With its mild climate, relaxing beaches, and welcoming people, there is no doubt the Philippines is a desired tourist destination. It is also steadily gaining popularity among international students as one of the best countries to obtain their medical degrees. It takes pride in its top universities, research facilities, highly educated lecturers, and various efforts to ensure the quality of education received by all of its students.
The Philippines is also considered to be very safe for local and international students. And if that is not enough to convince you, consider the low prices of studying and accommodations along with amazing traveling opportunities and you will see that the Philippines might be the country of your dreams. In this article, we will be looking at the best medical schools in the Philippines!
Can International Students Enroll in Medical Schools in the Philippines?
Yes, according to the official site of Emilio Aguinaldo College, international students can enroll in medical schools in the Philippines. Being that English is one of the official languages in the country, international students will have no problem with communication.
The enrollment process in the Philippines is simplified and equal rights are promoted, as the country is multicultural to begin with. They are also very accommodating and welcoming to strangers, making sure that everyone experiences Philippine hospitality.
Find Out: Cheap Universities in the Philippines
What Is the Medical Curriculum Like in Medical Schools in the Philippines?
According to the university site of Emilio Aguinaldo College, medical school in the Philippines lasts for four years and awards students who complete it with the degree of Medical Doctor (MD). It is divided into three years of theoretical classes and 1-year clinical practice, ensuring all the essential knowledge and skills are acquired during these four years.
After the initial four years, students have the opportunity to be a part of a 1-year internship in one of the affiliate hospitals for them to gain more practical experience and solve problems in real-life situations.
Philippine universities require every student to pass the National Medical Admission Test (NMAT) in order to enroll in any medical school in the country.
Check Also: Universities in the Philippines with Highest Acceptance Rate
Top Medical Schools in the Philippines
1. Emilio Aguinaldo College – School of Medicine
The Emilio Aguinaldo College was founded in 1957 in the heart of Manila. Widely known as the “Urban Oasis,” Emilio Aguinaldo College is among the best medical schools in the Philippines known for its hands-on learning approach and supportive environment for both domestic and international students.
The Medical School in Emilio Aguinaldo College was officially established in 2001 and has been growing ever since in the number of enrolled students and staff members. The medical schools here last for four years and grant students with MD (Medical Doctor) diplomas. The institute has many affiliate hospitals like Manila Medical Center, Philippine General Hospital, Emilio Aguinaldo College Primary Care Clinic, Birthing Facility, and others that will provide the necessary clinical education for students and offer a great opportunity for the internship program.
Diplomas acquired here are recognized worldwide, as the medical school has been granted government recognition by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and is an active member of the Association of Philippine Medical Colleges Foundation, Inc. (APMCFI).
2. University of Santo Tomas – Faculty of Medicine and Surgery
The University of Santo Tomas was established over 400 years ago in 1611 and is one of the biggest Catholic universities in the world. Their Medical School is considered the oldest in the Philippines, formally opened in 1871 as the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery.
This top medical school in the Philippines only had nine students when it first opened and has gone a long way since then, changing and developing over time. The medical program lasts for four years and is divided into three years of academic and one year of clinical studies at the University of Santo Tomas Hospital.
3. University of Cebu – School of Medicine
Founded in 1964, the University of Cebu offers preschool, grade school, junior and senior high school, undergraduate degrees, and post-graduate degrees. Although the medical school here is much younger, founded in 2012, it’s still operating on well-established principles.
Being a younger school, it offers a more modern approach to education, with highly equipped research facilities and new technologies. Being a part of UC Medical Center, this school will also provide clinical education for students by many top professionals in the Philippines.
4. University of the Philippines – College of Medicine
The University of the Philippines was established in 1908 and consists of eight constituent universities and four basic education schools. The College of Medicine was the first to open in 1905, in Manila and represents the oldest school in the University of the Philippines.
The medical school has an amazing affiliation with the Philippine General Hospital, providing the students with experience and internship possibilities. Many distinguished people in the medical history of the Philippines have graduated from this university.
5. St. Luke’s Medical Center – College of Medicine
St. Luke’s College of Medicine was established in 1994 and is located behind St. Luke’s Medical Center in Quezon City. They offer an excellent 5-year program for medical students, of which years 1 to 3 are academic and theoretical, and years 4 and 5 are dedicated to junior and senior internships. This will enable the students to acquire the full benefits of preclinical and clinical education.
One thing to consider is in addition to passing the National Medical Admission Test (NMAT), students who have been educated in a language that is not English will also have to pass an English proficiency test such as IELTS or TOEFL.
6. Davao Medical School Foundation – College of Medicine
The Davao Medical School was established in 1976 and aims to educate doctors in rural communities. Operating in modern infrastructure and facilities, this medical school in the Philippines provides high-quality education along with clinical practice in one of five affiliate hospitals. They are more than welcoming to international students and offer some educational materials like simulation mannequins and 3-D imagery dissection units that are rare in Philippine schools.
7. Far Eastern University – Dr. Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation
Far Eastern University was established in 1934, but the independent medical school was formally opened in 1952. Since then, they are promoting high standards for education, healthcare, and research.
The medical education that this leading medical school in the Philippines is offering lasts for four years. The first two years are pre-clinical and based on getting a good foundation for further education. The third and fourth years are clinical, where students are trained on how to handle patients with empathy, navigate through diagnostics, and accommodate family members.
