When Does Enrollment Start?
In Cebu City, private school enrollment typically follows this calendar:
- November–January: International schools (CIS, Woodridge) begin early enrollment for the following school year.
- January–March: Premium Catholic schools (Ateneo, USC, STC, De La Salle) open enrollment, often with entrance exams.
- February–April: Mid-range schools begin accepting applications.
- March–June: Budget schools and walk-in enrollment for remaining slots.
Important: Popular schools fill up fast. For premium schools, applying in January is not too early — many have limited slots and waitlists by March.
Documents Typically Required
While requirements vary by school, most Cebu City private schools ask for:
- Report Card / Form 138 (latest school year)
- PSA Birth Certificate (original or certified true copy)
- Baptismal Certificate (for Catholic schools)
- Good Moral Certificate from previous school
- 1x1 or 2x2 ID photos (2–4 copies)
- Completed school enrollment form
- Entrance examination fee (₱200–₱800)
For Students Transferring from Another School
- Transfer credentials (Form 138 marked for transfer)
- Certificate of Enrollment from previous school
- Transcript of Records (for high school transfers)
For Incoming Grade 7 Students (from Public Elementary)
- Form 138 (Grade 6)
- ESC voucher application if eligible (apply at previous public school)
- PSA Birth Certificate
The Entrance Examination Process
Most premium and mid-range private schools in Cebu City conduct entrance examinations as part of their enrollment process. Here's what to expect:
- Exams typically cover English, Mathematics, Science (for Grade 7+), and IQ/aptitude components.
- Some schools also require an interview component for the student and/or parents.
- Results are usually released within 1–2 weeks of the exam date.
- Top performers may be offered scholarship slots (partial or full tuition waiver).
To prepare, review your child's Grade level Math and English competencies. Some parents enroll in short review programs for entrance tests.
Securing Your Slot
Once accepted, schools typically require a reservation fee (₱2,000–₱10,000) to hold the slot. This is usually non-refundable. Ensure you:
- Read the enrollment contract before signing — check refund policies, retention clauses, and payment schedules.
- Confirm total annual fees (tuition + miscellaneous) in writing, not just the headline tuition.
- Ask about scholarship application deadlines if your child may qualify.
- Clarify payment dates and applicable late fees to plan your cash flow.
Choosing Between Multiple Accepted Offers
If your child is accepted at multiple schools, visit each campus before deciding. A school tour reveals things brochures don't show: classroom condition, cafeteria quality, student behavior in hallways, and the overall campus atmosphere. Trust your gut — fit matters as much as ranking.
SchoolFinderPH's school comparison feature lets you compare multiple Cebu City schools side by side by tuition, facilities, SHS tracks, and price range to make your decision easier.
