The University of the Philippines (UP) has started preparations for this year’s UP College Admission Test (UPCAT), and has opened applications for admission next year.
UPCAT 2026 applications will be accepted until March 31 this year for incoming first year students for academic year 2026-2027. Eligible applicants include Grade 11 students (SY 2024-2025) and Grade 12 students who have not taken UPCAT in previous cycles.
The nationwide UPCAT administration is scheduled on August 2 and 3 in 116 testing centers all over the country, ensuring wider reach and convenience for exam takers.
Applicants must have their Grade 11 schools confirm their eligibility in the Form 2A online portal by April 4 and complete their grades submission (Form 2B) between August 4 and 25. Test permits will be released via the UPCAT online portal in July 2025.
Further details are available on the UP Office of Admissions’ website for UPCAT 2026 (upcat2026online.up.edu.ph) and official UP social media pages.
Meanwhile, for the second year, UP will provide financial assistance for passers from low-income backgrounds and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, its press release said.
Recognizing that financial constraints remain a significant barrier despite the free tuition under Republic Act 10931, the Lingap Iskolar Program will extend comprehensive assistance to deserving UPCAT qualifiers.
The program supports students whose annual family income is P135,000 or below, and who are not receiving other scholarships.
With an initial P50-million budget allocated by the administration of UP president Angelo Jimenez since 2024, the program aims to provide housing, food, communication, transportation, and educational materials assistance.
Students can also avail of mentoring programs and apply for the Student Assistant Work Program (SAGA Program) for additional financial support.
“These programs are part of UP’s mission to democratize access to education and uplift marginalized students,” Jimenez said. “Through UPCAT 2026 and Lingap Iskolar, we are working hard so that no deserving student is left behind.”
Interested students can coordinate with the UP Office of Student Development Services or their respective Constituent University’s Office of Student Affairs (OSA) within the confirmation period set by the UP Office of Admissions. ||
