UPCAT
UP College Admission Test
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ExploreAbout this exam
The University of the Philippines College Admission Test (UPCAT) is the entrance examination used by the University of the Philippines (UP) system for freshman admission. According to the UP Office of Admissions, most UP degree programs require qualification through the UPCAT, and because slots for freshman admission to each campus and degree program are limited, the test is competitive. The UPCAT is intended for students completing Grade 11 who seek admission to a UP campus for the following academic year. It consists of four subtests: Language Proficiency (in English and Filipino), Reading Comprehension (in English and Filipino), Science, and Mathematics. Standardized UPCAT scores are combined with the composite of final grades in Grades 8 to 11 to determine the admission score, known as the UPG. Socio-economic and geographic considerations are also factored in the selection of campus qualifiers. Test administration lasts about five hours, and candidates must arrive by 6:30am for the morning session or by 12nn for the afternoon session. Preparation should focus on the four subtests, with attention to both English and Filipino language proficiency and reading comprehension, science, and mathematics. Reviewing Grade 8 to 11 coursework is advisable because final grades in those levels contribute to the admission score. Candidates should also familiarize themselves with test-day rules, including the list of allowed and prohibited items.
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About UPCAT preparation
What is the format of the UPCAT?
The UPCAT is a multiple-choice test with four subtests: Language Proficiency (in English and Filipino), Reading Comprehension (in English and Filipino), Science, and Mathematics. The test administration lasts about five hours. All questions are self-contained; no external materials are allowed.
How difficult is the UPCAT?
The UPCAT is competitive because the University limits slots for freshman admission to each campus and to its various degree programs. Performance on the test is combined with final grades in Grades 8 to 11 to determine the admission score (UPG), so both the exam and academic records matter.
Can I retake the UPCAT if I don't qualify?
The source does not state a retake policy. The UPCAT is typically taken once for admission to a given academic year, but candidates should consult the General Information Bulletin on First-Year Admissions for AY 2027-2028 for definitive rules. No official retake policy is published on the UPCAT page.
How long does the UPCAT take, and what time should I arrive?
The test administration lasts about five hours. Report to your designated test center by 6:30am for the morning session or by 12nn for the afternoon session. Bring only your Test Permit, School ID or any valid government-issued ID, 2 good quality pencils, sharpener, rubber eraser, and snacks.
What items are prohibited during the UPCAT?
The use of mobile phones, calculating devices, and/or cameras during the test is strictly prohibited. Leave these items at home or follow the test center's instructions for storage. Only the allowed items listed on your Test Permit should be brought into the testing room.
How is the UPCAT score used in admission?
Standardized UPCAT scores are combined with the composite of final grades in Grades 8 to 11 to determine the admission score (UPG). Socio-economic and geographic considerations are also factored in the selection of campus qualifiers to make the UP studentry more representative of the nation's population.
What should I study first when preparing for the UPCAT?
Focus first on the four subtests: Language Proficiency (English and Filipino), Reading Comprehension (English and Filipino), Science, and Mathematics. Since Grades 8 to 11 final grades contribute to the UPG, review your coursework in those subjects. Practice with timed drills to build stamina for the five-hour test.
What are common mistakes candidates make on the UPCAT?
Common mistakes include arriving late (reporting time is 6:30am or 12nn), bringing prohibited items such as mobile phones or calculators, and neglecting Filipino language proficiency. Another error is underestimating the importance of Grades 8 to 11 final grades, which are combined with UPCAT scores.
When are UPCAT results released?
For UPCAT 2026, results were released on 22 April 2026 for incoming new first-year students for AY 2026-2027. Qualifiers must reply to the offer on or before 16 May 2026. Results are viewed through the application portal using the same email account used for application.