Best Medical Schools in the Philippines (Local & International Rankings)

The Philippines has established itself as one of Asia’s top destinations for medical education. Known for its English-based instruction, affordable tuition, and globally recognized curriculum, the country attracts both local and foreign students aspiring to become doctors. In this article, we will explore the best medical schools in the Philippines, their ranking performance both locally and internationally, and what makes them stand out in producing world-class physicians.

Overview of Medical Education in the Philippines

Medical education in the Philippines typically consists of a four-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) program following a pre-medical bachelor’s degree such as Biology, Psychology, or Medical Technology. The program is regulated by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and accredited by the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU).

Graduates must pass the Physicians Licensure Examination administered by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) before practicing medicine. Many also pursue USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) or PLAB (UK) to qualify abroad.

Criteria for Ranking Medical Schools

The ranking of medical schools in the Philippines considers several factors:

• Physician Licensure Exam (PLE) Performance

• Accreditation Status (CHED, PAASCU, FAIMER)

• International Partnerships and Recognition

• Research Output and Facilities

• Global Alumni Success

• Tuition and Accessibility

With these criteria, let’s look at the top institutions that consistently produce competent, compassionate, and globally competitive doctors.

1. University of the Philippines (UP) College of Medicine – Manila

Location: Ermita, Manila
Affiliation: University of the Philippines System
World Ranking: Top 550 in QS World University Rankings (2025)
CHED Center of Excellence

The UP College of Medicine (UPCM) remains the gold standard of medical education in the Philippines. As part of the UP Manila Health Sciences Center, it integrates advanced research, community service, and a strong foundation in clinical skills.

UP’s “INTARMED” program allows selected students to enter medicine straight from high school and complete both pre-med and MD in seven years. Graduates consistently top the Physician Licensure Exam and are highly sought after by hospitals in the Philippines and abroad.

University of the Philippines (UP) College of Medicine Guide

2. University of Santo Tomas (UST) Faculty of Medicine and Surgery

Location: España, Manila
Founded: 1871
World Ranking: Top 1000 (QS 2025)
CHED Center of Excellence

The UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery is one of the oldest medical schools in Asia, blending centuries-old tradition with modern education. It is known for producing well-rounded physicians who excel both in the Philippines and internationally.

UST emphasizes humanistic and ethical values alongside scientific excellence. It has a strong network of alumni in North America, Europe, and the Middle East, many of whom occupy top positions in healthcare.

University of Santo Tomas (UST) Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Guide

3. Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health (ASMPH)

Location: Pasig City
Affiliation: Ateneo de Manila University
Program: MD-MBA Dual Degree

Ateneo’s MD-MBA program is unique in Asia, combining medical training with management education in partnership with the Ateneo Graduate School of Business. It aims to produce physician-leaders capable of transforming healthcare systems.

ASMPH uses problem-based learning (PBL), integrated case studies, and small-group mentoring. Its graduates perform well in the PLE and are often seen in leadership roles across hospitals, NGOs, and international organizations.

Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health (ASMPH) Guide

4. University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center (UERMMMC)

Location: Quezon City
Established: 1956
Recognition: PAASCU-accredited, CHED Autonomous Status

UERMMMC is one of the most respected private medical schools in the country. Known for its excellent facilities and dedicated faculty, it offers a research-oriented program that develops both clinical and analytical skills.

UERMMMC has consistently produced topnotchers in the PLE, and many graduates pursue further training in the US and Canada due to the school’s FAIMER and WHO listings.

University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center (UERMMMC) Guide

5. Cebu Institute of Medicine (CIM)

Location: Cebu City
Affiliation: Velez College
Performance: Among the highest PLE passing rates nationwide

The Cebu Institute of Medicine is the premier medical school in the Visayas and Mindanao. It is well-regarded for its academic rigor, highly competent faculty, and close affiliation with major hospitals like Cebu Velez General Hospital.

CIM’s consistent 100% passing rate in multiple PLE cycles underscores its reputation for producing some of the best-trained doctors outside Metro Manila.

Cebu Institute of Medicine (CIM) Guide

6. St. Luke’s College of Medicine – William H. Quasha Memorial

Location: Quezon City
Affiliation: St. Luke’s Medical Center
International Links: FAIMER-listed, affiliated with U.S. and Asian hospitals

St. Luke’s College of Medicine offers a world-class medical program with state-of-the-art simulation labs, modern research facilities, and strong mentorship under one of the country’s best hospitals. Students are exposed to global standards of patient care and medical technology.

