Student's Guide in Philippines: All Documents You Need for College in Philippines
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Quick guide that lists the essential documents you'll likely need for college admission, enrollment, scholarships, dorms, internships, and transfers in the Philippines
Contents
- What most universities ask for (freshmen)
- Documents for transferees and cross-enrollees
- Requirements for foreign students (international applicants)
- Health, IDs and background checks
- Scholarship & financial‑aid documents
- Short checklist for course-specific or special cases
- Quick tips to prepare and save time
- Checklist of requirements
About This Guide
This guide is based on current procedures and requirements. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources
References & Further Reading
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources:
Starting college is exciting - and a little paperwork-heavy. This quick how‑to lists the essential documents you'll likely need for college admission, enrollment, scholarships, dorms, internships, and transfers in the Philippines. Use this as a checklist and a fast reference so you won't be scrambling on enrollment day.
What most universities ask for (freshmen)
- PSA birth certificate (original or certified true copy) - official proof of birth and name.
- Senior High School Certificate of Graduation / Diploma.
- Form 138 (Senior High School Report Card) or Form 137 (Permanent Record) - schools specify which one to submit.
- 2x2 ID photos (usually several copies) and signed admission/enrollment forms.
- A valid government ID (student or parent's ID may be required for verification).
- Good Moral Certificate (issued by your high school principal) - commonly requested by private universities.
- Medical certificate / pre‑enrollment physical (some schools and certain programs require a school physician's clearance).
- Parent/guardian consent if you're a minor.
Documents for transferees and cross-enrollees
- Transcript of Records (TOR) from previous college/school (original and photocopy).
- Honorable Dismissal / Clearance from former school (for college transfers).
- Certificate of Transfer Credentials or Certificate of Good Standing if required.
- Course descriptions or syllabi (sometimes needed for credit evaluation).
Requirements for foreign students (international applicants)
- Valid passport and visa (Student Visa or other immigration permit required). The Bureau of Immigration handles visa rules.
- Authenticated/high‑school transcript and diploma (may require authentication by your country's Philippine embassy or CHED/TESDA guidance).
- If required by the school: English proficiency proof, medical exam, and clearances.
Health, IDs and background checks
- Immunization record or vaccination proof (some dorms or programs may request).
- Medical certificate and chest X‑ray for certain health‑related courses.
- NBI clearance or PNP (police) clearance - usually required for internship placements, licensure internships, or some scholarship applications.
- PhilSys / UMID / Passport as government ID for registration and STS systems.
Scholarship & financial‑aid documents
- Certificate of Indigency or Barangay Clearance (for local poverty verification).
- Proof of income: parents' latest Income Tax Return (ITR), Certificate of No Income, or employer's certificate.
- Birth certificates, family residence proof, and school records.
- Additional forms specific to the scholarship (e.g., CHED StuFAP requirements).
Short checklist for course-specific or special cases
- For health/medicine/nursing: medical records, TB test / chest X‑ray, NBI clearance, clinical vaccination proof.
- For education-related teaching practice: NBI/PNP clearance and special forms set by practice schools.
- For TESDA / vocational programs: previous NC certificates, apprenticeship records.
- For board exam takers (later): TOR, diploma, and birth certificate for board registration (PRC requirements).
Quick tips to prepare and save time
- Scan copies of all documents; keep both digital and physical folders organized by category.
- Order PSA certificates early - delivery or pick‑up can take days to weeks depending on demand.
- Some schools accept certified true copies; others require originals for verification - always ask the registrar.
- Book NBI or PNP clearance appointments online ahead of enrollment season.
- Check your chosen university's admissions page for specific forms and deadlines (private vs. state universities differ).
- Keep extra passport photos and photocopies ready - most enrollment offices ask for multiples.
Checklist of requirements
- PSA birth certificate (original & photocopy)
- Senior High School Diploma / Certificate of Graduation
- Form 138 (Report Card) and/or Form 137 (Permanent Record)
- Transcript of Records (for transferees)
- Honorable Dismissal / Transfer credentials (for transferees)
- 2x2 ID photos (6+ copies)
- Valid government ID (student and/or parent)
- Good Moral Certificate (if requested)
- Medical certificate / vaccination records
- NBI / PNP clearance (if needed)
- Proof of income / barangay certificate (for scholarships)
- Passport & visa (for foreign students)
- Digital scans of all documents
Want a final tip? Go to your target university's "Admissions" or "Registrar" webpage at least one month before enrollment - they list required documents, sample forms, and any application portals you must use.
