MBBS in Philippines: Top Universities, Fees, Course Duration

Studying MBBS in the Philippines is now very popular choice for many international students. The country gives a mix of good education, low cost, and friendly place for foreign students. An MBBS in the Philippines or MD (Doctor of Medicine) is the highest medical degree you can get there.

In Philippines, the MBBS degree is called Doctor of Medicine (MD). It is same like MBBS in India. The MBBS in Philippines takes about 5.5 to 6 years. First 4 years is study and last 1 year is internship. First 16-18 months is called pre-medical course or BS course. After this, students must pass NMAT exam to join MD course.

The MBBS course in Philippines has two parts: BS pre-medical and MD program. In MD, students learn many medical subjects and do hospital training in last year. This training helps to learn real doctor skills. The MBBS fees in Philippines is around 2-6 lakhs per year. Some colleges want students do 1 year pre-medical before starting main medical course.

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MBBS in Philippines Highlights

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Why Study MBBS in Philippines

Pursuing an MBBS or an MD degree in the Philippines has its own advantages which come in handy not only for a student’s personal development but professionally as well. Quality education at a low and reasonable cost is one of the major reasons contributing to the Philippines's popularity as a study-abroad destination. Let us go through some of the major reasons that make the Philippines a good option for an MBBS course.

• Language of Learning: The Philippines is the world’s third-largest English-speaking country where 95% of the population speaks English. Being the country’s official language, the majority of the MBBS courses are taught in the English language. This helps international students get a good understanding of the lessons imparted as the language is commonly used by students around the world.
• Low Tuition Fee: Unlike many other countries known for their MBBS education, the cost of pursuing an MBBS or an MD course is relatively towards the lower side. Although every university or medical school may have a different MBBS tuition fee, the same is lower than in the UK, the US, and other popular foreign destinations for medical studies. Moreover, financial assistance such as scholarships and grants are available for Indian students to ease their financial burden. You may check out the scholarships offered for the MBBS programme here.
• Reputed Institutions: The Philippines owns a set of medical schools and institutes which are known and accredited globally. Yielding good graduate outcomes, degrees obtained from these colleges are recognized well and the same enhances your resume as well for future job prospects.
• Building Connections: With a good amount of overseas student population in the country, students have an opportunity to expand their personal as well as professional network which will prove to be beneficial in the long run.

Read: Top Universities in Philippines

MBBS in Philippines 2025: Course Structure and Duration

Medical education in the Philippines is different from the Indian system. It is divided into two parts:

1. BS (Pre-Med Program)

This is a foundation course of 1.5 to 2 years. We learn Biology, Chemistry, and Psychology. Indian students must finish this before MD course.

2. MD (Doctor of Medicine)

This is the main medical degree. It is equivalent to MBBA and lasts for 4 years. The course includes theory, lab work, and hospital internships.

MBBS Duration in Philippines: 5.5 to 6 years (BS + MD)

Eligibility Criteria to Study MBBS in Philippines

To study MBBS in Philippines, you need to meet some basic rules given below:

• Educational Qualifications: Candidates have to pass class 12th. The mandatory subjects in 12th class are Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.. For general category, at least 50% marks needed. For reserved category, 40% marks is enough.
• NEET Qualification: All Indian students must clear NEET exam. It is needed to prove you have basic medical knowledge before joining MBBS in Philippines.
• Age Requirement: You should be minimum 17 years old by 31st December of the year you take admission.

MBBS in Philippines: Admission Procedure

The steps for MBBS admission in Philippines are simple and easy to follow:

• First you choose the medical university you like. Check which one fits your money, place, and what you want to study.
• Then you fill the application form and send it with all papers like mark sheets, passport copy and some photos.
• After that you need to pass exams like NEET or NMAT.
• When you clear exams and follow all rules, the university will give you admission letter.
• Last thing, you apply for student visa. For that, you give your admission letter and other papers to Philippine Embassy.

Top Universities for MBBS in Philippines

There are various medical institutions in the Philippines which offer excellent medical education. Check the top medical colleges in Philippines.

Read: Low Fees MBBS Colleges Abroad

There are many medical colleges in Philippines that give MBBS degree. But students should always check if the college is approved by the medical council of their own country. This is very important if you want to practice medicine or do PG course later in your country. It’s also good idea to visit the official website of the college to know new updates or changes.

Cost of Studying MBBS in Philippines

Many students choose Philippines for MBBS because it offers good education at lower fees The tuition fee is around INR 2.5 lakhs to INR 6 lakhs per year. The total cost for 6 years is almost INR 15 lakhs to INR 25 lakhs. The living cost in Philippines is around USD 150–200 every month. This is not very high for students.