15 Cheapest Universities in Manila for International Students

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In Manila, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in Philippines without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Manila, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 35 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Manila, make sure to read more!

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Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Manila for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Manila ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila 0 Pesos 100%
Polytechnic University of the Philippines 408 Pesos 100%
University of the Philippines Manila 4,500 Pesos - 22,500 Pesos 93%
Technological University of the Philippines 4,500 Pesos 93%
Philippine Normal University 14,000 Pesos 77%
National Teachers College 14,700 Pesos 76%
Technological Institute of the Philippines 39,000 Pesos - 50,000 Pesos 34%
Santa Isabel College 50,100 Pesos - 63,300 Pesos 15%
University of Santo Tomas 53,400 Pesos - 106,700 Pesos 10%
St. Paul University Manila 57,600 Pesos - 94,200 Pesos 3%
Centro Escolar University 59,800 Pesos - 128,900 Pesos -1%
Far Eastern University – Philippines 62,800 Pesos - 93,200 Pesos -6%
University of the East 63,700 Pesos - 92,000 Pesos -8%
Adamson University 71,900 Pesos - 126,100 Pesos -22%
FEU Institute of Technology 96,000 Pesos - 100,000 Pesos -63%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 58,800 Pesos for universities in Manila.

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1. Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila

Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, or the University of the City of Manila, was founded in 1965 and was the first university in the Philippines that offer tuition-free college education. Although the university started with around 550 students, its current student population has increased to around 10,000. PLM offers undergraduate and graduate programs in Sciences, Engineering, Law, Medicine, and Business.

2. Polytechnic University of the Philippines

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.

3. University of the Philippines Manila

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.

4. Technological University of the Philippines

The Technological University of the Philippines is a premier university that focuses on educational courses related to industrial, technological, and vocational. It is known for its excellence in research and development studies, allowing students to prosper in the field and grow as professionals. With its determination to achieve distinct education, the university has remained popular up to this date even after more than 100 years since its establishment.

5. Philippine Normal University

Philippine Normal University is a public university located in Manila, Philippines. Aside from the main campus in Manila, there are regional campuses that can be found in North Luzon, South Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The university was established in 1901 and was designated the National Center for Teacher Education by the government in 2009. It offers undergraduate and graduate-level education.

6. National Teachers College

National Teachers College has effectively served the nation through education. The institute became popular because of its excellent teacher education programs that increased the number of educators in the country. In response to the changing educational needs of 21st-century learners, the school also ensures the integration of technology into its curriculum to allow a smooth flow of learning and discussion.

7. Technological Institute of the Philippines

Technological Institute of the Philippines is a firm supporter of continuous innovation and improvement. Its mission and objectives are anchored by its commitment to consistently providing educational services that qualify its graduates to become globally competitive. It maintains a creative academic community that allows safe spaces and open communication for collaborative projects.

8. Santa Isabel College

Santa Isabel College (SIC) is a private Catholic college in Ermita, Manila, Philippines. It was established in 1632 with the primary goal of educating Spanish orphans in the then-Spanish colony, and it is one of Asia’s oldest colleges. The university provides undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs, as well as TESDA short courses, in a variety of fields.

9. University of Santo Tomas

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.

10. St. Paul University Manila

St. Paul University Manila (SPU Manila) is a Catholic higher education school in Manila, Philippines. It offers cutting-edge programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Programs offered at the university are specifically designed to cultivate reliable professionals and experts who will serve for growth and development of society. Moreover, students will be provided with high standards of teaching and research and countless off-campus opportunities. Numerous local and international students choose SPU Manila as their preferred school to pursue higher education mainly because of its proven academic excellence.

11. Centro Escolar University

Centro Escolar University has its roots in a women’s school known then as the Centro Escolar de Señoritas. It was founded by a pair of women, one of which was Librada Avelino, the first Filipina to pass the test and earn her teaching certificate from Spanish authorities. Since its establishment in 1907, the school did not just become co-ed or a university. It also expanded into three campuses: Manila, Makati, and Malolos. These campuses provide education from the senior high school to the doctorate level.

12. Far Eastern University – Philippines

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.

13. University of the East

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.

14. Adamson University

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.

15. FEU Institute of Technology

FEU Institute of Technology resulted from a partnership between major private institutions in the Philippines. These institutions are the Far Eastern University, Asia Pacific Computer Technology Center (APCTC), and Intelligent Wave, Inc. APCTC was established by SM Foundation and IBM Philippines, which are large business entities in the country. Thus, although FEU Tech is separately recognized, it is still directly connected to Far Eastern University and operates under its guidance.

