English-Taught Degree Programs in the Philippines (Full List 2025)

The Philippines has become one of Asia’s top destinations for international students who want to pursue higher education in English. With its affordable tuition, strong academic standards, and globally recognized universities, the country offers a wide range of English-taught degree programs across disciplines such as business, medicine, engineering, information technology, and the arts.

In this 2025 guide, you’ll find an updated and comprehensive list of English-medium degree programs available in the Philippines, along with insights into admission requirements, tuition fees, and the top universities offering them.

Why Study an English-Taught Program in the Philippines?

English is one of the two official languages of the Philippines, and nearly all universities use English as the medium of instruction. This makes it a perfect destination for students from non-English-speaking countries who want to study in an immersive, English-speaking environment.

Key advantages include:

• Affordable tuition compared to the US, UK, or Australia

• Cultural and linguistic familiarity for Asian and international students

• Global degree recognition for professional programs like nursing, medicine, and business

• Wide variety of English-taught majors across public and private universities

• Friendly and welcoming local community

Types of English-Taught Degree Programs

Most degree programs in the Philippines are already conducted in English, especially at the tertiary level. However, international students often prefer programs that explicitly cater to foreign enrollees. Here are the main categories:

1. Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor’s Degrees)

These are typically 4-year programs except for specialized fields like engineering (5 years) or medicine (6 years).

Common English-taught bachelor’s degrees include:

• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA)

• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT)

• Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing

• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

• Bachelor of Arts in Communication

• Bachelor of Science in Psychology

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

• Bachelor of Science in Architecture

• Bachelor of Science in Accountancy

2. Graduate Programs (Master’s and Doctorate Degrees)

Most postgraduate programs in the Philippines are fully taught in English and attract professionals from across Asia.

Popular graduate programs include:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)

• Master of Arts in Education (MAEd)

• Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT)

• Master of Public Administration (MPA)

• Master in Nursing (MN)

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Management

• Doctor of Education (EdD)

3. Specialized and Professional Programs

These programs focus on skill-based or industry-specific training, often recognized internationally.
Examples include:

• Doctor of Medicine (MD)

• Bachelor of Laws / Juris Doctor (JD)

• Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation

• Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management

• Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy

• Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology

Top Universities Offering English-Taught Programs

Below is a list of leading Philippine universities known for their wide selection of English-medium programs and diverse international student communities.

1. University of the Philippines (UP System)

• Programs: Engineering, Medicine, Law, Business, Agriculture, Education

• Language: 100% English-taught

• Campuses: Diliman, Manila, Los Baños, Cebu, Visayas

• Notes: UP is the top national university, with strong international recognition.

2. Ateneo de Manila University

• Programs: Communication, Business Management, Economics, Political Science, Psychology

• Offers both undergraduate and graduate programs entirely in English.

• Known for academic excellence and strong liberal arts education.

3. De La Salle University (DLSU)

• Programs: Accountancy, Computer Science, Marketing, Engineering, Education

• Recognized for its research, innovation, and international partnerships.

• Offers dual-degree and exchange programs in collaboration with foreign universities.

4. University of Santo Tomas (UST)

• Programs: Nursing, Pharmacy, Architecture, Arts and Letters, Business Administration

• One of Asia’s oldest universities, maintaining full English instruction for international students.

5. Mapúa University

• Programs: Information Technology, Engineering, Architecture, Multimedia Arts

• Known for technical disciplines and accreditation from US-based engineering boards (ABET).

6. University of San Carlos (Cebu)

• Programs: Engineering, Business, Architecture, Education

• Offers globally recognized English-medium programs in Cebu, a fast-growing education hub.

7. Cebu Doctors’ University

• Programs: Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Physical Therapy, Pharmacy

• Specializes in healthcare and allied sciences with English-taught curricula.

8. Silliman University (Dumaguete)

• Programs: Liberal Arts, Marine Biology, Nursing, Business Administration

• An American-founded university that has been English-medium since its establishment in 1901.

9. University of the Visayas

• Programs: Business Administration, Nursing, Criminology, Engineering

• One of Cebu’s oldest universities with accessible tuition for international students.

10. Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU)

• Programs: International Hospitality Management, Tourism, Maritime Studies, Business

• Offers strong internship programs with global hotel and cruise partners.

