Southwestern University (SWU), officially known as Southwestern University PHINMA, is a private university located in Cebu City, Philippines. It was founded in 1946 by two pharmacists and originally started as Southwestern Colleges, before becoming a university in 1959.
Guided by its core philosophy, the Southwestern University Philippines believes that everyone has a basic right to essential medical care. The foundation maintains that good health is crucial for the political and national integrity of the Philippines.
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College Summary
The table below provides comprehensive information about Southwestern University Philippines, let us take a quick look before we delve into detailed information about this college.
| Name of Institute | Southwestern University Philippines |
| Popular Name | University of Southwest Philippines |
| Location | Cebu City, Philippines |
| Year of Establishment | 1946 |
| University Type | Private, Co-educational |
| Medium of Teaching | English |
| Approved by | NMC, WHO |
| Affiliated with | National Medical Commission (NMC) World Health Organization (WHO) |
| Courses offered | MBBS |
| Total MBBS Fees | $25,600 |
| Ranking | Country- 64 World- 7748 (Sources: Edurank) |
| Official Website | N/A |
| Category | Medical in Philippines |
Recognitions and Affiliations
- National Medical Commission (NMC)
- World Health Organization (WHO)
Facilities
| Medical | Auditorium |
| Library | Cafeteria |
| Hostel | Lab |
Courses Offered
The University of Southwest offers quality medical programs under highly qualified faculty and state-of-the-art infrastructure. The College is famous for its undergraduate medical programs (MBBS). Hence, these are the Southwestern University Philippines Courses Offered:-
| Courses | Duration |
| MBBS | 5+1 (Internship) Years |
Why Study MBBS at Southwestern University Philippines?
- The experienced and qualified faculty at Southwestern University Philippines are essential in shaping students’ medical knowledge.
- English-medium instruction, eliminating language barriers for Indian students.
- The tuition fees are affordable compared to many other medical universities abroad.
- The college provides modern facilities, including well-equipped laboratories, creating an ideal environment for learning.
- Access to modern facilities, laboratories, and clinical training centres.
- Southwestern University Philippines fees are quite affordable.
Admission Procedure
If you want to take admission to Southwestern University Philippines in 2024-25, you must qualify for the National Eligibility Entrance Exam (NEET) for Indian students.
Eligibility Criteria
The Philippines is a popular choice for international students seeking to pursue their Medical Degree Courses. Check the eligibility criteria below if you wish to study MBBS at Southwestern University Philippines.
| Age | Your age should be at least 17 years old on or before 31st December of the admission year. *No Upper Age Limit. |
| Qualification | Class 12th in Science, with PCB and English subjects from a board recognized by the authorities in India. |
| Minimum Qualifying (%) | 60% in 10+2 (UR) 50% (SC/OBC/ST) |
| Qualifying Entrance | NEET (For Indian Students) |
| IELTS/TOFEL | Not Required |
Documents Required
Before taking admission to the Southwestern University Philippines, make sure that you have all the below-mentioned documents ready in hand:
- Passport (Minimum 18 months validity)
- 10th Certificate & Mark Sheet
- 12th Certificate & Mark Sheet
- Birth Certificate
- 10 passport size Photographs
- Official Invitation letter from the Medical University of Philippines
- Authorization of all documents from the Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi
- Legalization of all documents from the Philippines Embassy
- Visa fees
- Bank receipt of University 1st year Tuition fee
- HIV test documents
Fee Structure 2024-25
The fee structure of the Southwestern University Philippines for the undergraduate medical course is mentioned below.
| YEAR | Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 | Year 5 |
| Tuition Fees in USD | $12000 | $7000 | $4300 | $4300 | $4300 |
Note: The mentioned fees are approximate and will be subject to change.
Ranking 2024-25
According to EduRank, Southwestern University Philippines ranking and worldwide ranking.
| Particulars | Ranking |
| Ranking in USD (approx) | N/A |
| Ranking in INR (approx) | N/A |
MBBS Syllabus
Before applying to Southwestern University Philippines, please compare the MBBS Syllabus of some of Philippines Top-ranked, NMC-approved medical universities. The structure and the pattern of MBBS in the Philippines are as follows:
| Phase | Duration | Subject Covered |
| 1st Phase | 1 1⁄2 Year | Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry |
| 2nd Phase | 1 Year | Community Medicine, Forensic Medicine |
| 3rd Phase | 1 Year | Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Pathology, Microbiology |
| 4th Phase | 1 Year | Medicine & Allied subjects, Surgery & Allied subjects, Obstetrics and Gynaecology |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying MBBS in Philippines
The Philippines Ministry of Education oversees education in the Philippines. Hundreds of colleges are affiliated with prominent universities, including the National Medical Commission of India and the World Health Organization. Many medical colleges in the Philippines offer medical education, each with a full-fledged hospital attached. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of studying in the Philippines: Why is MBBS Study in the Philippines Best for Indian Students:
Advantages of Studying MBBS in Philippines for Indian Students
- The MBBS degree is recognized by the WHO and UNESCO and accepted worldwide.
- Indian students seeking admission are accepted into programs recognized by the Medical Council of India, allowing them to take screening tests conducted by the NMC.
- Students studying in Philippines can complete their internship program at world-class medical colleges and hospitals worldwide.
- The tuition fee is quite low and affordable.
- Hostel accommodations are comfortable and up to the mark for a student’s comfort.
Disadvantages of Studying MBBS in Philippines for Indian Students
- Recognition of universities is also a major issue. Apart from NMC recognition, Candidates need to ensure that their university has the approval of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Philippines
- Tagalog and Cebuano are the most commonly spoken languages students might experience a language barrier (outside the university campus).
- Private Medical Colleges in Philippines do not admit students with more than 2 years gap after completing the 12th class.
- Indian students will to get approval from NMC, ‘No Objection Certificate from NMC.
Contact Details
Southwestern University Philippines (SWS Philippines)
Address: Urgello Street, Lungsod ng Cebu, 6000 Lalawigan ng Cebu, Philippines
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is the University of Southwest considered an educational foundation?
The University of the Southwest was converted into a non-stock, non-profit educational foundation in 1946. All income and surplus from operations are reinvested in the University to support employee salaries and benefits, scholarships, and facilities improvement. This structure ensures that the institution’s resources are focused on enhancing the educational experience and advancing its mission, rather than generating profits for external stakeholders.
What scholarships and grants are available to students?
Various scholarships and service grants are available to deserving students. The Study Now, Pay Later Plan is also available case-to-case basis.
Does Southwestern University Philippines accept transfers?
Southwestern University Philippines accept transferees on a case-to-case basis.
Can non-Catholics study and work at Southwestern University Philippines?
Yes, Southwestern University Philippines does not discriminate against the admission and employment of non-Catholics.