FEU Tech was primarily founded to be a computer school. It was only in 2001 that there was an addition of engineering courses. Thus, the institute now specializes in these two disciplines only.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Manila for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Manila ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
University of the Philippines Manila 3,600 Pesos - 18,000 Pesos 91%
Polytechnic University of the Philippines 6,000 Pesos - 7,200 Pesos 85%
Technological University of the Philippines 7,200 Pesos - 10,800 Pesos 82%
Far Eastern University – Philippines 7,635 Pesos - 53,500 Pesos 81%
National Teachers College 9,720 Pesos 75%
Asian Social Institute 13,000 Pesos - 15,600 Pesos 67%
Philippine Normal University 20,700 Pesos 47%
Philippine Women’s University 25,900 Pesos 34%
Technological Institute of the Philippines 32,000 Pesos - 50,000 Pesos 18%
De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde 36,100 Pesos - 36,300 Pesos 7%
University of the East 40,400 Pesos - 46,900 Pesos -4%
St. Paul University Manila 56,200 Pesos - 81,500 Pesos -45%
Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila 72,000 Pesos - 75,000 Pesos -86%
Adamson University 72,900 Pesos - 118,900 Pesos -88%
University of Santo Tomas 90,000 Pesos -132%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 38,700 Pesos for universities in Manila.

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1. University of the Philippines Manila

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.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, University of the Philippines Manila should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 3,600 Pesos to 18,000 Pesos annually for their master's degree.

2. Polytechnic University of the Philippines

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Polytechnic University of the Philippines. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Polytechnic University of the Philippines is 6,000 Pesos to 7,200 Pesos.

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.

3. Technological University of the Philippines

The Technological University of the Philippines is a premier university that focuses on educational courses related to industrial, technological, and vocational. It is known for its excellence in research and development studies, allowing students to prosper in the field and grow as professionals. With its determination to achieve distinct education, the university has remained popular up to this date even after more than 100 years since its establishment.

The tuition fee at Technological University of the Philippines for incoming international master’s students is 7,200 Pesos to 10,800 Pesos. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Far Eastern University – Philippines

Another affordable university to consider in Manila is Far Eastern University – Philippines.

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.

The tuition fee in Far Eastern University – Philippines for master’s program for foreign students starts from 7,635 Pesos.

5. National Teachers College

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, National Teachers College has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 9,720 Pesos yearly.

National Teachers College has effectively served the nation through education. The institute became popular because of its excellent teacher education programs that increased the number of educators in the country. In response to the changing educational needs of 21st-century learners, the school also ensures the integration of technology into its curriculum to allow a smooth flow of learning and discussion.

6. Asian Social Institute

The Asian Social Institute is a private university that wants to provide accessible education to students from all backgrounds by taking advantage of their abilities and potential. Since it specializes in sociology, social work, and education, its values and principles align with its objectives and are part of the curricula. These principles include justice, equality, harmony, and human rights. The university also dedicates itself to developing research in areas that are crucial for today’s society and gives importance to sustainability and the promotion of ecological lifestyles.

7. Philippine Normal University

Philippine Normal University is a public university located in Manila, Philippines. Aside from the main campus in Manila, there are regional campuses that can be found in North Luzon, South Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The university was established in 1901 and was designated the National Center for Teacher Education by the government in 2009. It offers undergraduate and graduate-level education.

8. Philippine Women’s University

The Philippine Women’s University, or PWU, was founded in 1919 as an exclusive academic institution for girls. It was in 1970 when the university transitioned to accepting students regardless of gender and race. At present, the university has over 5,000 students across its various academic schools. Some of the popular degree programs in the university are Fine Arts and Design, Nutrition, Music, and Hospitality Management.

9. Technological Institute of the Philippines

Technological Institute of the Philippines is a firm supporter of continuous innovation and improvement. Its mission and objectives are anchored by its commitment to consistently providing educational services that qualify its graduates to become globally competitive. It maintains a creative academic community that allows safe spaces and open communication for collaborative projects.

10. De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde

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.

11. University of the East

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.

12. St. Paul University Manila

St. Paul University Manila (SPU Manila) is a Catholic higher education school in Manila, Philippines. It offers cutting-edge programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Programs offered at the university are specifically designed to cultivate reliable professionals and experts who will serve for growth and development of society. Moreover, students will be provided with high standards of teaching and research and countless off-campus opportunities. Numerous local and international students choose SPU Manila as their preferred school to pursue higher education mainly because of its proven academic excellence.

13. Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila

Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, or the University of the City of Manila, was founded in 1965 and was the first university in the Philippines that offer tuition-free college education. Although the university started with around 550 students, its current student population has increased to around 10,000. PLM offers undergraduate and graduate programs in Sciences, Engineering, Law, Medicine, and Business.

14. Adamson University

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.

15. University of Santo Tomas

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in Manila?

Applying to cheap universities in Manila requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in Philippines for a more comprehensive guide!

2. What can I study at Best affordable universities in Manila?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Manila. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Manila is the Adamson University, which offers Architecture, Business Administration , and Chemical Process Technology to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Adamson University offers Education with Specialization in School Administration and Supervision, Psychology with Specialization in Clinical Psychology, and Communication.

It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in Manila, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in Manila as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on affordable institutions in Manila for international students was helpful!