Mapúa University Quarterm Guide
Beginning Academic Year 2026, Mapúa University will transition back to the quarterm academic calendar. This strategic shift is aligned with the ruling of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) through its Office of the Voluntary Arbitrator. The University remains committed to sustainable operations, fairness in faculty compensation, and continued academic excellence.
Academic
What is the quarterm system and how does it work?
The quarterm system divides the academic year into four 11-week terms, allowing for focused, high-impact learning with consistent assessment cycles. Students typically take 15–18 units per term, ensuring a manageable course load while maintaining full academic progress.
Will this affect my/my child's graduation timeline?
No. The quarterm system is designed to support timely degree completion, ensuring no delays in graduation.
I haven’t experienced the quarterm, what is its structure?
The quarterm system is designed to provide a focused and engaging learning experience, with a clear structure that supports steady academic progress:
Terms per year: 4 terms
Weeks per term: 11 weeks
Class meeting duration (3-unit course): 1 hr 30 min × 3 meetings per week
Total class hours with faculty (3-unit course): 49.5 hours
Student load: 15–18 units per term
Learning pace: Shorter, concentrated terms encourage consistent engagement and progress
Tuition fees: Remains the same as the overall annual fee.
What are the benefits of the quarterm system?
More focused and efficient learning with 11-week terms.
The quarterm allows more time per class meeting, translating to coverage of more topics or lessons per session.
Faster but structured pacing that encourages consistent study habits.
Greater flexibility for internships, global programs, and career opportunities.
Faster degree completion (depending on units taken per term and program requirements).
How will the transition be handled?
Mapúa’s academic leadership, including deans and program chairs, will oversee the transition carefully to ensure a smooth process. In the early months of 2026, students will have scheduled briefings with their respective Deans and Program Chairs to discuss updates on their academic curriculum, program structure, and fees.
How do unit loads compare between Trimester and Quarterm?
The table below uses BS Industrial Engineering (BS IE) as an example to illustrate the difference in unit loads between the Trimester system (2025) and the Quarterm system (2026).
Actual unit loads will vary depending on the number of units taken per term, program requirements, and other factors. These details will be discussed further during the town hall session with your respective Dean.
Financial and Fees
What financial support and flexibility measures will be provided during the transition?
To support students and parents with payment management, Mapúa will implement an updated, flexible installment scheme for payments.
Sample fees are based on a 15-unit load for a Quarter term. PE, NSTP, and LFD fees are not included. These are sample figures only and may vary depending on year level, course load, and program.
Sample Payment Scheme and Schedule for a Quarter term:
Comparative Tuition Fees
Sample fees are based on a 15-unit load for a Quarter term and a 20-unit load for a Trimester term. PE, NSTP, and LFD fees are not included. These are sample figures only and may vary depending on year level, course load, and program.
Is there a minimum payment required for enrollment under the updated installment payment option?
Yes. Students must settle at least 25% of their total fees during the enrollment period to secure their slot for the term. Please refer to the installment table above for the sample installment payment breakdown.
Student Support
Will there be academic support for students?
Yes. Peer advisers will be available to guide and assist students throughout the transition period. You may register here.
Will mental health support be available during the transition?
Yes. Mapúa offers counseling services with professional counselors to help students manage stress, workload, and any challenges related to the transition.
How can students access counseling services?
Students may schedule a one-on-one counseling session directly with their assigned counselor here.
Official Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Intramuros Campus: 2nd Floor, South Building (Beside S212A)
Makati Campus: 2nd Floor, Panama Wing
Are there resources to help students cope with academic stress?
Yes. The Center for Guidance and Counseling offers programs such as: Navigating Academic Pressure with Resilience: A Seminar on Stress Management, Surviving Academic Challenges and more. Students can join these sessions online or in person. More programs will be announced by Q1 of A.Y. 2026.
How will students stay connected and supported during the transition?
Through Mapúa’s student organizations and peer-support programs, students will have opportunities to build friendships, collaborate, and engage in campus activities. These initiatives aim to create a vibrant student life that helps learners adapt to the quarter system while feeling supported by their peers.
