The UPCAT is one of the most unpredictable entrance exams, and every year, thousands of students wonder what topics they should focus on. To give you a real, unfiltered look, we’ve compiled firsthand accounts from test-takers who took the UPCAT 2025. By analyzing discussions on different online student communities, we've created a detailed breakdown of the exam coverage.
If you're preparing for the UPCAT 2026, this guide is your go-to resource to help you study smarter, not just harder.
🧮 Mathematics
According to most test takers from 2024, the math subtest focused heavily on basic and intermediate algebra and geometry, with less emphasis on advanced statistics and trigonometry. The consensus was to master the fundamentals. As one netizen put it, "Mas marami ang geometry... algebra... sequences... exponential, interest, permutations." Another mentioned that the test had "word problems, sequences (arithmetic & geometric), geometry theorems… basic algebra."
Key themes to master:
* Algebra: Focus on linear and quadratic equations, inequalities, exponents, and functions.
* Sequences and Patterns: Practice arithmetic and geometric progressions.
* Geometry: Review areas, volumes, and common theorems, especially for circles.
* Trigonometry: Expect basic concepts like sin, cos, and tan in right triangles.
* Statistics: Minimal questions, usually involving interpreting basic graphs and charts.
🔬 Science
The coverage in the Science section was noted to be varied, with some test booklets being heavier on certain topics than others. As one student shared, "Some booklets heavy on bio/gen-sci, others more chem & physics." The key advice was to review fundamentals across all branches.
Key topics from test-takers:
* Biology: Photosynthesis, cellular respiration, organ systems, classification, and genetics were frequently mentioned.
* Chemistry: Focus on basic stoichiometry, periodic trends, electron configuration, acid-base, and simple reactions.
* Physics & General Science: Basic concepts like circuits, forces, simple machines, and motion appeared often. Don’t expect deep, advanced questions.
* Earth Science & Astronomy: Basic knowledge of earth layers, rocks, weather, plate tectonics, and the solar system was also noted.
📚 Reading Comprehension & Language Proficiency
Many test takers agreed that the combined Reading Comprehension and Language Proficiency section was one of the largest and most time-pressured parts of the exam. As one student put it, "Hardest in # of items: reading comprehension... blocks of text, sometimes one or more pages."
The strategy that was most recommended was to read the questions first and then skim the passage to find the answers. The Language Proficiency section tested grammar, vocabulary, sentence correction, and correct Filipino usage as part of the combined module.
Key strategies to practice:
* Time Management: Develop a strategy to handle long passages without getting bogged down.
* Skimming and Scanning: Practice finding specific details or the main idea quickly.
* Grammar & Vocabulary: Review common errors and build your vocabulary in both English and Filipino.
💡 Overall Insights & Advice from Test-Takers
The feedback from last year's exam is clear: coverage varies, so the safest bet is to master the fundamentals across all subjects. Many reported math to be the most difficult in content, while reading comprehension had the most questions and tightest time. Science is mostly conceptual and application-based, not heavily calculation-driven. The best way to prepare is to practice time-pressure strategies, especially for reading comprehension and math.
How Hiraya Kart Helps: The insights from the UPCAT 2024 are exactly what we used to update our UPCAT reviewer. Our extensive practice problems are designed to cover the specific topics and test-taking strategies that students found most crucial. We provide step-by-step solutions for complex math problems and detailed explanations for conceptual science questions, ensuring you understand the "why" behind every answer. Our reviewer helps you build a strong foundation, manage your time effectively, and prepare for the unpredictable nature of the exam.
Ready to tackle the next UPCAT with confidence? Make every study session count. Check out the Hiraya Kart UPCAT Reviewer today and prepare for your dream of becoming an Iskolar ng Bayan!
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Disclaimer: This article is based on firsthand accounts and recollections from students who took the UPCAT in 2025, gathered from public online forums and student communities. The information provided here is for review and planning purposes only and is not official exam coverage from the University of the Philippines. The UPCAT can vary each year and even between test booklets. We highly recommend that you use this guide to make your study plan, but still prepare for all subjects comprehensively.
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