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

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) Faculty of Medicine and Surgery (FMS) is one of the oldest and most prestigious medical schools in the Philippines. Established in 1871, UST Medicine has produced generations of doctors who have become leaders in healthcare, education, and research both locally and internationally. If you’re planning to pursue your medical education in the Philippines, this comprehensive guide will help you understand everything about UST’s medical program — from admission and curriculum to facilities, tuition, and campus life.

Overview of UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery

UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery (UST-FMS) is part of the Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas, the oldest existing university in Asia, founded in 1611. UST-FMS upholds a tradition of academic excellence, Christian values, and community service. It consistently ranks among the top medical schools in the Philippines based on board examination performance and academic reputation.

The faculty is housed in the St. Martin de Porres Building within the UST campus in Sampaloc, Manila — a central location close to the University of Santo Tomas Hospital (USTH), the main training ground for medical students.

History and Legacy

The UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery was established in 1871, making it the first medical school in the Philippines to be founded under a Catholic university. It has trained countless physicians, many of whom have become notable figures in Philippine medical history, including former Health Secretaries, deans, and hospital directors.

Over its 150-year history, UST-FMS has developed a reputation for combining academic rigor with compassionate care — a philosophy encapsulated in its motto, “Veritas in Caritate” (Truth in Charity). This guiding principle reflects the UST mission to form competent, ethical, and compassionate Thomasian doctors.

Degree Program and Curriculum

Doctor of Medicine (MD) Program

UST offers a Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, which is a 4-year professional degree following the completion of a pre-medical course (usually BS Biology, BS Psychology, BS Medical Technology, or BS Pharmacy).

Curriculum Structure

The MD curriculum follows a vertical and spiral integration approach that builds upon foundational knowledge in the basic sciences before transitioning to clinical application.

Year 1: Pre-Clinical Phase
Focus on basic medical sciences such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and histology. Students also start early exposure to patient interaction through simulation and problem-based learning.

Year 2: Pre-Clinical Continuation
Advanced studies in pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, and parasitology. Students begin correlating laboratory results with clinical findings.

Year 3: Clinical Phase
Students start clerkship rotations within the UST Hospital and its affiliated institutions, gaining exposure to major clinical departments — internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, and psychiatry.

Year 4: Clinical Clerkship and Internship
The final year involves full-time hospital rotations, hands-on clinical experience, and case presentations. Students are expected to handle patients under supervision and apply ethical decision-making in real settings.

Affiliated Training Hospitals

The primary training institution for UST medical students is the University of Santo Tomas Hospital (USTH). Established in 1946, USTH serves as a tertiary teaching and training hospital offering a wide range of specialties and subspecialties.

UST students may also undergo clerkship and internship programs in other accredited hospitals for broader exposure, including public health centers and specialty hospitals in Metro Manila.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery is highly competitive. Each year, only a select number of applicants are accepted based on academic performance, entrance examination scores, and interview results.

Basic Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a pre-medical course (e.g., BS Biology, BS Psychology, BS Medical Technology, BS Pharmacy)

• General Weighted Average (GWA) of at least 85% or equivalent

• National Medical Admission Test (NMAT) score (preferably in the 80th percentile or higher)

• Good moral character and health clearance

Application Process

1. Online Application: Through the UST Medicine online portal.

2. Submission of Documents: Transcript of Records, NMAT result, recommendation letters, and other supporting papers.

3. Interview: Qualified applicants are invited for an interview with the Admissions Committee.

4. Results and Enrollment: Successful applicants receive an official notice of acceptance and proceed with registration.

Tuition Fees and Expenses

The tuition at UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery varies slightly per year level, but students can expect an estimated cost of:

• ₱180,000 to ₱220,000 per semester (tuition and miscellaneous fees)

• Annual total: around ₱360,000 to ₱440,000

Other expenses include laboratory materials, uniforms, books, and living costs (especially for non-Manila residents). While tuition is higher than some state universities, UST’s value lies in its strong reputation and board exam track record.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

UST offers a range of scholarships and financial assistance to deserving students:

• San Martin de Porres Scholarship: For academically excellent but financially challenged students.

