50 Top Universities in the Philippines
Updated: December 4, 2025
Choosing the right university in the Philippines can be challenging. With more than 2,300 higher education institutions nationwide, students have a wide range of options across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. To help you narrow things down, this guide highlights 50 respected universities known for strong academics, industry relevance, and long-term student outcomes.
If you prefer a flexible and fully online path, you can also compare these choices with accredited options like University of the People, which offers tuition-free degree programs you can complete from anywhere.
Key Takeaways
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The Philippines is home to more than 2,300 universities and colleges recognized by CHED.
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Top institutions like UP, Ateneo, DLSU, and UST stand out for academic rigor, research, and global reputation.
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Many universities outside Metro Manila, including Visayas State University and Silliman University, offer competitive programs.
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You can find strong options across engineering, business, health sciences, agriculture, liberal arts, and education.
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Students wanting global access and affordability can explore accredited tuition-free online alternatives like University of the People.
Top 50 Universities in the Philippines
Whether you’re aiming for a nationally ranked school in Metro Manila or a leading regional university in the Visayas or Mindanao, this list gives you a clear starting point as you explore your options.
1. University of the Philippines Diliman
The University of the Philippines (UP) is the Philippines’ National university.
It offers undergraduate and graduate programs. At UP, students can study business, engineering, law, and the arts.
UP has several research centers supporting students doing various research projects.
2. Ateneo de Manila University
Ateneo de Manila University offers business, law, engineering, and arts programs.
It also provides commerce, governance, medicine, and social sciences programs. People honor ADMU for its strong stress on research and humanistic learning.
3. De La Salle University
De La Salle University ranks top on the Philippines colleges and universities list for its in-demand courses. The college offers business, engineering, education, and arts. Furthermore, DLSU offers computer studies, economics, and sciences programs.
4. University of Santo Tomas
The University of Santo Tomas is Asia’s most ancient private University.
Students honor the college’s rich history, Christian values, and marketable academic programs.
The college has 63 courses, including arts, business, law, and engineering.
5. Mapua University
Mapua University is regarded as a Center of Excellence in Civil Engineering by CHED.
Besides engineering, it offers programs in engineering, architecture, and business.
The university has 15 internationally accredited programs.
6. Far Eastern University
Far Eastern University (FEU) has multiple academic programs for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Its top courses are business, health sciences, engineering, and education. It has a status for training competitive graduates appreciated for excellence and uprightness.
7. Polytechnic University of the Philippines
The Polytechnic University of the Philippines is known for one main thing. It offers professional instruction to produce self-reliant, creative, and productive graduates. It provides administration, computer science, social sciences, and tourism programs.
8. University of San Carlos
The University Of San Carlos takes a slot among the top 50 universities in the Philippines for its mission of creating proficient graduates.
It produces socially responsible graduates who are well-prepared to impact society positively.
The college offers arts, architecture, healthcare, business, law, and governance programs.
9. Technological Institute of the Philippines
TIP is a premier institution with internationally competitive courses. It offers engineering programs that are accredited by the US-based ABET.
Additionally, TIP provides business, IT, maritime studies, arts, and education programs.
10. University of the East
The University of the East collaborates with several research centers to offer the best in class training. It provides engineering, business, computer science, education, and sciences.
It has trained over 1 million graduates who’ve made a mark in various sectors.
11. University of San Agustin
The University of San Agustin is one of the most distinguished universities in the country. It offers engineering, business, education, nursing, and the liberal arts.
It provides a holistic education emphasizing faith, service, and excellence.
12. Adamson University
Adamson University appears on the list of best colleges in the Philippines for its flagship engineering courses. It also offers business, education, nursing, and the liberal arts.
AU has strong partnerships with industry leaders, giving students experiential learning opportunities.
13. Central Luzon State University
Luzon State University offers business, social sciences, education, engineering, science, and medicine programs.
The prestigious college boasts a meticulous curriculum and distinguished faculty experts.
14. Silliman University
Silliman University is a center for global studies. It offers online and distance learning programs, letting students study from wherever.
It centers on agriculture, business administration, education, and computer studies. It also provides nursing, visual arts, laboratory services, and public affairs courses.
15. University of the Assumption (UA)
The University of the Assumption has a history of providing holistic education. It combines academic rigor with values-based learning to produce skilled graduates.
