Created in partnership with Edukasyon.ph
Cliché as it may sound, kids do grow up so fast. It feels like yesterday when we were still chasing them around the house to dress them up after taking a bath, and now, we’re already helping decide which programs to take and from which college or university. As parents, it’s only fair that we aim to give our children the best education they can get from the best institution. So, we’re here to help you out!
In this article, we list the top schools in the Philippines, their top programs and career outlook, their average tuition fees, and their credentials which can help you and your child make the best decision for their future!
UP Diliman (NCR)
Located in Quezon City, the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman boasts its position as the highest ranking university in the country, based on the QS World University Rankings 2023. UP Diliman is known to produce the best graduates in any field as part of the country's national university system. Recruiters usually earmark resumes from UP Diliman graduates.
Regarding their fees, UP Diliman has an average of around PHP 37,000 to PHP 40,000 per semester. The cost of tuition per unit is PHP 1,500. Since UP Diliman is a state-run university, it also offers discounts, scholarships, and government aid that are accessible if you need it.
With 77 programs at the undergraduate level, almost 30 of which are considered Centers of Excellence, UP Diliman is undoubtedly one of the best universities in the country.
De La Salle University (DLSU) (NCR)
Located in Manila, De La Salle University (DLSU) is renowned for its academic excellence and innovative programs. Offering a wide spectrum of courses in Business, Engineering, Sciences, Arts, and Humanities, DLSU has established itself as a leading institution in Luzon. Graduates from DLSU are highly sought-after in the job market, with many securing top positions in various industries.
Tuition fees at DLSU range from PHP 60,000 to PHP 85,000 per trimester, depending on the program and year level. The university also provides financial aid, scholarships, and flexible payment options to assist students in fulfilling their educational aspirations.
DLSU is also home to a unique tradition that sets it apart from other institutions of higher learning - its feline friends. The university has a dedicated organization, DLSU PUSA (Professors for the Upliftment of Society's Animals), which has been caring for the furry friends on campus since 2015.
Saint Louis University (Baguio - Luzon)
For those looking for institutions in the north, Saint Louis University (SLU) is a great choice. Located in Baguio City, SLU is a private Catholic university that offers a wide range of undergraduate programs in different fields such as Accountancy, Management, Computing, and Information Studies, Education and Liberal Arts, Architecture and Engineering, and Nursing, Allied Health, and Biological Sciences. Giving weight to its name, SLU has three programs with Center of Excellence accreditations and another eight with Center of Development accreditations. Graduates in SLU commonly place on top of multiple licensure examinations and land a job within a year of graduation.
As for the cost, studying at SLU can run between PHP 29,000 to PHP 40,000 per semester, depending on the course. Scholarship grants are also available at SLU, and they offer flexible payment options.
Located in the city of Pines, studying at SLU will give your child the best education and a beautiful natural environment. Who wouldn’t love studying in the summer capital of the Philippines?
Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) (Cabanatuan City - Luzon)
Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST), situated in Cabanatuan City, Luzon, is a dynamic institution known for its specialized programs and contributions to science and technology education. NEUST offers a diverse range of programs in fields such as Engineering, Agriculture, Information Technology, Business, and Education. The university's motto, "Transforming Communities through Science and Technology," reflects its dedication to making a positive impact on society through education and research initiatives.
Tuition fees at NEUST vary depending on the program and residency status but generally range from PHP 15,000 to PHP 30,000 per semester. The university also provides scholarships, financial aid, and internship opportunities to support students in their educational journey.
University of San Carlos (USC) (Cebu - Visayas)
Located in Cebu City, the University of San Carlos (USC) is a top-tier institution in Visayas known for its academic excellence and research contributions. USC offers a wide array of programs in fields such as Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, Architecture, and Social Sciences. The University of San Carlos is known for its multicultural academic community, international linkages, and commitment to global standards in education.
Tuition fees at USC typically range from PHP 40,000 to PHP 60,000 per semester, with variations based on the program of study. USC also provides financial assistance, scholarships, and grants to support students throughout their academic journey.
