Do you dream of studying abroad in a way that helps you grow not only academically but also personally—in a country that combines vibrant energy, a rich history, and one of the most hospitable cultures in the world? Then Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City, Philippines, is the perfect place for you. Founded by the Jesuits and one of Southeast Asia’s most prestigious universities for over 165 years, Ateneo stands for academic excellence, social responsibility, and a holistic approach to education that extends far beyond the classroom. The lush, sprawling campus, nestled in the heart of one of the world’s most dynamic metropolitan regions, offers you a unique combination of intellectual exchange, international flair, and an unparalleled quality of life. Who knows—maybe you’ll soon be packing your bags and starting your semester abroad in a city that never sleeps?
Ateneo de Manila University—known simply as “The Ateneo”—is much more than just a university. It is an institution that has helped shape the intellectual, cultural, and social life of the Philippines for generations. Founded on December 10, 1859, by the Society of Jesus, it is one of the oldest educational institutions in the country and has produced a number of notable alumni over the decades—including national hero José Rizal and several Philippine presidents. What sets Ateneo apart is its unique educational approach, which is rooted in the Jesuit traditions of “cura personalis”—the holistic development of each individual. Studying at Ateneo means more than just learning a subject; it means developing a mindset: thinking critically, acting ethically, and taking responsibility for society. This ethos runs through all academic programs, from the humanities and social sciences to business, engineering, and medicine.
The university is divided into two main divisions: the Loyola School on the main campus in Quezon City, which offers undergraduate and master’s programs, and the Professional Schools in the Rockwell and Salcedo districts of Makati City, which offer advanced degrees in law, medicine, government, and business. The Loyola School is home, among other institutions, to the renowned John Gokongwei School of Management (JGSOM), which is known for its practice-oriented management education and its growing international network. The academic offerings are broad and in-depth: 48 undergraduate programs, over 76 master’s programs, and 16 doctoral programs cover nearly all disciplines. Instruction is primarily in English, which makes it much easier for international students to get started. With a student-to-faculty ratio that emphasizes small, interactive classes and more than 50 research centers, the university fosters a learning environment that is both intellectually challenging and personally enriching.
In the 2026 QS World University Rankings, Ateneo de Manila University ranks 511th worldwide, making it the best private university in the Philippines. It ranks 141st in Asia, solidifying its reputation as a leading research and teaching institution in the region. Students who study here become part of a vibrant academic community that uniquely blends tradition and modernity.
The main campus of Ateneo de Manila University is located in Loyola Heights, Quezon City—a lush university district in the northern part of the Manila metropolitan area, right on Katipunan Avenue. Covering an area of approximately 83 hectares, it is one of the largest and most beautiful university campuses in Southeast Asia. What immediately stands out about the Ateneo campus is that it is green, spacious, and surprisingly quiet—a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city that surrounds it. Shaded tree-lined avenues, open plazas, and historic brick buildings alongside modern teaching and research facilities create an atmosphere where one feels both inspired and at home. The heart of the campus is the Gesu Church, an architectural landmark and a symbol of the university’s Jesuit identity.
The campus infrastructure is fully geared toward students’ academic and social lives: modern libraries, well-equipped laboratories, its own observatory, a fitness center, sports facilities, cafés, restaurants, and a 900-seat auditorium. On-campus housing allows international students to immerse themselves in university life.
In addition to its main campus in Quezon City, Ateneo operates its professional schools at two modern locations in the financial and business district of Makati City—the economic heart of the Philippines. Among others, the Graduate School of Business and the School of Law are located here. The setting in the heart of Manila’s corporate and financial world creates direct links between the classroom and professional practice.
Metro Manila—one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world—may seem overwhelming at first glance. But once you settle in, you’ll quickly realize that this city has incredible energy, deep cultural diversity, and a warmth that touches your heart. Quezon City, home to the main campus, is the largest city in Metro Manila and a vibrant hub for the arts, culture, dining, and education. The neighborhood around Katipunan Avenue—affectionately known as “Katip”—is famous as a college district and offers a wide selection of cafés, restaurants, bookstores, and affordable housing. Here, international student life meets the local culture of the Philippines.
Life in Manila is extremely affordable compared to major European cities. Eating out, transportation, and leisure activities cost significantly less than in Western European cities. At the same time, the city offers everything you could want: from traditional markets and street food to modern shopping malls and a vibrant nightlife scene in neighborhoods like BGC (Bonifacio Global City) or Poblacion in Makati. The Philippines as a country has even more to offer: stunning islands, crystal-clear beaches, and diving paradises like El Nido or Siargao—all of which are accessible from Manila via a short domestic flight. So, anyone spending a semester abroad in the Philippines not only has the opportunity to grow academically but also to discover one of the most beautiful countries in Asia.