Graduates enjoy high employability both in the Philippines and abroad, especially in North America, thanks to strong academic and clinical foundations.

St. Luke’s College of Medicine – William H. Quasha Memorial Guide

7. De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute (DLSMHSI)

Location: Dasmariñas, Cavite
Affiliation: De La Salle University System
Programs: MD, Nursing, Allied Health

The De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute emphasizes community service, holistic education, and innovation in healthcare. Its modern facilities, ethical training, and strong Christian values make it a preferred choice for aspiring doctors in Southern Luzon.

Its integrated curriculum and partnerships with local hospitals ensure that students gain extensive clinical exposure before graduation.

De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute (DLSMHSI) Guide

8. Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) College of Medicine

Location: Intramuros, Manila
Type: Public, City-funded
Tuition: Highly affordable for Manila residents

PLM offers one of the most affordable yet competitive medical programs in the country. Admission is merit-based, and the school’s performance in national board exams is consistently above average. PLM-trained doctors are known for their commitment to public service, often serving in government hospitals and rural areas.

Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) College of Medicine Guide

9. Far Eastern University – Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation (FEU-NRMF)

Location: Fairview, Quezon City
Affiliation: FEU System
International Recognition: FAIMER and ECFMG listed

FEU-NRMF combines a long tradition of excellence with modern medical training. It boasts well-equipped laboratories, simulation centers, and affiliations with leading hospitals. The school’s integrated curriculum prepares students for both local practice and international exams.

Far Eastern University – Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation (FEU-NRMF)

10. Southwestern University (SWU) PHINMA – College of Medicine

Location: Cebu City
Affiliation: PHINMA Education Network
Focus: Global readiness and accessible medical education

SWU PHINMA is one of the fast-rising medical schools in the Visayas, offering an internationally recognized MD program. It attracts a large number of foreign students, particularly from India, Africa, and the Middle East, because of its English-medium instruction and reasonable tuition fees.

Southwestern University (SWU) PHINMA – College of Medicine Guide

International Recognition of Philippine Medical Schools

Many Philippine medical schools are listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS) and recognized by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), FAIMER, and WHO. This recognition allows Filipino graduates to pursue medical licensure in countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia after passing the required exams.

The UP College of Medicine, UST, Ateneo, St. Luke’s, and CIM consistently appear in regional rankings such as QS Asia and Times Higher Education (THE), solidifying the Philippines’ global reputation for quality healthcare education.

Cost of Studying Medicine in the Philippines

• Public Universities (e.g., UP, PLM): ₱30,000 – ₱80,000 per year

• Private Universities (e.g., UST, Ateneo, St. Luke’s): ₱150,000 – ₱400,000 per year

• Foreign Students: Around USD 4,000 – 7,000 per year

Despite being more affordable than Western medical schools, Philippine institutions maintain international standards, making them attractive to international enrollees.

Admission Requirements

Common requirements include:

• Bachelor’s degree in a pre-medical field

• National Medical Admission Test (NMAT)

• Transcript of records and recommendation letters

• English proficiency proof (for foreign students)

• Entrance interviews and health evaluation

Most schools require an NMAT score above the 70th percentile, especially for top-ranked universities.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right medical school is crucial for your career path. The Philippines offers a diverse range of institutions—from elite research universities to affordable public colleges—all committed to producing globally competent doctors. Whether you aim to practice locally or abroad, the best medical schools in the Philippines provide strong academic training, clinical experience, and values-based education that stand out on the world stage.

What criteria are used to rank medical schools in the Philippines?

Rankings typically consider multiple indicators rather than a single score. Common criteria include Physician Licensure Examination (PLE) performance over several cycles, accreditation status (e.g., CHED recognition and PAASCU levels), student selectivity via NMAT percentile thresholds, faculty credentials and research output, clinical training quality through affiliated teaching hospitals, graduate outcomes such as residency placement and leadership roles, and international visibility, including listings in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS). Because each ranking body weighs these factors differently, it is wise to look at trends across several years and sources rather than a one-time leaderboard.

How do local rankings differ from international rankings?

Local rankings often prioritize PLE results, NMAT selectivity, and the strength of domestic clinical training networks. International rankings, by contrast, typically emphasize research citations, global partnerships, and academic reputation surveys. A school that is top-tier locally due to stellar board results may appear modest internationally if its research volume is smaller; conversely, a research-active university might rank higher globally even if its PLE outcomes are comparable with peers. Reviewing both lenses provides a more balanced picture for applicants.

