Quick Answer: The best pharmacy schools in the Philippines for 2026 include University of Santo Tomas, Centro Escolar University, and University of the Philippines Manila. UST consistently dominates the pharmacist licensure exam with passing rates above 90%, while UP Manila offers the most affordable tuition among top performers.
Introduction
Pharmacy remains one of the most in-demand healthcare professions in the Philippines, with licensed pharmacists needed in hospitals, retail drugstores, pharmaceutical companies, government agencies, and research institutions. The BS Pharmacy program typically runs four years, followed by the Pharmacist Licensure Examination (PLE) administered by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). In the most recent 2025 PLE, the national passing rate hovered around 45-55%, making school selection a critical factor in your licensure success.
Choosing the right pharmacy school goes beyond brand name. You want a program with strong board exam performance, competent faculty, adequate laboratory facilities, and hospital or community pharmacy affiliations for your internship. This guide ranks the top 10 pharmacy schools in the Philippines for 2026, with tuition ranges, passing rates, and what sets each program apart.
Top 10 Pharmacy Schools in the Philippines for 2026
1. University of Santo Tomas (UST) — Faculty of Pharmacy
University of Santo Tomas has been the gold standard in Philippine pharmacy education for decades. The Faculty of Pharmacy, established in 1871, is the oldest pharmacy school in the country and consistently produces board topnotchers. UST maintains a PLE passing rate of 90-100% in recent examinations, far above the national average. The program benefits from the UST Hospital for clinical rotations and a state-of-the-art pharmaceutical sciences laboratory. Tuition runs approximately ₱80,000-₱100,000 per semester. Located in Manila, UST's pharmacy graduates are highly sought after by top pharmaceutical companies.
- Location: Espana Blvd, Manila
- PLE Passing Rate: 90-100%
- Tuition: ~₱80,000-₱100,000/semester
- Strengths: Oldest pharmacy school, topnotcher factory, UST Hospital affiliation
2. Centro Escolar University (CEU)
Centro Escolar University is a perennial top performer in the pharmacist licensure exam, with passing rates regularly above 85-95%. CEU's School of Pharmacy has been producing licensed pharmacists since 1907 and is CHED-recognized as a Center of Excellence in Pharmacy Education. The program emphasizes hands-on compounding, pharmaceutical chemistry, and clinical pharmacy. CEU operates its own pharmacy laboratory and maintains tie-ups with major hospital chains for internship placements. Tuition is approximately ₱55,000-₱70,000 per semester, making it a strong value proposition among top-tier pharmacy schools.
- Location: Mendiola, Manila
- PLE Passing Rate: 85-95%
- Tuition: ~₱55,000-₱70,000/semester
- Strengths: CHED Center of Excellence, strong clinical pharmacy track, competitive tuition
3. University of the Philippines Manila — College of Pharmacy
UP Manila offers what is arguably the most rigorous and research-oriented pharmacy program in the country. As the health sciences campus of the UP System, students benefit from the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) for clinical rotations and exposure to a wide range of pharmaceutical practice settings. PLE passing rates consistently reach 85-95%. With tuition at only ₱1,500-₱3,000 per unit under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, UP Manila is the most affordable option on this list. Admission is highly competitive, requiring a strong UPCAT score.
- Location: Ermita, Manila
- PLE Passing Rate: 85-95%
- Tuition: ~₱1,500-₱3,000/unit (subsidized)
- Strengths: PGH clinical rotations, research-oriented, most affordable
4. Adamson University
Adamson University has built a solid reputation in pharmacy education, particularly in industrial and community pharmacy. The College of Pharmacy maintains PLE passing rates of 75-90% and is a CHED-recognized Center of Development. Adamson's pharmacy program stands out for its pharmaceutical technology and quality assurance tracks, which prepare graduates for careers in drug manufacturing and regulatory affairs. The university's location along San Marcelino Street in Manila puts students within walking distance of the University Belt's pharmacies and laboratories. Tuition is approximately ₱45,000-₱60,000 per semester.
- Location: San Marcelino St, Manila
- PLE Passing Rate: 75-90%
- Tuition: ~₱45,000-₱60,000/semester
- Strengths: Industrial pharmacy focus, CHED Center of Development, accessible location
5. Far Eastern University (FEU)
Far Eastern University offers a comprehensive BS Pharmacy program through its Institute of Health Sciences and Nursing. FEU's pharmacy graduates have maintained PLE passing rates of 75-88% over the past several examination cycles. The program features modern pharmaceutical sciences laboratories and a strong clinical pharmacy curriculum with affiliations to FEU-NRMF Medical Center for hospital rotations. FEU also offers a ladderized curriculum that allows students to earn a Diploma in Pharmacy Technology before completing the full BS Pharmacy degree. Tuition is approximately ₱55,000-₱70,000 per semester.
