John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University | Tuition Fee | Courses Offered | Admission
General Information
Overview
John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU) is one of the Philippines’ premier maritime institutions, with a long-standing tradition of producing highly skilled maritime professionals for both domestic and international shipping industries. Established initially as the Iloilo Maritime Academy in 1948, JBLFMU has grown into a comprehensive university offering specialized programs in maritime education, marine engineering, and related disciplines. The university emphasizes a balance between rigorous academic instruction and practical training, ensuring that graduates are equipped with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience necessary for success at sea and in maritime operations.
JBLFMU is recognized for its adherence to international standards, such as the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW), ensuring that cadets and students meet global competency requirements. The university’s holistic approach incorporates values education, leadership development, and industry immersion, making it a benchmark institution in the maritime sector in the Philippines. JBLFMU operates multiple campuses, including its main campus in Arevalo, Iloilo City, and satellite campuses in Bacolod and Molo, each providing state-of-the-art training facilities, simulators, laboratories, and dormitories to support its students’ academic and practical development.
Contact Informations
Address: Arevalo, Iloilo City 5000, Philippines
Phone Number: (033) 329‑1500 / (033) 329‑1523
Email Address (Admissions): admissions@jblfmu.edu.ph
Email Address (Registrar / General): registrar@jblfmu.edu.ph
School Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University |
| Type | Private Maritime University |
| Founded | 1948 (as Iloilo Maritime Academy) |
| Motto / Vision | “Excellence in Maritime Education and Training for Global Competence” |
| Campus Setting | Urban and Suburban campuses in Iloilo City and Bacolod with specialized maritime training facilities |
| Languages of Instruction | English (primary for maritime courses), Filipino for general courses |
John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University Rankings
| Scope / Rank Type | Ranking / Status |
|---|---|
| National / Country | Recognized as one of the top maritime universities in the Philippines, particularly for marine engineering and maritime transportation programs |
| Global / International | Internationally accredited through maritime regulatory bodies; globally recognized for STCW-compliant training programs |
John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University Academics
John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University Faculties / Departments
- Marine Transportation Department
- Marine Engineering Department
- Maritime Education & Training Department
- College of International Studies and Business
- College of Allied Maritime and Hospitality Programs
- Research and Maritime Simulation Center
John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University Courses and Programs / Majors
- Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation (BSMT)
- Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering (BSMarE)
- Bachelor of Science in Customs Administration
- Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management
- Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management
- Maritime Short Courses and Certification Programs (STCW-related)
- Master’s Programs in Maritime Management and Technology
Online Learning
JBLFMU provides online learning modules for theoretical courses, general education, and supplementary maritime training. Blended learning options allow students to access lectures, assignments, and assessments digitally, while practical, hands-on components continue on campus through simulators, labs, and workshops. The online system enhances accessibility, particularly for students at satellite campuses or those with international cadetship commitments.
Average Test Scores
| Test / Requirement | Typical Use / Requirement |
|---|---|
| High School GPA / Grades | Required for undergraduate admission; emphasis on science and mathematics for maritime programs |
| JBLFMU Entrance Examination | Mandatory for admission in maritime and allied programs |
| Maritime Certification Exams (STCW-based) | Required during training and practical cadetship stages; ensures compliance with international standards |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Retention is supported through structured academic advisement, mentoring, and intensive maritime training. JBLFMU graduates benefit from cadetship placements with shipping companies, which significantly improve retention and program completion rates. Graduation rates remain high for students who successfully complete both academic and practical training requirements, reflecting the university’s structured support system and alignment with industry expectations.
John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Applicants must have completed Senior High School or its equivalent. Strong academic performance in mathematics, sciences, and English is emphasized for marine and engineering tracks. Students are also required to pass JBLFMU’s entrance examinations tailored to their chosen program.
John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University Acceptance Rate
| Program Type | Estimated Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| General Undergraduate | ~70–85% |
| Maritime / Competitive Programs | ~50–65% |
John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a completed application form, certified high school or senior high transcripts, birth certificate or valid government-issued ID, medical and physical fitness records for maritime programs, and letters of recommendation if applying for cadetship or scholarship programs. Applicants may also be required to attend interviews or provide a personal statement describing their interest in maritime or allied careers.
