Higher Education in the Philippines
The higher education system in Philippines is modeled after the American education system and includes bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. Students earning professional degrees are usually taught American standards, such as the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles for accounting students.
Why Study in the Philippines?
More than 5,000 international students already study in the Philippines every year. In addition to having one of the best education systems in Asia, all education programs, including master’s programs, are taught completely in English. The quality of the faculty is very high -- higher education institutes employ 115,000 teachers with master’s and doctorate degrees.
Universities
The Philippines has more than 2,200 universities and other higher educational institutions, including satellite campuses and local colleges, along with several international schools. About 650 schools are public and about 1,600 are private. There are 110 state universities.
Tuition and Program Duration
Tuition at both public and private schools is generally low. Annual tuition at a public school is about US$ 1,000 and annual tuition at private schools runs from about US$ 1,200 to US$ 2,500. Most master’s degree programs are 1-2 years depending upon the school and academic discipline.
Academic Year
Schools in the Philippines usually use the semester system. The first semester begins in June and runs through October. The second semester begins in November and runs through April. Both semesters include one week of exams after classes have ended.
Post-Graduate Opportunities
Graduates of Philippines master’s programs will find that their degree is recognized all over the world. Students with degrees in engineering are particularly in demand, but all graduates will find opportunities. Non-native English speakers who wish to pursue a doctorate in the US, UK, Canada or other English-speaking country can use a master’s degree from the Philippines as a stepping stone to those countries as they will have proven their ability to accomplish studies in English.
Health Insurance
Foreign students may be able to pay for coverage through the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, which provides affordable insurance to all Philippine citizens. However, students should check insurance options available from their home country or international insurance options.
Tips
Unlike most Asian countries, Filipinos do not eat with chopsticks. Most meals are eaten with a spoon and fork due to the style of dishes.
Credit cards and US dollars are widely accepted throughout the country in addition to the peso. However, when traveling to rural areas, students should carry cash.
Students traveling to the Philippines from Africa or South America should check to see if they need a yellow fever vaccination prior to arrival.