English Proficiency and Admission Requirements

Since English is the main medium of instruction, most universities require applicants to demonstrate sufficient English proficiency.

Typical requirements include:

• IELTS: 5.5–6.5

• TOEFL: 70–90 (iBT)

• Duolingo English Test: 95–110 (for online applicants)

• Proof of previous education in English (for exemption in some universities)

Additional admission documents usually include:

• High school or college transcripts

• Copy of passport

• Application form and processing fee

• Letter of intent or study plan

• Student visa application documents (for international students)

Tuition Fees for English-Taught Degrees (2025 Estimates)

Tuition varies depending on the university and program. Private universities charge more than public institutions like the University of the Philippines.

These rates are among the most affordable in Asia for English-taught education.

International Student Support and Campus Life

Universities in the Philippines offer strong support systems for international students.

Common features include:

• Orientation programs for new students

• English enhancement workshops

• International student offices for visa and housing support

• On-campus dormitories and private apartment options

• Multicultural clubs and organizations

Cities like Manila, Cebu, and Dumaguete are known for being safe, affordable, and welcoming to foreign students.

Popular Fields of Study Among International Students

Many international students from Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and Africa choose the Philippines for degrees in:

• Medicine and Nursing

• Business and Management

• Marine and Shipping Studies

• Engineering and Information Technology

• Tourism and Hospitality

• Education and English Language Teaching

These programs not only use English but also align with global employment standards.

How to Apply for an English-Taught Degree Program

1. Choose a university and program (check if they accept international applicants).

2. Prepare documents (academic transcripts, passport, English test scores).

3. Submit online application through the university portal.

4. Pay the application fee and wait for the admission letter.

5. Apply for a student visa through the Philippine Embassy or Bureau of Immigration.

6. Book accommodation and plan arrival.

Most universities open applications twice a year: June (first semester) and November (second semester).

Conclusion

The Philippines continues to stand out as one of Asia’s most affordable and accessible destinations for international education. With a vast selection of English-taught degree programs across disciplines, students can gain quality education while experiencing life in a multicultural, English-speaking environment.

Whether your goal is a business degree in Manila, medical training in Cebu, or engineering in Dumaguete, the Philippines offers world-class opportunities that prepare graduates for success worldwide.

FAQs

What does “English-taught degree” mean in the Philippines?

At Philippine universities, “English-taught” means courses, lectures, assessments, syllabi, and most campus services are delivered in English. This applies at both public and private institutions. You’ll still hear Filipino languages socially, but your textbooks, exams, theses, and classroom discussions are in English by default.

Which degrees are commonly offered in English?

Nearly all major fields are available: Business (BSBA, Accountancy, MBA), IT and Computing (BSIT, BSCS, MSIT), Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, ECE), Health Sciences (Nursing, Pharmacy, Medical Technology, MD), Social Sciences (Psychology, Economics), Arts & Humanities (Communication, Architecture), Maritime, Tourism, and Hospitality.

What are the typical admission requirements for international students?

Expect a completed application form, passport copy, academic transcripts, proof of secondary/tertiary graduation, English test (IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo) or exemption, a statement of purpose, and evidence of funds. Some programs add entrance tests, portfolio/audition (for arts), interviews, or prerequisite subjects for engineering and health sciences.

Do I need IELTS or TOEFL if I studied previously in English?

Many universities grant test waivers if your prior schooling was fully in English and documented by a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter. Otherwise, common benchmarks are IELTS 5.5–6.5, TOEFL iBT 70–90, or Duolingo 95–110. Minimums vary by program, with medicine and nursing often requiring higher scores.

How much are tuition fees for English-taught programs?

Annual tuition is generally lower than in Western countries. Public universities may range around USD 1,000–3,000; private universities often span USD 2,000–5,000; professional tracks (MD, JD) can be USD 4,000–8,000 or more. Add living costs (housing, food, transport, insurance) to estimate your total budget.

When are the main intakes and how early should I apply?

Most universities have two primary intakes: August/September (1st semester) and January/February or November (2nd trimester/semester, depending on the school). Apply 4–8 months in advance to allow time for document legalization, visa processing, and housing arrangements—longer for competitive or quota-limited programs.

