Philippines' Universities - Top 20 Ranking (PRC and CHED)

In 2005, the Philippine Professional Regulations Commission (PRC) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) conducted an extensive evaluation of the performance of Philippine universities in national board examinations. This evaluation focused on the average passing rates of graduates from various academic disciplines across the country, covering the period from 1999 to 2005. The findings provided a clear picture of the universities that had consistently produced top-performing graduates in licensure exams, which are key indicators of the quality of education being offered in the country. The results of the study were published, and it highlighted the top universities that had the highest passing averages in the national board examinations.

1. University of the Philippines - Diliman

At the top of the list was the University of the Philippines-Diliman (UP Diliman), which consistently ranked as the best-performing university in terms of its graduates' performance in national board exams. As the flagship campus of the University of the Philippines System, UP Diliman has long been regarded as the country’s premier academic institution. Known for its rigorous academic standards and high-quality programs in various fields such as law, engineering, business, and the sciences, UP Diliman has been the training ground for many of the country's top professionals. Its graduates regularly perform well in board exams, further cementing its position as the top choice for students aspiring to excel in their chosen professions.

2. University of Santo Tomas

Ranked second, University of Santo Tomas (UST), the oldest university in Asia, is one of the most prestigious academic institutions in the Philippines. It has built a legacy of excellence, particularly in health sciences, engineering, and law. UST consistently produces graduates who perform exceptionally well in board examinations, especially in fields such as medicine, law, pharmacy, engineering, and accountancy. The university’s comprehensive programs and commitment to academic rigor have made it a central institution for students seeking top-tier professional education.

3. Saint Louis University, Baguio City

In third place is Saint Louis University (SLU) in Baguio City, which is widely recognized for its excellence in various fields such as engineering, business, education, and the health sciences. Over the years, SLU has become a leading institution in the Cordillera region and is known for its high standards in producing graduates who excel in licensure exams. Many SLU graduates rank among the top performers in their respective fields, making it one of the most reliable institutions in the country.

4. University of the Philippines - Los Baños

Ranked fourth is the University of the Philippines-Los Baños (UPLB), known for its academic strengths in agriculture, environmental sciences, engineering, and veterinary medicine. UPLB’s graduates consistently perform well in board exams, particularly in fields such as agriculture, veterinary medicine, and environmental science. The university’s unique focus on science and technology, combined with its strong research output, makes it a key player in the country’s development.

5. Xavier University (Ateneo de Cagayan)

Xavier University, or Ateneo de Cagayan, ranked fifth, is a respected institution in Mindanao. It is known for its commitment to providing quality education in fields such as business, engineering, and law. The university produces graduates who not only perform well in board exams but also go on to excel in various industries, particularly in the region’s growing economy.

6. Ateneo de Davao University

In sixth place is the Ateneo de Davao University, which is part of the prestigious Ateneo System and is one of the leading educational institutions in Mindanao. Known for its programs in business, law, social sciences, and engineering, Ateneo de Davao consistently produces high-achieving graduates who excel in professional licensure exams. The university’s emphasis on critical thinking, leadership, and social responsibility adds to the overall development of its students.

7. Ateneo de Manila University

Ranked seventh is Ateneo de Manila University, located in Quezon City. A cornerstone of the Ateneo System, it is one of the top universities in the Philippines, particularly known for its strong programs in law, business, engineering, and the humanities. Ateneo de Manila has built a strong reputation for producing graduates who are leaders in their fields, and its graduates consistently perform well in national licensure exams. Its well-rounded approach to education, which combines academic excellence with leadership training, makes it a sought-after institution for students aspiring to achieve professional success.

8. Silliman University

Silliman University in Dumaguete City, ranked eighth, is another top-tier institution in the Philippines. It has earned recognition for its excellent programs in fields such as nursing, engineering, and the sciences. Silliman University places a strong emphasis on providing quality education and research opportunities, and its graduates are consistently among the top performers in national licensure exams. This has solidified its reputation as a leading educational institution in the Visayas region.

