ELECTIVES ASIA
Career Gateway For The New Millennium
PRICES
£200 REGISTRATION FEE
A non-refundable registration fee is required to secure your spot in the elective placement.
ILOILO
Two Weeks
Starts at £780
Three Weeks
Starts at £980
Four Weeks
Starts at £1180
Extra Week
Starts at £250
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
CUSTOMIZED ELECTIVE
PLACEMENTS ABROAD
Transform Your Learning Journey in the Philippines
Experience healthcare in a new cultural setting through a combination of observational learning and supervised hands-on practice, where appropriate. Learning opportunities vary depending on your level of study, previous experience, home institution requirements, scope of practice, and the policies of the healthcare facility. Students may observe routine clinical activities and, where permitted, participate in appropriate tasks under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals.
Each placement is designed to broaden your professional perspective, strengthen practical skills, and deepen your understanding of healthcare delivery in the Philippines while ensuring patient safety, ethical practice, and compliance with local regulations.
SEAMLESS AIRPORT
TRANSFERS
A Smooth Start from the Moment You Arrive
Your comfort and safety come first. Upon arrival in Iloilo, our friendly team will greet you at the airport and ensure a stress-free transfer straight to your accommodation. Relax after your flight—we’ll handle the details so you can focus on the exciting days ahead. Your Philippine adventure starts the moment you touch down!
LOCAL & FACILITY
ORIENTATION
Start Strong, Feel at Home
Kick off your elective journey with orientation covering everything from your hospital, district & community health placement to local culture and lifestyle. Meet the medical team, tour the facilities, and learn about Iloilo’s traditions and community life. This first step ensures you feel confident, connected, and ready to make the most of your elective experience.
DEDICATED LOCAL
SUPPORT TEAM
Always Here When You Need Us
Our local-based team is your 24/7 support system throughout your stay. From clinical assistance to travel tips and cultural guidance, we’re here to make your elective experience smooth and stress-free. You’ll never feel alone—just supported, guided, and part of a caring community.
OPTIONAL CITY & LOCAL TOUR
ASSISTANCE
Work Hard, Explore Harder
Our team is happy to assist you in planning and organizing optional city tours, cultural experiences, and weekend excursions. We can provide recommendations, help arrange transportation, and suggest reputable tour operators. All tour-related expenses, including transportation, entrance fees, meals, and accommodation (if applicable), are the responsibility of the participant unless otherwise specified.
HOSPITAL PLACEMENT
TRANSPORTATION
Hassle-Free Daily Transportation
Daily transportation between the accommodation and partner hospitals is included for students undertaking hospital-based placements outside the City. Transportation is not provided for students assigned to district or community health centers, where public transportation (jeepneys, tricycles, buses, and Grab) is safe, affordable, and readily available.
OPTIONAL PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION
with BREAKFAST
Your Home Away from Home
A safe, furnished student accommodation in a secure, student-friendly neighbourhood close to essential amenities. Students stay in shared, air-conditioned rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi, shared bathrooms, kitchen facilities, and comfortable communal spaces for relaxing. A complimentary daily breakfast is included to help you start each day before your clinical placement.
The accommodation also provides convenient access to public transportation, supermarkets, cafés, pharmacies, restaurants, and other local services, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay throughout your elective experience.
ELECTIVES IN ILOILO
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What is an elective placement, and how does it work in the Philippines? An elective placement is a short-term, immersive learning opportunity designed to give students practical experience in their chosen field. In the Philippines, we collaborate with hospitals, clinics, and institutions to offer supervised, hands-on training in real-world settings.
2. Who is eligible to join Electives Asia’s programs abroad? Our programs are open to students and professionals currently enrolled in or pursuing degrees in medicine, nursing, dentistry, midwifery, biomedical science, and diagnostic radiography.
3. How do I apply for an elective placement? To apply, complete our online contact form with the following details: full name, email address, phone number, school name, chosen program, course, year level, preferred duration, group size (if applicable), desired start date, and any questions you may have. You can also request a call for further discussion.
4. Is there an application fee? No, there is no application fee. However, placements are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. To secure your chosen dates, a £200 non-refundable registration fee is required. This fee must be paid within 30 days after submitting your online registration form. Once you confirm your decision to proceed with your elective, our team will send you the registration form link.
5. When should I apply for an elective? We recommend applying at least 6 to 9 months in advance to secure your preferred placement dates. This also gives you enough time to arrange travel documents and book your flights early — helping you save on airfare.
6. How long can I stay for an elective placement? Elective placements typically last 2 to 8 weeks, though the duration can vary depending on your program and schedule. In some cases, a longer stay may be arranged based on availability and approval.
7. What documents do I need to provide? Please prepare and submit the following documents: •Student profile with details of your clinical experience, signed by your school or bearing the official school seal •Certificate of Student Status, diploma, or school transcript with an official seal •Reference or endorsement letter from your school, signed or sealed officially •Valid passport (must be valid for at least six months prior to your arrival) •Vaccination records •Recent headshot photo (taken within the last 3 months) •Signed waiver by you, your school, and a parent/guardian (template available upon request) •Insurance coverage — Medical, Travel, and Indemnity •Visa (if required, depending on your nationality and duration of stay)
8. Can I travel with my family or partner? Yes, you’re welcome to travel with your family or partner. However, please note that non-elective participants are not eligible for Electives Asia accommodation under our program. That said, our team will gladly offer guidance and local recommendations to help your spouse or family members settle comfortably and make the most of their stay while you complete your elective.
9. Do I get paid? No, our elective programs are unpaid and are intended solely for educational and experiential learning. They offer participants the valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in healthcare settings that differ from their home country — particularly within developing communities.
10. Can I do my elective with a group of friends? Absolutely! We welcome group placements and do our best to place friends together — subject to availability. It’s a great way to learn, travel, and experience healthcare abroad as a team. We recommend reaching out early to secure spots for your group.
11. Where will my placement be located? Our elective placements are based in the Philippines, specifically in the province of Iloilo. These locations offer the same high-quality, hands-on learning experiences enjoyed by our past participants — combining professional growth with rich cultural immersion in some of the country’s most welcoming communities.
12. Is the Philippines safe for international students? Yes, the Philippines is generally safe and welcoming for international students. Locals are known for their warmth and hospitality, and our team ensures that you’re well-supported throughout your stay. We also provide a comprehensive safety and orientation briefing upon arrival, covering local customs and travel tips. As with any international experience, we encourage students to stay aware of their surroundings and follow basic safety precautions for a smooth and enjoyable stay.
13. What are the living costs in the Philippines? The cost of living in the Philippines is very affordable, especially for international students. You can expect to spend around £5–£20 per day on meals, transportation, and personal expenses — depending on your lifestyle. This means you can enjoy a comfortable, enriching stay while experiencing the best of Filipino culture at a great value.
14. What is the local culture like in the Philippines? The Philippines is celebrated for its warm hospitality, friendly locals, and vibrant mix of cultures. English is widely spoken, making communication easy and helping international students feel right at home. Filipinos value respect, community, and kindness, and you’ll quickly notice how welcoming and inclusive the environment is. When engaging in professional settings, modest attire and politeness are appreciated — and keeping an open, respectful attitude will make your cultural experience even more rewarding.
15. Are vaccinations required before traveling? We highly recommend that students are up to date with key vaccinations before traveling to the Philippines. These include COVID-19, Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Dengue, Rabies, and Tetanus, as well as malaria prophylaxis if you plan to visit rural areas. Staying protected ensures a safe, worry-free experience throughout your elective and allows you to fully enjoy your time in the Philippines.