Higher education in the Philippines comes with a broad price range—some students pay minimal fees at public universities, while others shell out premium rates at private institutions. Whether you're looking for an affordable yet quality education or aiming for a top-tier private school experience, tuition costs vary significantly depending on the university and program.
Here’s a look at how much it costs to study at the country’s top universities based on the QS World University Rankings: Asia 2025 for the recent academic years.
LIST: Top Universities in the Philippines Tuition
1. University of the Philippines (UP)
Rank 86 on QS World University Rankings: Asia 2025
Founded in 1908, the University of the Philippines (UP) is the country’s premier public university system, with its flagship campus in Diliman, Quezon City. Known for academic excellence and its socialized tuition system, UP provides discounts based on a student's financial capacity. For a 2nd-year BS Chemistry student under the regular tuition scheme, the estimated cost per semester is P37,243.50, which includes tuition fees of P31,500 (21 units at P1,500 per unit), plus other fees such as library, medical, athletic, and internet fees, totaling approximately P5,743.50. NSTP-related fees add P2,315, bringing the final amount to nearly P37,243.50, unless further discounts or scholarships apply.
2. Ateneo de Manila University
Rank 142 on QS World University Rankings: Asia 2025
Established in 1859 and located in Quezon City, Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) is a prestigious Jesuit-run institution known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to social responsibility. The estimated tuition and fees for a semester in School Year 2024-2025 amount to P128,194. This covers tuition for 20 units at P104,420, basic fees amounting to P16,574, and other miscellaneous fees of P7,200.
3. De La Salle University (DLSU)
Rank 163 on QS World University Rankings: Asia 2025
Founded in 1911, De La Salle University (DLSU) is located in Manila and is known for its business and engineering programs. It follows a trimester system, meaning students pay tuition three times a year instead of twice. The tuition per unit ranges from P3,398 to P4,053, depending on the college, making the overall cost highly variable depending on the student’s enrolled program and total number of units per term.
4. University of Santo Tomas (UST)
Rank 181 on QS World University Rankings: Asia 2025
Established in 1611, the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in Manila is among the oldest universities in the Philippines and Asia. It is known for its strong programs in health sciences, law, and the liberal arts. For a BS Chemistry student in the second term of AY 2024-2025, the total cost amounts to P84,593, which includes a base tuition fee of P56,520 plus laboratory fees, PE, and NSTP-related charges.
5. Adamson University
Rank 411-420 on QS World University Rankings: Asia 2025
Established in 1932 and located in Manila, Adamson University is known for its engineering, science, and business programs. Tuition varies by course load and program. For a BS Chemistry student in the first semester of SY 2024-2025, the estimated total fee is P59,347. Other programs have varying costs, with BS Accountancy at P61,494, BS Computer Engineering at P62,975, and BS Nursing at P68,287.
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