Studying MBBS in Philippines has become one of the top choices for Indian students who want an affordable and globally recognised medical education. The country follows a United States–based medical curriculum, which helps students build a strong foundation in both theory and clinical practice. This system also prepares them well for exams such as the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) required to practise medicine in India.
More than 10,000 Indian students are currently studying medicine in the Philippines, as reported by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). The main reasons behind this growing preference are low tuition fees, English-medium teaching, and high-quality education offered by government-approved medical universities.
For students who dream of becoming doctors without spending as much as they would in Western countries, the Philippines offers the perfect balance of cost, quality, and career opportunities.
Why Study MBBS In Philippines?
The Philippines has steadily earned a reputation for providing high-quality medical education that aligns with international standards. Many Indian students choose to study MBBS here because it offers affordable tuition fees, a safe English-speaking environment, and strong clinical exposure throughout the program. These factors make the country one of the most trusted destinations for medical education among Indian students.
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1. Affordable Education
Medical education in the Philippines is known for being cost-effective compared to private medical colleges in India or universities in the United Kingdom and the United States. According to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the total cost of completing an MBBS program, including tuition and living expenses, generally ranges between ₹30 lakh and ₹40 lakh.
2. English-Medium Curriculum
All medical programs in the Philippines are taught in English. Since English is also widely spoken by locals, students can easily communicate with professors, classmates, and patients during clinical training. This removes the language barrier many students face in non-English-speaking countries.
3. Global Recognition
Medical universities in the Philippines are recognised by several international organisations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the National Medical Commission (NMC) in India, the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) in the United States, and the Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER). This recognition allows graduates to appear for medical licensing examinations and pursue postgraduate studies in India or abroad.
4. Curriculum Aligned with India
The Doctor of Medicine (MD) program in the Philippines follows the American education system but includes subjects and structure similar to India’s MBBS program. Students study anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and clinical medicine in depth. This similarity helps them prepare more effectively for the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) or the upcoming National Exit Test (NExT) in India.
5. Practical Clinical Training
Medical colleges in the Philippines place strong emphasis on clinical exposure. From the early years, students are trained in hospital settings where they observe real medical cases and assist doctors during their internships. This hands-on experience builds confidence and improves patient-handling skills before graduation.
6. Supportive Student Environment
The Philippines is home to a large community of Indian students, particularly in cities such as Manila, Cebu, and Davao. Students can easily find Indian hostels, vegetarian food, and cultural communities that make their stay more comfortable and familiar.
Duration of MBBS in Philippines
The MBBS duration in the Philippines is typically 5.5 to 6 years, divided into:
- BS (Pre-Med Course) – 1.5 years
- MD (Doctor of Medicine) – 4 years
- Internship – 1 year
The BS course focuses on foundational science subjects like biology, chemistry, and psychology, preparing students for the MD program. The MD program then covers pre-clinical, para-clinical, and clinical training - equivalent to an MBBS in India.
During the internship year, students get hands-on training at affiliated hospitals under supervision, which helps them gain real medical experience before graduation.
Top Medical Colleges in Philippines for Indian Students
Choosing the right medical college is key. Here are some of the top-ranked and NMC-approved colleges known for their facilities, teaching quality, and support for Indian students:
The MBBS fees in Philippines for Indian students are affordable compared to other study destinations. The total cost usually ranges between ₹18-35 lakhs, including tuition, accommodation, and other expenses.
| University Name | Total Fees in PHP/INR (approx.) | Location |
|---|---|---|
| University of Perpetual Help | ₱2,500,000 (₹37,25,000) | Las Piñas |
| AMA School of Medicine | ₱2,000,000 (₹29,80,000) | Manila |
| Davao Medical School Foundation | ₱2,700,000 (₹40,23,000) | Davao City |
| Our Lady of Fatima University | ₱2,600,000 (₹38,74,000) | Valenzuela |
| Emilio Aguinaldo College | ₱2,400,000 (₹35,76,000) | Manila |
| UV Gullas College of Medicine | ₱2,200,000 (₹32,78,000) | Cebu City |
| Lyceum-Northwestern University | ₱2,000,000 (₹29,80,000) | Dagupan City |
These universities are recognised by the WHO and NMC, and provide strong clinical exposure along with hostel facilities for international students.
