Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila is well-known for its quality and tuition-free tertiary education. The state university holds a tradition of excellence in licensure exams on Engineering, Sciences, Accountancy, Medicine, and Law.  It’s no wonder PLM receives thousands of applications every year!

But FYI: Getting into PLM is like winning the hunger games. During 2006, the university’s acceptance rate was only about 3 percent! This means, if there were 40,000 applicants, only around 2,000 were accepted! To qualify for PLM admission, you need to have a fourth year high school General Weighted Average (GWA) of at least 85% and pass the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Admission Test (PLMAT).

With hard work, grit, and high grades, we know the odds will be in your favor!

So if you’re aspiring to be a PLM student, here’s everything you need to know about the PLMAT to ace your college application!

Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Admission Test (PLMAT)

What is the PLMAT?

The PLMAT is a 4-hour examination composed of sub-tests in English, Science, Mathematics, Filipino and Abstract Reasoning. After taking the exam, your PLMAT score will be compared to a standardized PLMAT score. If your score satisfies the suggested cut-off score, you are qualified for enrollment!

Who can apply for the PLMAT?

You need to meet certain criteria before qualifying for the exam. As one of the country’s premier state universities, PLM selects only the cream of the crop among its applicants. The following graduating senior high school students can apply:

• Manila Residents from public and private senior high schools all over the Philippines with a GWA of at least 85%.
• **Manila residents from public and private senior high schools all over the Philippines  who are honor graduates (valedictorians, salutatorians, and 1st to 3rd honorable mentions).
• **Non-Manila valedictorians and salutatorians
• **Children and relatives of PLM employees
• Applicants who have already graduated and have not taken the PLMAT previously

**Admission privileges – students are automatically qualified for admission provided that they present verifiable documents (e.g. certification of honors signed by a school authority).

What are the PLMAT requirements?

• Printed admission application form (2 copies)
• Original and photocopy of your high school ID
• Certified true copy of high school card for the latest grading period
• 2 pieces 1.5inx1.5in ID picture (colored with white background)

What are the application steps for the PLMAT?

• Prepare the required information for the application form: name (as indicated in your school records and birth certificate), present address, full name of parents and their occupation, and your 3 preferred courses.

Pro-tip: Verifying your personal information through official documents can help you avoid mistakes and confusion in the future!

• Accomplish the application form online through the application website.
• Check your confirmation email. Follow the instructions provided on how to generate your application form.
• Go to PLM and personally submit the requirements above to the Office of the University Registrar (OUR) for verification purposes.
• Receive your examination permit.

How do I study for the PLMAT?

• Follow a study schedule.

The PLMAT is one of the most competitive entrance exams in the country so you have to put in a lot of effort! Review at least 2-3 hours every day to sharpen your memory on information and formulas. Also ask yourself if your brain is more active in the morning or in the evening. Create a study schedule that works for you and stick to it!

• Test yourself.

Practice makes perfect. Set a timer while answering your review materials. This way, you will know how much time you take in solving certain math problems and answering comprehension questions. From there, you’ll know what aspects to improve on.

• Find practical PLMAT tips on YouTube!

You can also ask PLM students and graduates for advice.

Ily Nicolette Ramos, a BS Psychology graduate from PLM and now a licensed Psychometrician, recalls the time pressure during the exam. “Dapat relaxed and huwag masyado ma-pressure! Para you can focus more,” she shares.

Some important reminders for exam day:

• You can view your exam schedule online on the Applicant Log-In page after you submit your requirements.
• Don’t forget the golden rule: No Test Permit, No Exam.
• Be an early bird! Applicants are advised to arrive at least 1 hour before the scheduled time.
• Bring your School ID and two No. 2 pencils.

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College applications can be a stressful and nerve-wracking experience at first.  

But once you see your name on the list of successful applicants, everything will be worth it! Take note of these reminders and guidelines, and you’ll be one step closer to getting into your dream school!

Ready to take your college entrance exams? Read more study hacks on the Edukasyon.ph blog!

Find out more about PLM and other premier universities in the country. Sign up at Edukasyon.ph to search for the best school for you.

Sources:
www.plm.edu.ph/plmat2019
www.plm.edu.ph/admission/plmattrue.html