Top Nursing Schools in the Philippines: A Guide for Hospitals and Clinic Administrators [2025 Update] 

The Philippines is a global leader in nursing education, producing skilled healthcare professionals who are sought after worldwide. If you’re looking to outsource healthcare support or build a strong virtual nursing team, choosing graduates from the country’s top nursing schools ensures quality and expertise.  

Beginning in the 1950s when the country’s health workers began training and working in facilities abroad, Filipino nurses have become well-known worldwide for their professionalism, compassion, and skills which continue to this day. Each year many continue to take on the challenge by enrolling in the top Philippine nursing schools to earn degrees in nursing and eventually hone their talents in this in-demand profession.  

In no particular order, the following excellent nursing schools were chosen for producing top-notch graduates who excel in the Philippine Nurses Licensure Examinations, as well as for getting recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) as Centers of Excellence in Nursing Education for offering the best programs in nursing in the country.  

Here is where the world’s much sought-after nurses hail from and where their expertise is honed. 

1. University of Santo Tomas – College of Nursing  

Location: Manila, National Capital Region  

Known for: Being one of the oldest and most prestigious nursing schools in the country, offering a comprehensive curriculum and strong clinical training.  

Licensure Examination Performance: Graduates have a solid track record in the nursing board exams, positioning them among its top performers each year.  

The oldest university in Asia (founded in 1611) and one of the largest Catholic research universities in the world also boasts a stellar nursing program. Founded in 1946, the College of Nursing is considered as one of the best nursing schools in the Philippines, with many senior high school graduates aspiring to walk through the university’s hallowed Arch of the Centuries.  

The UST College of Nursing is known for its comprehensive curriculum, which equips students with a solid foundation in nursing theory and hands-on clinical training. The dedicated faculty consists of highly qualified educators and experienced professionals, ensuring that students receive excellent nursing education and mentorship throughout their academic journey. This emphasis on academic rigor and practical experience enables graduates to excel in licensure examinations, positioning them among the top performers in the nursing board exams. As such, the college is recognized by CHED as a Center of Excellence.  

In addition to academic excellence, UST emphasizes instilling values of compassion, empathy, and ethical practice in its nursing students. Graduates from the UST College of Nursing not only possess the necessary technical skills but also demonstrate a commitment to compassionate patient care and Christian service.  

2. Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan – College of Nursing 

Location: Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental 

Known for: Providing a Jesuit-centered nursing education that integrates academic excellence, ethical practice, and community service. 

Licensure Examination Performance: The college has a history of exceptional board exam results, including a 100% passing rate for its first batch of examinees. 

A private Catholic university, Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan’s College of Nursing is one of the premier nursing schools in Mindanao, known for producing competent and compassionate healthcare professionals. Established in 1988, the college has built a strong reputation for its rigorous curriculum, commitment to ethical healthcare, and focus on holistic patient care. 

Rooted in the Jesuit tradition of forming “men and women for others,” the college places a strong emphasis on service-oriented learning. Nursing students participate in public health projects, medical missions, and community health programs, such as providing free health services in local villages and leading educational forums on critical health issues. 

The university’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its consistent performance in the licensure examinations. Graduates from Xavier University’s College of Nursing are among the most sought-after professionals in the healthcare industry, both locally and internationally. The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has recognized the college for its outstanding contributions to nursing education, further cementing its status as a top nursing institution in the Philippines. 

3. University of the Philippines Manila – College of Nursing  

Location: Manila, National Capital Region  

Known for: Its renowned faculty, top-notch clinical and community training, and rigorous academic program focused on evidence-based practice.  

Licensure Examination Performance: Consistently ranks among the highest in the Philippines, with graduates excelling in the nursing board exams.  

Founded in 1905 as the Philippine Medical School, the University of the Philippines Manila, or UP Manila, is the country’s premier state university specializing in healthcare education. Later on, the College of Nursing began its operations in 1948. It offers the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree for undergraduate studies and the Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in the graduate program.  

It is recognized by CHED as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education, as well as by the World Health Organization as a Collaborating Center for Leadership in Nursing Development in the Philippines — the only top Philippine nursing school to receive this honor.  

The College of Nursing at UP Manila offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. It boasts of faculty members who are recognized as renowned experts in the healthcare community, ensuring that students receive the highest quality education and a successful career in nursing. The college also actively engages in research and community outreach programs, providing students with opportunities to contribute to the advancement of nursing science and practice. 

4. West Visayas State University La Paz – College of Nursing 

Location: Iloilo City, Iloilo 

Known for: Consistently ranking among the top nursing schools in the Philippines, with a strong record in licensure exams and high-quality, affordable nursing education. 