Which schools are commonly recognized among the best?

Institutions frequently cited include the University of the Philippines College of Medicine, University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health, St. Luke’s College of Medicine, Cebu Institute of Medicine, De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute, University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center, Far Eastern University–NRMF, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila College of Medicine, and selected rising regional colleges. Applicants should still assess fit based on cost, location, teaching style, and clinical exposure.

Is NMAT required, and what scores are competitive?

Yes, the NMAT is a standard requirement for MD admissions. Competitive programs often look for high percentile ranks, with top schools typically preferring applicants above the 70th–90th percentiles. Schools may also weigh interviews, academic records, recommendation letters, and non-academic achievements. Some programs practice holistic admissions, considering service, leadership, and research experience alongside test scores.

How important is PLE performance when choosing a school?

PLE performance is a strong indicator of exam preparation and curriculum alignment with national standards. Multi-year passing rates and the frequency of topnotchers can be informative, but they should be considered with class size and student profile. A school’s teaching hospitals, case diversity, and mentoring culture also affect professional readiness beyond licensure.

What role do accreditations and recognitions play?

CHED recognition and program-level accreditations (e.g., PAASCU) signal quality assurance. International listings such as WDOMS help validate eligibility for postgraduate training or licensure pathways abroad. While accreditation is not a day-to-day learning factor, it underpins curriculum governance, faculty development, and continuous improvement—key for long-term program strength.

Can graduates from Philippine medical schools practice abroad?

Many graduates successfully pursue training and licensure overseas. Typically, this involves passing the destination country’s exams (e.g., USMLE for the United States, PLAB or UKMLA in the United Kingdom), meeting clinical training requirements, and completing visa or registration steps. Being listed in WDOMS and meeting documentation standards is often essential. Applicants targeting international careers should verify current rules for their preferred country early in their MD journey.

What teaching approaches differentiate top programs?

Leading schools blend traditional systems-based teaching with problem-based learning, early patient exposure, robust simulation, and interprofessional activities. Some offer dual-degree options (e.g., MD-MBA) to cultivate leadership and health systems thinking. Strong programs also emphasize ethics, communication, informatics, and public health to prepare graduates for complex care environments.

How much does medical school cost in the Philippines?

Tuition and fees vary widely. Public institutions tend to be more affordable, while private colleges charge higher rates reflecting facilities and service offerings. Applicants should also budget for books, devices, uniforms, board review materials, clinical rotations, and living costs. Scholarships, grants, and service-linked programs (e.g., return-of-service) can significantly reduce the net cost.

What should international students consider?

International students should confirm admission timelines, NMAT or equivalent testing, English proficiency requirements, visa processing steps, and health insurance. Clarify clinical rotation arrangements, patient language support, and post-graduation pathways, including eligibility for licensing exams abroad. Schools with established international offices and cohorts can streamline orientation and compliance.

How can applicants evaluate clinical training quality?

Look beyond campus brochures. Review affiliated hospitals’ case mix and bed capacity, exposure to primary care and community health, access to subspecialty services, simulation facilities, and supervision ratios. Speak with current students or alumni, attend open houses, and ask about clerkship scheduling, feedback systems, and duty hour policies. Strong clinical ecosystems provide progressive responsibility while maintaining patient safety.

Are research opportunities necessary for all students?

Not every student intends to pursue an academic career, but research training sharpens critical thinking and evidence-based practice. Top programs offer mentored projects, ethics oversight, and dissemination support (e.g., conferences, journals). Even for clinically focused graduates, familiarity with study design, statistics, and appraisal of literature is invaluable for modern practice.

What timelines should I expect from application to matriculation?

Planning typically starts 9–12 months before entry. Key steps include NMAT scheduling, dossier completion (transcripts, recommendations, essays), interviews, and financial planning. International students should begin visa and document authentication early. Once admitted, expect pre-matriculation health clearances, orientation modules, and foundational bootcamps before the first semester.

How do I choose the “best” school for me?

Define your goals first: primary care vs. subspecialty, leadership or research interests, and potential practice location (local or abroad). Map these goals to objective indicators—PLE trends, clinical affiliates, research options, teaching style, total cost of attendance, and student support services. The best school is the one where you can thrive academically, clinically, and personally while positioning yourself for the career you want.

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