WhereIsAtlas · University of Santo Tomas
What Happened to University of Santo Tomas?
Founded in 1611, the oldest university in Asia — still a venerated Catholic institution in Manila.
The University of Santo Tomas was founded in 1611 and is widely considered the oldest university in Asia. It remains an active, prestigious Catholic university in Manila and a cornerstone of Philippine education.
The oldest university in Asia
Founded in 1611 by the Dominican order, UST predates every other university in Asia. It was established during Spanish colonial rule and has operated continuously for more than four centuries, making it one of the oldest institutions of higher learning anywhere in the world.
A cradle of Philippine leaders
Through the colonial and modern eras, UST educated a remarkable share of the Philippines' most influential citizens, including figures central to the country's history and independence. Its roll of eminent alumni is a who's who of Philippine public life, and its name carries deep national resonance.
A living institution today
UST is still very much active, a major Catholic university in Manila with one of the largest student bodies in Asia. It has modernised while preserving its tradition, and its historic campus remains a vibrant centre of learning.
Where University of Santo Tomas is now
UST remains a thriving, prestigious university and a source of Philippine national pride. The oldest university in Asia, founded in 1611, it is still educating students four centuries later — a remarkable case of an institution that never closed its doors.
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Sources
- University of Santo Tomas - Wikipedia — Wikipedia (2026-09-05)
- University History — University of Santo Tomas (2026-09-05)