The University of Santo Tomas (UST), fondly called USTe, is the oldest existing university in Asia, founded in 1611. It is home to prestigious programs in medicine, law, engineering, business, architecture, and the arts. With its long-standing tradition of excellence, it’s no wonder that thousands of graduating high school students aspire to become Thomasians.
If you’re planning to take the University of Santo Tomas Entrance Test (USTET), here’s a step-by-step guide on UST college applications to help you through the process. (You can find the official details on the USTET website).
Step 1: Register Online
- Visit the USTET application portal.
- Click Register and select College (UST Manila or UST General Santos).
Step 2: Previous USTET-Taker Verification
- Select YES if you’ve taken the USTET before and provide the needed details.
- Select NO if it’s your first time.
Step 3: Student Verification
- If you’re a current or former UST Manila student, input your student number and grade level.
- If you’re not from UST Manila, select None and move forward.
Step 4: Confirm Guidelines and Privacy Policy
- Carefully read the admission guidelines and privacy information.
- Once done, click Submit.
Step 5: Complete the Online Registration Form
- Fill in your details and generate your Reference Number.
- This number will help you track your application status.
Step 6: Accomplish Application Tasks
After logging in, complete these steps:
- Upload a 2”x2” ID picture (must follow official guidelines).
- Update your current school information and program preference.
- Upload all required documents based on your applicant category.
Here’s a summary for college applicants:
- Graduating Filipino students from local schools – ID photo, application grades form, PSA birth certificate/passport.
- Graduating Filipino students from foreign schools – Add transcript and registrar clearance.
- Non-Filipino students from local or international schools – Passport, transcript, registrar clearance.
- Previous school year graduates – Add report card (Form 138).
- ALS/PEPT passers – Certificate plus clearance.
- LEAPMed applicants – Application grades form and birth certificate/passport.
- Applicants with International Credentials – Diploma/IB certificate plus clearance.
- International testing center applicants – Grades form, PSA birth certificate/passport.
(See the official guide for full requirements.)
Step 7: Encode Grades and Submit
- Copy the contents of your USTET Application Grades Form into the system.
- Answer the survey, review your details, then submit for verification.
Step 8: Verification and Testing Center Selection
- Wait for the UST Office for Admissions (OFAD) to verify your documents.
- You’ll receive an email notification once verified.
- Select your preferred testing center afterwards.
Step 9: Payment and Test Permit
- Settle your application fee online.
- Once payment is confirmed, download your Test Permit.
- Applicants with International Credentials will instead receive an Acknowledgment Slip.
Step 10: Wait for Results
- Results for USTET 2026 will be released in the second quarter of 2026.
The University of Santo Tomas is a top choice for many students because of its reputation for academic excellence and rich heritage. Getting admitted into UST is a milestone worth striving for and being well-prepared can make all the difference.
That’s where AHEAD’s College Entrance Test (CET) Review Program comes in. Our program equips you with the knowledge and strategies you need to pass the USTET and other major university entrance exams.
Visit AHEAD’s website or reach us via Viber/WhatsApp at (+63) 917-891-1187 to learn more.
Sources:
Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas. (n.d.). Office for Admissions. Retrieved from https://ustet.ust.edu.ph/
Note: The feature image in this article was created using AI for illustrative purposes.