Bohol Island State University Guide

Bohol Island State University (BISU) is the premier state-funded higher education institution in Bohol, offering a wide range of academic programs, research initiatives, and community-focused services. With multiple campuses across the island and a strong commitment to accessible and high-quality education, BISU has become an important educational hub for students from Bohol, neighboring provinces, and even international learners.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Bohol Island State University, including its campuses, degree programs, facilities, admissions process, tuition fees, student life, and what makes the university a strong choice for aspiring professionals.

Overview of Bohol Island State University

Bohol Island State University is a government-funded institution recognized for its specialization in science, technology, engineering, teacher education, and community development. Established through the merging of various vocational and technical institutions across Bohol, BISU has grown into a multi-campus university system that supports regional development and innovation.

The university is known for:

• Affordable tuition and accessible education

• Programs aligned with local and national industry needs

• Research in marine science, agriculture, engineering, and education

• Close collaboration with LGUs, NGOs, and community organizations

• A strong student support system

Campuses of BISU

BISU operates six main campuses, each offering unique strengths:

BISU Main Campus – Tagbilaran

The largest and most recognized campus, located in the provincial capital. Programs here focus on engineering, architecture, IT, teacher education, and business.

BISU Balilihan Campus

Known for its criminology, engineering technology, and education-related programs.

BISU Bilar Campus

Offers strong agriculture and environmental science programs. Located near the Bohol Biodiversity Complex, making it ideal for research.

BISU Calape Campus

Focuses on fisheries, marine science, and maritime-related courses.

BISU Clarin Campus

Specializes in industrial technology, hotel and restaurant management, and technical-vocational training.

BISU Candijay Campus

Known for its agro-industrial programs and community extension activities.

Academic Programs

Bohol Island State University offers a diverse selection of undergraduate and graduate degrees. Programs vary per campus, but key academic clusters include:

Engineering and Technology

• Civil Engineering

• Electrical Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering

• Architecture

• Industrial Technology

• Marine Engineering

Information and Communications Technology

• BS in Information Technology

• BS in Computer Science

• BS in Information Systems

Teacher Education

BISU is known for producing competent educators through programs such as:

• Bachelor of Secondary Education

• Bachelor of Elementary Education

• Early Childhood Education

• Technical-Vocational Teacher Education

Arts, Sciences, and Social Sciences

• Bachelor of Arts in Communication

• Bachelor of Science in Criminology

• Bachelor of Science in Social Work

Agriculture, Fisheries, and Environmental Science

Suited to Bohol’s rich natural environment:

• BS in Agriculture

• BS in Fisheries

• Environmental Science

• Agroforestry

Business and Management

• BS in Office Administration

• BS in Entrepreneurship

• BS in Hospitality Management

• BS in Tourism Management

Graduate School

Some BISU campuses offer:

• Master of Arts in Education

• Master in Public Administration

• Master of Science in Agriculture

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements at BISU may vary depending on the specific campus and program, but the standard procedures include:

For Incoming First-Year Students

• Accomplished Application Form

• Form 138 (Senior High School Report Card)

• Good Moral Certificate

• PSA Birth Certificate

• 2×2 ID photos

• Entrance examination (for selected programs)

• Medical clearance

For Transfer Students

• Honorable Dismissal

• Transcript of Records / Certified Grades

• Evaluation by the department

For Graduate Programs

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field

• Transcript of Records

• Recommendation letters

• Entrance interview

Most programs accept applicants during the first semester, but some allow mid-year admissions depending on campus capacity.

Tuition Fees and Financial Assistance

As a state university, Bohol Island State University is covered by the RA 10931 “Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act,” allowing Filipino students to study tuition-free in most undergraduate programs.

Costs students may still need to pay:

• Miscellaneous fees

• Laboratory fees (depending on the course)

• Uniforms

• Books and supplies

• Student organization fees

Scholarships and Grants

BISU offers several financial assistance options:

• CHED Scholarships

• Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES)

• LGU Scholarships

• Private grants (NGOs and partner companies)

• Academic scholarships for honor students

These options help reduce educational expenses and support students from low-income families.

Facilities and Learning Environment

The facilities across BISU campuses vary, but many include:

• Modern computer laboratories

• Engineering and technical workshops

• Agriculture and fisheries research farms

• Science laboratories

• Libraries with digital resources

• Student centers

• Sports facilities

• Multi-purpose halls

Many campuses also maintain partnerships with local industries and government institutions for internships, research collaborations, and extension programs.

Student Life at BISU

Student life at Bohol Island State University is active and community-oriented. Students can participate in:

Student Organizations

• Academic clubs

• Cultural groups

• Sports teams

• Community service organizations

• Student government

Campus Events

BISU regularly hosts:

• Foundation Week

• Intramurals

• Research conferences

• Community outreach programs

• Cultural festivals

The university environment encourages teamwork, leadership, and involvement, helping students develop skills beyond the classroom.

Why Choose Bohol Island State University?

BISU is an ideal choice for students who want a high-quality yet affordable education in a supportive and community-centered environment.

Here are the top reasons to consider BISU:

1. Accessible and Affordable Education

With tuition-free programs and numerous scholarships, BISU supports learners from all backgrounds.

2. Wide Range of Programs

Students can choose from technical, vocational, professional, research-based, and teacher education degrees.

3. Research and Community Engagement

BISU is deeply involved in local development efforts, making it a meaningful place to study topics like environmental science, agriculture, and fisheries.

4. Strategic Locations

Campuses are located throughout Bohol, making it easy for local residents to pursue higher education close to home.

