UP Mindanao opens applications for its pioneer batch.
As Mindanao continues to face a shortage of healthcare workers, the University of the Philippines is bringing medical education closer to the region by opening a medical school in Davao City, with aspiring doctors from underserved communities among those being prioritized.
The UP Mindanao School of Medicine (UPMin SoMed) has opened applications for its first batch of students for its five-year Doctor of Medicine program, with classes beginning in August 2026. The school will accept 35 students for its pioneer batch.
UPMin SoMed is the first state university medical school in Davao City. The regional school is being established in partnership with the UP College of Medicine based in Manila.
Prioritizing the underserved
The university aims to prioritize socio-economically disadvantaged students, saying that 60% of interested applicants for UPMin SoMed come from financially challenged backgrounds.
The UPMFI Medical Scholarship Program, which will support the pioneer batch of students, is open for sponsors and donations starting at a minimum of ₱1,000 per month.
Interested applicants can attend the free Admissions Orientation on May 12, which will be livestreamed on the UPMin Facebook page. In addition to the documentary requirements, the school charges an application fee of ₱1,500.
The development opens more doors for aspiring medical professionals from vulnerable groups, ensuring quality education while helping address the need for regional health professionals.
Addressing a regional crisis
Mindanao faces the greatest shortage of healthcare workers in the country. A 2020 policy brief by the UP Center for Integrative and Development Studies cites a ratio of roughly one doctor for every 4,000 patients in the region.
Mindanao’s doctor-to-patient gap is finally being addressed at the source. UP Mindanao opens its first School of Medicine in Davao City this August.
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Applying for UPMin SoMed 2026
Check your NMAT. The school requires a minimum NMAT score of 90. If your score is lower, consider a retake before the next cycle, as the pioneer screening is exceptionally competitive.
Attend the May 12 orientation. The livestream on the UPMin Facebook page will cover the specific documentary requirements and the ₱1,500 application fee process.
Prepare for the service interview. Unlike traditional med schools, UPMin will heavily vet your willingness to stay in the region. Be prepared to discuss your roots and your vision for Mindanao's public health.
Look into the UPMFI scholarship early. Even if you don't qualify for a full ride, the Bridge Program is designed to catch students who might otherwise drop out due to mid-semester financial shocks.
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