- Location: Morayta, Manila
- PLE Passing Rate: 75-88%
- Tuition: ~₱55,000-₱70,000/semester
- Strengths: Ladderized curriculum, FEU-NRMF hospital tie-up, modern laboratories
6. Saint Louis University (SLU) — Baguio
Saint Louis University in Baguio is the top pharmacy school in Northern Luzon and one of the best outside Metro Manila. SLU's School of Natural Sciences offers a BS Pharmacy program with PLE passing rates of 80-92%, consistently outperforming the national average. The cool Baguio climate provides a conducive study environment, and SLU's strong Catholic Cicm tradition emphasizes discipline and academic rigor. The program has laboratory facilities for pharmaceutical compounding, pharmacognosy, and medicinal chemistry. Tuition is approximately ₱40,000-₱55,000 per semester — more affordable than most Manila-based counterparts.
- Location: Bonifacio St, Baguio
- PLE Passing Rate: 80-92%
- Tuition: ~₱40,000-₱55,000/semester
- Strengths: Top school in Northern Luzon, affordable, disciplined academic culture
7. Southwestern University PHINMA — Cebu
Southwestern University PHINMA is the leading pharmacy school in the Visayas, with PLE passing rates reaching 78-90%. As part of the PHINMA Education Network, the university provides a structured and outcomes-based pharmacy curriculum with strong support systems for students. SWU's pharmacy program benefits from its own hospital — the Southwestern University Medical Center — for clinical rotations, giving students direct patient care exposure. Tuition is approximately ₱35,000-₱50,000 per semester, making it one of the most affordable top pharmacy programs in the country.
- Location: Urgello St, Cebu City
- PLE Passing Rate: 78-90%
- Tuition: ~₱35,000-₱50,000/semester
- Strengths: Best in Visayas, own hospital, PHINMA support system
8. Silliman University
Silliman University in Dumaguete City offers one of the few CHED-recognized pharmacy programs in the Central Visayas-Eastern Visayas corridor. The BS Pharmacy program under the College of Allied Medical Sciences maintains PLE passing rates of 75-85%. Silliman's idyllic seaside campus and small class sizes create a personalized learning environment where faculty can give individual attention. The university's medical center serves as the primary clinical rotation site. Tuition is approximately ₱45,000-₱60,000 per semester. If you prefer a quieter, community-oriented setting over the hustle of Manila, Silliman is an excellent choice.
- Location: Hibbard Ave, Dumaguete
- PLE Passing Rate: 75-85%
- Tuition: ~₱45,000-₱60,000/semester
- Strengths: Personalized learning, seaside campus, strong medical center
9. West Visayas State University (WVSU)
West Visayas State University in Iloilo City is a standout state university pharmacy program in Western Visayas. As a public institution, WVSU offers tuition at just ₱8,000-₱15,000 per semester — a fraction of private school costs. Despite the low fees, WVSU's pharmacy program achieves PLE passing rates of 70-85%, a testament to the quality of instruction. The program benefits from affiliations with the Western Visayas Medical Center and other government hospitals for clinical rotations. WVSU is an ideal choice for Visayan students who want quality pharmacy education without the financial burden.
- Location: La Paz, Iloilo City
- PLE Passing Rate: 70-85%
- Tuition: ~₱8,000-₱15,000/semester (state university)
- Strengths: Most affordable, strong government hospital affiliations, solid passing rates
10. Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) — Manila
Lyceum of the Philippines offers a BS Pharmacy program that has steadily improved its PLE performance, with passing rates reaching 70-82% in recent years. LPU's pharmacy program is part of its College of Allied Medical Professions and Health Sciences, and benefits from the Lyceum group's network of campuses for shared resources and faculty. The curriculum emphasizes community pharmacy practice and pharmaceutical marketing, preparing graduates for retail and distribution roles. Tuition is approximately ₱40,000-₱55,000 per semester. LPU's Intramuros campus offers a historic and accessible learning environment.
