Catholic Schools In Manila: A List

Disclaimer: All tuition fee costs are based on Smart Parenting’s research and information gathering. Other expenses not included and disclosed can be double checked with the schools.

Manila's Catholic schools are deeply rooted in the rich history of education in the Philippines which dates back to the arrival of Spanish missionaries in the 16th century. These early educators introduced formal schooling as part of their missionary efforts, emphasizing faith, morality, and intellectual growth.

The arrival of the Spaniards, missionaries, and religious orders introduced formal education in the Philippines, establishing classrooms for structured instruction. The Jesuits founded schools for boys in Cebu and Manila, including Colegio de San Ignacio in 1589 and Colegio de San Jose in 1601.

Subsequently, prominent institutions like the University of Santo Tomas (1611) and Ateneo de Manila (1630) were established, cementing Manila’s role as a center for education. Today, Catholic schools in Manila continue the legacy of blending academic excellence with Christian-Living education, aiming to build a holistic learning environment for modern-day learners.

Also Read: Here's A List of Accredited Catholic Schools in Makati City

These schools, which come with value-laden, centuries-old traditions, provide not just a competitive foundation in academics but also a deep sense of spiritual and moral responsibility. So if you're thinking of switching schools for your child, we've rounded up a list for you!

List: Manila Catholic Schools

Colegio de San Juan de Letran

One of the oldest schools in Manila, Colegio de San Juan de Letran (CSJL) is a private Catholic institution located in Intramuros.

Managed by the friars of the Order of Preachers, the school offers both basic and higher education. Founded in 1620, it is one of the oldest schools in the country. The Elementary Department of Letran has a rich legacy of nearly 403 years. Now integrated into the Basic Education Department, it offers a comprehensive curriculum beginning with Kindergarten followed by six more years of elementary education. It provides a comprehensive Catholic education deeply rooted in Dominican traditions.

Admission requirements for transferees:

• Should pass Letran Placement Assessment System conducted by the Guidance Office
• Satisfactory grades in conduct
• Submit the following documents:
• Original Copy of Report Card
• Original Copy of Good Moral Character
• Photocopy of Birth Certificate
• Photocopy of Baptismal Certificate (If Catholic)

Location: 151 Muralla St, Intramuros, Manila
Contact Number: 8527-9730
Tuition fee ranges from P60,000-P70,000 for grade school (subject to change for next academic year)

For admissions, visit their website here.

Also Read: I Am a Muslim Who Graduated From an All-Girls Catholic High School

Paco Catholic School

Paco Catholic School, a co-educational private institution located in Paco, Manila, was founded in November 1912 as an informal class for 50 young boys.

During the school’s 89th Foundation Day, parish priest and school director Domingo A. Cirilos Jr. initiated the construction of a 10-story edifice named after Pedro Calungsod, which was inaugurated on November 8, 2002, during the 90th Foundation Day celebration. Additionally, on November 9, 2006, the Sacred Heart Building, the first concrete structure on campus, was renamed as the Rev. Fr. Godofredo Aldenhuijsen Heritage Center.

In the academic year 2014–2015, significant changes were implemented within the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Manila Educational System. These included the separation of school management from the parish and the restructuring of schools into clusters, each overseen by a school director with the support of an assistant director. It is a well-known institution in Paco, Manila which emphasizes character formation alongside academic achievement, guided by Catholic values.

Location: 1521 Paz Street, Paco, Manila
Phone number: 8561-3589; 8564-4786
Tuition fee starts at P43,000 for Grade 1 (subject to change for next academic year)

St. Jude Catholic School 

Known for its trilingual education (English, Filipino, Mandarin) and rigorous academic programs, this co-educational school is located near Malacañang Palace. It offers a strong foundation in both academics and values. Its Early Childhood Department (ECD) offers a half-day (morning and afternoon) program for children with the following levels: Nursery, Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten, catering to children aged 3 to 5 years old.

Meanwhile, the elementary department strives to achieve a well-rounded development in its pupils by fostering a harmonious balance in their cognitive, emotional, and volitional growth. Through diverse learning experiences grounded in Gospel values, it encourages students to embrace and appreciate the goodness, beauty, and truth of the world. Regular class hours are from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM with a usual class size ranging from 35-45 students.

Basic education program includes courses on Mathematics, Science, English, Filipino, Araling Panlipunan, Religion, Music, Physical Education, and Computer Education. Chinese program includes language, reading, composition, work education, penmanship, and arts.