9. University of San Carlos

University of San Carlos (USC), located in Cebu City, Visayas, ranks ninth. USC is one of the leading universities in the Visayas and is highly regarded for its engineering, business, and health sciences programs. It has consistently produced graduates who excel in licensure exams, particularly in fields such as engineering, accountancy, and nursing. USC’s strong academic programs and emphasis on professional training make it one of the top choices for students in the region.

10. Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology

Ranked tenth, Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) is one of the top institutions in Mindanao. Known for its engineering, business, and technology programs, MSU-IIT consistently ranks among the best in producing graduates who perform well in national licensure exams. Its commitment to academic excellence and research further enhances its reputation as a leading educational institution in southern Philippines.

11. University of the Philippines - Manila

In eleventh place is the University of the Philippines-Manila (UP Manila), which is the health sciences hub of the UP System. With its emphasis on medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and public health, UP Manila produces top-tier professionals who consistently excel in licensure exams in the health sector. The university's dedication to research and public service strengthens its position as one of the country’s leading educational institutions.

12. De La Salle University - Manila

Ranked twelfth, De La Salle University (DLSU) in Manila is another highly respected institution in the Philippines. Known for its business, engineering, and computer science programs, DLSU produces graduates who perform exceptionally well in various professional licensure exams. The university’s strong industry connections and focus on innovation help ensure that its students are well-prepared for the demands of the professional world.

13. Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila

Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM), located in Manila, ranks thirteenth. Known for offering quality education at affordable tuition rates, PLM has made a name for itself by producing high-caliber graduates who consistently pass professional licensure exams. Its emphasis on public service and social responsibility is a cornerstone of its academic programs.

14. University of the Cordilleras (Formerly Baguio Colleges Foundation)

Ranked fourteenth is the University of the Cordilleras (UC) in Baguio City. Formerly known as Baguio Colleges Foundation, UC is well-regarded for its programs in law, business, and the sciences. UC graduates are known for their strong performance in board exams, and the university has developed a reputation as a reliable source of top-tier professionals in the Cordillera region.

15. University of Negros Occidental - Recoletos

University of Negros Occidental - Recoletos (UNO-R), located in Bacolod City, ranks fifteenth. It has consistently produced graduates who excel in fields such as business, engineering, and accountancy. The university’s commitment to quality education and professional development ensures that its graduates are well-prepared for the national licensure exams and their future careers.

16. Mindanao State University - General Santos City

In sixteenth place is Mindanao State University - General Santos City (MSU-Gensan). Known for its strong programs in engineering, business, and agriculture, MSU-Gensan continues to produce top-performing graduates in licensure exams. Its efforts in providing quality education and community service make it an important institution in the Mindanao region.

17. Polytechnic University of the Philippines

Ranked seventeenth, Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) in Manila is one of the largest and most affordable universities in the country. PUP’s programs in business, engineering, and social sciences are widely regarded, and the university consistently produces graduates who perform well in board exams, particularly in fields such as accountancy, engineering, and public administration.

18. Mapúa Institute of Technology

Mapúa Institute of Technology, located in Manila, ranks eighteenth. Known for its specialization in engineering and architecture, Mapúa produces graduates who perform exceptionally well in board exams, particularly in the fields of architecture, civil engineering, and computer science. The university’s focus on technical education and innovation ensures that its students are prepared for the challenges of the professional world.

19. Central Mindanao University

Central Mindanao University (CMU), in Bukidnon, ranks nineteenth. Known for its programs in agriculture, business, and engineering, CMU consistently produces top-performing graduates who excel in licensure exams, particularly in agricultural sciences, engineering, and education.

20. Adamson University

Adamson University, located in Manila, rounds out the top twenty. Known for its programs in engineering, business, and the sciences, Adamson University continues to produce graduates who excel in national licensure exams, particularly in the fields of engineering, business administration, and accountancy.

The rankings are reflective of the consistent academic performance of these universities in producing graduates who pass their board exams, a testament to their commitment to educational excellence and the development of skilled professionals who contribute to the nation’s growth.