Teaching, research and community service are the main thrusts of De La Salle University-Manila. Its tradition of excellence has been acknowledged by the Philippine Commission on Higher Education (CHED) with the conferment of ten (10) Centers of Excellence and several Centers of Development awards.

Recently , DLSU-Manila has also been recognized as one of the best universities in the world, and within Asia at the start of the new millennium.

In addition, the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU) awarded De La Salle University-Manila Level IV status. DLSU-Manila is the first university to be given the highest accreditation.

Imbued with the traditions of Religio, Mores and Cultura, students are trained to be Christian achievers for God and country. Upon leaving the University, they join the professional world secure in the knowledge that they possess the needed intellectual flexibility combined with refined skills. These are top factors for consideration in the job market and post-graduate studies.

DLSU-Manila welcomes high school graduates, college transferees, second undergraduate degree applicants and postgraduate degree applicants. The University is accessible to high-achieving students despite financial incapacity.