Saint Louis University (SLU) Guide
Overview: A Premier University in Northern Philippines
Saint Louis University (SLU) is one of the top private Catholic universities in the Philippines, located in the heart of Baguio City—the country’s “Summer Capital.” Established in 1911 by the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (CICM), SLU has grown from a small school to a comprehensive institution known for its strong academic programs, research initiatives, and vibrant student life.
With a long-standing reputation for excellence in higher education, SLU consistently ranks among the top universities in the country and is a preferred destination for students seeking quality education in a cool, safe, and student-friendly city.
History and Founding
Saint Louis University traces its roots to the arrival of Belgian missionaries in the early 20th century. In 1911, Father Seraphin Devesse, CICM, established Saint Louis School in Baguio to provide basic education. Over time, the institution expanded to include higher education programs.
In 1952, the school became officially recognized as Saint Louis University, marking its transformation into one of the first universities in Northern Luzon. Since then, SLU has become a leader in education, research, and community engagement in the Cordillera region.
Location and Campus Environment
SLU is located along A. Bonifacio Street in Baguio City, a highly accessible and central area near Session Road, Burnham Park, and SM Baguio. The main campus, called the Mount Mary Campus, houses most of the university’s colleges and administrative offices.
The environment surrounding SLU offers a perfect blend of academic focus and relaxation. The city’s cool climate, lush greenery, and cultural diversity make it an ideal setting for studying and living. Students can easily walk to cafés, bookstores, parks, and shopping centers.
The campus itself is modern yet reflective of Baguio’s natural charm, with spacious courtyards, green spaces, and study lounges.
Academic Excellence
Saint Louis University is known for its comprehensive and high-quality academic offerings across a wide range of disciplines. The university comprises several colleges and schools, each specializing in specific fields of study.
Colleges and Academic Units
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School of Accountancy, Management, Computing, and Information Studies (SAMCIS) – Offers programs in accountancy, business administration, entrepreneurship, and computer science.
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School of Engineering and Architecture (SEA) – Provides courses in civil, electrical, mechanical, and chemical engineering, as well as architecture.
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School of Nursing, Allied Health, and Biological Sciences (SNAHBS) – Renowned for its nursing program, consistently producing board topnotchers.
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School of Medicine (SOM) – One of the top medical schools in the Philippines with excellent board exam performance.
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School of Law (SOL) – Provides rigorous legal education rooted in ethics and justice.
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School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (STELA) – Focuses on education, psychology, and the humanities.
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School of Natural Sciences (SNS) – Offers programs in biology, chemistry, and environmental science.
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School of Advanced Studies (SAS) – Handles graduate and postgraduate programs.
SLU emphasizes research, innovation, and practical learning. It has various research centers focusing on health sciences, business, education, and technology.
Admission and Application Process
Admission to SLU is competitive, especially for programs such as Nursing, Medicine, and Engineering. The process typically includes the following steps:
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Online Application – Applicants submit their forms and required documents via the SLU admission portal.
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Entrance Examination – Depending on the program, applicants may need to take an admission test.
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Interview and Screening – Some departments conduct interviews or require additional requirements such as essays or portfolios.
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Results and Enrollment – Successful applicants receive admission notices and proceed with registration.
International students are welcome at SLU. They must provide English proficiency test results (IELTS or TOEFL), academic transcripts, and visa-related documents.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
SLU offers affordable tuition compared to many private universities in Metro Manila. For undergraduate programs, tuition typically ranges from ₱40,000 to ₱60,000 per semester, depending on the course.
Graduate and professional programs such as Medicine and Law are higher, ranging from ₱80,000 to ₱150,000 per semester.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
The university provides several scholarship options, including:
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Academic Scholarship – For students with high grades.
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Athletic Scholarship – For varsity athletes.
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CICM Mission Scholarship – For deserving students from low-income backgrounds.
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External Scholarships – Partnerships with private companies and government agencies such as CHED and DOST.
Facilities and Student Services
SLU provides world-class facilities designed to support both academic and extracurricular development.
Academic Facilities
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Modern classrooms equipped with multimedia technology
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Fully stocked libraries with digital resources
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Research and science laboratories
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Simulation rooms for nursing and medical students
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Engineering and architecture workshops
Student Support
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Counseling and Guidance Center
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Career Development Office
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Campus Ministry and Religious Services
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Student Health Services
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International Students Office
SLU also promotes holistic growth through clubs, organizations, and cultural events. Students can join various groups related to academics, arts, sports, and volunteerism.