5. Strong Academic Reputation

The university produces board exam passers in engineering, education, and criminology, strengthening its credibility.

Tips for Prospective Students

If you are preparing to enroll at BISU, keep the following in mind:

Check campus-specific offerings

Not all programs are available at every campus. Review your chosen program and its location.

Prepare documents early

Admissions usually open months before the semester begins, and slots may fill quickly.

Consider nearby housing options

Some campuses are located in rural areas, so housing availability may vary.

Take advantage of scholarships

Apply early for TES, CHED, and LGU scholarships.

Engage in campus activities

Joining student groups enhances your academic experience and helps build your network.

Conclusion

Bohol Island State University stands out as one of the top public universities in the Central Visayas region. With its diverse academic programs, commitment to accessible education, and active community involvement, BISU continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of both Bohol and the Philippines.

Whether you are seeking affordable education, research opportunities, or a supportive campus environment, BISU offers a solid foundation for achieving your academic and career goals.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: Where is Bohol Island State University located?
Bohol Island State University (BISU) is a state university system based on Bohol Island in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. Its main campus is in Tagbilaran City, the capital of Bohol, while other campuses are located in Balilihan, Bilar, Calape, Clarin, and Candijay. Each campus offers different programs, so it is important to confirm which campus hosts the degree you are interested in before applying.

Q2: What types of programs does BISU offer?
BISU offers a wide range of undergraduate and some graduate programs. These include engineering, architecture, industrial technology, information technology, education, agriculture, fisheries, environmental science, criminology, social sciences, business, hospitality management, and tourism. Graduate programs may include education, public administration, and agriculture-related fields, depending on the campus and current offerings.

Q3: Is tuition free at Bohol Island State University?
As a public state university, BISU usually participates in the Philippine government’s “Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act” (RA 10931). This means that most qualified Filipino students enrolled in approved undergraduate programs do not pay basic tuition and certain school fees. However, students may still need to cover other costs such as miscellaneous fees, laboratory fees, uniforms, learning materials, and daily living expenses.

Q4: What scholarships and financial assistance are available?
Students at BISU may qualify for various scholarships and financial support. These can include government-funded scholarships such as CHED programs, Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES), and local government (LGU) scholarships, as well as private or institutional grants. In addition, BISU may offer academic scholarships for high-achieving students or those who maintain specific grade requirements. Availability, eligibility criteria, and application timelines can change, so it is best to check directly with the campus scholarship office.

Q5: What are the general admission requirements for incoming freshmen?
While exact requirements may vary by campus and program, incoming first-year college students typically need to submit a completed application form, senior high school report card (Form 138 or equivalent), a certificate of good moral character, a PSA-issued birth certificate, ID photos, and medical or dental clearance. Some programs may require an entrance examination, interview, or additional documents. International applicants may need extra requirements such as passport copies, visa documents, or English proficiency evidence.

Q6: Does BISU accept transferees and second coursers?
Yes, most campuses accept transfer students and second coursers, subject to space, program policies, and grade requirements. Transferees generally need to provide their Transcript of Records, Honorable Dismissal or Transfer Credentials, course descriptions for credit evaluation, and other standard admission documents. Second coursers may follow similar procedures but could have different crediting and residency rules. Final acceptance is typically determined by the department and registrar’s office of the specific campus.

Q7: What is student life like at BISU?
Student life at BISU is usually active and community-oriented. Students can join academic clubs, cultural groups, sports teams, student government, and various volunteer or outreach organizations. Many campuses celebrate foundation days, intramural sports, cultural festivals, seminars, and research events. Because BISU is closely connected to local communities, students often participate in extension programs and service-learning activities that promote leadership, teamwork, and social responsibility.

Q8: What facilities can students expect on campus?
Facilities differ by campus, but BISU generally provides classrooms, computer laboratories, science labs, engineering or technology workshops, libraries, research farms for agriculture and fisheries, and spaces for student activities. Some campuses have gyms or sports fields, canteens, student lounges, and multi-purpose halls. As a state institution, facility upgrades may be done gradually, so it is helpful to visit the specific campus to see current resources and learning environments.

Q9: Are there dormitories or housing options for BISU students?
Some campuses may have limited on-campus dormitories or nearby boarding houses, but availability can vary. In many cases, students find housing in the surrounding community, such as rented rooms, apartments, or shared houses. Costs depend on location, room type, and amenities. It is recommended to inquire with the campus student affairs office or local residents for updated information about safe and convenient housing options near your chosen campus.

Q10: Does BISU offer opportunities for research and community extension?
Yes, BISU is involved in research and extension activities, especially in areas related to agriculture, fisheries, environmental management, teacher education, engineering, and community development. Faculty and students may join research projects, present papers in conferences, assist in training programs, or participate in community-based initiatives. These activities help students gain practical experience and contribute to local development in Bohol and nearby regions.

Q11: How can I choose the right BISU campus and program?
To choose the right campus and program, start by identifying your interests and long-term career goals. Check which BISU campus offers the program you want, and review its focus areas, board exam performance (if applicable), and facilities. You may also consider proximity to your hometown, cost of living, and the availability of housing and transportation. Visiting the campus, attending orientations, or talking with current students and alumni can help you make a more informed decision.

Q12: How can I get the most updated information about Bohol Island State University?
Because admission policies, program offerings, fees, and schedules may change over time, it is important to rely on official and up-to-date sources. For the latest information, consult the official BISU website, verified social media pages, or admissions and registrar offices of each campus. You may also contact them through official email addresses or phone numbers. Third-party articles and guides, including this one, are for general information only and should be cross-checked with official announcements.

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