Cost of Studying in the Philippines:
Tuition & Living Expenses
Why do Indian Students Choose to Study in the Philippines?
- The Philippines offers globally recognised education, especially in fields like MBBS, engineering, and business.
- As an English-speaking country, it provides a smooth academic and cultural transition for Indian students.
- Affordable tuition fees and low living costs make it one of the most budget-friendly overseas study destinations.
- Home to universities such as the University of the Philippines, Ateneo de Manila, and De La Salle University, known for excellent academics and research.
- The country's student-friendly environment and warm local hospitality make international students feel welcome.
Tuition Fees in the Philippines
Tuition fees vary depending on the university, course, and location. Here are the estimated costs of tuition fees in the Philippines:
| Particulars | Cost in PHP (Per Year) | Approx. Cost in INR (Per Year) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (Average Range) | PHP 35,714 – PHP 1,42,857 | ₹55,300 – ₹2,21,400 |
Disclaimer: All PHP to INR conversions are based on an exchange rate of 1 PHP = ₹1.55 as of July 2026. Exchange rates fluctuate over time, so please check the latest rates before making any financial decisions.
Source : https://www.mastersportal.com/countries/130/philippines.html
Student Visa Fees for the Philippines
| Service Type | Fee (INR) |
|---|---|
| Student Visa (9F) | ₹24,000 |
Source : https://newdelhipe.dfa.gov.ph/index.php/fees
Note: Visa and application fees for the Philippines may vary based on nationality, visa type, and processing mode (walk-in or e-visa). Students are advised to check the official Embassy of the Philippines website for the latest and most accurate fee updates.
Cost of Living in the Philippines
| Expense Category | Cost in PHP | Approx. Cost in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Living Costs | PHP 46,429 – PHP 71,429/month | ₹71,900 – ₹1,10,700/month |
| Rent | PHP 11,429 – PHP 42,857/month | ₹17,700 – ₹66,400/month |
| Utilities | PHP 10,000 – PHP 12,143/month | ₹15,500 – ₹18,800/month |
| Monthly Transportation Pass | PHP 571 – PHP 714/month | ₹885 – ₹1,107/month |
| Three-Course Meal for Two | PHP 1,143 | ₹1,771 |
Disclaimer: All PHP to INR conversions are based on an exchange rate of 1 PHP = ₹1.55 as of July 2026. Exchange rates fluctuate over time, so please check the latest rates before making any financial decisions.
Source: https://www.mastersportal.com/countries/130/philippines.html
Budgeting Tips to Manage Expenses in the Philippines
- Eat Like a Local: Street food and carinderias (local eateries) offer delicious meals at half the price of restaurants.
- Share Accommodation: Splitting rent with roommates can drastically cut down living costs.
- Buy Groceries in Wet Markets: Fresh fruits, veggies, and meat are cheaper than in supermarkets.
- Use Student Discounts: Museums, transport, and food joints, always ask for the student rate!
- Cook More, Eat Out Less: Two dinners out = one week of groceries. Your budget wins!
- Track Your Daily Spending: A simple notes app or budget tracker helps prevent overspending.
- Avoid Expensive Malls for Essentials: Try local stores or thrift shops for affordable deals.
- Limit Monthly Subscriptions: Stick to only what you really use; unsubscribe from the rest.
- Plan Weekend Trips Wisely: Travel in groups and book early to save cost.
Total Cost of Studying in the Philippines
| Expense Category | Cost in PHP | Approx. Cost in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (Per Year) | PHP 35,714 – PHP 1,42,857 | ₹55,300 – ₹2,21,400 |
| Monthly Living Costs | PHP 46,429 – PHP 71,429 | ₹71,900 – ₹1,10,700 |
| Rent | PHP 11,429 – PHP 42,857 | ₹17,700 – ₹66,400 |
| Utilities | PHP 10,000 – PHP 12,143 | ₹15,500 – ₹18,800 |
| Monthly Transportation Pass | PHP 571 – PHP 714 | ₹885 – ₹1,107 |
| Student Visa (9F) Fee | PHP 15,484 | ₹24,000 |
Disclaimer: All PHP to INR conversions are based on an exchange rate of 1 PHP = ₹1.55 as of July 2026. Exchange rates fluctuate over time, so please check the latest rates before making any financial decisions.
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