All About MBBS in Philippines
Learn everything about pursuing MBBS in Philippines, including the affordable fee structure, world-class education, and the opportunities it offers for international medical students.
MBBS in Philippines for Indian Students
MBBS in the Philippines for Indian students is gaining huge popularity due to its high-quality education at an affordable price. Indian students are attracted towards the Philippines because the medium of teaching is English, which means they need not learn any new language. The MBBS programs in Philippines follow the American curriculum, which is globally recognized and provides excellent preparation for licensure exams like USMLE AND FMGE.
The cost of MBBS in the Philippines is somewhat cheaper compared to private medical colleges in India. Living expenses are also fairly affordable, hence this destination fits into the Indian family budget. Students get assured of a valid and recognized degree upon return to India due to studying in NMC-approved medical colleges here.
Cultural similarities, hospitality, and warm, tropical climatic conditions have drawn Indian students in the most homelike comfort in the Philippines. Wide-ranging clinical training imparted by its schools enables many MBBS programs in Philippines with practical experience so as to prepare job-ready professionals.
Moreover, the Philippines has a very high FMGE passing percentage among Indian graduates, proving the fact of its effective medical education system. In this way, doing MBBS in Philippines will enable an Indian student to fulfill his aspiration of becoming a globally competent medical professional.
Advantages of MBBS in Philippines
Studying MBBS studies in the Philippines has a number of advantages and, therefore, is one of the most sought-after places among medical aspirants worldwide.
- Affordable Education:
The cost of MBBS in Philippines is way lower compared to many other countries, with tuition fees considered pretty affordable. Additionally, living expenses are at a comfortable rate for students of any income level. - Globally Recognized Curriculum:
The MBBS courses studied in the Philippines are from the American system of education. The course structures are designed in such a way that they prepare the students for international licensure exams such as USMLE and FMGE. Degrees obtained from NMC-approved medical colleges in Philippines are globally recognized. - English-Medium Instruction:
Here, the medium of instruction is totally English, thus leaving no gaps in the language barrier. This is a great advantage for international students and, more lately, students coming from India with acquired proficiency in this very language. - High-Quality Education:
Most medical colleges in the Philippines focus on practical training and clinical exposure, which guarantees students hands-on experience in dealing with real patients. - Cultural Compatibility:
The Philippines shares much of its culture with countries like India, and hence, it is a comfortable environment for students. - Safe and Welcoming Environment:
The Philippines boast of warm hospitality, safety, and security, thus an enabling environment for studies.
Cost of Study for MBBS in Philippines
The cost of studying MBBS in Philippines depends upon different universities. It lies, in general, between 15-20 lakhs; hence, an approximate cost for the same. Prestigious MBBS in Philippines comes with a higher price tag and hence more costly in terms of MBBS tuition fees compared to private medical colleges in India.
The entire course cost of MBBS in the Philippines will be around ₹25-35 lakhs, including tuition fees, accommodation, and all other living expenses. This again makes the Philippines very affordable for students in their quest to pursue quality medical education at an affordable cost. This course is almost half the price compared to private medical colleges in India and offers a fabulous opportunity to aspiring doctors for pursuing their medical careers globally.
Food and Accommodation
Almost all medical colleges in the Philippines have facilities for hostels for international students. However, staying in the hostel is not compulsory but highly recommended for safety, convenience, and comfort. Some medical universities in Philippines have hostels within the campus or adjacent to the campus. Generally, hostels are well-equipped with basic amenities and monitored by CCTV cameras for added security, especially for female students.
Top medical universities in Philippines even provide Indian food in their mess, covering Vegetarian as well as Non-Vegetarian tastes, which make them feel like home itself. This is one of the reasons for choosing MBBS in Philippines for Indian students, as it will get the student right to life abroad, as they are worried about their 'food'. For those who would prefer to cook for themselves, there are also some rather affordable grocery stores, and food will generally be in the budget cost range, hence making it generally a rather inexpensive destination for medical education.
Living Cost
The living cost in the Philippines is far lower compared to most Western countries, hence gaining popularity among international students. Though the living expenses related to MBBS in the Philippines are about 40% higher than in India, it remains very affordable in comparison with other countries offering the medical degree. Essential items to buy for groceries and dining out are relatively cheaper, though restaurant and market costs are around 1.75% higher than in India.
The transportation system in the Philippines is relatively cheap. Transportation charges are about a quarter when compared to India, and most Indian students studying MBBS in the Philippines agree to that. On the other hand, electronics in the Philippines cost about three times higher than those in India. However, clothes and shoes cost about the same as in India, making sure students enjoy cheap shopping.