Licensure Examination Performance: Recognized as one of the country’s best-performing nursing schools, with a history of top rankings and board exam passers. 

The West Visayas State University – La Paz College of Nursing has been one of the Philippines’ leading healthcare institutions in nursing education since its establishment in 1977. As one of the university’s flagship programs, the college is known for producing competent, service-oriented nursing professionals who excel both in the Philippines and abroad. 

With a consistent track record in the Nurse Licensure Examination (NLE) since 1980 – the year when it first held its nursing graduation – the college has cemented its reputation as a top nursing school in the Philippines. Many of its graduates have ranked among the top ten board exam passers, reflecting the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and rigorous training. 

5. Cebu Normal University – College of Nursing  

Location: Cebu City, Cebu  

Known for: Offering an affordable yet high-quality nursing program with a strong focus on community health and rural nursing.  

Licensure Examination Performance: Graduates consistently pass the licensure exams, making them highly sought-after in the healthcare industry.  

Located in the heart of Cebu City, Cebu Normal University’s College of Nursing is renowned for its unique blend of theoretical excellence and hands-on clinical training. The college has a distinct emphasis on fostering cultural sensitivity and an emphasis on community health needs, ensuring that graduates are equipped to provide holistic care to diverse patient populations.  

The college opened its doors in 1982 and offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing undergraduate program, designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the dynamic healthcare landscape. Likewise, the college offers master’s programs in various specializations as well as a doctoral program in Gerontology Nursing.  

CNU’s College of Nursing graduates consistently deliver outstanding performance in licensure examinations. Their performance at the recent November 2024 nursing boards showed CNU’s continued dominance in nursing education, achieving a 100% passing rate in the exams. 

6. Bicol University Legazpi – College of Nursing 

Location: Legazpi City, Albay 

Known for: Producing top-performing nursing graduates with consistently high licensure exam passing rates and a strong history of academic excellence. 

Licensure Examination Performance: The college has maintained a higher-than-national passing average and has produced board topnotchers in both nursing and midwifery. 

Founded in 1973, Bicol University – College of Nursing (BUCN) has built a legacy as a top nursing school in the Philippines by delivering high-quality nursing education and training. The college was established under Republic Act No. 5521, which led to the creation of Bicol University in Legazpi City. It officially opened its doors in 1973, admitting its pioneer batch of 34 students. 

BUCN initially implemented a five-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) curriculum, later shifting to a four-year program in 1977, following the Department of Education, Culture, and Sports (DECS) guidelines. Over the decades, the college has expanded its academic offerings, including a BSN Supplemental Course for graduate nurses in 1975 and a midwifery program in 1996. 

The College of Nursing has consistently achieved high passing rates in the NLE, outperforming the national average and producing board topnotchers. This strong academic performance, coupled with rigorous training, experienced faculty, and a dedicated selection process for students, has cemented BUCN’s reputation as a leading institution for nursing education. 

7. St. Paul University Dumaguete – College of Nursing 

Location: Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental 

Known for: Excellence in nursing education rooted in Paulinian values, with a strong emphasis on academic rigor, clinical competence, and holistic patient care. 

Licensure Examination Performance: The college has a consistent track record of high passing rates in the NLE, producing top-performing graduates. 

Founded as part of St. Paul University Dumaguete (SPUD), a Catholic university established in 1904, the College of Nursing has long been recognized as a top nursing school in the Philippines. The program integrates strong academic foundations, hands-on clinical experience, and character formation, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to excel in the healthcare industry. 

The College of Nursing consistently performs well in the NLE, with graduates often surpassing the national passing average. This success is attributed to SPUD’s intensive review programs, strong hospital affiliations, and faith-driven approach to education. 

With a legacy built on academic excellence, Christian values, and service-oriented learning, St. Paul University Dumaguete – College of Nursing continues to produce competent, compassionate, and globally competitive healthcare professionals. 

8. UERM Memorial Medical Center – College of Nursing  

Location: Quezon City, National Capital Region  

Known for: Its history of producing competent and compassionate nurses equipped with practical skills and a strong foundation in nursing theory and the health sciences.  

Licensure Examination Performance: UERMMMC graduates consistently showcase exemplary performance in the nursing licensure examinations, further solidifying the school’s reputation for providing high-quality healthcare education.  

The University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center – College of Nursing, a non-sectarian private university, was established in 1959 and is a consistent top performer in the country’s nursing licensure examinations.   