Application Process
- Complete and submit the official application form
- Provide high school or senior high school transcripts and identification
- Take entrance examination for the intended program
- Undergo medical and physical fitness evaluation for maritime programs
- Receive admission notification and scholarship/cadetship decisions
- Complete enrollment and payment or acceptance of cadetship/scholarship packages
John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Admission Cycle | Typical Timing |
|---|---|
| First Semester | Annually, usually May–June enrollment |
| Second Semester | Annually, usually November–December enrollment |
| Cadetship Programs | Separate cycles announced depending on shipping partner and STCW requirements |
Essay Prompt
Applicants for scholarship or cadetship programs may be required to submit a personal essay or statement of intent explaining their motivation for pursuing a maritime career, leadership potential, and commitment to international maritime standards.
John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University Scholarships
JBLFMU offers scholarship programs and cadetship partnerships with shipping companies, covering tuition, lodging, training, and stipends. Financial aid is available for high-achieving students or those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, particularly within marine transportation, marine engineering, and allied programs.
John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Program Type | Approximate Tuition Fee / Cost |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Programs | 500 – 1200 USD |
| Maritime Cadetship / Scholarship | 500 – 1200 USD |
| Allied Maritime and Hospitality Programs | 500 – 1200 USD |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
JBLFMU attracts students from across the Philippines, particularly from the Visayas and Mindanao regions. Undergraduate students typically range from 17–22 years old, while cadetship candidates may include slightly older applicants. Maritime programs generally have higher male enrollment, while allied and hospitality programs attract more balanced gender representation. Students reflect diverse ethnic and regional backgrounds, providing a rich environment for cultural exchange and collaboration.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Scholarship and cadetship opportunities ensure access to education for students from economically disadvantaged families. JBLFMU provides structured support for students with disabilities, particularly those pursuing administrative or allied programs.
Student Body
| Category | Approximate Figures |
|---|---|
| Total Students | Several thousand across multiple campuses |
| Undergraduate Students | Majority enrollment in marine transportation and engineering programs |
| Maritime Cadetship Students | Hundreds of cadets trained in compliance with STCW standards |
| International Students | Limited; primarily Filipino students with some exchange opportunities |
University Diversity
John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University fosters a diverse academic community. Students come from different regions of the Philippines, bringing varied linguistic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds. This diversity promotes collaborative learning, cultural awareness, and preparation for international maritime operations. Cross-cultural training and interaction are integrated into the curriculum, particularly through cadetship programs that prepare students for global careers in shipping, logistics, and maritime management. The university emphasizes inclusivity, professional ethics, and respect for differences, which enriches student life and enhances interpersonal skills, leadership, and adaptability in a multicultural maritime industry.
Average Earnings
Graduates of JBLFMU, particularly from marine transportation and marine engineering programs, typically secure positions on international and domestic ships, cruise lines, and port operations, earning competitive salaries. Allied programs, including hospitality, customs administration, and tourism, enable graduates to find employment in hotels, travel agencies, shipping logistics, and maritime administration. Cadetship programs provide early career exposure and allowances, positioning graduates for rapid professional advancement and stable income. Alumni consistently report career growth and international employment opportunities, reflecting the university’s reputation and rigorous practical training.
John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Faculty members include experienced maritime professionals, certified marine engineers, licensed deck officers, and industry practitioners. Administrative and support staff manage student services, training facilities, and campus operations. Faculty are selected for their combination of academic qualifications and industry experience to ensure students receive both theoretical and practical training aligned with international standards.
Faculty Profiles
Many faculty members have extensive experience at sea, in maritime management, or in international shipping operations. Their achievements include leadership in maritime education, research contributions, industry certifications, and active involvement in international maritime training programs. Faculty maintain compliance with STCW standards and are engaged in continuous professional development to provide students with current knowledge, industry best practices, and mentoring.
John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
JBLFMU campuses feature academic buildings, maritime simulation labs, engine and deck simulators, dormitories, and recreational facilities. Student life is highly structured, particularly for cadets, combining academic studies, practical training, and character development. Housing includes dormitories with supervised living for cadets and students, ensuring safety, discipline, and community engagement. The university hosts clubs, competitions, and community outreach activities to complement formal education.
Transportation
Campuses are accessible via local transportation in Iloilo City and Bacolod. Students commuting to campus typically use city buses, jeepneys, or other local public transport. For cadets and residential students, the university may provide organized transport to and from training facilities and dormitories. Internal campus mobility is facilitated through walkways, shuttle services, and campus-managed transport where necessary.