The Philippines follows a US-style medical system and awards the Doctor of Medicine (MD), treated as equivalent to MBBS by the NMC. Indian students complete a short BS pre-medical phase followed by the MD programme and a one-year internship. As the world's third-largest English-speaking country, it offers easy communication and NMC/WHO-recognised universities — but note the NMAT entrance test.
Why Study MBBS in Philippines?
- US-pattern, English-medium education in a largely English-speaking country.
- Affordable — full BS+MD course typically ₹15–35 lakh.
- NMC and WHO recognised universities.
- USMLE-aligned curriculum, useful for global careers.
- Strong clinical exposure through a one-year rotating internship.
Eligibility Criteria
Indian applicants must meet the following before they can enrol:
- A minimum of 50% aggregate in Class 12 (PCB) from a recognised board — 40% for reserved categories.
- Physics, Chemistry and Biology studied in Class 12.
- A qualified NEET score — mandatory for Indian students.
- At least 17 years of age on or before 31st December of the admission year.
Admission Process
- Shortlist an NMC-approved university based on ranking, fees and recognition.
- Submit the application form with your academic documents before the deadline.
- Receive the official admission/offer letter from the university.
- Arrange documents — academic certificates, NEET scorecard, passport and photos.
- Pay the first-year tuition to confirm your seat.
- Apply for the student visa with the admission letter and proof of funds.
- Book travel and accommodation, arriving before classes begin.
Documents Required
- Class 10 marksheet
- Class 12 marksheet
- NEET scorecard
- Original passport
- Passport-size photographs
Keep both originals and several photocopies ready to speed up the process.
Courses & Syllabus
The Philippines medical curriculum is delivered in English and structured across pre-clinical, para-clinical and clinical phases, closely supporting FMGE/NExT preparation.
| Phase | Focus | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Clinical | Foundations | Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry |
| Para-Clinical | Diagnostics | Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Forensic Medicine |
| Clinical | Hospital Training | Medicine, Surgery, Paediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynaecology |
Study Pattern
- Pre-clinical: Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry — building a firm foundation.
- Para-clinical: Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology and Forensic Medicine.
- Clinical: hands-on training in Medicine, Surgery, Paediatrics and Obs & Gynae.
- Assessment: continuous evaluation plus professional exams at the end of each phase.
Fee Structure 2026-27
Indicative tuition and total-course costs (in INR) at leading universities for MBBS in Philippines:
| University | Tuition / Year | Total Course |
|---|---|---|
| UV Gullas College of Medicine | ₹2.8 – ₹4.0 L | ₹20 – ₹28 L |
| Davao Medical School Foundation | ₹3.5 – ₹5.0 L | ₹25 – ₹32 L |
| University of Santo Tomas | ₹4.5 – ₹6.0 L | ₹30 – ₹35 L |
| AMA School of Medicine | ₹2.5 – ₹3.5 L | ₹16 – ₹24 L |
| Emilio Aguinaldo College | ₹3.0 – ₹4.0 L | ₹20 – ₹26 L |
Figures are indicative for 2026-27 and vary by university and exchange rate. Contact our counsellors for the latest confirmed structure.
Hostel & Living Cost
University hostels in Philippines are furnished and secure, with separate accommodation for boys and girls and Indian food widely available. Estimated monthly living costs:
| Expense (Monthly) | Approx. Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (Hostel) | ₹6,000 – ₹12,000 |
| Food | ₹6,000 – ₹10,000 |
| Local Transport | ₹800 – ₹2,500 |
| Study Materials | ₹1,500 – ₹4,000 |
| Personal Expenses | ₹2,500 – ₹8,000 |
| Medical Insurance | ₹800 – ₹1,600 |
Top Medical Universities in Philippines
NMC-recognised universities whose degrees are valid in India. Browse the full list on our college finder.
UV Gullas College of Medicine
A popular, affordable medical college in Cebu with a large Indian student base.
| Location | Cebu |
| Programme | BS + MD |
| Recognition | NMC, WHO |
Davao Medical School Foundation
A reputed institution in Davao known for strong academics and clinical training.
| Founded | 1976 |
| Location | Davao |
| Recognition | NMC, WHO, ECFMG |
University of Santo Tomas
One of Asia's oldest universities (Manila), highly regarded for its medical faculty.
| Founded | 1611 |
| Location | Manila |
| Recognition | NMC, WHO, WFME |
Our Lady of Fatima University
A well-structured, modern medical university popular with international students.
| Location | Valenzuela |
| Programme | BS + MD |
| Recognition | NMC, WHO |
About Philippines
The Philippines is an archipelago in Southeast Asia with a warm climate, low crime and English as a primary language. Its US-aligned medical education and large Indian student community make day-to-day life and study comfortable for newcomers.
SCY Solutions
MBBS in Russia
MBBS in Georgia
MBBS in Kyrgyzstan
MBBS in Kazakhstan
MBBS in Bangladesh
MBBS in Nepal
MBBS in Uzbekistan
MBBS in China
MBBS in Philippines
MBBS in Armenia