UERMMMC’s College of Nursing has been recognized for its commitment to providing high-quality nursing education, making it one of the top choices for aspiring nurses in the Philippines. The school’s emphasis on practical training, strong theoretical knowledge, and a holistic approach to patient care ensures that its graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of the nursing profession.  

It is a well-regarded institution with CHED recognizing the private college as a Center of Excellence. The medical center also holds the distinction of being the only private medical school in the Philippines to be granted Level IV accreditation — the highest level of accreditation — by the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges, and Universities.  

9. Central Mindanao University – College of Nursing 

Location: Maramag, Bukidnon 

Known for: High licensure examination performance, hands-on clinical training, and a commitment to producing competent and globally competitive nursing professionals. 

Licensure Examination Performance: Consistently ranks among the top nursing schools in the Philippines, with graduates achieving impressive passing rates in the NLE. 

Established in June 2005, the College of Nursing at Central Mindanao University (CMU) has rapidly gained recognition for its excellence in nursing education. Initially part of the College of Home Economics, it started with 52 pioneering students before becoming a separate college. 

CMU’s nursing program integrates rigorous academic instruction with hands-on clinical experience, ensuring students develop critical thinking skills, as well as compassionate patient care. The faculty comprises experienced educators and healthcare professionals dedicated to mentoring students throughout their academic journey. 

The college’s NLE performance has been exceptional, with its first batch of examinees in 2009 achieving a 100% passing rate and repeating the same at the November 2024 NLE. 

With its strong licensure exam track record, industry-aligned curriculum, and commitment to academic excellence, Central Mindanao University – College of Nursing continues to be a premier educational institution shaping the future of nursing in the Philippines. 

10. Silliman University – College of Nursing  

Location: Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental  

Known for: Its nurturing and supportive environment that fosters compassionate care and community service.  

Licensure Examination Performance: Graduates consistently perform well in the licensure examinations, contributing to the school’s excellent reputation.  

Silliman University – College of Nursing shines as a prominent choice among top Philippine nursing schools. Situated in Dumaguete City in the Central Visayas region, the college offers a hands-on approach to education and a curriculum that focuses on compassionate care, community service, and ethical nursing practices. Its graduates are adept at delivering patient-centered services and are known for their compassion and dedication.  

Originally a part of the Christian university’s College of Arts and Sciences beginning in 1947, the College of Nursing eventually evolved into an independent entity. It now offers an undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, as well as graduate (master’s) and post-graduate (PHD) degrees.  

Impressively, Silliman nursing graduates consistently perform well in licensure exams. Likewise, the college is part of the elite few named by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education.  

11. Angeles University Foundation – College of Nursing  

Location: Angeles City, Pampanga  

Known for: A reputable nursing school with a strong commitment to producing competent and compassionate nurses through comprehensive training and hands-on experience.  

Licensure Examination Performance: Graduates consistently achieve impressive results in the nursing licensure exams, reflecting the school’s dedication to academic excellence.  

Angeles University Foundation – College of Nursing is another standout among the top Philippine nursing schools. Their robust curriculum emphasizes holistic care, cultural understanding, and ethical nursing practices. Located in Pampanga in Central Luzon, the college blends strong academics with hands-on experience to shape well-rounded nursing professionals.  

Originally part of the university’s Liberal Arts department, the College of Nursing began when the department started offering Nursing prep courses in 1971. It was then recognized by DECS in 1976. This led to the development of the four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.   

Notably, its graduates consistently excel in licensure exams. Indeed, the Angeles University Foundation’s College of Nursing is one to watch, as evidenced by its remarkable performance in the November 2024 nursing board exams where all 161 examinees passed.  

12. Cebu Doctors’ University – College of Nursing 

Location: Mandaue City, Cebu  

Known for: Being the first College of Nursing in Cebu, recognized for its excellence in education, strong clinical training, and commitment to producing globally competitive nurses. 

Licensure Examination Performance: The college has consistently achieved a 100% passing rate in the NLE, with graduates frequently securing top spots. 

Established as the pioneering College of Nursing in Cebu, Cebu Doctors’ University (CDU) is a private university that has a rich history of excellence in nursing education. The college offers a curriculum that combines rigorous academic instruction with extensive clinical practice, ensuring that students are well-prepared to meet the demands of the healthcare industry. This dedication to quality education has earned the college Level III accreditation from the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges, and Universities (PAASCU). 

The college’s impressive performance in the NLE is a testament to its effective educational approach. Notably, in recent years, CDU graduates have not only maintained a perfect passing rate but have also ranked among the top performers nationwide. 

With its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, comprehensive training, and a supportive learning environment, Cebu Doctors’ University – College of Nursing continues to be a leading institution for aspiring nurses in the Philippines. 