• UST Alumni Association Scholarship: Sponsored by alumni groups.

• Private Donor Scholarships: Endowments from charitable foundations and individuals.

• External Grants: Eligible students may also apply for scholarships from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) or other institutions.

Facilities and Learning Resources

UST-FMS provides students with state-of-the-art facilities that support hands-on learning and research:

• Anatomy and Dissection Laboratories

• Medical Simulation and Skills Laboratories

• UST Medicine Library and E-Library Access

• Lecture Halls with Audio-Visual Equipment

• Research Centers and Laboratories

• UST Hospital (Training Facility)

These facilities ensure that students are exposed to both traditional and modern approaches in medical education.

Faculty and Academic Support

The UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery boasts a roster of highly qualified professors, clinicians, and researchers. Many of them are board-certified specialists with years of teaching and clinical experience.

Academic support services include mentoring programs, peer tutoring, and wellness activities to help students manage the demands of medical school life.

Board Exam Performance

UST consistently ranks among the top-performing medical schools in the Philippines in the Physician Licensure Examination (PLE) administered by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).

The school’s strong curriculum and rigorous training contribute to its high passing rate, often above 95%, with many graduates achieving top 10 rankings nationwide.

Student Life and Organizations

Beyond academics, UST Medicine encourages holistic student development through involvement in various organizations and community projects.

Student Organizations

• UST Medicine Student Council

• Medical Missions and Outreach Programs

• UST-FMS Chorale and Cultural Groups

• Interest-Based Organizations (e.g., Surgery Club, Pediatric Society)

Community Engagement

UST-FMS students participate in regular medical missions, health education drives, and charity events — reinforcing the Thomasian doctor’s mission of service to humanity.

International Exposure and Partnerships

UST maintains academic collaborations with medical institutions abroad, allowing for student exchange programs, research collaborations, and continuing medical education opportunities. These partnerships help students gain exposure to global healthcare standards and practices.

Why Choose UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery?

Choosing UST-FMS means joining a long-standing tradition of excellence. Here are key reasons why many aspiring doctors select UST:

• Historical prestige and strong Catholic values

• Excellent medical facilities and hospital training

• High board exam passing rate

• Extensive alumni network

• Commitment to compassionate and ethical practice

Graduating from UST not only grants a world-class medical education but also connects you to one of the largest and most respected medical alumni communities in Asia.

Location and Campus Environment

UST is located along España Boulevard, Sampaloc, Manila, within a large and secure university campus. The environment blends historic architecture with modern facilities. Students have access to dormitories, cafeterias, study lounges, sports complexes, and chapels — all within walking distance.

Nearby establishments include bookstores, medical supply stores, and affordable eateries catering to students.

How to Contact UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery

• Official Website: https://www.ust.edu.ph

• Address: UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, St. Martin de Porres Building, España Blvd, Sampaloc, Manila, Philippines

• Email: medinfo@ust.edu.ph

• Phone: +63 (2) 3406-1611 loc. 8543

Final Thoughts

The University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine and Surgery remains one of the most respected medical schools in the Philippines, known for producing competent and compassionate doctors who embody the Thomasian spirit of service. With its strong curriculum, top-tier faculty, modern facilities, and unwavering Catholic foundation, UST-FMS continues to lead in forming future healthcare leaders in the country and beyond.

If you aspire to become a doctor guided by both excellence and ethics, UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery stands as one of the best choices in Asia.

FAQs

What programs does UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery offer?

UST-FMS offers the Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, a four-year professional degree taken after a qualifying bachelor’s or pre-med course. The curriculum integrates basic sciences, clinical sciences, ethics, and community medicine through lectures, laboratories, small-group learning, simulation, and hospital-based rotations. Students train primarily at the University of Santo Tomas Hospital (USTH) and other accredited affiliates.

Who is eligible to apply to the MD program?

Applicants must hold a recognized bachelor’s degree with the required pre-med coursework, present a valid NMAT score, and meet the school’s academic and conduct standards. International and transfer applicants may apply subject to additional documentation and equivalency requirements. Final decisions consider academic record, NMAT, interview performance, recommendations, and overall fit with UST’s mission and values.