8. University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center – College of Medicine
Still looking for more leading medical schools in the Philippines? So far, we’ve covered seven universities, including Emilio Aguinaldo, the University of Santo Tomas, and many more. Now, let’s take a look at the eighth university on our list, the University of the East – Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center (UERMMMC).
With a history dating back to 1956, and named after a beloved Philippine president, the school has a rich history of producing skilled and compassionate medical professionals who are making a positive impact on society. The school features a staff of highly trained academics who are specialists in their areas of expertise, as well as relationships with some of the world’s finest medical schools, which give chances for international research collaborations and student exchange schemes.
The UERMMMC provides a variety of programs, including a four-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) program and a choice of postgraduate courses. The UERMMMC MD program is designed to give students a solid foundation in medical sciences, professional practice, and research, with an emphasis on evidence-based medicine. The course of study is intended to educate students for a future in medicine, whether as general physicians, specialists, or researchers.
9. Ateneo de Manila University – School of Medicine and Public Health
Aspiring doctors who want to make a difference in the world can find a great start at the Ateneo de Manila University School of Medicine and Public Health (ASMPH) as well. This medical school is known for its innovative curriculum that combines traditional medical education with a strong focus on public health and community service.
Offering a five-year MD program that integrates core medical subjects with courses on social determinants of health, health systems, and leadership, the ASMPH curriculum is designed to produce doctors who are not just competent but also compassionate. Clinical rotations in hospitals and clinics, both in the Philippines and abroad, further enhance students’ learning and training.
Moreover, with a diverse faculty of experienced clinicians, researchers, and public health experts, ASMPH has been committed to providing students with a world-class medical education for the past 16 years. The school also has partnerships with some of the top medical institutions around the world, offering opportunities for research collaborations and exchange programs for students.
10. De La Salle University Medical and Health Sciences Institute
De La Salle Health and Medical Institute (DLSHMI) is one of the top medical schools in the Philippines with a rich history dating back to 1987 when it was first established as the De La Salle University Medical Center in Dasmarinas, Cavite.
In 1994, the medical center was renamed the De La Salle Health Sciences Institute (DLSHSI) and became an autonomous medical and health sciences institution. In 2010, DLSHSI established the De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Campus in Laguna, which houses the De La Salle Medical School and other health sciences programs.
Today, DLSHMI is recognized for its commitment to providing a high-quality medical education to its students, with a strong emphasis on research, innovation, and community service. With a rich history and a forward-looking approach to medical education, DLSHSI is a top choice for those seeking to pursue a career in healthcare in the Philippines.
11. Mindanao State University – College of Medicine
The Mindanao State University – College of Medicine (MSU-COM) is a government-funded medical school located in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, Philippines. It is one of the few medical schools in Mindanao island, and it is known for its rigorous academic program that focuses on preparing students to become competent and compassionate physicians.
The MSU-COM was established in 1977, and since then, it has produced thousands of doctors who have contributed significantly to the healthcare industry in the Philippines. The medical school offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes both theoretical and practical training, and students are allowed to work with patients in various hospitals and clinics in Marawi City and other parts of Mindanao. In addition, the MSU-COM is home to several research centers, including the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, which is dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge in the field of medicine.
12. Our Lady of Fatima University – College of Medicine
Another top medical school in the Philippines is the Our Lady of Fatima University- College of Medicine (OLFU-CoM) in Valenzuela City, known for its strong academic programs and state-of-the-art facilities. Similar to Mindanao State University, OLFU also offers a range of undergraduate and graduate medical programs, including Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Medical Laboratory Science.
Established in 1967, OLFU has grown to become one of the largest private universities in the country. The university’s College of Medicine is accredited by the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation (PACUCOA) and recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). The medical school also has a rich history of producing highly skilled medical professionals, making it a popular choice for aspiring doctors in the Philippines and abroad.
13. University of Perpetual Help System Dalta – JONELTA Foundation School of Medicine
As the final university on our list, the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA stands tall as one of the most reputable medical schools in the Philippines. It is located in Las Piñas City and offers a range of programs in medicine, nursing, and allied health sciences.
One of the unique features of the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA is its innovative curriculum, which integrates community service with classroom learning to provide students with hands-on experience in real-world situations. This approach not only helps students develop a deeper understanding of healthcare in their communities but also allows them to hone their skills and gain practical knowledge that is essential in their future medical careers.
Learn More About: The Philippines Student Visa
Conclusion: Perks of Studying in the Philippines
To recap, the Philippines is becoming one of the favorite destinations not just for travelers but also for young people wanting to excel in the medical profession. They have one of the best medical schools that are under the careful and strict eye of the government, ensuring that the quality of education stays the same over the years.
Life in the Philippines is especially attractive to international students for many reasons. First of all, the location and the weather is amazing. Second, people are more than welcome to strangers and mainly speak English, which is also the main language for educational purposes. All of that comes at reasonable prices, which makes the offer even more irresistible.
We hope that this article on Best Medical Schools in the Philippines was helpful. Don’t forget to explore the range of program options available for international students in the Philippines on our open courses page! And for more insightful details about studying in the country, make sure to visit our Study in the Philippines page!
