Law Schools in Manila: Top Universities for Aspiring Lawyers in the Philippines

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is home to some of the nation’s most prestigious law schools. These institutions have produced generations of prominent lawyers, judges, politicians, and legal scholars. For both Filipino and international students, studying law in Manila offers access to high-quality legal education, strong professional networks, and exposure to the country’s evolving legal system.

Below is a detailed look at the best law schools in Manila, their notable programs, entrance requirements, and what makes each stand out.

University of the Philippines College of Law (UP Law)

Location: Diliman, Quezon City (Metro Manila)
Type: Public / State University

The University of the Philippines College of Law, also known simply as UP Law, is the premier public law school in the Philippines. It is known for academic rigor, distinguished faculty, and strong commitment to public service.

Key Features

• Curriculum: Offers a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) program, now integrated into the Juris Doctor (J.D.) framework. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application of the law.

• Faculty: Includes some of the country’s most respected lawyers, Supreme Court justices, and legal scholars.

• Bar Exam Performance: Consistently among the top performers in the Philippine Bar Examinations.

• Tuition: Significantly lower compared to private institutions, making it one of the most affordable top-tier law schools in the country.

Admission

Applicants must pass the UP Law Aptitude Examination (LAE), a highly competitive exam that evaluates analytical and verbal skills.

Why It Stands Out

UP Law produces graduates who often become leaders in government, academia, and corporate law. Its focus on national development and social justice sets it apart from other institutions.

University of the Philippines (UP) College of Law: Philippines Law Schools

Ateneo de Manila University School of Law

Location: Rockwell Center, Makati City
Type: Private / Jesuit University

Ateneo Law School (ALS) is one of the most prestigious private law schools in the Philippines. It has a strong reputation for producing top Bar exam passers and leaders in business and government.

Key Features

• Program: Offers a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree with a strong foundation in both theory and practice.

• Specializations: Includes corporate law, international law, and alternative dispute resolution.

• Facilities: Modern campus at Rockwell Center equipped with advanced legal research tools and moot courtrooms.

• Bar Performance: Ateneo graduates consistently rank among the top ten Bar exam passers.

Admission

Applicants must pass the Ateneo Law Admission Test (ALAT) and meet GPA and interview requirements.

Why It Stands Out

Ateneo Law is known for its balance of academic excellence and ethical formation rooted in Jesuit values. It has strong ties to corporate law firms and multinational companies, providing graduates with excellent career opportunities.

Ateneo de Manila University School of Law: Philippines Law Schools

San Beda University College of Law

Location: Mendiola, Manila
Type: Private / Catholic University

Founded by Benedictine monks, San Beda University College of Law has a long history of producing notable legal professionals, including former Philippine presidents and Supreme Court justices.

Key Features

• Program: Offers a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) transitioning to a Juris Doctor (J.D.) program.

• Focus Areas: Constitutional law, civil law, and criminal law.

• Bar Exam Record: Known for its strong Bar examination performance and disciplined approach to study.

• Legal Research Center: Home to various legal journals and research initiatives.

Admission

Admission is based on a written exam, interview, and review of academic credentials.

Why It Stands Out

San Beda’s law education emphasizes discipline, Catholic values, and legal ethics. It has a reputation for producing well-rounded legal professionals who excel both in the courtroom and in public service.

San Beda University College of Law: Philippines Law School

University of Santo Tomas (UST) Faculty of Civil Law

Location: España Boulevard, Sampaloc, Manila
Type: Private / Catholic University

Founded in 1734, the UST Faculty of Civil Law is the oldest law school in the Philippines. Its graduates have shaped the country’s legal system for centuries.

Key Features

• Program: Offers a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) program with a strong civil law tradition.

• Curriculum: Blends classical legal theory with contemporary Philippine jurisprudence.

• Notable Alumni: Includes Supreme Court justices, senators, and legal luminaries.

• Heritage: Deeply rooted in Thomistic philosophy, emphasizing moral and ethical foundations.

Admission

UST requires applicants to pass an entrance examination and personal interview.

