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The Philippines is one of the best countries in the world to pursue a degree. Aside from the fact that colleges and universities in the archipelago are accredited and recognized by other countries, many foreigners also like studying along with Filipinos due to their welcoming and cheery nature. So if you’re an expat and making plans to study, you might as well enroll in one of the schools in the Philippines. And below is a guide that will help smooth things out for you.
Pick a School
Preferably, pick one that’s recognized by the government. Look through CHED’s (Commission on Higher Education) list of accredited colleges and universities and take your pick from there.
Contact the School
You can do this through their admissions office, international students’ office, or even their website. Obtain information about their admission requirements, school fees, accommodations, and student visas, among others.
Avoid Shady Fixers
Especially those people styling themselves as education consultants. Otherwise, you could end up wasting your college funding on them. In any case, the Philippine Embassy does not accredit these questionable agents, nor do they recognize their endorsements for visa processing.
Attend Visa Interview
You need to make a personal appearance and attend an interview at the Philippine Embassy if you want your visa application to get approved. The Embassy does not entertain applications filed by proxies and agents on the international students’ behalf. So be on time for your appointment. And make sure you have all the documents and paperwork required by the Embassy of the Philippines.
Note Quota Courses
Quota courses like Engineering, Medicine, and Dentistry have limited slots for international students since the Philippine government wants colleges and universities to prioritize Filipinos who wish to take these programs. So if you’re going to pursue a degree in these courses, better check first if there are any slots left.
Find Accommodations
Since there are many boarding houses and dormitories near universities, you’ll have relatively no trouble finding one that would suit your needs. Plus, you can always coordinate with your selected college about it.
Pay Tuition Fees
Make payments only at your school’s treasury, or at a bank account they’ll give. Otherwise, you might end up losing your saved money. Ask your school admin for more details about their payment modes.
Double-Check Your Visa
Make sure you have the right visa before pursuing a college degree in the Philippines. Have your papers authenticated by the Philippine Embassy. And coordinate with your college’s international student’s office in case you need to convert or extend your visa.
Final Thoughts
This guide is guaranteed to help foreigners go forward with pursuing a degree in the Philippines. So better read it thoroughly before you consider browsing colleges in the country.