Top Scholarships For Indian Students Studying In The Philippines
Indian students aspiring to pursue an MBBS degree in the Philippines can benefit from various scholarship opportunities to ease international education's financial burden.
Philippine universities, governmental bodies, and global organisations offer these scholarships, aiming to support academically talented and financially needy students like you.
Here is a list of some of the top scholarships in the Philippines you can be a part of:
| Scholarship | Offered By | Annual Stipend Amount (PHP/INR) |
|---|---|---|
| CHED Scholarship Program | Any Private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) | PHP 120,000 (₹1,78,800) |
| DOST Scholarship | De La Salle University (DLSU), Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU), and more | PHP 70,000 (₹1,04,300) |
| OWWA Scholarship | Ateneo de Manila University (SOSE), Cebu Normal University, and more | PHP 60,000 (₹89,400) |
| Megaworld Scholarship | Ateneo de Manila University, De La Salle University, and more | PHP 20,000 (₹29,800) |
MBBS For Indian Students In The Philippines: Admission Requirements
To study MBBS in the Philippines, Indian students must meet certain academic, language, and visa requirements. Universities also ask for a few key documents to verify eligibility. Here’s a complete list to help you prepare your application smoothly.
1. Academic Requirements
- The student must have completed Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as compulsory subjects.
- A minimum of 50% marks in these subjects (for the General category) and 40% marks (for reserved categories) is required.
- The student must have qualified for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) as per the Medical Council of India’s regulations.
2. Age Requirement
- The student must be at least 17 years old by 31st December of the year of admission.
3. English Proficiency Requirement
- Since all medical programs in the Philippines are taught in English, students must demonstrate adequate English communication skills.
- Most universities do not require IELTS or TOEFL scores, but they may conduct a short interview or written test to assess English proficiency.
- Students from English-medium schools in India generally meet this requirement without additional tests.
4. Documentation Requirements
- Class 10 and Class 12 mark sheets and passing certificates.
- NEET scorecard.
- Birth certificate (with English translation if necessary).
- Valid passport with at least 18 months of validity.
- Recent passport-size photographs.
- Medical fitness certificate.
- Police clearance certificate.
5. Visa Requirements
To study MBBS in the Philippines, students must apply for a 9(F) Student Visa.
- The visa application must be submitted to the Embassy of the Philippines in India after receiving an admission letter from the university.
- The application fee is approximately ₹22,350 (PHP 15,000).
- Students must submit the following documents for visa approval:
- Offer letter from the university.
- Valid passport and recent photographs.
- Medical examination report.
- Proof of financial support, such as bank statements or an affidavit of support from a sponsor showing at least ₹31.3 lakh (PHP 21 lakh) to cover tuition and living costs.
- Police clearance certificate.
Meeting these requirements ensures that Indian students can smoothly secure admission and begin their MBBS journey in the Philippines without any administrative hurdles.
Cost of Studying MBBS in Philippines for Indian Students
The Philippines offers one of the most affordable medical education options among English-speaking countries. For Indian students, the total cost of studying MBBS in Philippines is significantly lower compared to private medical colleges in India or universities in the United Kingdom, the United States, or Australia.
The tuition fees for MBBS programs (Doctor of Medicine) in the Philippines typically range between ₹18 lakh and ₹28 lakh (PHP 12 lakh to PHP 19 lakh) for the full six-year course. The exact amount depends on the university and location. Public universities are usually more affordable, while private institutions in major cities like Manila or Cebu may have slightly higher fees due to better infrastructure and clinical facilities.
Most universities allow students to pay fees semester-wise or annually, reducing financial pressure. Additionally, since the medium of instruction is English, there are no extra costs for language training, which is often required in other non-English-speaking countries.
Cost of Living in Philippines for Indian Students
The cost of living in Philippines is relatively reasonable, allowing students to maintain a comfortable lifestyle without spending excessively. Major expenses include accommodation, food, transportation, and utilities, which together average PHP 25,500 - PHP 30,000 (₹38,000 – ₹45,000) per month.
