Top Scholarships for Philippine College Students

Discover detailed scholarships for Philippine students, from government aid to private foundations. Learn eligibility, benefits, and application steps.

Achieving your dreams of higher education is within reach, even with financial challenges. Explore this in-depth guide to scholarships in the Philippines, covering government programs, private foundations, and university-specific opportunities.

Government Scholarships for College Students

The Philippine government offers extensive scholarship programs to ensure access to quality education.

1. CHED Merit Scholarship Program (CMSP)

This merit-based scholarship supports academically excellent students.

• Eligibility:
  • 93% average for partial scholarship.
  • 96% average for full scholarship.
• Benefits:
  • Covers tuition, book allowances, and a stipend for living expenses.
• Application Process: Visit your regional CHED office for requirements.
• Contact: Check CHED Official Website for updates.

2. Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES)

A need-based program for families on the DSWD’s Listahanan 2.0.

• Eligibility: Must be listed in the government’s database of disadvantaged households.
• Benefits: Tuition subsidies for both private and public colleges.

3. Tulong Dunong

Designed for students from low-income families.

• Eligibility: Annual family income under ₱400,000.
• Benefits: ₱7,500 per semester or ₱15,000 annually.

Scholarships for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST-SEI) offers financial assistance to future innovators.

DOST-SEI Scholarship

• Eligibility:
  • STEM students or non-STEM students ranking in the top 5% of their class.
• Benefits:
  • Up to ₱40,000 annually for tuition and ₱8,000 monthly stipend.
• Application Details:
  • Access the SEI E-Scholarship Portal for online applications.
• Contact: Call SEI at (02) 8830-8876.

Scholarships for OFW Families

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) provides valuable support to children of OFWs.

Programs Available:

1. Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP)
   • ₱60,000 annually for dependents excelling in DOST exams.
2. OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP)
   • ₱20,000 annually for dependents of OFWs earning ≤ $600 per month.
3. Education and Livelihood Assistance Program (ELAP)
   • ₱20,000 annual support for firstborn children of deceased OFWs.

• Contact: Visit the OWWA Official Website or call Hotline 1348.

Scholarships from Private Foundations

Private organizations in the Philippines provide generous scholarships with additional perks like internships and career opportunities.

1. Ayala Foundation

• For: Women pursuing college degrees.
• Benefits: Tuition and allowances.
• Contact: Visit Ayala Foundation.

2. SM Foundation

• Eligibility: 92% academic average or higher.
• Benefits: Full tuition, monthly allowance, and part-time job opportunities.
• Contact: Check the SM Foundation Scholarship Portal.

3. Aboitiz Foundation

• Eligibility: Minimum of 88% academic average.
• Benefits: Tuition, stipends, and rewards for academic achievements.
• Contact: Visit Aboitiz Foundation.

4. LANDBANK Scholarship

• For: Children of farmers and fishermen.
• Benefits: Tuition and allowance for agriculture-related courses.
• Contact: Visit LANDBANK Scholarship Program.

University-Specific Scholarships

Top universities in the Philippines also offer scholarships tailored to high-achieving or financially needy students.

1. Ateneo de Manila University

• Programs:
  • Freshman Merit Scholarship: Free tuition + ₱50,000 allowance.
  • Director’s List: ₱100,000 grant for top-ranking applicants.
• Contact: Visit Ateneo Scholarships.

2. De La Salle University (DLSU)

• Programs:
  • Archer Achiever Scholarship: Full waiver of tuition for top entrance scorers.
  • Vaugirard Scholarship: Covers tuition and allowances for public high school graduates.
• Contact: Visit DLSU Scholarships.

3. University of Santo Tomas (UST)

• Programs:
  • Academic and financial aid scholarships.
  • Talent-based scholarships for arts and sports.
• Contact: Visit UST Office for Student Affairs.

Pro Tips for Scholarship Applications

1. Start Early: Research options and gather documents well in advance.
2. Build a Strong Profile: Highlight academic achievements and extracurricular activities.

Stay Connected: Use reliable internet services to keep up with deadlines and submit applications online.