Each academic division at PLM has its own admission policy and retention criteria for prospective students. Admission to one academic division does not guarantee admission to another. Except for the Professional schools, Graduate schools and Distance learning programs, all students should satisfy specific proof of Manila residency, or other supporting documents to secure eligibility to take the PLM Admission Test as required by the Undergraduate schools.

In order to ensure one's admission to a specific degree program, a student's overall grade on the first year of college work, or the cumulative grade point average on all previous college work attempted, should fall within the prescribed GWA of the particular college or school to which the student intends to apply. Once admitted at a particular college or school, the student is expected to achieve the required GWA to ensure retention in the degree program. Academic screening continues from admission until graduation.