Students staying in university hostels or shared apartments can reduce housing and food expenses. Most of the budget is typically spent on rent and meals, followed by smaller costs for commuting, internet, and daily essentials.
Overall, an Indian student can expect to spend around PHP 4.7 lakh – PHP 5.4 lakh (₹7 lakh to ₹8 lakh) per year, including both tuition and living expenses, depending on the university and city of residence.
Tip: Cooking at home and opting for shared accommodation can help students save up to 20–25% of their monthly expenses.
Top 7 Career Paths After Studying MBBS in Philippines For Indian Students
Earning an MBBS in Philippines opens doors to a promising medical career. The country offers cost-effective and globally recognized medical education, allowing graduates to pursue diverse roles in the healthcare industry. As of 2026, the average annual salary of a physician in the Philippines is around ₹9.9 lakh (PHP 665,000), making it one of the most lucrative professions after completing an MBBS degree.
This journey holds diverse possibilities, from practising medicine in the Philippines itself to pursuing further specialisation or returning to India to serve your home country. Let's explore the exciting career prospects awaiting Indian MBBS graduates like you in the Philippines.
Here are some of the top jobs MBBS graduates can look forward to.
| Top Jobs | Average Annual Salary (PHP) | Average Annual Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse | PHP 460,000 | ₹6.85 lakh |
| Physician | PHP 665,000 | ₹9.9 lakh |
| Pharmacist | PHP 301,000 | ₹4.48 lakh |
| Medical Technologist | PHP 290,000 | ₹4.32 lakh |
| Healthcare Customer Care Representative | PHP 252,000 | ₹3.75 lakh |
| Healthcare Data Management Specialist | PHP 288,000 | ₹4.29 lakh |
| Medical Coder | PHP 420,000 | ₹6.26 lakh |
Conclusion
Studying MBBS in Philippines in 2026–27 is a smart choice for Indian students seeking affordable medical education with international recognition. From low tuition fees to English-medium programs and tropical climate, it provides an ideal environment for aspiring doctors.
If you’re planning to study medicine abroad, LeapScholar can help you every step of the way - from university selection and application guidance to visa and accommodation support.
Start your MBBS journey in the Philippines with LeapScholar today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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How much is the cost of MBBS in Philippines?
The cost of pursuing an MBBS in Philippines typically ranges from ₹18 lakh to ₹30 lakh (PHP 12–20 lakh) for the entire course, depending on the university and location. This fee includes both pre-med and MD programs, along with basic living expenses. Compared to countries like the UK or the US, studying MBBS in Philippines is far more affordable while maintaining high academic standards.
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Is Philippines MBBS valid in India?
Yes, an MBBS degree from the Philippines is valid in India, provided the university is recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC). After completing the course, Indian students must clear the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) or the new NEXT exam to obtain a medical license in India.
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What is MBBS called in the Philippines?
In the Philippines, MBBS is known as the MD (Doctor of Medicine) program. Although the name differs, it is equivalent to the MBBS degree offered in India and other Commonwealth countries. The program includes both theoretical and practical clinical training, aligned with international medical education standards.
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Is the Philippines good for MBBS?
Yes, the Philippines is considered an excellent destination for pursuing MBBS due to its English-based curriculum, affordable tuition fees, and US-based education system. The country’s tropical disease profile also helps Indian students gain relevant clinical experience similar to India’s medical conditions, enhancing their practical knowledge.
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Is NEET valid in the Philippines?
Yes, NEET qualification is mandatory for Indian students aspiring to study MBBS in Philippines. It serves as proof of eligibility as per NMC guidelines and is required during the admission process. However, once admitted, students do not need to take NEET again for progression within the program.
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Can Indian doctors work in the Philippines?
Yes, Indian doctors can work in the Philippines after obtaining the required medical license from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). However, most Indian students prefer completing their MBBS in Philippines and then returning to India or applying for international residency or postgraduate programs for better career prospects.
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