University of the Philippines (UP) College of Medicine Guide

The University of the Philippines (UP) College of Medicine, located in Manila, stands as one of the most prestigious medical institutions in the country. It has long been recognized for its academic rigor, research excellence, and commitment to public service. Many of the country’s most respected doctors, researchers, and healthcare leaders are proud alumni of UP.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the UP College of Medicine — including its admission process, curriculum, tuition, scholarships, facilities, and what makes it unique among other medical schools in the Philippines.

Overview of UP College of Medicine

Founded in 1905, the UP College of Medicine (UPCM) is part of the University of the Philippines Manila, the health sciences center of the UP System. It is situated within the UP Manila campus in Ermita, close to the Philippine General Hospital (PGH), which serves as its primary teaching hospital.

UPCM’s mission is to produce competent, socially responsive, and ethical physicians dedicated to serving the Filipino people. Its focus is not only on clinical skills but also on community-oriented health care and public health leadership.

Why Choose UP College of Medicine

1. National Prestige and Global Recognition

UPCM consistently ranks among the top medical schools in the Philippines and is recognized internationally for its high educational standards. Graduates often excel in the Physician Licensure Examination (PLE) and pursue further training in leading hospitals worldwide.

2. Integrated Learning System

The program emphasizes problem-based learning (PBL) and integrates basic sciences, clinical practice, and community health. Students are trained early on to apply theory to real-life medical cases.

3. Service-Oriented Mission

Unlike many private medical schools, UPCM strongly emphasizes serving underserved communities and improving the Philippine healthcare system. Students are trained to understand the social determinants of health and to work toward equitable healthcare access.

4. Affordable Tuition

As a state university, UP offers one of the most affordable medical education programs in the country, especially when compared to private institutions. Financial aid is also available for deserving students.

Admission Requirements and Process

Admission to the UP College of Medicine is highly competitive. Only the most qualified and committed applicants are accepted each year.

1. Entry Routes

There are two main routes to enter the College of Medicine:

• Intarmed (Integrated Liberal Arts and Medicine Program) – a 7-year program that admits high school graduates directly into medicine. The first two years are pre-medical, followed by five years of medical training.

• Lateral Entry Program – for college graduates or students with a completed bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (usually biology, chemistry, or psychology).

2. Academic Qualifications

• For Intarmed: Applicants must have an excellent academic record and top performance in the UP College Admission Test (UPCAT).

• For Lateral Entry: Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with strong grades in science subjects and a high score in the National Medical Admission Test (NMAT).

3. Documents and Requirements

Typical application requirements include:

• Official transcript of records (for lateral entry)

• NMAT results (for lateral entry)

• UPCAT results (for Intarmed)

• Letters of recommendation

• Certificate of good moral character

• Medical examination results

• Application essay or personal statement

4. Screening and Interview

Applicants go through a multi-stage selection process, including academic evaluation, interviews, and sometimes a written examination. The selection committee assesses both intellectual capacity and motivation to serve the community.

Curriculum and Program Structure

1. Intarmed (Integrated Program)

This unique 7-year program combines undergraduate and medical education:

• Years 1–2: Pre-medical (liberal arts and sciences) courses

• Years 3–7: Medical proper courses (clinical sciences, clerkship, internship)

This streamlined approach allows highly capable students to enter medicine earlier than the traditional route.

2. Lateral Entry (Traditional Pathway)

Students with a completed pre-med degree can apply directly to the first year of medicine proper (Basic Sciences Year).

3. Core Components of the Curriculum

• Basic Sciences: Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Pharmacology

• Clinical Sciences: Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Psychiatry

• Community Health: Fieldwork in rural health settings to develop community medicine skills

• Clerkship and Internship: Final-year rotations in hospitals and community health centers

The curriculum is constantly updated to reflect new developments in medical science and technology.

Affiliated Hospitals and Training Centers

1. Philippine General Hospital (PGH)

UPCM students primarily train at PGH, the country’s largest government hospital and one of the busiest tertiary care centers in Southeast Asia. It provides invaluable exposure to a wide range of medical cases and patient demographics.

2. Other Partner Institutions

Students may also gain experience through community immersion and rotation programs in:

• Regional health units

• Rural health programs

• Specialty centers under the Department of Health (DOH)

Tuition Fees and Financial Aid

1. Tuition Costs

As a public university, UP’s tuition fees are significantly lower than those of private medical schools.