- Location: Intramuros, Manila
- PLE Passing Rate: 70-82%
- Tuition: ~₱40,000-₱55,000/semester
- Strengths: Community pharmacy focus, improving board performance, Intramuros campus
Comparison Table
| School | Location | PLE Passing Rate | Tuition (per sem) | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UST | Manila | 90-100% | ₱80,000-₱100,000 | Oldest, highest passing rate |
| CEU | Manila | 85-95% | ₱55,000-₱70,000 | CHED Center of Excellence |
| UP Manila | Manila | 85-95% | ₱1,500-₱3,000/unit | Most affordable, PGH rotations |
| Adamson | Manila | 75-90% | ₱45,000-₱60,000 | Industrial pharmacy focus |
| FEU | Manila | 75-88% | ₱55,000-₱70,000 | Ladderized curriculum |
| SLU Baguio | Baguio | 80-92% | ₱40,000-₱55,000 | Best in Northern Luzon |
| SWU PHINMA | Cebu City | 78-90% | ₱35,000-₱50,000 | Best in Visayas |
| Silliman | Dumaguete | 75-85% | ₱45,000-₱60,000 | Small class sizes |
| WVSU | Iloilo City | 70-85% | ₱8,000-₱15,000 | Cheapest state university |
| LPU Manila | Manila | 70-82% | ₱40,000-₱55,000 | Community pharmacy focus |
How to Choose the Right Pharmacy School
Check PLE Passing Rates First
This is the single most important metric. A school with a consistently high pharmacist licensure exam passing rate — ideally above 80% — indicates quality instruction and adequate preparation. Schools like UST and CEU have track records that speak for themselves.
Evaluate Laboratory Facilities
Pharmacy is a lab-intensive program. Visit campuses if possible and check for compounding labs, pharmaceutical chemistry labs, pharmacognosy rooms, and simulation pharmacies. Schools that invest in facilities give you better hands-on training.
Consider Clinical Rotation Sites
Where you do your internship matters for your career. Schools affiliated with major hospitals (like UP Manila with PGH or SWU with its own medical center) offer richer clinical exposure. Ask about community pharmacy and industrial pharmacy placements too.
Balance Cost and Quality
Tuition ranges from ₱8,000/semester at state universities like WVSU to ₱100,000/semester at UST. Factor in living expenses, textbook costs, and laboratory fees. A moderately priced school with strong passing rates — like SLU Baguio or CEU — can be the best value.
Look at Career Placement
Some schools have strong industry connections. UST and CEU graduates are actively recruited by pharmaceutical companies like Unilab, Zuellig Pharma, and Mercury Drug. Ask about job placement rates and alumni networks.
Think About Your Specialization Goals
If you want hospital pharmacy, choose a school with strong clinical rotations. If you are eyeing pharmaceutical manufacturing, Adamson University and its industrial pharmacy track could be your best fit. For research, UP Manila is unmatched.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does BS Pharmacy cost in the Philippines?
Tuition ranges from approximately ₱8,000-₱15,000 per semester at state universities like WVSU to ₱80,000-₱100,000 per semester at premium private schools like UST. Over four years, expect total tuition of ₱64,000-₱800,000 depending on the school.
What is the passing rate of the Pharmacist Licensure Exam?
The national PLE passing rate typically falls between 45-55%. Top-performing schools like UST and CEU achieve 85-100%, while some schools fall below 30%. Always check school-specific rates before enrolling.
How long is the BS Pharmacy program?
BS Pharmacy is a four-year degree program. Some schools like FEU offer a ladderized option where you can earn a Diploma in Pharmacy Technology after two years before completing the full degree.
What subjects are covered in BS Pharmacy?
The curriculum includes pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacognosy, compounding and dispensing, pharmaceutical technology, clinical pharmacy, biopharmaceutics, and hospital and community pharmacy practice. General education subjects are taken in the first two years.
What are the requirements for admission to pharmacy school?
Most schools require a high school diploma (K-12 or ALS), entrance exam results, and a science-oriented strand background (STEM preferred). Schools like UP Manila require the UPCAT, while private schools administer their own entrance exams.
How much do pharmacists earn in the Philippines?
Entry-level pharmacists earn approximately ₱18,000-₱25,000 per month. With experience, hospital pharmacists can earn ₱30,000-₱50,000, while those in pharmaceutical companies can reach ₱40,000-₱80,000 per month. Owning a drugstore offers even higher earning potential.
Is pharmacy a good career in the Philippines?
Yes. The demand for licensed pharmacists continues to grow with the expansion of drugstore chains, hospital systems, and pharmaceutical manufacturing in the country. The FDA and DOH also require licensed pharmacists in regulatory roles, ensuring steady demand.
Can I work abroad with a Philippine pharmacy license?
Yes, but you will need to take the licensure exam of your destination country. Many Filipino pharmacists work in the US (after passing the FPGEC), Middle East, and other countries. A degree from a top Philippine pharmacy school strengthens your foreign application.
Ready to start your pharmacy career? Browse all pharmacy schools on SchoolFinderPH and compare programs, tuition, and board exam performance. Your future in healthcare starts with the right school — find it today.