The transportation system in the Philippines is relatively cheap. Transportation charges are about a quarter when compared to India, and most Indian students studying MBBS in the Philippines agree to that. On the other hand, electronics in the Philippines cost about three times higher than those in India. However, clothes and shoes cost about the same as in India, making sure students enjoy cheap shopping.
Duration of MBBS Course in Philippines
The MBBS program in the Philippines typically takes 5.5 to 6 years to complete. This includes the BS course (pre-medical program) followed by the 4-year MD program, which is equivalent to MBBS in India.
Medium of Teaching in Philippines
The medium of instruction for MBBS in the Philippines is English. This makes it easier for Indian students to understand lectures, interact with faculty, and prepare for international medical exams.
Intake for MBBS Study in Philippines
Most universities in the Philippines have their primary MBBS intake in the June–August period. Some institutions may also offer additional intakes in November depending on seat availability.
MBBS in Philippines Admission Procedure
Fill in, completely and correctly, the online application to the chosen medical college in the Philippines.
- First, meet the eligibility criteria: academic eligibility is usually a high school diploma with science subjects, such as Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- Attach NEET scorecard (for Indian students).
- Pass the entrance examination or selection criteria of the university.
- Get an offer letter from the university after acceptance.
- Apply for a student visa to study in the Philippines.
- Provide all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, passport, and medical certificate.
- Complete the payment of tuition fees and other charges as per university guidelines.
- Pursue your medical studies in an NMC-approved medical college in the Philippines.
Scholarship Offered To Students For MBBS in Philippines
The MBSS in the Philippines program is already very affordable to a large section of students. As a result, scholarships for pursuing MBBS in the Philippines are limited. Most scholarships that are granted by different colleges are merit-based. Merit-based scholarships go to the student showing the greatest academic achievement. Students are advised to contact their chosen medical universities in the Philippines directly for detailed scholarship programs and eligibility criteria. Although these scholarships are limited, they can be helpful in bringing down the overall cost of education for deserving candidates.
Campus Life for Medical Students in Philippines
Campus life in the Philippines is vibrant, friendly, and very welcoming for Indian students. Most medical universities offer modern classrooms, advanced laboratories, digital libraries, and simulation centers for enhanced learning. Campuses are safe, multicultural, and student-friendly. Comfortable hostel facilities are available, and many universities provide Indian food options. Students also enjoy cultural events, sports activities, and student clubs, helping them feel at home while pursuing their MBBS degree.
Career Opportunities After MBBS in Philippines
After completing MBBS (MD) in the Philippines, Indian students have several promising career opportunities. They can return to India and appear for the FMGE/NExT exam to practice medicine. Graduates can also pursue post-graduation in India or abroad, including countries like the USA, UK, Australia, and Canada. The US-based curriculum also gives an advantage for exams like USMLE. Career options include hospital residencies, clinical practice, research roles, or higher medical training overseas.
MBBS in Philippines Syllabus
| Year / Phase | Subjects |
| Pre-Med (BS Program) | Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, Mathematics, English & Communication Skills, Introduction to Human Anatomy, Basic Medical Sciences |
| MD Year 1 | Anatomy, Histology, Physiology, Biochemistry, Neuroscience, Preventive & Community Medicine |
| MD Year 2 | Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Parasitology, Clinical Pathology, Medical Ethics |
| MD Year 3 | Internal Medicine, General Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, ENT, Ophthalmology, Radiology |
| MD Year 4 (Clerkship) | Medicine, Surgery, Psychiatry, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Family Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Community Health |
MBBS in the Philippines v/s MBBS in India
| Aspects | MBBS in Philippines | MBBS in India |
| Tuition Fees | It is quite affordable, as the total course cost is in the range of₹15 to ₹20 lakhs. | Higher, it can range from ₹40 to ₹80 lakhs, especially in private colleges. |
| Eligibility Criteria | 50% in PCB (40% for reserved) and NEET qualification. | It requires higher NEET cutoff scores, especially for government colleges. |
Medium instruction | English, suitable for international students. | Some colleges use regional languages along with English. |
| Curriculum | It follows a US-based curriculum with an emphasis on practical training. | Theory-based heavily, practical exposure varies from college to college. |
| Living Expenses | Relatively low, with monthly costs at ₹15,000–₹20,000. | Higher, ranging from ₹10,000–₹50,000 per month, depending on location. |
| Seat availability | Ample seating, less competition for admission. | A very limited number of seats and very high competition, especially for governmental institutions. |
| Clinical Exposure | High, preparing students for global medical standards. | Limited exposure, focused on Indian healthcare systems. |

