What is the structure of the four-year curriculum?

Years 1 and 2 emphasize foundational sciences such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, microbiology, and pharmacology, with early clinical exposure and simulation. Year 3 transitions to clinical departments with case-based conferences and bedside learning. Year 4 is a full-time clinical clerkship across core rotations, where students manage patients under supervision and refine clinical reasoning, professionalism, and interprofessional teamwork.

Where will I train clinically?

The primary training site is the University of Santo Tomas Hospital, a tertiary teaching hospital offering wide specialty exposure and multidisciplinary teams. Students may rotate through partner hospitals, community health centers, and specialized institutes to broaden case mix and public health perspectives. These venues strengthen competencies in both hospital and community-based care.

What are typical admissions requirements and timelines?

Common requirements include an online application, transcript of records, NMAT results, recommendation letters, ID documents, and a personal statement. Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews and, when applicable, additional evaluations. Timelines and quotas vary by cycle; applicants should monitor official UST-FMS announcements for deadlines, procedural updates, and any changes in testing or document formats.

How competitive is admission?

Admission is highly selective and considers academic rigor, NMAT percentile, interview performance, service orientation, and readiness for the program’s workload. Strong applicants demonstrate consistent scholarship, research or service exposure, and reflective communication skills. Because criteria and cohort profiles evolve, candidates should focus on holistic strength rather than a single metric.

How much are tuition and fees, and what financial aid is available?

Total costs vary by year level and are updated periodically. Expect tuition and miscellaneous fees, plus books, uniforms, equipment, examinations, and living expenses. UST-FMS and external partners offer merit- and need-based scholarships, grants, and limited assistantships; availability and terms change annually, so applicants should consult official channels and prepare supporting documents early.

How does UST-FMS support student wellness and academic success?

Support includes faculty mentorship, office-hour consultations, peer tutoring, skills labs, and access to learning resources such as digital libraries and simulation centers. Wellness initiatives may include counseling referrals, faith-based and community activities, and student organizations that promote work–life balance. Students are encouraged to seek help proactively and use feedback loops to improve performance.

What is UST’s approach to research and evidence-based medicine?

Evidence-based practice is embedded across courses and clinical rotations through journal appraisals, morbidity and mortality conferences, and capstone or research experiences. Students learn critical appraisal, data interpretation, and ethical conduct of research. Opportunities to collaborate with faculty or join institutional projects are available depending on interest, readiness, and mentor capacity.

What are the outcomes after graduation?

Graduates are eligible to take the Physician Licensure Examination in the Philippines and may pursue residency training locally or abroad, depending on program prerequisites. Career paths include clinical practice, academia, research, administration, and public health leadership. Outcomes reflect individual preparation, exam performance, and alignment with program requirements in the chosen training site.

Can international students enroll, and what additional steps are required?

International applicants are welcome subject to compliance with admission standards, English proficiency as needed, student visa requirements, and professional credential equivalency. Additional steps may include document authentication, proof of financial capacity, and health insurance. The University’s international office and the admissions unit provide process guidance and updated checklists.

What is campus life like at UST?

UST offers a historic yet modern campus with chapels, libraries, study spaces, laboratories, sports facilities, and student services within walking distance of USTH. Medical student organizations host academic, cultural, and service activities, including medical missions and outreach. The location in Sampaloc, Manila provides access to housing, food options, bookstores, and medical supply shops.

How can I strengthen my application?

Maintain a solid academic record in science courses, aim for a competitive NMAT percentile, and cultivate experiences in research, community service, or clinical exposure. Use your personal statement and interview to demonstrate reflection, maturity, teamwork, and commitment to compassionate care aligned with Thomasian values. Secure substantive recommendations from mentors who know your work well.

Where can I find official updates and whom should I contact?

Always rely on official UST-FMS communications for current admission policies, deadlines, tuition schedules, and scholarship announcements. Program details, forms, and contact information are published on the University’s website and verified social channels. Because policies may change each cycle, applicants should check updates frequently and retain copies of all submissions.

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