1.  Pursuant to the guidelines for the administration of the NCEE in other countries issued by this Office to Philippine Ambassadors/Consul Generals dated June 11, 1986, foreign students had been required to first pass the NCEE before they were issued student visas (9f) in their respective countries of origin.

2.  This previous policy has now undergone review in the light of several existing cultural agreements entered into by the Philippines and other countries.  Moreover, the Inter-Agency Task Force on Foreign Students believes that the Philippines is now ready to allow prospective foreign students with valid visas to take the NCEE in the Philippines, while looking for a school of their choice.

3.  In the light of the foregoing considerations and after consultations with other government offices and agencies concerned, effective June 1993, a foreigner with any valid visa may apply for and take the NCEE in the Philippines.  However, he should subsequently obtain his student visa (9f) in his country of origin.

4.  Immediate dissemination of this Order is requested.

Adopted: 20 Nov. 1992

(Sgd.) ARMAND V. FABELLA
Secretary