Location: 327 Ycaza, San Miguel, Manila, 1005 Metro Manila
Phone number: 8735-6386
Tuition fee starts at P116,000 for Kinder (subject to change for next academic year)

AY 2025-2026 is now open for admissions. Find general requirements here.

Holy Child Catholic School

During the Liberation Period following World War II, Rt. Rev. Msgr. Jose N. Jovellanos, alongside four Jesuit priests, established Tondo Parochial School on the former site of the Instituto de Mujeres, which is now the Manila Cathedral School. Classes began in 1945. In 1949, the school relocated near the Sto. Niño Church, where the Tondo Orphanage once stood. In 1951, it received government recognition for its complete elementary course and was incorporated as Holy Child Catholic School in 1954.

Catholic education embodies the mission entrusted by Christ to His Church, aiming to proclaim the good news and transform lives by putting faith into action. At Holy Child Catholic School, Religion serves as the curriculum's core, reflecting the school's commitment to supporting this mission through programs tailored to the needs of its community.

As a parochial school, the school plays a vital role in the pastoral plan of the local church. It provides formal Christian education and formation, equipping its students to become conscientious citizens dedicated to serving God and their country.

Location: Plaza Amado V. Hernandez, Ilaya St, Tondo, Manila, 1012 Metro Manila
Phone Number: 8245 0801
Tuition fee starts at P43,400 for Grade 1 (subject to change for next academic year)

For admission requirements, visit their website here.

St. Mary’s Academy Sta Ana Manila

St. Mary’s Academy aims to provide foundational knowledge, skills, and values, including moral and spiritual growth, to support personal development and prepare students for a dynamic society. It seeks to enhance awareness of societal changes, foster love for the nation, and instill a sense of responsibility and constructive participation. Additionally, it emphasizes work-oriented experiences that nurture creativity and readiness for honest, productive engagement in the future.

The school considers new applicants based on admission test results, academic records, interviews, and character references. Prospective learners are assessed holistically to meet the academy's standards for admission.

General requirements:

• Original and photocopy of birth certificate (NSO copy)
• Original and photocopy of Baptismal Certificate (if applicable)
• One 1x1 ID photo with the applicant’s name written on the back
• Certificate of Good Moral Character
• Form 138 (report card)
• Recommendation Form (issued by the Student Development Center)
• Original and photocopy of Parent’s Marriage Certificate (if applicable)

Age Requirements:

• Kindergarten: Must be 5 years old by August
• Grade One: Must be 6 years old by August

Location: 2318 Pedro Gil St, Santa Ana, Manila
Contact Number: 8563-6575, (0925) 448-9858

Inquire here. 

Holy Trinity Academy

Located in Sampaloc, Holy Trinity Academy promotes academic excellence with a focus on spiritual and moral development. This Catholic parochial school offers basic education to preschool, grade school, and junior high school. It has modern facilities including gymnasiums and updated learning environments.The campus also tboasts of its four major buildings for teaching and one for religious gatherings, with the grade school building as the biggest building in the campus. Additionally, it offers discounts and scholarships for solo parents, alumni, student with siblings, athletes, and students with high academic rankings.

Location: Balic-Balic, Calabash Road, Sampaloc, Manila
Contact Number: 731 0743
Tuition Fee starts at P34,087 for Kinder (subject to change for next academic year)

La Consolacion College Manila

La Consolacion College Manila (LCCM), established in May 1902, is a distinguished Catholic educational institution rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and inspired by St. Augustine’s philosophy on the primacy of love. Committed to transformative education, LCCM continues to thrive in the 21st-century Manila by nurturing learners from Kindergarten to Senior High School through its comprehensive basic education programs.

Location: 8 Mendiola Ext, San Miguel, Manila, 1005 Metro Manila
Phone Number: 8736 0235, local 150
Tuition Fee: starts at P55,000 for Grade 1 and Kindergarten (subject to change for next academic year)

Also Read: Moving To Manila? Here's A List Of Private Schools In Manila

Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic School

Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic School (SHJCS), located in Santa Mesa, is a private Catholic institution just next to the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish. The school derives its name from its parish patron, the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It was previously known as Sta. Mesa Parochial School before adopting its current name.

Location: 4324 Old Sta. Mesa St, Santa Mesa, Manila
Contact Number: (0918) 207-7638

Looking for Manila public schools? Check our list here.