UPCAT application goes online

MANILA, Philippines – The University of the Philippines (UP) on Friday, July 17, announced the opening of online applications for its 2015 College Admission Test (UPCAT). 

“The online application is part of the efforts of the national university to make the UPCAT application more accessible and convenient for today’s younger generation,” UP said in a statement posted on its website. 

The website (www.upcatonline.up.edu.ph) will not only maximize technology but will also help the university reduce costs and avoid encoding errors. 

“With the online application, parents, students and schools no longer have to go to UP campuses to get application forms or send their forms and other requirements via mail. The online application will enable faster completion as well as processing of UPCAT applications.” 

UPCAT is considered one of the most competitive college entrance exams in the country. In August 2014, about 87,000 students took the exam for admission to academic school year 2015-2016. (READ: UPCAT 2015 results released)

Now that applying for UPCAT is more accessible through the website, UP president Alfredo Pascual hopes high school graduates from earlier years until 2015 will be encouraged to file their applications. 

Aside from a list of the university’s undergraduate programs, the website also offers tips in taking the UPCAT, information on scholarships, as well as requirements and procedures for foreign applicants.  

Applicants who will be issued test permits will also be provided with a link to an UPCAT Online Reviewer, which will be made available on the first week of August. (READ: UP to offer online UPCAT review by 2015)

Aspiring Iskolars ng Bayan can apply to take the UPCAT until July 29:

• Metro Manila private schools – July 22
• Metro Manila public schools – July 27
• Non-Metro Manila schools – July 29

– Jee Y. Geronimo/Rappler.com