Manila Central University (MCU) is an accredited private institution in Caloocan, Philippines. It was founded by Dr Alejandro M. Albert in 1904. MCU is the first Filipino-run pharmacy school and the first nursing school in the Philippines to offer a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. MCU provides a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programmes, including medicine, nursing, pharmacy, dentistry, education, business administration, and engineering. It also has a law school and an education graduate school.
Manila Central University is ranked first in Caloocan and second in Northern Manila by EduRank in 2023. MCU is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities (PACUCOA) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). Additionally, it is affiliated with the Association of Christian Schools, Colleges, and Universities in the Philippines (ACSCU).
The Manila Central University Filemon D. Tanchoco Foundation College of Medicine is one of the seven pioneer medical schools in the Philippines, with an extensive alumni network and full support and exposure from their partner tertiary hospital, creating exceptional medical professionals. Manila Central University has a student population of over 5,000 students. The university is located in a strategic location in Caloocan City. It is accessible by public transportation and also has its own parking facilities.
Here are some of the reasons why MCU is an excellent option for students:
MCU is accredited by the most prestigious accreditation bodies in the Philippines, guaranteeing that its students receive a quality education.
MCU's student body is comprised of people from all over the Philippines and around the world. This creates a stimulating and diverse learning environment.
Modern facilities: MCU is equipped with modern libraries, laboratories, and classrooms. These facilities provide the necessary resources for student success.
Active student life: MCU has a vibrant student life, with a variety of clubs and organizations. This gives students the opportunity to get involved and make new friends.
Affordable tuition: MCU offers affordable tuition, making it a great option for students from all backgrounds.
Highlights | Data |
Established year | 1904 |
Manila Central University Filemon D. Tanchoco Foundation College of Medicine Official website | mcu.edu.ph/cm |
Motto | Solidarity in Science |
Academic Portfolio | Duration: 4 yrs No. Credits: 1st to 3rd yr: 4,392 hours 4th yr: 12mos |
Manila Central University Facilities | Nursing Laboratory Dentistry lab Gym Auditorium Hospital Sports |
Campus Type | Private (Urban) |
Place | Caloocan, Metro Manila, Philippines |
Min and max Temperatures (Average) | 23.3 °C and 33.8 °C |
Distance from Manila | 7.7 km |
Doctor of Medicine programmes are available at Manila Central University Filemon D. Tanchoco Foundation College of Medicine. The course duration is four years. The credits for the first through third years are 4,392 hours, while the credits for the fourth year are 12 months. The language of instruction is English, which allows foreign students to better comprehend the subjects. After completing the Doctor of Medicine programme at Manila Central University Filemon D. Tanchoco Foundation College of Medicine, students may pursue a few of the following careers:
General Medical Practitioner
Physician specializing in your field of choice in medicine
Researcher, Medical Scientist, Inventor
Health Profession Medical Educator (teacher)
Health Administrator (Medical Director)
Health Information Manager
Other allied industries
Several learners from India and other nations travel to the Philippines to study medicine. The Manila Central University Filemon D. Tanchoco Foundation College of Medicine is one of the top medical schools in the Philippines that teaches in English, making it easier for students to communicate and understand the concepts.
The institute is located in one of the safest cities in the world, Manila. Students can live on a reasonable budget during their course of study.
Their lifestyle and choice of accommodation determine the living expenses of a person. When moving to a foreign country, scholars are responsible for more than just tuition and lodging; therefore, a few of the living expenses in Manila are provided below.
Manila Central University Filemon D. Tanchoco Foundation College of Medicine - Cost of Living
Expenses | Cost (per month) |
Food | INR 5,000 - INR 10,000 |
Accommodation | INR 6,000 - INR 12,000 |
Personal expenses | INR 15,000 - 20,000 |
For admission to the Manila Central University Filemon D. Tanchoco Foundation College of Medicine, candidates must meet the specified eligibility criteria. The applicants then may proceed with the application process by following the steps outlined below.
How to apply for Manila Central University admissions?
The candidates applying for admission to the university are required to first register on the official website of MCU College of Medicine - mcu.edu.ph/enroll.
Students must validate their email address after registering for login credentials (applicant number/username and password). Candidates should check their spam and trash folders.
The applicants must complete the application form and provide the necessary papers on the applicant portal.
Students must double-check all of their information while filling out the application form because they will not be allowed to modify it afterward.
Students who face any difficulties or have questions or concerns about the online admissions process can submit an email to admission@mcu.edu.ph
Documents required for Manila Central University Filemon D. Tanchoco Foundation College of Medicine
The documents required for local / transferee applicants are listed below
1 Passport Size ID Picture
Copy of PSA Birth Certificate
Copy of PSA Marriage Certificate (for married female applicants)
Original Transcript of Records
Original Certificate of Good Moral Character from Office Of Student Affairs
Original Certificate of Good Moral Character from Academic Dean
NMAT Result (at least 40 percentile)
Transfer Credentials/Honourable Dismissal
Receipt of Processing Fee
Local residents are also required to submit the Notarized affidavit of non-enrollment to other medical schools after graduation (or certificate of candidacy for graduation if still waiting for graduation from the pre-med course.