Ateneo de Manila University has on-campus dormitories, which are allocated on a priority basis to international students. In addition, there are numerous boarding houses, apartments, and shared apartments in the immediate vicinity of the campus that are specifically tailored to students. Rent ranges from 300 to 600 euros per month, depending on location and amenities—often including utilities. One aspect that many international students particularly appreciate is that Filipinos are considered exceptionally warm and open-minded toward international guests. The language barrier is hardly an issue thanks to the widespread knowledge of English—the Philippines is one of the largest English-speaking countries in Asia.
Munich Business School (MBS) offers you the chance to combine your studies in Munich with a semester abroad at Ateneo de Manila University in the Philippines—all as part of a single program! You can complete your semester abroad at Ateneo as part of various bachelor’s and master’s degree programs at MBS—including the Bachelor of Arts in International Business and the master’s programs in International Business, Finance, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, International Marketing and Brand Management, and International Business | Sports Management and Media. Learn more about our degree programs now!
Note: Despite careful maintenance of our content, individual details regarding the semester abroad may occasionally change. For binding and up-to-date information, we recommend checking our partner university database.
Have you found a degree program that interests you? If so, you can easily apply through the MBS application portal. Provided you meet the necessary academic and language requirements, you will then be invited to a selection interview. We recommend applying early to give yourself the best chance of being accepted to both Munich Business School and Ateneo de Manila University!
Once your application to Munich Business School has been accepted and you have successfully enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s program, your time as a student in Munich begins. During your first semesters at Munich Business School, you’ll acquire important business fundamentals, choose your areas of concentration and electives based on your degree program and interests, and collaborate with your fellow students on exciting projects.
The first few semesters at Munich Business School are also the ideal time to plan your semester abroad at Ateneo de Manila University. When you’ll study abroad at Ateneo depends on your degree program and when you started your studies. If you’re pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Munich Business School and began your studies in the fall, your semester abroad will take place during your fourth semester. However, if you started your bachelor’s program in February, you’ll go abroad in the sixth semester. For master’s students, the semester abroad is scheduled for the third semester. The MBS International Center is here to help you plan your semester abroad at Ateneo and answer all your questions about course selection, housing, and student life.
Now that you’ve successfully completed your first semesters at Munich Business School and finalized your plans for your semester abroad at Ateneo, it’s finally time to get started. Yay, your semester abroad in the Philippines is about to begin! Immerse yourself in the new (university) culture, make new friends, soak up everything around you, try new things, and create memories that will last a lifetime! One thing is certain: the experience of studying abroad in the Philippines will stay with you forever, and you’ll return a changed person. After your semester abroad, you’ll either return to Munich Business School for one to three more semesters (Bachelor’s program) or complete your degree with your thesis (Master’s program).
To qualify for a business degree program at Munich Business School—and thus also at Ateneo de Manila University—you must meet certain academic and language requirements. MBS offers several application rounds. We recommend applying early, as the number of available spots is limited.
A semester abroad at Ateneo de Manila University in the Philippines is a dream come true for many students—and for good reason! At the same time, studying in Southeast Asia naturally raises some questions: How safe is it? What is the cost of living there? How well is the university recognized internationally? In this FAQ, you’ll find answers to the most important questions about studying at Ateneo.
Ateneo de Manila University is one of the most prestigious universities in Southeast Asia. In the 2026 QS World University Rankings, it is ranked 511th globally, making it the top private university in the Philippines and the second-best university in the country overall. In Asia, it ranks 141st, and 35th in Southeast Asia. Ateneo demonstrates particular strengths in the areas of academic reputation, employer reputation, and theology and religious studies, where it is ranked among the top 100 institutions internationally.
By international standards, Metro Manila is an extremely affordable metropolis. The monthly cost of living for students—including housing, food, transportation, and leisure activities—typically ranges from 600 to 1,000 euros, depending on living standards and personal lifestyle. Food, in particular, is very inexpensive in the Philippines: a local lunch can be had for less than two euros, and meals costing five to ten euros are quite common in restaurants and cafés around campus. If you watch your budget, you can live very well and comfortably in Manila.
Yes—English is the official language of instruction at Ateneo de Manila University. Since the Philippines is one of the largest English-speaking countries in Asia and English is an official language alongside Filipino, communication in everyday life and on campus is no problem. For exchange students from Munich Business School, English-language courses are available in management, marketing, finance, entrepreneurship, and other subjects. Knowledge of Filipino or Tagalog is welcome but not required.
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