The Philippines has emerged as a popular destination for medical education, particularly for students from Asia, Africa, and even parts of Europe. Its medical universities offer world-class programs that are not only affordable but also taught in English, making them highly accessible to international students. The MBBS program in the Philippines is equivalent to the MD (Doctor of Medicine) degree, following the American curriculum. This blog explores the top universities in the Philippines for MBBS and why this country is an excellent choice for aspiring doctors.
Why Study MBBS in the Philippines?
Before diving into the top universities, it’s important to understand why the Philippines is an attractive destination for medical education:
- English Language Instruction: The Philippines is the third-largest English-speaking country in the world. Medical courses are taught in English, which is a significant advantage for international students.
- Affordable Tuition: Compared to countries like the U.S., U.K., or Australia, tuition and living costs in the Philippines are much lower.
- Global Recognition: Philippine medical universities are recognized by organizations such as the WHO, ECFMG (USA), FAIMER, and the Medical Council of India (MCI).
- USMLE and FMGE Success Rates: Graduates from the Philippines have a strong track record of passing international licensing exams like the USMLE and FMGE.
Top Universities in the Philippines for MBBS
1. University of the Philippines (UP) – College of Medicine
Location: Manila
Established: 1905
Ranking: #1 in the Philippines (QS Asia University Rankings)
The University of the Philippines (UP) is the premier public university in the country and its College of Medicine is one of the oldest and most prestigious. It follows a highly competitive admission process and is known for its research-based curriculum. UP’s MD program is affiliated with the Philippine General Hospital (PGH), one of the country’s largest and most well-equipped teaching hospitals.
Highlights:
- Government-funded and highly subsidized
- Strong research programs and community outreach
- Excellent USMLE preparation
2. University of Santo Tomas (UST) – Faculty of Medicine and Surgery
Location: Manila
Established: 1871
Type: Private Catholic University
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) has one of the oldest faculties of medicine in Asia. Known for its strong Catholic values and rigorous academic standards, UST’s Faculty of Medicine and Surgery provides excellent training in both clinical and pre-clinical subjects.
Highlights:
- Over 150 years of excellence in medical education
- Modern simulation labs and extensive clinical exposure
- Strong alumni network and high board passing rates
3. Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health (ASMPH)
Location: Pasig City
Established: 2007
Type: Private Jesuit University
Ateneo de Manila University, through its medical school ASMPH, offers a unique dual-degree program—MD and Master in Business Administration (MBA). The school emphasizes leadership, public health, and healthcare management alongside traditional medical training.
Highlights:
- Innovative MD-MBA program
- Modern campus and hospital affiliations
- Emphasis on holistic and ethical medical practice
4. Cebu Institute of Medicine (CIM)
Location: Cebu City
Established: 1957
Type: Private
CIM is one of the top-performing medical schools outside Metro Manila. It is known for producing board topnotchers and its problem-based learning (PBL) curriculum. The school is affiliated with the Velez General Hospital for clinical training.
Highlights:
- High board exam passing rates
- Strong faculty and hands-on training
- Affordable fees with quality education
5. Davao Medical School Foundation (DMSF)
Location: Davao City
Established: 1976
Type: Private
DMSF is one of the most preferred choices for Indian and African students due to its structured curriculum, English-medium instruction, and advanced facilities. The school is known for its student-friendly environment and international collaborations.
Highlights:
- High number of international students
- Affordable fees and hostel facilities
- Digital anatomy labs and simulation centers
Key Admission Requirements for MBBS in the Philippines
- High school diploma with science background (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
- NMAT (National Medical Admission Test) score
- Passport (for international students)
- Visa and medical clearance
- English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS in some cases)
Final Thoughts
The Philippines offers a compelling package for students aspiring to study medicine abroad—top-notch education, English instruction, affordability, and global recognition. Whether you choose the highly prestigious University of the Philippines or a more international-student-friendly option like DMSF, you will receive a solid medical foundation that opens doors worldwide.
When choosing a university, consider factors like location, cost, curriculum structure, and internship opportunities. With proper research and planning, your journey to becoming a successful doctor can very well begin in the heart of Southeast Asia—the Philippines.