Student Life and Campus Culture
SLU’s student life is vibrant and diverse. With over 30,000 students, including international learners, the campus thrives with energy and creativity.
Baguio City’s lifestyle perfectly complements the academic rhythm—cool weather, coffee shops, scenic views, and cultural festivals make student life enjoyable.
Annual highlights include:
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SLU Intramurals – Sports and talent competitions.
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SLU Lantern Parade – A Christmas tradition featuring artistic lanterns.
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CICM Feast Day Celebrations – Showcasing the university’s Catholic identity.
Students also engage in community outreach and social responsibility programs through SLU’s Extension Institute, reinforcing its mission to serve others.
International Partnerships and Exchange Programs
Saint Louis University maintains academic partnerships with universities across Asia, Europe, and North America. These collaborations allow student exchange, research cooperation, and faculty training.
Examples include partnerships with institutions in Belgium, Japan, South Korea, and the United States.
Through the Office of International Relations, students can apply for exchange programs or short-term study abroad opportunities.
Ranking and Achievements
SLU consistently ranks among the Top 10 universities in the Philippines and is a recognized Center of Excellence in multiple disciplines by CHED.
Notable achievements include:
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Consistently high passing rates in board exams for Nursing, Engineering, and Medicine.
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Recognized by the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges, and Universities (PAASCU) for quality assurance.
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Multiple research awards and national citations.
Alumni Network and Career Opportunities
SLU graduates are highly respected in both the local and international job markets. Its alumni include government leaders, doctors, engineers, educators, and entrepreneurs.
The university’s Career Center connects students to job placements, internships, and recruitment fairs. Graduates are known for their discipline, competence, and ethical professionalism.
Why Choose Saint Louis University (SLU)?
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Strong academic reputation and board exam performance
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Affordable quality education
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Located in a safe and student-friendly environment
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Excellent facilities and research centers
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Active student organizations and cultural life
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Wide international network and partnerships
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Strong values-based Catholic education
Nearby Accommodations and Lifestyle
For students who move to Baguio for studies, there are many housing options near the campus—boarding houses, dormitories, and apartments.
Areas such as Assumption Road, General Luna, and Session Road offer convenient access to SLU. Monthly rent typically ranges from ₱5,000 to ₱12,000, depending on amenities.
The city’s cost of living remains relatively affordable, and students enjoy access to restaurants, cafés, gyms, and cultural sites within walking distance.
Conclusion
Saint Louis University (SLU) is more than just a top-tier academic institution—it’s a community that nurtures intellect, character, and compassion. Studying at SLU means being part of a legacy of excellence in a city known for peace, beauty, and learning.
Whether you pursue a degree in medicine, business, engineering, or the arts, SLU provides the perfect balance of academic rigor, personal growth, and spiritual foundation in the scenic heart of Baguio City.
FAQs
What is Saint Louis University (SLU) known for?
SLU in Baguio City is a leading private Catholic university recognized for strong outcomes in Nursing, Medicine, Engineering, Accountancy, and IT. It combines rigorous academics with values-based education, high board exam performance, active research centers, and extensive community outreach in the Cordillera region. Its cool climate setting and central location make it a top choice for students nationwide.
Where is SLU located and what is the campus environment like?
SLU’s main Mount Mary Campus sits along A. Bonifacio Street, a short walk from Session Road, Burnham Park, and SM Baguio. The campus blends modern facilities with green courtyards and study nooks. Students enjoy Baguio’s cool weather, abundant cafés, bookstores, and safe walkability—ideal for focused study and a balanced lifestyle.
What undergraduate and graduate programs does SLU offer?
SLU offers programs across accountancy, business, entrepreneurship, computing, engineering, architecture, natural sciences, education, psychology, liberal arts, nursing, allied health, medicine, and law. Graduate and postgraduate degrees are handled by the School of Advanced Studies. Many programs have specialized labs, simulation rooms, and industry linkages to reinforce hands-on learning.
How competitive is admission and what are the typical steps?
Admission is selective, especially for Nursing, Medicine, and Engineering. Most applicants complete an online form, submit required documents, and may take an entrance exam. Some programs conduct interviews or require portfolios. After results, admitted students proceed with enrollment steps, medical clearance as required, and orientation. International applicants must also meet visa and English proficiency requirements.
How much are tuition and other fees?
Tuition varies by program and level. As a ballpark, many undergraduate programs fall in the mid-range compared to Metro Manila private institutions. Professional programs such as Medicine and Law cost more due to specialized training. Prospective students should also budget for laboratory fees, books, uniforms (when applicable), and living expenses like housing and meals.