UA offers accountancy, engineering, education, and nursing. Furthermore, it provides tourism, pharmacy, and information technology.
16. University of Cebu
The University of Cebu ranks as one of the top universities in the Philippines for one reason. It runs by the no tuition fee increase policy, making it affordable.
It offers biological sciences, accountancy, education, administration, and social studies.
17. Western Mindanao State University
Western Mindanao State University has home economics, agriculture, forestry, and criminal justice programs. Moreover, the university offers sports science, law, engineering, and public administration programs. It partners with other research institutions to improve the quality of training.
18. University of San Jose Recoletos
USJ-R has a mission to provide the highest standards of higher education. Furthermore, the university brags about a diverse student body and commitment to social responsibility.
It offers arts, sciences, business, engineering, education, and nursing programs.
19. University of the Immaculate Conception
The University of the Immaculate Conception specializes in two things. It offers values-based learning and trains well-rounded graduates. The college provides business, engineering, education, and nursing academic programs.
20. Visayas State University
Visayas State University works with several research centers to improve the quality of training. Like other best colleges in the Philippines, Visayas offers multiple courses.
Its most popular programs are agriculture, forestry, engineering, and education.
21. University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P)
The University of Asia and the Pacific is a private institution known for its strong programs in business, economics, and the humanities. It offers a unique liberal education foundation combined with specialized professional training.
UA&P keeps class sizes small so students receive personalized guidance and mentorship. Its graduates are highly regarded in the fields of business leadership, public policy, and communications.
22. Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU)
The Lyceum of the Philippines University is widely recognized for tourism, hospitality management, maritime studies, and business. Many of its programs hold international accreditations, allowing graduates to compete globally.
LPU also emphasizes practical learning through industry partnerships. Its modern campuses and strong employability outcomes make it a popular choice for students seeking career-focused education.
23. San Beda University
San Beda University is known for exceptional programs in law, business, accountancy, and health sciences. The university integrates Benedictine values into academic life, shaping students into ethical and disciplined professionals.
San Beda continues to produce top-performing graduates, particularly in law and business. Its Manila campus offers a strong sense of community within a rigorous academic environment.
24. University of Baguio
The University of Baguio offers a wide range of programs including engineering, health sciences, criminology, and business. It is known for flexible learning options and modern facilities that support practical training.
UB also has a vibrant campus life, with active student organizations and sports programs. Its location in Baguio City provides a comfortable and student-friendly environment.
25. University of the Cordilleras
University of the Cordilleras is a leading institution in Northern Luzon, offering strong programs in criminology, engineering, information technology, and business. It is known for its excellent licensure exam performance.
The university provides a supportive and innovative learning environment designed to prepare graduates for fast-changing industries. Its programs emphasize both academic mastery and real-world application.
26. Angeles University Foundation (AUF)
The Angeles University Foundation is a respected private institution offering high-quality programs in medicine, engineering, business, and the health sciences. Its medical school and allied health programs are particularly well regarded.
AUF has strong research initiatives and maintains partnerships with international universities. Students benefit from updated facilities and rigorous academic standards.
27. University of Saint La Salle (USLS)
University of Saint La Salle in Bacolod offers programs in business, nursing, engineering, and education. Its Lasallian approach focuses on leadership development, service, and academic excellence.
USLS is known for producing well-rounded graduates who contribute actively to their communities. Students enjoy a supportive campus atmosphere and access to strong alumni networks.
28. West Visayas State University (WVSU)
The West Visayas State University is consistently recognized for excellence in nursing and education. Its programs in health sciences often rank among the top performers in national board exams.
WVSU is also expanding its research capacity and community engagement efforts. Students benefit from affordable tuition and strong academic outcomes.
29. Central Philippine University (CPU)
Central Philippine University is one of the oldest universities in Western Visayas and offers programs in pharmacy, nursing, engineering, agriculture, business, and theology. Its campus is known for its peaceful, park-like environment.
CPU integrates Christian values with academic training and is well known for its community service initiatives. Its graduates are widely respected in health sciences and technology fields.
30. University of Negros Occidental – Recoletos (UNO-R)
The University of Negros Occidental – Recoletos in Bacolod offers programs in business, engineering, criminology, education, and the liberal arts. It emphasizes values-based learning rooted in Recollect principles.
