Xian Lim earns college degree after 15 years

The actor-director says he once felt ‘embarrassed’ to return to school.

Actor-director Xian Lim is marking a personal milestone beyond showbiz: he is officially graduating from college after putting his studies on hold for more than a decade.

In a candid Instagram post, Lim shared that he will be receiving a degree in Music Production from De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde under its Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP).

“I started working at an early age… then an unexpected opportunity in the entertainment industry came my way,” he wrote, recalling how his career took off before he could finish school.

Lim admitted that education eventually “took a back seat,” a decision that stayed with him for years.

“Fifteen years flew by… but deep inside, I knew something was missing. There was a quiet insecurity I carried about not finishing school… It was a gap I couldn’t ignore.”

Returning to the classroom, however, was not easy.

“I felt shy, even embarrassed thinking maybe it was too late. More than anything, I was afraid of failing,” he said.

Despite those doubts, Lim pushed through and is now set to graduate, describing the moment as surreal.

“I’m still in the clouds. I can’t believe I’m graduating… I’m incredibly grateful to be part of the ETEEAP program.”

He also confirmed that the graduation ceremony will take place at the Philippine International Convention Center on July 4.

Lim’s post quickly drew support from fans and fellow celebrities, with many praising his perseverance and decision to return to school despite an already successful career.

His story adds to a growing number of public figures who have chosen to complete their education later in life—proving that, even after years in the spotlight, some milestones still matter just as much behind the scenes.