Are scholarships and financial aid available?
Yes. SLU provides merit-based academic scholarships, athletic grants, need-based assistance, and mission-oriented awards. Students may also apply for government or private partner scholarships (e.g., CHED, DOST) when eligible. Benefits can include partial tuition coverage or stipends. Most programs require maintaining a certain GPA or service commitments to keep the award.
What student support services can I expect?
SLU offers a comprehensive support ecosystem: guidance and counseling, campus ministry, medical and dental services, a career center, international student assistance, and library access with digital resources. Specialized services include writing and research support, laboratory access, and program advisers who help with course planning, licensure exam readiness, and internships.
What is student life like at SLU?
Student life is dynamic, with dozens of organizations across academics, arts, culture, media, and sports. Major campus traditions include intramurals and the Lantern Parade. Volunteering and community engagement are integral, supported by SLU’s extension programs. Baguio’s café culture, festivals, and outdoor attractions (parks, trails) create a vibrant off-campus rhythm.
Is housing available near campus and what’s the cost of living?
SLU does not guarantee on-campus dorms for all; however, there are many boarding houses, apartments, and private dormitories within walking distance. Costs vary by room type and amenities (private bath, Wi-Fi, security). Students commonly budget for utilities and meals; overall, Baguio is considered manageable compared with larger Philippine metros.
How safe is Baguio City for students?
Baguio is widely regarded as student-friendly and relatively safe, with active local governance and visible security in central districts. As with any city, students should practice basic precautions: secure valuables, use well-lit routes, verify transport, and follow campus advisories. SLU maintains protocols for emergencies and health-related concerns.
How do I get around Baguio and to the campus?
Getting around is straightforward via jeepneys, taxis, and ride-hailing services. Many students prefer walking due to the campus’s central location. From Manila, travel options include intercity buses to Baguio (e.g., via expressways) and then a short local ride to campus. Plan extra time during holidays and peak tourist seasons.
What facilities and learning resources does SLU have?
Facilities include multimedia classrooms, libraries with extensive digital holdings, discipline-specific laboratories, simulation centers for nursing and health sciences, engineering and architecture workshops, and spaces for student media and organizations. High-speed internet, study lounges, and research centers support both independent work and collaborative projects.
How strong are licensure and career outcomes?
SLU is known for solid licensure exam results across Nursing, Engineering, Medicine, and Accountancy. The Career Center hosts fairs, alumni networking, and employer talks, and helps with résumé review and interview prep. Many programs integrate internships, clinical rotations, or practicums, improving job readiness and industry exposure before graduation.
Does SLU accept international students?
Yes. International applicants submit academic records, English proficiency proof (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL, if required), a valid passport, and visa documents. The International Students Office assists with admissions guidance, compliance, and adjustment to local academic culture. Orientation covers campus policies, safety, and practical living tips for Baguio.
What is SLU’s religious identity and how inclusive is the campus?
SLU is a Catholic institution founded by CICM missionaries. It integrates ethics, service, and social responsibility into its mission while welcoming students of all faiths. Campus ministry activities are available but not coercive; students are free to practice their beliefs, join interfaith dialogues, and engage in inclusive community programs.
Are there opportunities for research and international exchange?
Yes. SLU sustains research across health sciences, business, education, IT, and environmental studies, with faculty mentorship and student participation. Through the Office of International Relations, qualified students can pursue exchanges or short-term programs with partner universities in Asia, Europe, and North America, subject to academic standing and slots.
When should I apply and how can I strengthen my application?
Application windows vary by program, with earlier timelines for high-demand courses. Prepare complete documents, meet prerequisites, and apply ahead of deadlines. Strong academics, a coherent personal statement, and evidence of extracurricular engagement help. For portfolio-based programs, present relevant, well-curated work with clear reflection on your process.
Does SLU offer online or blended learning?
SLU uses technology-enhanced learning where appropriate, including learning management systems and digital library access. The modality (on-site, blended, or online components) depends on program requirements and regulatory guidance. Lab-heavy and clinical programs typically prioritize face-to-face sessions to meet competencies and accreditation standards.
How can I contact SLU for official, updated information?
For the most accurate, program-specific details—deadlines, entrance requirements, tuition matrices, and scholarship criteria—prospective students should consult SLU’s official website and authorized admissions channels. Policies and fees may change, so always verify directly with the university before making final decisions or financial commitments.
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