UNO-R is committed to forming competent and community-oriented graduates. Its strong academic culture and affordable learning options make it a top choice in Negros Occidental.
31. Philippine Normal University (PNU)
Philippine Normal University is the national center for teacher education and the country’s premier institution for future educators. It offers specialized training in elementary, secondary, and special education.
PNU graduates consistently excel in licensure exams and are highly sought after by schools nationwide. The university is also active in educational research and policy development.
32. Colegio de San Juan de Letran
The Colegio de San Juan de Letran is one of the oldest learning institutions in the Philippines. It offers strong programs in business, communication, engineering, and the liberal arts.
Letran is known for its disciplined academic environment and long tradition of producing leaders in government, sports, and business. Its Intramuros campus provides a historic and enriching setting for students.
33. Miriam College
Miriam College is known for women-centered education, offering excellent programs in education, international studies, business, and environmental science. It also provides coed graduate and professional programs.
The school is recognized for its advocacy work and global partnerships. Its campus culture focuses on leadership, peace education, and sustainability.
34. St. Louis University (SLU)
The St. Louis University in Baguio City offers strong programs in health sciences, engineering, business, nursing, and information technology. It is one of the largest and most respected universities in Northern Luzon.
SLU is known for high board exam passing rates and strong research output. Its location in a top student city makes it an appealing choice for learners nationwide.
35. University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP)
University of Southeastern Philippines offers programs in education, engineering, business, agriculture, and applied sciences. It is known for its research initiatives in science and technology.
USeP serves as a key public institution in Mindanao, providing accessible and high-quality education. Its emphasis on innovation makes it competitive in regional and national rankings.
36. University of Mindanao (UM)
The University of Mindanao is one of the largest universities in the region, offering programs in criminology, business, education, and engineering. It focuses on affordability and open admission policies.
UM’s strong research culture and community programs contribute to its growing reputation. Many of its graduates excel in licensure exams, especially in criminology and engineering.
37. Ateneo de Davao University
Ateneo de Davao University offers respected programs in business, law, political science, engineering, and international studies. It is known for Jesuit academic traditions and strong community engagement.
The university provides excellent research opportunities and a disciplined but nurturing academic environment. Its graduates are well regarded throughout Mindanao and beyond.
38. Universidad de Manila
The Universidad de Manila is a public university offering programs in education, criminology, business, and public administration. It provides accessible and affordable higher education for residents of Manila.
UDM is expanding its academic offerings and modernizing its facilities. It plays a significant role in training future civil servants and public-sector professionals.
39. University of Perpetual Help System DALTA
University of Perpetual Help System DALTA is known for programs in nursing, medicine, business, and engineering. Its network of campuses across Luzon gives students wide learning access.
The university emphasizes character formation and a holistic approach to education. Its health sciences graduates often perform well in licensure examinations.
40. Adventist University of the Philippines (AUP)
The Adventist University of the Philippines offers programs in nursing, medicine, education, business, and theology. It provides a campus setting that supports wellness, spirituality, and academic discipline.
AUP maintains international accreditations for several programs and produces globally competitive graduates. Its health sciences programs attract students from across Southeast Asia.
41. FEU Institute of Technology
FEU Institute of Technology specializes in engineering, computer science, information technology, and digital arts. It features modern labs and industry partnerships with leading tech companies.
FEU Tech is known for high employability rates among graduates and strong performance in IT certification exams. It maintains an innovation-driven learning environment.
42. University of Makati (UMak)
The University of Makati focuses on applied learning, offering programs in business, IT, public administration, education, and allied health. The university collaborates closely with local industry partners.
UMak equips students with practical skills for the workforce and has become known for producing job-ready graduates. It plays a key role in Makati’s public education system.
43. Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM)
Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila is a premier public university offering tuition-free education for qualified Manila residents. It is known for strong programs in engineering, business, law, and health sciences.
PLM consistently produces top-performing graduates and maintains rigorous academic standards. Its mission focuses on public service and academic excellence.
44. Bulacan State University (BulSU)
The Bulacan State University offers programs in engineering, education, business, arts, and industrial technology. It serves as a major public institution in Central Luzon.
