1.How is the medical education in Philippines ? Philippines follows the American system of education. Because Philippines was a colony of USA for a period of 50 years, the education system here is based on the American system, and this is what has made it one of the best education destination in Asia. The medical course in Philippines is called the MD program [ Doctor of Medicine]. This is similar to that of USA, Russia, Ukraine and rest of Europe. The MD program is equivalent to MBBS of UK, India and other Commonwealth countries.
2. What are the admission requirements and eligibility criteria for the course ? Citizen of any country is eligible to study in Philippines, China and Ukraine as a fee paying student for undergraduate and post graduate programs. For undergraduate medical program (MBBS), HSSC /Intermediate with min 50% Marks in with Subjects in Physics, Chemistry and Biology and after BSc (Biology/life sciences) with 50% marks.
3. What is the total duration of this course ? For medicine, the total duration of MBBS course is 5.5 years. The first 16 months [1 year and 4 months] is called the Bachelor of Science program and focuses on building foundation for a strong medical education. The next 4 year is the core medicine and clinical rotation. Maritime Studies is 3years, all other courses is 4years. However, it also depends on how many units/subjects one takes in a semester.
4. What is the total fee of this course? The fee varies for each university, please let us know which university and course you are interested in obtaining admission to and we shall send you the details accordingly.
5. Are there any local bodies who can help me in providing the overall info? Yes. We have representatives all over Asia and Middle East. Please send your query to us and we shall send it to our local representative office, and they would be getting in touch with you.
6. What are the documents required for the admissions? The photocopies of all relevant documents which are necessary for academic eligibility and proof are required for the admissions. You will get the list of documents at the time of enquiry.
7. What are the benefits given to students joining through HEC? We will take care to see that good hostel and boarding facilities are provided to students going through us and also we shall be available for any help needed by the student throughout his duration of study in Philippines. We help get scholarship for deserving students (25% to 50% on the fee structure).
8. When were the Universities established ? These universities have been established for decades before gradually diversifying in many advanced courses.
9. Where are these Universities located ? The universities are located in very good and beautiful cities in Philippines. Each city is special and has its own charm and highlights.
10. Are the degrees offered recognized by foreign universities and World Health Organization ? Yes. Our universities are recognized by CHED [Commission for Higher Education and Development]. Our universities are enlisted and recognized by MCI, DCI, IMED, AMED, WF ME AND ECFMG of USA.
11. What is the medium of instruction in Philippines, China and Ukraine ? English is the medium of instruction as English is the official language of Philippines. English is also as a medium of instruction in China and Ukraine.
12. What about the weather in Philippines? The climate in Philippines is tropical. There are 3 main seasons. Firstly from June to September is considered to be the areas rainy season when showers can be frequent and heavy although they do tend to pass relatively quickly. From October to February, the climate is cool and dry according to the locals; however, the temperature only very rarely drops below 25 degree Celsius. Finally, the hot and dry season which runs from March to May when temperatures can go a little high. Overall, the climate is perfect for a holiday in paradise. In terms of what to pack, it is advised that lighter clothing be taken.
13. When do classes start in the Philippines? The classes begin by the first week of March, June and November usually. There are three intakes per year
14. How are the hostel facilities ? The hostel facilities are world class with attached bathrooms, with single, double or triple beds, air-conditioned rooms as per the choice of accommodation [depends on the budget]. If the hostels inside the campus are occupied/filled up, then the universities provide hostels outside the campus maintained by them. Each university has its own gymnasium, basket ball court, football/tennis sports facility; free Wi-Fi in the hostel so that the students can keep in touch with their family members back in their home country, subsidized food in college canteens or the students can prepare their own food as this is a very cheap option.
15. What about the availability of facilities like laundry, library, internet, etc. there ? All such facilities are available.
16. Is vegetarian food available ? Yes, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food is available, students can choose only vegetarian dishes if they want to.
17. Is there any dress code for college students ? There are uniforms for students.
18. Can I do my internship in my country ? Yes, but it also depends on the university applied for, and also the medical board of the country where the students wants to do the internships (for medicine students)
19. For how many days is the vacation period there? Can a student come home during holidays ? Vacation period is 1 month to 40 days in a year. If the student wishes to come home during the holidays, he/she can return home but if the student wishes to stay back, then he can stay back in the university and enroll in the vacation classes.
20. What are the services offered by HEC? a) Free counseling to select right university and arrange guaranteed admission in your desired University/Course. b) Assistance for passport. c) Assistance for foreign exchange through bank. d) Assistance for education loan. e) Accompany student to university and help in settling down. f) Regular feedback to parents on students development. WE ARE WITH YOU TILL YOUR COURSE IS COMPLETED.
21. How should the students pay the charges to HEC & ASSOCIATES and total course fees ? Students have to pay the registration fee, processing fees and documentation charges at the office in your country or through bank transfers, or money transfer agencies across the globe.
22. How should the student pay tuition fees and other fees? The fee has to be paid directly to the universities by the students, and we will assist you if you need our help as our representatives are available all the time.
23. Whether the University will refund the fees in case the admission is cancelled? Once the student reports to the university and joins the same, the university regrets its inability to refund any part of the educational fees and other expenses paid by the student. The decision is all upon the university.
24. Is there any special provision for International students to solve their personal problems or queries ? Every university has an International Students Department where a student could address their problems directly and HEC are always available.
25. Can a student earn while learning? No, a student cannot work while studying since he/she is having a student visa, and we would like the student to spend as much time as possible studying (for Philippines), China allows for part-time jobs which is subject to approval by the students school, Ukraine allows summer jobs and internships.
26. Can I practice in my country after I study medicine from Philippines? YES, you can practice in your country after clearing the screening exam conducted by the MCI and DCI and internship thereafter. After the screening exam, you are equal to any MBBS doctor in your country.
27. What is the cost of living in Philippines ? It solely depends on the country applied for however the cost of living in this countries are quite affordable.
28. What other types of expenses should I plan for while in Philippines ? Entertainment in Philippines is generally inexpensive. Transportation options include the public bus (which costs less than 10 pesos per ride) and taxi starts with around 60 to 80 pesos for 4 KM ride. Many students also opt to buy bicycles/motorbikes while they are in Philippines but we would not advice students to buy bikes as the hostels are inside the campus, and there is no need for bikes as such. Bicycles are the most prevalent mode of transport in Philippines.
29. How can I get or exchange money while I am in Philippines ? ATM machines are available in banks and malls. Major hotels and most fine restaurants and stores now accept credit cards. Students enrolling can open a bank account and through the local bank on campus or down town and transfer funds from accounts in their home country.
30. What do I need to bring with me from home ? Today in Philippines you can find almost any product and brand that you would find at home. Soap, shampoo, toothpaste, etc., are all readily available. We recommend that you bring any prescription medication in sufficient quantities to last for the duration of your visit and any preferred brands of over-the-counter medications (cold & flu tablets, etc.) Clothing is also plentiful and very inexpensive.
31. What vaccinations do I need for Philippines ? The following vaccinations and applicable frequencies are recommended for students coming to Philippines: Hepatitis A (within previous 10 years); Hepatitis B (within previous 5 to 10 years), Japanese B Encephalitis (within previous 3 years); Tetanus (within previous 10 years); Polio (within previous 10 years); and Typhoid (once in lifetime). Students 55 and older should also have a Pneumococcal Vaccine. 32. What is the voltage used in Philippines ? The voltage here is 220. Converters and power strips may be purchased locally.