Why It Stands Out

UST combines tradition and academic excellence, producing graduates who are not only competent in law but also guided by ethical and moral principles.

University of Santo Tomas (UST) Faculty of Civil Law: Philippines Law Schools

Far Eastern University Institute of Law (FEU Law)

Location: Nicanor Reyes Street, Sampaloc, Manila
Type: Private University

Established in 1934, FEU Law has steadily built its reputation as one of the most competitive law schools in Metro Manila.

Key Features

• Program: Offers a Juris Doctor (J.D.) program designed to integrate law practice, ethics, and social responsibility.

• Bar Performance: Regularly produces top-performing graduates in the Bar exams.

• Flexible Learning: Offers part-time programs for working students.

• Faculty: Includes practicing lawyers, judges, and law firm partners.

Admission

Applicants must pass the FEU Law Admission Test (FLAT) and an interview.

Why It Stands Out

FEU Law is known for accessibility, quality instruction, and a pragmatic approach to legal education, catering to both full-time and part-time students.

Far Eastern University Institute of Law (FEU Law): Philippines Law Schools

Arellano University School of Law

Location: Legarda, Sampaloc, Manila
Type: Private University

Arellano University School of Law (AUSL) is one of the most accessible and flexible law schools in Manila. It provides opportunities for students who work full-time or pursue law as a second career.

Key Features

• Program: Offers both full-time and evening J.D. programs.

• Facilities: Equipped with a digital law library and a well-known legal aid clinic.

• Bar Review Center: Hosts one of the most reputable Bar review programs in the country.

Admission

Requires a qualifying exam, interview, and document screening.

Why It Stands Out

AUSL offers a more flexible path to legal education, making it ideal for working professionals. Its Bar review center has helped countless students achieve passing marks in the Bar exam.

Arellano University School of Law: Philippines Law Schools

Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) College of Law

Location: Intramuros, Manila
Type: Public / City University

PLM’s College of Law provides high-quality education at very low cost, prioritizing qualified but financially constrained students.

Key Features

• Program: Offers a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) program with a focus on public service.

• Mission: Aims to produce ethical lawyers who serve the Filipino community.

• Bar Exam Results: Consistently achieves competitive results among public institutions.

Admission

Applicants must pass a qualifying exam and interview. Preference is often given to Manila residents.

Why It Stands Out

PLM’s law program embodies accessibility, meritocracy, and service to the nation — hallmarks of a city university built for the people.

Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) College of Law: Philippines Law Schools

Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) College of Law

Location: Intramuros, Manila
Type: Private / Liberal University

The LPU College of Law has gained recognition for its modern curriculum and integration of business and international law.

Key Features

• Program: Offers a Juris Doctor (J.D.) program aligned with global legal standards.

• Specialties: Focuses on international law, maritime law, and human rights.

• Partnerships: Has collaborations with law firms and government agencies.

Admission

Students undergo an entrance examination and interview process.

Why It Stands Out

LPU Law combines legal education with global awareness, preparing graduates for careers not only in the Philippines but also abroad.

Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) College of Law:Philippine Law Schools

José Rizal University (JRU) School of Law

Location: Mandaluyong City (part of Metro Manila)
Type: Private University

The JRU School of Law caters to working students who aspire to become lawyers through flexible scheduling.

Key Features

• Program: Offers both daytime and evening J.D. programs.

• Faculty: Composed of active legal practitioners.

• Focus: Emphasizes ethics, litigation, and practical legal training.

Admission

Applicants must pass the JRU law entrance exam and undergo an interview.

Why It Stands Out

JRU Law is ideal for professionals pursuing law part-time. It combines affordability with practical, results-driven education.

José Rizal University (JRU) School of Law: Philippines Law Schools

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right law school in Manila depends on your priorities — whether you value tradition, flexibility, cost, or specialization.

• For prestige and public service, UP Law and PLM are top choices.

• For private excellence, Ateneo and San Beda stand out.

• For flexibility, Arellano and JRU offer accommodating programs for working students.

• For heritage and ethics, UST remains unmatched.

