davao University

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#18 in Philippines
#1490 in Asia
#4684 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 8,000

Ateneo de Davao University is a private Catholic institution regarded as the most prestigious in the southern Philippines. It offers a wide range of programs and is best known for offering education in innovative fields, such as aerospace engineering and robotics engineering. Aside from academic excellence, the university also aims to develop students who engage in community service and uphold the values of the Catholic faith.

Communication
Philosophy
Biology
Architecture
Nursing

19 Far Eastern University

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#19 in Philippines
#1503 in Asia
#4711 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 39,361

Far Eastern University is an educational institution filled with excellence, uprightness, and wisdom. It is responsive to the calls of the community, promoting sustainable and accessible research as a stepping stone towards national and global development. As one of the leading universities in the country, the university sees to it that it can fulfill the educational needs of aspiring professionals in the region.

Internal Auditing
Financial Management
Accountancy
Physical Education
Special Needs Education

20 Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology

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#20 in Philippines
#1510 in Asia
#4719 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 12,166

Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) is consistently among the top-ranked universities in the Philippines. Situated in Iligan City, it is widely known for having high passing rates in licensure exams, excellent research projects, and outstanding faculty. The university offers programs in a wide range of study areas but is best known for its programs in science and engineering.

English
Civil Engineering
Ceramics Engineering
Chemistry
Mathematics

21 University of San Jose-Recoletos

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#21 in Philippines
#1522 in Asia
#4738 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 14,000

The University of San Jose-Recoletos is a private university in Cebu City. It provides studies at the levels of undergraduate,postgraduate, and doctoral studies. This university is focused on raising the educational level of the region and empowering the youth so that they can be globally competitive in their careers. The main aim for this university is to provide excellent, cheap education that is equal and fair to every student.

Journalism
English Language Studies
Sociology
International Studies
Political Science

22 Caraga State University

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#22 in Philippines
#1555 in Asia
#4797 in World
Percentage of International Students
2%
Total Number of students - 4,435
International Number of students - 80

Caraga State University is a public institution located in Butuan, one of the most developed cities in the Philippines. This institution is highly recognized for offering cheap tuition prices and the great educational value that it offers to domestic and international students. The university’s mission is to empower the youth so they can empower the region.

Philippine Literature
Psychology
Social Work
Biology
Information Technology

23 Mindanao State University

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#23 in Philippines
#1597 in Asia
#4897 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 49,945

Mindanao State University (MSU Main) is a co-educational public institution in Mindanao, with its main campus located in Marawi City, Lanao Del Sur. Established in 1961, the university started on a small campus admitting a very small number of students. Over the years, the institute has grown into a regionally acknowledged university with students coming from other regions in the country. With several campuses located in different provinces of Mindanao, MSU can cater to more students who aspire to obtain a degree at the university. Currently, it provides several academic disciplines with comprehensive and advanced study programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

24 University of the Philippines Visayas

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#24 in Philippines
#1615 in Asia
#4926 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 5,256

University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) is an elite public institution in the Visayan region. As part of the University of the Philippines system, it is guaranteed that students will be provided with a superior quality of education. UPV offers courses designed to generate individuals that will contribute to the socio-economic development of the local community and Visayas region. However, students from other areas and international students are also welcomed to apply. Whether the student is local or foreign, completing a degree at the university will give them countless opportunities when they graduate, as most offered programs are nationally and internationally recognized.

Literature
Fisheries
Statistics
Management
Accountancy

25 Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan

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#25 in Philippines
#1641 in Asia
#4982 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 13,713

Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan is a Catholic educational institution that aims to uphold Jesuit teaching. It offers authentic academic programs that pave for social outreach, research, and discovery of one’s potential. As one of the leading universities in the region, it is dedicated to preserving Filipino culture and heritage and sustaining the nation’s development.

Food Technology
Computer Science
Civil Engineering
Marine Biology
Agribusiness

We know that choosing your dream school in Philippines not an easy task. After all, you need to consider other factors like the cost of your education, school background, and population, as it can be overwhelming on your part.

So, to help you out further in weighing your school options for studying in Philippines, make sure to visit our list of the best public and private universities in Philippines! These articles will surely help you in deciding your next study destination!