Honorable Mentions: 

• Saint Louis University – School of Nursing, Allied Health, and Biological Sciences (Baguio City, Benguet)  

• Trinity University of Asia – St. Luke’s College of Nursing (Quezon City, National Capital Region) 

• Cavite State University – College of Nursing (Indang, Cavite) 

Outsourcing Healthcare Services to the Philippines 

Choosing nurses trained in these top nursing schools in the Philippines ensures access to highly skilled professionals who contribute to quality patient care. With its strong nursing programs, the Philippines remains a top exporter of nursing talent and a prime destination for hospitals and clinics looking to outsource their services. 

By partnering with a trusted outsourcing provider like Connext Global Solutions, hospitals and healthcare facilities can tap into this exceptional talent pool while ensuring: 

• Compliance with international healthcare standards 

• Efficient, secure, and cost-effective healthcare operations 

• Seamless integration of offshore teams into existing workflows 

Whether you’re looking to enhance patient care, streamline operations, or expand your medical team, outsourcing to the Philippines is a strategic move toward sustainable growth. 

Conclusion 

For healthcare institutions seeking top-tier nursing talent or outsourcing solutions, the Philippines offers a proven track record of excellence. With the right outsourcing partner, you can leverage this expertise to elevate patient care and optimize healthcare operations. 

Looking to build a team of highly skilled Filipino nurses? Partner with Connext Global Solutions and access the best healthcare talent today. 

FAQ: Top Nursing Schools in the Philippines 

1. What are the top nursing schools in the Philippines? 

Some of the top nursing schools in the Philippines include the Angeles University Foundation – College of Nursing, Silliman University – College of Nursing, University of Santo Tomas – College of Nursing, and the University of the Philippines Manila – College of Nursing. These institutions have established strong reputations for their academic excellence, high licensure examination performance, and commitment to producing skilled and compassionate nursing professionals. 

2. Why should we consider outsourcing nursing professionals from the Philippines? 

The Philippines is renowned for its high-quality nurses who are highly regarded for their skills, compassion, and professionalism. Graduates from top nursing schools in the Philippines consistently perform well on licensure exams, making them competitive candidates and certified assets for healthcare facilities both here and abroad. Outsourcing nursing staff can help hospitals and clinics maintain high standards of patient care while addressing staffing shortages. 

3. How do the nursing programs in the Philippines prepare graduates for global healthcare challenges? 

Top nursing schools in the Philippines, such as Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan – College of Nursing and the University of the Philippines Manila – College of Nursing, provide comprehensive training that places emphasis on community health, cultural sensitivity, and ethical practices. This holistic approach ensures that graduates are not only technically skilled but also graduate as compassionate nursing professionals equipped to handle diverse patient needs in various healthcare settings, both local and overseas. 

4. What is the licensure examination performance of nursing graduates from Philippine schools? 

Graduates from top nursing schools in the Philippines consistently achieve impressive results in the Philippine Nurses Licensure Examination, with some schools recording a 100% passing rate, like many of the universities on this list. This strong performance reflects the schools’ commitment to academic excellence and the quality of their comprehensive nursing programs. 

5. How can outsourcing nursing professionals from the Philippines benefit healthcare facilities? 

Outsourcing nursing professionals from the Philippines can provide numerous benefits, including access to a highly skilled workforce, cost-effective staffing solutions, and the ability to fill gaps in service delivery. Filipino nurses are known for their adaptability and strong communication skills, which can enhance patient care and satisfaction in healthcare settings. 

6. Are there specific nursing schools that excel in community health training? 

Yes, one such school is the Cebu Normal University – College of Nursing which features a comprehensive nursing program with a strong focus on community health. The school emphasizes cultural sensitivity and ethical nursing practices, ensuring that graduates are prepared to tackle public health challenges and contribute positively to community health settings. 

7. What should healthcare administrators look for when considering outsourcing nursing staff? 

Healthcare administrators should evaluate the licensure examination performance of graduates, the reputation of the nursing schools, and the specific training and competencies of the nurses. Additionally, considering the cultural fit and communication skills of potential nursing staff is essential for maintaining high standards of patient care in a diverse healthcare environment. 

8. How can Connext assist healthcare facilities in finding qualified nursing professionals from the Philippines? 

Connext specializes in business process outsourcing, including healthcare services. We can help healthcare facilities connect with top nursing graduates from the Philippines, ensuring that they meet specific staffing needs while maintaining the high standards required in healthcare delivery. Our expertise in outsourcing allows us to streamline the recruitment process and provide ongoing support for healthcare administrators.