Silliman University (Dumaguete - Visayas)
If you’re from Visayas, the university you should definitely check out is Silliman University (SU). Located in Dumaguete, SU is one of the leading schools in the Philippines, being the 5th ranking Filipino university in the QS Asia University Rankings 2022. Also a private Catholic university, SU offers a lot of undergraduate programs in multiple fields. Some of the most notable courses you can enroll in are Information Technology Education, Nursing Education, and Teacher Education, which are accredited Centers of Excellence, and Biology, Marine Biology, and Medical Technology, which are Centers of Development. These credentials make it clear why SU produces graduates who are commonly topnotchers in licensure exams and achieve a 100% passing rate, such as in the 2021 Nurse Licensure Examinations.
As for the fees, studying in SU can run you for around PHP 30,000 to PHP 45,000 per semester. Tuition is around PHP 1,300 per unit. If you are looking for assistance programs, SU has a lot of scholarships and aid that fully or partially cover students' tuition fees.
University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) (Iloilo City - Visayas)
A branch of the esteemed University of the Philippines system, the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) in Iloilo City stands as a beacon of academic excellence in Visayas. UPV offers a wide range of programs in fields such as Marine Sciences, Fisheries, Management, Economics, and Social Sciences. UP Visayas offers regional studies programs focused on the preservation and enrichment of the Visayan cultural heritage, reflecting its commitment to the region's unique identity.
Tuition fees at UPV range from PHP 20,000 to PHP 40,000 per semester, depending on the program and residency status. The university also provides financial aid, scholarships, and research grants to support students in their academic pursuits.
Mindanao State University (MSU) (Marawi City- Mindanao)
Mindanao State University (MSU) in Marawi City is a renowned institution known for its academic excellence and research contributions. MSU offers a wide range of programs in fields such as Agriculture, Engineering, Health Sciences, Social Sciences, and Islamic Studies. MSU has a Gender and Development (GAD) Center and a First Natural Substance Center for Mindanao (“Tuklas Lunas” Center), which are recognized for their contributions to the region.
Tuition fees at MSU vary depending on the program and residency status but generally range from PHP 10,000 to PHP 30,000 per semester. The university is committed to offering affordable and excellent education to students from across SOCCSKSARGEN and other neighboring regions.
University of Mindanao (UM) (Davao City - Mindanao)
Situated in Davao City, the University of Mindanao (UM) is a leading educational institution in Mindanao known for its academic excellence and commitment to holistic development. UM offers a diverse range of programs in fields such as Business, Law, Education, Engineering, and Health Sciences. The university's holistic approach to education prepares students for leadership roles and societal engagement.
Tuition fees at UM range from PHP 30,000 to PHP 50,000 per semester, depending on the program and year level. The university also offers scholarships, financial aid, and research opportunities to support students in their academic endeavors.
Ateneo de Davao University (Mindanao)
If you’re from Mindanao, one of your best picks is Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU). AdDU is one of the leading universities in the Southern Philippine region. AdDU is a private Catholic university that offers different programs in the fields of Arts and Sciences, Business and Governance, Education, Engineering and Architecture, and Nursing. AdDU is also known for producing the best graduates who often become topnotchers in different licensure examinations. Just like UP alums, fresh grads of AdDU pedigree are especially attractive to employers.
As for the cost, studying at AdDU can run from PHP 40,000 to PHP 50,000 per semester, depending on the program. The tuition per unit is around PHP 1,300. If you need help, financial aid and scholarship grants are also available. These can cover partial or even the full cost of tuition fees.
Choosing the best school for your child may be daunting, but there are a lot of resources online that can help you look for the top schools in your area, their top programs, and their estimated fees so you can check which ones also fit your budget. At the end of the day, the best school for your child is the one where they would feel comfortable in and where they would really excel. Protecting your child’s future involves more than just choosing the right school; it also requires thoughtful financial planning. Consider exploring options like MyLifeChoice Education, an insurance plan from AXA Philippines which provides you with the opportunity to save for your child’s education. Make sure you protect your child’s education and future by getting a plan that provides life protection coverage in case of the unexpected.