BulSU is expanding its research initiatives and continues to improve academic quality. It is known for affordability and strong ties to local industries.
45. Batangas State University (BatStateU)
Batangas State University is well known for engineering, technology, computing, and maritime education. It is one of the fastest-growing public universities in the Philippines.
The university engages in regional innovation projects and industry partnerships. Its engineering programs often receive recognition for quality and research productivity.
46. Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST)
The Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology offers programs in engineering, industrial technology, teacher education, and business. It plays a significant role in Central Luzon’s workforce development.
NEUST emphasizes applied research and practical training. Its graduates often pursue careers in engineering, education, and public service.
47. Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT)
MSU-IIT is widely recognized for engineering, information technology, and the sciences. It is a leading research university in Mindanao.
MSU-IIT has strong international collaborations and consistently ranks among the top universities in the country. Its campus culture encourages innovation and academic excellence.
48. Cebu Technological University (CTU)
The Cebu Technological University focuses on engineering, technology, fisheries, agriculture, and education. It operates multiple campuses across Cebu.
CTU supports hands-on learning and regional development initiatives. Students benefit from accessible tuition and growing research investments.
49. University of Southern Mindanao (USM)
University of Southern Mindanao offers programs in agriculture, engineering, education, business, and the sciences. It is an important research hub for agricultural innovation in the region.
USM maintains strong community programs and contributes significantly to Mindanao’s development. Its agriculture programs are especially well regarded.
50. Bicol University
The Bicol University provides programs in education, engineering, social sciences, nursing, and agriculture. It is the premier state university in the Bicol Region.
Bicol University is known for strong public service initiatives and research aligned with disaster resilience and regional development. It serves a diverse student community across multiple campuses.
Studying Online in an Accredited US-Based University
Studying abroad is a good alternative for students who miss a place in their favorite Philippine colleges and universities; however, moving to other countries has challenges. For instance, most universities are expensive, and finding a visa takes time.
Studying online with an accredited U.S. institution can be a flexible and affordable path. One option is University of the People (UoPeople), a fully online, tuition-free university that serves students around the world, including many from the Philippines.
UoPeople offers the following accredited degree programs:
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Associate of Science (AS) in Business Administration (ASBA), Computer Science (ACS), Health Science (AHS)
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Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration (BSBA), Computer Science (BCS), Health Science (BHS)
Instead of traditional tuition, students pay relatively low assessment fees per course, along with a one-time application fee. This structure keeps total costs significantly lower than most on-campus options while still providing access to an accredited U.S. degree. UoPeople is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and is institutionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Because everything is delivered online and asynchronously, you can study from anywhere in the Philippines, balance work or family responsibilities, and still earn a recognized international degree.
Conclusion
Choosing the right university in the Philippines can feel overwhelming, given the sheer number of excellent institutions across the country. Whether you are interested in research-intensive programs, specialized fields like engineering or agriculture, or a well-rounded liberal arts education, the Philippines offers a diverse range of high-quality universities to match your academic and career goals.
At the same time, online learning has become a powerful alternative for students who want flexibility, affordability, or access to an international degree. Accredited, fully online institutions like University of the People allow you to pursue a U.S.-recognized education from anywhere in the Philippines, making higher education more accessible than ever.
No matter which path you choose, take your time to evaluate each institution’s strengths, program offerings, campus culture, and long-term opportunities. The right university should support both your personal growth and your professional ambitions.
FAQs
What is the top university in the Philippines?
The University of the Philippines (UP) System is widely recognized as the country’s top institution in major global rankings, including QS and Times Higher Education.
Are public universities in the Philippines free for Filipino students?
Yes. Under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, eligible Filipino students can study tuition-free at state universities and colleges (SUCs) and local universities and colleges (LUCs).
Is it worth studying at a private university in the Philippines?
Private universities often offer strong industry connections, modern facilities, and specialized programs. While they are more expensive, many provide scholarships and financial aid to offset costs.
Can international students enroll in Philippine universities?
Yes. Many universities welcome international students and offer dedicated support offices to assist with admissions, visas, and campus life.
Is online education a good alternative to studying in the Philippines?
Absolutely. Accredited online institutions like University of the People offer flexible, tuition-free pathways to U.S. degrees, making them a practical option for students seeking affordability and global accessibility.