The documents required for foreign applicants are as follows:
Original and Authenticated copy of Transcript of Records (TOR)
Original Honourable Dismissal/Transfer Credentials
NMAT Result (at least 40 percentile)
Notarized affidavit of support with a bank statement authenticated by the Philippine Consulate Office or Embassy
Certified True Copy of Birth Certificate (with English translation if written in Arabic)
3 Recommendation Letters (for non-resident aliens)
Police Clearance from the country of residence (for non-resident aliens)
Copy of Alien Certificate Registration (for Resident Alien)
Certificate of Good Moral Character from OFFICE OF STUDENT AFFAIRS
Certificate of Good Moral Character from ACADEMIC DEAN
1pc Passport size ID Picture
Copy of Passport (Bio page, Visa Implementation Stamp)
Developmental Fee Receipt
Processing Fee Receipt
IELTS exam results of 6.5 or higher or TOEFL exam results of 75 or higher
Manila Central University Filemon D. Tanchoco Foundation College of Medicine offers a variety of scholarships and grants to its students. These scholarships allow financially disadvantaged students to continue their education, while also assisting other students in enhancing their potential and progressing academically. On the official website, students can verify their eligibility for these scholarships and apply for them.
The scholarships offered are tabulated below:
Manila Central University Filemon D. Tanchoco Foundation College of Medicine - Scholarship
Scholarships | Discounts awarded |
Presidential | 100%, 75%, 50%, and 25% for 1 year only, subject to the grantee’s academic scores |
Basic Education for Achiever's Assistance | For MCU students, Discount: 50%, 30%, and 10% |
Entrance Scholarship | Discount: 100%, 50%, and 30% for 1 semester. |
Creative Arts Achievers | Creative Arts Group / Content Creators Group, Discount: 15% |
Centralino Ambassadors | Discount: 10% |
Presidential Decree 451 | Discount: 100% |
Presidential Decree 577 | Discount: 100% |
Sibling Discount | 10%, 15%, and 20% |
Loyalty Discount | 10% for 1 semester only, upon entry. |
Needs-Based Discount | 30% |
The students looking for admission to Manila Central University Filemon D. Tanchoco Foundation College of Medicine must match the following criteria:
NMAT Score (minimum 40 percentile)
The international applicants are required to score at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam or 75 on the TOEFL exam.
Manila Central University is one of the greenest campuses in Manila city with open and wide greenery lawns. The campus is fully secured and is ISO Certified, and accredited by Level II PAASCU. The university provides fully-equipped learning facilities such as LMS, Virtual Laboratory, and e-Library. In addition, they provide recreation and socialization activities, programmes for Wellness and Mental Health, student immersion, and experiential learning. There are numerous student organizations, societies, and activities on campus at MCU.
The students at Manila Central University Filemon D. Tanchoco Foundation College of Medicine can get involved in student government, sports, arts, and many more. MCU has a strong alumni network that can help learners with their career search and professional development. The students can experience cultural experiences from dance performances, music festivals, art exhibits, and interactive art-visual installations, to University Immersion.
A few of their events include:
MCU Pageants
MYX Slam Jam
Cultural Month Celebration
Buwan ng Wika
Tree Planting
Founding Anniversaries
Relief Operations
Fun Run
Acquaintance Party
Graduation Ceremonies
Alumni Homecoming
Christmas Celebrations & Bazaars
The library is located on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th floors of the LRC Building. With its wide space and centralized air conditioning, it is conducive to learning. Each college's catalogs and updated volumes are included in this collection. Foreign and local periodicals with current subscriptions are available. In addition, it provides instructional and informative materials on a variety of topics.
The laboratories at MCU serve a variety of disciplines, including science, engineering, and medicine. These laboratories have been equipped with new equipment to facilitate student research and education. The Manila Central University Filemon D. Tanchoco Foundation College of Medicine provides cadavers using a high-tech 3D dissection table known as the Anatomage, which was acquired to assure the safety of students in the new normal without compromising the quality of instruction.
The MCU sports complex consists of a football pitch, basketball court, volleyball court, tennis court, and swimming facility. The sports complex is utilized for a number of sporting events and activities.
The Helix Auditorium at MCU is used for a wide range of events, including lectures, concerts, and performances.
Before entering the real world as a physician, the university utilizes its hospital to help students acquire experience while being trained in a real clinical environment in a tertiary hospital.
The university welcomes and supports international students at Manila Central University Filemon D. Tanchoco Foundation College of Medicine. They have a dedicated Office of International Student Affairs that provides assistance with immigration, visa, and housing issues. Additionally, the office organizes social and cultural events for international students to help them engage with other students and the local community.
In addition to university support, international students at MCU also benefit from the friendly and welcoming culture of the Philippines. Manila Central University's (MCU) international student community is vibrant and diverse. The university has more than 10,000 students, including more than 1,000 international students from more than 50 nations.
International students can become involved in student life at MCU in the following ways:
Join a student organization - There are numerous student organizations at MCU, including academic societies, cultural groups, and athletic teams. It is a wonderful opportunity to meet other students, form connections, and become involved on campus.
Participate in extracurricular activities - Manila Central University Filemon D. Tanchoco Foundation College of Medicine provides a variety of extracurricular activities, including cultural events, athletic competitions, and volunteer opportunities. Extracurricular activities are an excellent way to explore interests, meet new people, and contribute to the community.
Attend cultural events - MCU hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibits which is a wonderful way to learn about Filipino culture and meet other international students.
Explore the city of Manila - International students can explore the city's historical sites, museums, and restaurants. In addition, they can participate in shopping, sightseeing, and nightlife.
Overall, international student life at MCU is a positive and rewarding experience. The university provides international students with an ideal environment for personal and academic achievement. MCU is a great location to study in the Philippines due to its diverse student body and vibrant campus life.