• Philippines is said to have one of the best education systems in Asia, especially for higher education.
• Philippines is a Bilingual country and therefore, the students have an opportunity to learn and master new languages.
• Philippines offers the benefit of low cost of living as compared to western countries thereby making it a preferred destination for study abroad aspirants.
• The country is characterized by tropical climate and pleasing-to-the-eyes scenery which acts as an add-on.
• It is a culturally diverse country and thus the students get to experience a fascinating blend of American and Spanish influence over Filipino culture.

One of the biggest reasons why Philippines is making its way to becoming an education hub in Asia is becoming its low tuition fees. Universities, normally set their own tuition fees which vary depending on the program and the course duration. However, to get a rough idea, it must be estimated that a public university in Philippines would normally charge USD 1,000 per year as tuition fees while private universities will charge anywhere between 1,200-2,500 USD per annum.

Cost of living in Philippines is also on the lower side as compared to western countries and Asian countries like Singapore and Japan. An international student can fulfil the living cost requirement of one full year with an amount ranging between 4,200-6,000 USD. It is worthwhile to note that cost of living is generally higher in Manila as compared to the rest of the country.

Here is a list of the most popular scholarship opportunities in Philippines available to International students:

• Ateneo Freshman Merit Scholarship
• Freeman -ASIAA Program
• Agropolis Foundation- SEARCAA Joint Scholarship Program
• Boren Fellowship

Philippines is home to a variety of different educational institutions that welcomes a large number of international students each year. Most universities in Philippines are licensed, chartered and accredited by the Philippines Government. Here is a list of some of the most popular universities in Philippines:

• Ateneo de Manila University
• University of Santo Tomas
• Silliman University
• Saint Louis University, Baguio City
• University of San Carlos
• Polytechnic University of Philippines

Philippines is gradually making it way to becoming a really popular study abroad destination in Asia and it offers a wide range of specialisations at all levels of education. However, out of all the specialisations, pursuing MBBS (medicine) in Philippines is quite famous and holds great value around the world. Apart from this, universities in Philippines are also known for their management courses as well as IT specialisations.

According to the immigration authorities of Philippines, any student who has attained the age of 18 or above and wishes to pursue a course higher than high school level- must apply for a student visa if he/she wishes to study in Philippines. It is important to note that a student visa is not the same as a Special Study Permit. A special study permit is issued under the Temporary Visitor’s Visa of a foreign national to individuals who have not attained the age of 18 and/or are taking non-degree programs in Philippines. SSP is a permit and not a visa unlike student visa.

• Visa application form filled in English
• One passport-size photograph
• Last six months bank statement
• Original Passport
• Copy of confirmed flight tickets
• Demand Draft of processing fee