Each of these institutions contributes uniquely to the Philippine legal landscape, ensuring that Manila remains the center of legal education in the country.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why study law in Manila instead of other cities in the Philippines?

Manila is the center of legal education, government institutions, and major courts in the Philippines. Many of the country’s top-performing law schools are located in Metro Manila, offering students access to experienced professors, Supreme Court rulings discussions, internships, and legal networks. Studying law in Manila also provides proximity to law firms, government agencies, and legal organizations, which can be valuable for practical exposure and future employment.

Which are considered the top law schools in Manila?

Some of the most well-known law schools in Manila include the University of the Philippines College of Law, Ateneo de Manila University School of Law, San Beda University College of Law, University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Civil Law, and Far Eastern University Institute of Law. These institutions are often recognized for strong Bar Exam performance, rigorous academic training, and influential alumni.

What factors should I consider when choosing a law school in Manila?

When choosing a law school, consider Bar Exam performance, faculty credentials, teaching style, class schedules, tuition fees, campus location, and student support systems. Some schools emphasize strict academic discipline, while others focus more on holistic legal training. It is also important to consider whether the school’s culture and workload match your learning style and long-term career goals.

Is it difficult to get admitted to top law schools in Manila?

Admission to top law schools in Manila is competitive. Many schools require entrance exams, interviews, and strong academic records. Some institutions also consider work experience and personal statements. While the process can be challenging, thorough preparation for entrance exams and a clear motivation for studying law can significantly improve your chances.

How long does it take to complete a law degree in Manila?

A Juris Doctor (JD) degree in the Philippines typically takes four years to complete. This includes coursework, legal writing, internships, and review subjects for the Bar Exam. Some students may take longer if they are working while studying or if they need to repeat certain subjects due to the rigorous academic standards.

Are working students common in Manila law schools?

Yes, many law students in Manila work while studying. Several law schools offer evening or weekend classes designed for working professionals. However, balancing work and law school requires strong time management skills, as the academic workload is demanding and often includes extensive reading, case analysis, and examinations.

How much is the tuition fee for law schools in Manila?

Tuition fees vary widely depending on the institution. Public universities generally have lower tuition fees compared to private universities. Private law schools in Manila may charge significantly higher fees, but they often provide smaller class sizes, additional facilities, and extensive academic support. Students should also budget for books, review materials, and other academic expenses.

Do Manila law schools have good Bar Exam performance?

Many law schools in Manila consistently perform well in the Philippine Bar Examination. Institutions such as UP, Ateneo, San Beda, and UST are frequently cited among the top-performing schools. Strong Bar Exam performance is often linked to rigorous training, comprehensive review programs, and experienced faculty members.

What kind of teaching style can I expect in Manila law schools?

Most law schools in Manila use a combination of the Socratic method, case-based discussions, and lectures. Professors often expect students to come prepared, as classes involve recitations and critical analysis of legal cases. This teaching style helps develop analytical thinking, oral advocacy, and a deep understanding of legal principles.

Are there opportunities for internships and practical training in Manila?

Yes, studying law in Manila provides access to numerous internship opportunities. Students can intern at law firms, courts, government agencies, and non-government organizations. These experiences allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world legal situations and build professional networks before graduation.

Is Manila a good environment for international or foreign law students?

Manila can be a suitable environment for foreign students who wish to study Philippine law, provided they meet admission and visa requirements. English is the primary language of instruction, which makes it accessible for international students. However, foreign students should be prepared to study Philippine legal systems, laws, and jurisprudence, which may differ significantly from their home countries.

What career paths are available after graduating from a Manila law school?

Graduates from Manila law schools can pursue careers as lawyers in private practice, corporate legal departments, government service, judiciary support roles, or academia. Some graduates also work in compliance, policy-making, international organizations, or business-related legal fields. Passing the Philippine Bar Examination is essential for practicing law in the country.

Does the reputation of a Manila law school matter in legal careers?

The reputation of a law school can influence initial job opportunities, especially in competitive law firms and institutions. Alumni networks and school prestige may help with early career placement. However, long-term success in the legal profession ultimately depends on individual competence, work ethic, and professional performance rather than school name alone.

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