University of Santo Tomas
The University of Santo Tomas (UST), a prestigious Catholic institution in the Philippines, is renowned for its Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, delivering world-class medical education rooted in academic excellence and ethical practice.
- Location: España Boulevard, Sampaloc, Manila 1015, Philippines.
- Established: Founded in 1611, UST is the oldest Catholic university in Asia, with its Faculty of Medicine and Surgery established in 1871, making it a pioneer in medical education.
- International Students: Approximately 1% of the total student population (around 400 out of 40,000 students), representing diverse nationalities, including from Asia and the Middle East.
Accreditation, Rankings & Global Recognition
UST’s medical programs are globally recognized for their rigorous training and research contributions, consistently ranking among the top in the Philippines and internationally.
Location & Campus Life at
University of Santo Tomas
Located in Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines, UST offers a vibrant campus life enriched by its historical legacy and modern medical facilities.
UST in Pictures:
Explore the Campus
UST’s historic campus in Manila blends centuries-old architecture with state-of-the-art medical facilities, fostering an inspiring environment for future doctors.
Academic Programs & Degrees at
University of Santo Tomas
| Program Level | Duration | Notable Fields |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Medicine (MD) |
4 years (post-baccalaureate) |
General Medicine, Surgery, Pathology, Psychiatry |
|
BS Medical Technology |
4 years |
Clinical Laboratory Science, Diagnostic Medicine |
|
BS Nursing |
4 years |
Nursing Care, Community Health |
|
BS Pharmacy |
4 years |
Pharmaceutical Sciences, Clinical Pharmacy |
|
BS Physical Therapy |
5 years |
Rehabilitation Medicine, Sports Therapy |
Admission Process & Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility Criteria
Admission Process
For the Doctor of Medicine, a bachelor’s degree (preferably in a science-related field) with a minimum General Weighted Average (GWA) of 85% or equivalent from a recognized institution.
Passing score in the National Medical Admission Test (NMAT) with a minimum percentile rank of 40 (higher preferred for competitiveness).
Proficiency in English; non-native speakers may need TOEFL (minimum 80 iBT) or IELTS (minimum 6.0).
No strict age limit, but applicants are typically 21-25 years old due to the post-baccalaureate nature of the MD program.
Medical certificate confirming physical and mental fitness to pursue medical studies, including clearance for infectious diseases.
Complete the online application via the UST Office for Admissions website (https://ofad.ust.edu.ph/).
Submit required documents (transcripts, NMAT results, recommendation letters, etc.).
Take and pass the UST Entrance Test for Medicine (if required) and attend an interview with the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery.
Receive an admission decision and pay the reservation fee to secure a slot.
Apply for a student visa (for international students) at the Philippine embassy with the admission letter.
Enroll in person at UST, complete registration, and attend the orientation program.
Eligibility Criteria
For the Doctor of Medicine, a bachelor’s degree (preferably in a science-related field) with a minimum General Weighted Average (GWA) of 85% or equivalent from a recognized institution.
Passing score in the National Medical Admission Test (NMAT) with a minimum percentile rank of 40 (higher preferred for competitiveness).
Proficiency in English; non-native speakers may need TOEFL (minimum 80 iBT) or IELTS (minimum 6.0).
No strict age limit, but applicants are typically 21-25 years old due to the post-baccalaureate nature of the MD program.
Medical certificate confirming physical and mental fitness to pursue medical studies, including clearance for infectious diseases.
Admission Process
Complete the online application via the UST Office for Admissions website (https://ofad.ust.edu.ph/).
Submit required documents (transcripts, NMAT results, recommendation letters, etc.).
Take and pass the UST Entrance Test for Medicine (if required) and attend an interview with the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery.
Receive an admission decision and pay the reservation fee to secure a slot.
Apply for a student visa (for international students) at the Philippine embassy with the admission letter.
Enroll in person at UST, complete registration, and attend the orientation program.
Documents Required for Studying in University of Santo Tomas
Admission to UST’s medical programs and securing a student visa require specific documents to ensure a smooth process for aspiring medical professionals.
| Document | For University | For Visa |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor’s Degree Transcript |
Yes |
Yes |
|
NMAT Result |
Yes |
No |
|
Valid Passport |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Birth Certificate |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Medical & HIV certificates |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Passport-size Photos |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Recommendation Letters (2) |
Yes |
No |
|
Certificate of Good Moral Character |
Yes |
No |
|
Visa Fee Payment Receipt |
No |
No |
|
Admission Letter from UST |
Yes |
Yes |
Career Outcomes & Graduate Success
UST’s medical graduates are highly sought after, with strong placement rates and competitive starting salaries in healthcare sectors globally.
| Program Name | Average Starting Salary (USD) | Placement Rate (%) | Top Employers |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Medicine (MD) |
$30,000-$40,000 USD (Philippines, entry-level physician) |
90% (Physician Licensure Exam passers) |
St. Luke’s Medical Center, Makati Medical Center, UST Hospital |
|
BS Medical Technology |
$15,000-$20,000 USD |
97.73% (2025 MedTech Licensure Exam) |
The Medical City, Quest Diagnostics, UST Hospital |
|
BS Nursing |
$18,000-$25,000 USD |
95% (Nurse Licensure Exam) |
Philippine General Hospital, Adventist Medical Center, US hospitals |
|
BS Pharmacy |
$16,000-$22,000 USD |
90% (Pharmacist Licensure Exam) |
Mercury Drug, Watsons, Cardinal Santos Medical Center |
|
BS Physical Therapy |
$14,000-$20,000 USD |
85% (Physical Therapist Licensure Exam) |
Philippine Orthopedic Center, private clinics |
Top Ranked Universities in the Philippines
University of Santo Tomas
Duration: 6 Years.
Tuition Fee: $30,000
UV Gullas College of Medicine
Duration: 6 Years.
Tuition Fee: $25,000
AMA School of Medicine
Duration: 6 Years.
Tuition: $25,000
Davao Medical School Foundation
Duration: 6 Years.
Tuition: $35,000
Our Lady of Fatima University
Duration: 6 Years.
Tuition: $25,000
The Manila Times College
Duration: 6 Years.
Tuition: $30,000
FAQs & Guides
Every question is important! Find clear answers to the most common student and parent queries, plus helpful guides to make your study abroad dream simple.
What is the NMAT, and why is it required for the MD program?
The NMAT (National Medical Admission Test) assesses aptitude for medical studies; a minimum percentile rank of 40 is required, but higher scores improve chances.
Can international students apply for the Doctor of Medicine program?
Yes, international students with a bachelor’s degree and NMAT scores are eligible, subject to visa and academic requirements.
What clinical exposure do medical students receive?
Students gain hands-on experience at the UST Hospital and affiliated medical centers starting in their clinical years.
Are there scholarship opportunities for medical students?
Yes, UST offers academic and financial aid scholarships; details are available through the Office of Student Affairs.
What is the passing rate for UST medical graduates in licensure exams?
UST consistently ranks among top-performing schools, with a 90%+ pass rate in the Physician Licensure Exam.
Does UST provide support for international licensing exams?
Yes, the Faculty of Medicine offers preparatory programs for exams like the USMLE and FMGE for global practice.
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