• Estimated cost per semester: Around ₱20,000–₱25,000 (subject to change)

• Miscellaneous and laboratory fees may apply depending on the year level

2. Scholarships and Financial Assistance

UP offers numerous scholarships and grants, such as:

• Department of Health (DOH) scholarships for future service in government hospitals

• UP Oblation Scholarship (for academic excellence)

• Financial Assistance Program (FAP) for students in need

• Private and alumni-funded grants

Some students also receive stipends or book allowances depending on their scholarship type.

Facilities and Resources

1. Modern Laboratories and Classrooms

UPCM features state-of-the-art facilities, including:

• Anatomy and simulation labs

• Microbiology and pathology labs

• E-learning and audiovisual rooms

2. Philippine General Hospital Access

Students have direct access to PGH, which offers extensive clinical exposure, surgical training, and research opportunities.

3. Library and Research Centers

The UP Manila Library and National Institutes of Health (NIH) provide world-class research materials and medical journals, supporting both academic and clinical studies.

Research and Community Involvement

UPCM promotes a culture of inquiry and service. Students are required to engage in community health programs and research projects that address public health challenges in the Philippines.

Examples of research focus areas include:

• Infectious diseases and tropical medicine

• Public health and epidemiology

• Health policy and management

• Community-based health innovations

Students also participate in health outreach missions and volunteer work through organizations like UP Medicine Student Council and Mu Sigma Phi Fraternity and Sorority.

Student Life and Organizations

Life at UPCM is intense but rewarding. Students experience a vibrant mix of academic rigor, social involvement, and camaraderie.

Popular student organizations include:

• Mu Sigma Phi (oldest medical fraternity and sorority in Asia)

• UP Medical Students’ Society (UPMSS)

• UP Medicine Choir and Cultural Groups

• Student Council for advocacy and representation

Extracurricular activities such as volunteer missions, sports fests, and cultural nights help students balance their demanding academic schedules.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduates of the UP College of Medicine are highly sought after both locally and internationally. Most pursue residency training at top hospitals such as:

• Philippine General Hospital

• St. Luke’s Medical Center

• Makati Medical Center

• The Medical City

• International hospitals in the US, UK, and Singapore

Many UP-trained doctors also move into research, public health leadership, medical education, and policy-making roles. The school’s strong network of alumni across government and global institutions further enhances career prospects.

How to Apply

For Intarmed (Direct from High School):

1. Take and pass the UPCAT.

2. Indicate the Intarmed Program as one of your choices.

3. Undergo additional screening and interviews if shortlisted.

For Lateral Entry (After College):

1. Take the NMAT and achieve a high percentile score.

2. Submit application documents to the UP College of Medicine Office of Admissions.

3. Attend interviews and panel evaluations.

4. Wait for official admission results, usually released around May or June.

Tips for Prospective Students

• Start early. Prepare for UPCAT or NMAT months in advance.

• Strengthen your science foundation. Biology, chemistry, and physics are essential.

• Get involved in community or volunteer work. UP values applicants with service-oriented mindsets.

• Maintain high grades and good moral standing. Academic and ethical performance are both considered.

• Be ready for the challenge. UPCM’s curriculum is rigorous, but the rewards are immense.

Conclusion

The University of the Philippines College of Medicine is more than just a top-ranked medical school — it’s an institution built on excellence, integrity, and service. For aspiring doctors who wish to make a real difference in the Philippine healthcare landscape, UPCM offers the perfect blend of world-class education and social mission.

Graduating from UP College of Medicine means not only earning a degree but also carrying a lifelong commitment to health, service, and nation-building.

What makes the UP College of Medicine different from other medical schools?

The University of the Philippines (UP) College of Medicine combines rigorous academics with a strong public-service mission. Students train in diverse settings, especially at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH), the country’s largest government hospital, where they encounter a wide range of clinical cases and socioeconomic contexts. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership in health systems, community medicine, and ethical, patient-centered care.

What are the main entry routes to the program?

There are two primary pathways: (1) the INTARMED (Integrated Liberal Arts and Medicine) seven-year program, which admits exceptional students from senior high school, and (2) lateral entry for applicants who have completed a bachelor’s degree and the required pre-med courses. The college uses a holistic selection process that considers academics, test scores, interviews, and service orientation.

Do I need the NMAT or UPCAT?

