PChoosing a school will set the tone for your future. Wherever it is you’ll go will play a role in the jobs you’ll get and the network you’ll cultivate.
If you’re looking to pursue higher education locally, the Philippines is home to many academically competitive universities. You’ll have an abundance of options to choose from with unparalleled opportunities behind each one – which can also be paralyzing.
The number of excellent schools in the country can make anyone feel overwhelmed. That’s why it’s important to have a list of universities you’re considering. Having multiple options allows you to compare institutions and find one that best suits your goals. Keeping your choices open is crucial as some universities may offer better programs, facilities, or opportunities than others.
Choosing a university can be challenging, especially when each institution offers different curricula, facilities, and industry connections. To make this decision easier, we’ve created this guide to help you explore multiple universities in the Philippines.
Why Should You Explore Multiple Universities in the Philippines?
Diversifying Options
Each university in the Philippines offers a unique experience to its students, not only in terms of academic programs and teaching methodologies but also in campus culture.
When you apply to different universities, you can gauge whether they’re the ideal environment for you to grow academically and personally. This also gives you the chance to compare and contrast what each school offers, leading to a more informed and satisfying choice for you, especially since this can play a huge role in your future.
Improving Admissions Chances
While you may have your heart set on one university, applying to several can increase the likelihood of acceptance into your desired program. After all, you may be granted admission to the university of your choice, but not your preferred program.
Universities in the Philippines have different admission criteria, which is why you should apply to more than one school to make sure that you have other offers to choose from—essentially giving you more security in your decision-making process for the future.
Gaining Access to Opportunities
Every university has resources, activities, and facilities that differentiate it from one another. Depending on the program you want to apply for, you may want to check out the laboratories, libraries, and partnerships that the institution has that may be beneficial to you.
Exploring the different offerings that schools have will help you choose an institution that has the capacity to support your academic and career objectives.
What are Factors to Consider When Choosing a University?
The weight of choosing the right university is heavy, especially if you think about how it’ll impact your future. There are a number of excellent universities in the Philippines that can fit your criteria, but each school can offer different experiences – and some may even have a stronger program over the other.
If you’re trying to narrow down which universities to apply for, here are some factors you may want to consider before adding a school to your list.
Accreditation and Academic Reputation
A key consideration that you should have for a school is its accreditation. Make sure that the institution you’re applying to is accredited because this guarantees that the institution meets the Philippines’ established educational standards. For universities in the Philippines, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) accredits universities.
Aside from the university’s accreditation, you can also consider its national and international rankings. These rankings can be indicative of the quality of education and research opportunities available.
Another good benchmark for quality of education is the institution’s passing rate in the boards for courses that require certification. Board performance is another way to see how well the school prepares students for their career, not just in theory but also in practice.
Location
The quality of education a university offers is important, but so is its location. Location plays a key role in the daily life of each student and access to basic necessities.
Students should consider whether they prefer learning in an urban setting with a bustling city life or a quiet, rural environment. Additionally, the safety of the surrounding area and the availability of housing options should also be considered if you want to move out.
If your family is on a budget, you should also consider the proximity of the school’s campus from your home to minimize transportation and lodging costs.
Cost and Financial Aid
Another crucial factor to consider when choosing a university is the cost of tuition and additional fees such as books, uniform, laboratory fees.
If you feel that the school you want to enroll in has a steep cost, you can explore their financial aid options, scholarships, and payment plans that can help make your education more affordable and accessible. Work with your parents on this and see if any of these are viable options.
Available Programs
Each university offers a different set of programs. When choosing a school to enter, make sure to check if they offer a major that you would like to take. Once you’ve confirmed that they have the program you’d like to take, you can look into the curriculum, faculty, and facilities they have for a deeper insight into the program quality.
Remember that each university has their own take on conducting a major. Their approach will vastly differ from one another, so, if possible, ask current students or alumni about their experience. If you don’t know any current students, you can also check online forums.
Take for example how some universities in the Philippines specialize in engineering. These engineering schools would typically have the best facilities and the industry partnerships necessary to help you succeed.
Extracurricular Activities
Of course, college life shouldn’t all just be about studies. Participating in extracurricular activities and enjoying campus life will allow you to grow holistically and expand your network.
Check the university’s website or social media pages to learn about student organizations, events, and sports programs. This will give you an idea of the university’s campus culture and opportunities beyond the classroom.
Career Services
A university’s reputation can open doors for you in your job search. However, if you need assistance securing an internship or employment, a career services office can be a valuable resource.
Not all universities offer career services, but those that do provide students with job placement support, resume workshops, and networking opportunities.
Internship and Research Opportunities
In today’s competitive job market, practical experience is superior – and one of the best ways to get it is through internships and research projects.
Before adding a university to your list, consider whether they have strong industry connections and research programs that can provide students with a hands-on experience to their academic learning. These opportunities not only solidify theoretical knowledge, but it’s an excellent way to get a glimpse of what the real world is like.
What are the Benefits of Applying to Multiple Universities?
Applying to multiple universities requires additional effort, such as filling out more application forms, taking multiple entrance exams, and paying additional application fees. However, there are several advantages to this approach:
Less Admissions Anxiety
Submitting an application to several institutions enhances the likelihood of receiving admissions offers. This won’t just give you options to choose from, but it can also reduce the stress associated with the uncertainty of the admission process.
Each university has its own set of guidelines for admitting students, so applying to multiple schools ensures you have alternatives.
Opportunity to Compare Offers
It is a privilege to get accepted to multiple universities because you get the benefit of comparing offers from each school. You can compare program specifics, campus facilities, and costs when you receive offers. This will help you make a more informed and confident final decision when it’s time for you to select a school.
If you’ve applied for financial aid, comparing scholarship offers can also help you choose the best option for your budget.
Flexibility in Decision Making
With several options available to you, you get the flexibility to choose a university that best fits your learning preference and professional goals. Additionally, having multiple options available to you gives you the flexibility to choose a different path if your circumstances change.
Build Your Future, Choose a College That Checks All Your Boxes
Throughout this article, we’ve told you all about the benefits of applying to multiple universities, but in the end, you can only choose one.
Selecting the right university is crucial to your success. It will shape your career prospects, network, and overall growth. After thoroughly researching, submitting applications, and receiving admission offers, here’s how you can make a well-informed decision:
· Compare Pros and Cons – List the advantages and disadvantages of each university to identify the best fit.
· Consider Long-Term Goals – Evaluate how each institution supports career aspirations, industry connections, and future opportunities.
· Seek Trusted Advice – Discuss choices with family, mentors, and peers for insights.
· Trust Your Instincts – Ultimately, students should choose the university where they feel most confident and motivated.
By exploring multiple universities, you can maximize the chances of finding an institution that aligns with your academic goals, personal preferences, and career ambitions. Making a well-informed decision also helps you set yourself up for long-term success and fulfillment.
If you’re ready to find a school that’s the ideal environment to grow and learn, you can reach out at Mapúa University.
