Veritas est Lux (Truth is Light) · Est. 1941
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Quick Facts
Founded
1941
School Type
Private
Run By
JFC Holdings
Location
Manila
Campus
15+ campuses
Colleges
10+
CHED Status
Autonomous
Sports Team
Bulldogs
Tuition & Fees
Estimated Tuition Range: ₱700 to ₱1,500 per unit
Large private university system with multiple campuses. Known for basketball and affordable quality education.
| College / Program | Estimated per Unit | Estimated per Semester |
|---|---|---|
| College of Engineering | ₱1,000 to ₱1,500 | ₱28,000 to ₱42,000 |
| College of Computer Studies | ₱1,000 to ₱1,500 | ₱25,000 to ₱40,000 |
| College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences | ₱1,000 to ₱1,500 | ₱28,000 to ₱42,000 |
| College of Business and Accountancy | ₱800 to ₱1,200 | ₱22,000 to ₱32,000 |
| College of Architecture | ₱1,000 to ₱1,500 | ₱28,000 to ₱42,000 |
| College of Education | ₱700 to ₱1,000 | ₱18,000 to ₱25,000 |
These are estimates only and may not reflect current rates. Always confirm with the NU Finance Office or your official assessment slip via NU Portal.
About the School
National University (NU) is a private non-sectarian university in Manila, founded in 1900. It is one of the oldest private universities in the Philippines and has grown into a large multi-campus system with locations across the country.
NU has experienced significant growth under the ownership of the Sy family (SM Group), expanding to campuses in Manila, Laguna, Fairview, Baliwag, Clark, Dasmarinas, Lipa, and Cebu. It is known for its affordable tuition and modern facilities.
The NU Bulldogs are a dominant force in the UAAP, particularly in basketball and volleyball. NU has become one of the fastest-growing university systems in the Philippines.
Architecture, Engineering, Computer Studies, Nursing, and Business — a rapidly growing university system with a dominant UAAP program.
NU is a private non-sectarian institution. Academic and athletic scholarships are widely available.
NU is in the affordable range of private university tuition — competitively priced with modern facilities, making it one of the best value private schools.
History & Background
1900
Established in Manila as one of the earliest private universities in the Philippines, initially offering law and liberal arts programs.
1921
NU opened its College of Dentistry, which would grow into one of the most respected dental schools in the Philippines.
1955
NU became one of the charter member schools of the UAAP, with the Bulldogs becoming one of college sports’ most storied programs.
2014
NU relocated to and developed the state-of-the-art NU Araneta Campus in Cubao, Quezon City.
2018
NU’s men’s basketball team won multiple UAAP championships, cementing its place as one of Philippine collegiate sports’ powerhouses.
Today
NU continues over a century of education in Manila, known for dentistry, engineering, and competitive collegiate athletics.
Notable Programs & Courses
College of Architecture
BS Architecture — One of the top architecture programs in the Philippines with consistently high Architect Licensure Examination passing rates.
College of Dentistry
Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) — A leading dental school with strong board exam performance and modern clinical facilities.
College of Pharmacy
BS Pharmacy — Quality pharmacy program with strong Pharmacist Licensure Examination results.
College of Engineering
BS Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Computer Engineering — Growing engineering programs with modern facilities and strong industry partnerships.
College of Commerce
BS Accountancy, BS Business Administration — Business programs with emphasis on practical skills and professional development.
Athletics Program
NCAA Varsity Sports — Renowned sports program, particularly in basketball, producing professional athletes and national team players.
NU offers 40+ programs across Metro Manila campuses. See the full list at www.nu.edu.ph.
FAQs About National University
Is NU a private or public university?
NU is a private non-sectarian university in Manila. It was founded in 1900 and is one of the oldest private universities in the Philippines.
How much is the tuition fee at NU?
NU has been offering free tuition for college students through the generosity of its owner, making it one of the rare private universities with free college education. This program has attracted thousands of applicants.
What is NU known for?
NU is known for its strong programs in architecture, engineering, education, and dentistry. It is also famous for its dominant UAAP basketball program, with the NU Bulldogs winning multiple championships.
Where is NU located?
NU’s main campus is located along Jhocson Street in Sampaloc, Manila. It also has campuses in other locations including Fairview, Laguna, Baliwag, Dasmarinas, Clark, and Lipa.
Is NU a UAAP school?
Yes. NU is a member of the UAAP, competing as the NU Bulldogs. Its basketball and volleyball programs have been among the most successful in recent UAAP seasons.
Does NU really offer free tuition?
Yes. NU has been offering free college tuition to its students, a program funded by the university’s owner. This has made NU one of the most sought-after private universities for affordable quality education.