Requirements depend on your route. INTARMED candidates typically need a strong performance in UP’s undergraduate admissions process, while lateral-entry applicants usually submit NMAT scores. The college may update specific score thresholds and formats, so always verify the current policy before applying.

Which pre-med courses are recommended for lateral entry?

Degrees with substantial exposure to the life sciences—such as Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Psychology, or related disciplines—prepare you well. Regardless of major, you should have strong foundations in biology, chemistry (including organic chemistry), physics, and mathematics, alongside communication skills and research literacy.

How is the curriculum structured?

The curriculum integrates basic science, clinical science, and community health. Early years focus on anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, and pathology through case-based learning. Clinical exposure expands progressively via rotations in internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics-gynecology, psychiatry, and other specialties. The final years include intensive clerkship and internship, with community postings to develop primary-care and public-health competencies.

Where will I do my clinical training?

Most hands-on training happens at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH), a high-volume tertiary hospital that serves as a national referral center. Students may also rotate through community health units, specialty centers, and partner facilities to gain experience across urban, rural, and underserved settings.

How much are tuition and fees, and are scholarships available?

As a state university, UP offers comparatively lower tuition than many private medical schools. Total costs vary by year level and fee schedules. A range of financial support exists—need-based aid, merit scholarships, government-funded programs tied to service commitments, and alumni or private grants. Applicants should review the latest funding options and eligibility criteria during the admissions cycle.

What kind of student profile is UP looking for?

UP seeks academically strong, resilient, and mission-driven applicants. Competitive candidates demonstrate consistent scholastic performance, high aptitude in the sciences, effective communication, integrity, and a track record of service—especially in community, public-health, or volunteer initiatives. Reflective motivation and maturity often distinguish successful applicants in interviews.

How competitive is admission and how can I strengthen my application?

Admission is highly competitive. To strengthen your candidacy: (1) build a solid science foundation, (2) prepare thoroughly for required exams, (3) engage meaningfully in community service or health-related work, (4) cultivate research experience or scholarly projects, and (5) craft clear, authentic essays that connect your goals with UP’s service-oriented mission. Strong recommendations that speak to your character and teamwork also matter.

Does UP support research and academic development?

Yes. Students can access research mentorship through UP Manila units and the National Institutes of Health. Opportunities include clinical studies, public-health research, health-policy analysis, and translational or basic-science projects. Training emphasizes critical appraisal, biostatistics, and ethics, encouraging students to pursue scholarly work that addresses national health priorities.

What are typical career paths after graduation?

Graduates pursue residency training in major Philippine hospitals, PGH among them, and many enter fellowships locally or abroad. Career trajectories include clinical practice, academic medicine, health systems leadership, public health, policy-making, research, and global health. The alumni network is extensive in government, NGOs, and international institutions, offering mentorship and collaboration opportunities.

Can international or non-UP graduates apply?

Lateral entry is open to qualified degree holders subject to the college’s current rules, credential evaluation, and regulatory requirements. International applicants should expect additional steps for document authentication, eligibility verification, and licensure planning. All candidates—local or international—must meet academic standards and comply with immigration and professional regulations applicable in the Philippines.

What is student life like at the UP College of Medicine?

Student life balances intensity with support. Organizations, councils, interest groups, and cultural or advocacy bodies provide community and leadership avenues. Many students join outreach missions, public-health programs, and interprofessional activities with other UP Manila schools. Wellness initiatives and peer support are encouraged to help learners navigate the demands of medical training.

How should I prepare before entering medicine?

Beyond mastering prerequisite sciences, practice disciplined study habits, time management, and reflective learning. Strengthen communication and teamwork skills; medicine is collaborative. Engage in service that teaches empathy, cultural humility, and systems thinking. If possible, seek shadowing, research assistance, or community-health exposure to understand the realities of care delivery.

When are applications due and where can I get official updates?

Timelines and procedures may change each cycle. Application periods, interviews, and enrollment dates are announced by the college and UP Manila. Always rely on official UP channels for the latest instructions, forms, fees, and scholarship calls. Plan ahead, because gathering transcripts, exam results, recommendations, and medical clearances can take time.

Any final tips for aspiring UP physicians?

Stay mission-focused. Let your preparation reflect not only academic excellence but also your commitment to equitable, high-quality care for all Filipinos. Seek mentors, learn from communities, and value integrity. If you align your personal goals with the College’s ethos of service, you will be well-positioned to thrive during training and beyond.

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