Are Philippine degrees internationally recognized?

Yes—degrees from accredited institutions are recognized across ASEAN and many countries worldwide. Professional recognition (e.g., nursing registration, medical licensing, engineering board exams) depends on the destination country’s rules. Always verify the target regulator’s requirements for credential evaluation, supervised practice, or additional exams.

Can I work while studying?

Rules differ by visa type. Some students can pursue on-campus roles or internships, but routine off-campus employment may be restricted. Many programs integrate On-the-Job Training (OJT) or practicum for credit, which is allowed under school supervision. Confirm the latest Bureau of Immigration guidelines before accepting work.

What is campus life like for international students?

English-medium campuses are friendly and social, with orientation weeks, international student offices, language support, and clubs for culture, sports, entrepreneurship, debate, and technology. Dorms and nearby apartments are common. Cities like Manila, Cebu, and Dumaguete offer affordable living, diverse food, and easy travel to beaches.

How competitive are medicine, nursing, and engineering?

These tracks are selective. Medicine typically requires a pre-med background and entrance screening; nursing limits cohorts for clinical placement quality; engineering enforces math/science prerequisites. Expect higher English and GPA thresholds, interviews, and sometimes bridging modules if your prior curriculum lacks required subjects.

What documents are needed for the student visa?

Universities guide you, but you’ll typically need a Notice of Acceptance, passport valid for at least 6 months, photos, medical exam, police clearance (for longer stays), proof of funds, and fee receipts. After arrival, schools assist with Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR I-Card) and periodic reporting.

Are scholarships or discounts available?

Yes. Options include merit scholarships, need-based aid, international student grants, athletic/arts talent awards, and departmental assistantships for graduate students. Some private universities offer early-bird or sibling discounts. External funding may come from home-country agencies or regional programs; apply early with a strong academic profile.

What teaching style and assessment should I expect?

Instruction blends lectures with case analyses, labs, design studios, problem sets, and project-based learning. Assessment mixes quizzes, midterms/finals, reports, presentations, and capstone theses. Participation and group work matter. In lab and clinical courses, competency checklists, simulations, and rotations are standard.

Is a foundation or pathway program necessary?

Not for most applicants who already meet subject and English prerequisites. If your transcript lacks required math/science units or you need language improvement, some universities offer short bridging, foundation, or summer catch-up modules to meet entry criteria before starting the main degree.

Can I transfer credits or change majors later?

Credit transfer is possible from recognized institutions, subject to course equivalency, grades, and recency. Changing majors is also feasible within the first year or before program caps are reached. Expect evaluation of syllabi, unit counts, and residency requirements (minimum credits completed at the new school).

What about internships, OJT, and industry links?

Many English-taught programs include practicum or OJT with companies, hospitals, schools, hotels, or tech firms. Career centers host job fairs and resume workshops, and some programs build internships into the curriculum. Maritime, hospitality, ICT, and business degrees are especially active with industry partners.

How safe and affordable is life for students?

Student hubs prioritize safety with campus guards, ID entry, CCTV, and shuttle options. Following standard city safety tips—using registered transport, staying in well-lit areas, and keeping valuables secure—goes a long way. Living costs are moderate; shared apartments and dorms keep budgets predictable.

Are online or hybrid English-taught options available?

Yes, though availability varies by discipline and accreditation. Coursework-heavy programs may offer hybrid formats; lab, studio, and clinical programs remain mostly in-person. Many classes use learning management systems for readings, submissions, and discussions to support flexible, tech-enhanced study.

What are common hidden costs to plan for?

Factor in visa fees, health insurance, lab or studio materials, uniforms for clinical/culinary programs, field trips, graduation fees, textbook/ebook purchases, and device/software needs. If you plan licensure abroad, also budget for credential evaluation and exam application fees after graduation.

What are typical timelines from application to arrival?

A smooth timeline is 4–8 months: research (Week 0–2), documents and testing (Week 2–8), application and decisions (Week 8–16), visa and housing (Week 16–24+), pre-departure and enrollment (final 2–4 weeks). Competitive programs, scholarship rounds, and medical clearances may extend this schedule.

Philippines University Guide: Top Universities, Admissions, Scholarships, and Student Life