In a historic milestone for Philippine basic education, the Department of Education – National Capital Region (DepEd NCR), in partnership with the University of the Philippines National Institute for Science and Mathematics Education Development (UP NISMED), successfully launched the first-ever Unified Science High School Admission Test (USHAT) on 7 March 2026. The initiative aims to identify incoming Grade 7 learners with strong aptitude in Science and Mathematics for admission to the region’s specialized public science high schools.
The computer-based examination gathered over 8,000 Grade 6 learners across 18 testing centers. This large-scale administration reflected a unified effort to streamline admissions into science high schools in Metro Manila, replacing the previously fragmented system of school-based entrance examinations with a single, standardized assessment.
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| Hundreds of incoming Grade 7 learners settled into their seats ahead of the start of the USHAT 2026. |
UP NISMED spearheaded the development of the test under the leadership of its Director, Dr. Sheryl Lyn C. Monterola. Its academic team developed the Science, Mathematics, and Abstract Reasoning components to ensure alignment with competencies expected from incoming science high school learners. The Institute also collaborated with teachers from the UP Integrated School in developing the Language component of the test. In addition, UP NISMED worked with external programmers to develop a computer-based testing platform. The system was deployed through a local area network in each testing room, ensuring secure and reliable test delivery without reliance on internet connectivity.
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| Science high school hopefuls hurdle the final part of the USHAT 2026, the abstract reasoning subtest. |
By establishing a unified and standardized gateway to science high schools, the initiative reflects a shared commitment to strengthening equity, efficiency, and excellence in STEM education. As the first cohort of USHAT 2026 passers moves forward, this milestone marks more than the launch of a new admission system. It signals the beginning of a more coherent and inclusive pathway for future STEM professionals, one that sets a stronger and fairer standard for STEM education in the country.
To all USHAT 2026 passers, UP NISMED extends its warm congratulations!
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