Quick Answer: Filipino college students can access over 20 major scholarship programs in 2026, ranging from full-ride government scholarships (DOST-SEI, CHED Merit) to private foundation grants (SM Foundation, Megaworld, Gokongwei Brothers Foundation). Benefits range from partial tuition subsidies to full tuition plus monthly stipends of up to PHP 8,000. Most applications open between February and August each year.
Introduction
Pursuing a college education in the Philippines is a significant investment, and for many Filipino families, scholarships are the bridge between aspiration and opportunity. The good news? There are dozens of scholarship programs available in 2026 — from government-funded initiatives that cover full tuition and living expenses to corporate foundation grants that provide career pathways after graduation.
Whether you are an incoming freshman with stellar grades, a STEM-track student eyeing a science career, or a financially challenged learner seeking support, this comprehensive list covers the top 20 scholarships you should apply for this year. We have organized them by type — government, private foundation, and school-based — so you can quickly find the ones that match your profile.
Remember: many of these scholarships have overlapping timelines, so you can (and should) apply to multiple programs to maximize your chances.
Government Scholarships
1. DOST-SEI Undergraduate Scholarship
The Department of Science and Technology - Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) scholarship is one of the most prestigious and generous government scholarships in the Philippines.
- Eligibility: Filipino citizen; graduating Grade 12 STEM strand student (or top 5% if non-STEM); no prior college units; must pass the DOST-SEI Scholarship Examination
- Benefits: Monthly living stipend of PHP 8,000 (10 months/year); tuition subsidy of up to PHP 40,000/year for private HEIs; book allowance of PHP 5,000/semester; thesis allowance of PHP 10,000
- Deadline: Online application typically opens in October; exam held in February
- How to Apply: Register at science-scholarships.ph and take the national qualifying examination
2. CHED Merit Scholarship Program (CMSP)
The Commission on Higher Education offers two tiers of merit-based scholarships for academically outstanding students.
- Eligibility: Filipino citizen; GWA of 96% or higher for Full Merit (FSSP), 93-95% for Half Merit; combined family income not exceeding PHP 500,000/year
- Benefits: Full PESFA scholars receive up to PHP 120,000/year (including PHP 40,000 for tuition); Half Merit scholars receive proportional benefits; book and connectivity allowance included
- Deadline: Applications typically open May-June; submission deadline around June 20
- How to Apply: Apply through the CHED Regional Office or online via the CHED scholarship portal
3. CHED Tulong Dunong Scholarship
A more accessible CHED program targeting students enrolled in private higher education institutions.
- Eligibility: Filipino citizen enrolled in a private HEI; financial need demonstrated
- Benefits: Grant of PHP 15,000 per academic year covering tuition, school expenses, and living allowance
- Deadline: Check with your school's scholarship office as applications are processed through HEIs
- How to Apply: Coordinate with your enrolled institution's registrar or scholarship coordinator
4. Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES)
Under RA 10931, TES provides direct financial assistance to students in both public and private institutions.
- Eligibility: Filipino students from financially disadvantaged families enrolled in SUCs, LUCs, or private HEIs
- Benefits: Financial subsidy to cover tuition and living expenses for eligible students
- Deadline: Ongoing per academic year
- How to Apply: Enroll in a participating institution and apply through UniFAST
5. OWWA Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP)
The premier scholarship for dependents of Overseas Filipino Workers, administered by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.
- Eligibility: Child or sibling of an active OWWA member; 21 years old or below for incoming freshmen (30 or below for continuing students); must pass the DOST national examination for freshmen
- Benefits: Up to PHP 60,000 per school year for 4-5 year programs
- Deadline: Online applications typically open November 10-28
- How to Apply: Apply at scholarship.owwa.gov.ph
6. OWWA OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP)
A more accessible OWWA program with less stringent requirements than the EDSP.
- Eligibility: Dependent of active OWWA member; passing GWA of at least 80%; family monthly income of USD 600 or below
- Benefits: PHP 10,000 per semester (PHP 20,000 per school year)
- Deadline: Applications open alongside EDSP
- How to Apply: Apply at scholarship.owwa.gov.ph
7. Congressional Migrant Workers Scholarship Program (CMWSP)
Another OWWA-administered program funded through congressional allocations.
- Eligibility: OFW dependents meeting OWWA membership requirements
- Benefits: Financial assistance for tuition and school fees
- Deadline: Announced annually by OWWA regional offices
- How to Apply: Apply through the OWWA Scholarship Portal
Private Foundation Scholarships
8. SM Foundation College Scholarship
One of the most well-known private scholarships in the Philippines, supporting students in business, IT, engineering, and education.
- Eligibility: Incoming freshman; Grade 12 graduate from public school (or private school with DepEd voucher); GWA of at least 92%; total household income not exceeding PHP 250,000/year
- Benefits: Full tuition fee; monthly allowance; part-time job opportunities during breaks at SM; exclusive job offers with the SM group upon graduation
- Deadline: Application period typically February 1 - March 31
- How to Apply: Submit application at sm-foundation.org
9. Megaworld Foundation Scholarship
Operating for over two decades, Megaworld Foundation currently supports 1,000 scholars across 76 partner schools nationwide.
- Eligibility: Incoming 1st to 3rd year college student; residing near a Megaworld township; parents' combined gross annual income not exceeding PHP 400,000; GWA of at least 85% with no grade below 80%
- Benefits: Full tuition fee; monthly allowances via Foundation-issued ATM card; career opportunities within Megaworld and its subsidiaries after graduation
- Deadline: Applications typically open in April
- How to Apply: Email scholarship.megfoundation@megaworldcorp.com or visit megaworldfoundation.com
10. Gokongwei Brothers Foundation (GBF) STEM Scholarship
Targeted at STEM students, this scholarship from the JG Summit conglomerate provides generous financial support and career pathways.
- Eligibility: Enrolled in a GBF priority STEM course; GWA of at least 85% (2.0 equivalent); incoming freshmen must be in top 10% of SHS batch; demonstrated financial need
- Benefits: PHP 85,000 per academic year for tuition and educational expenses; development programs; internship opportunities at Gokongwei Group companies; employment opportunities upon graduation
- Deadline: Varies; check the GBF website
- How to Apply: Online application at gokongweibrothersfoundation.org
11. Aboitiz Future Leaders Scholarship
Established in 2003, this program develops future leaders through comprehensive financial and values-driven formation.
- Eligibility: Sophomore student at a partner university; GWA of at least 88%; no failing or incomplete grades
- Benefits: Full tuition fees; monthly allowance; board exam review; performance-based incentives; leadership training and internship opportunities within the Aboitiz Group
- Deadline: Applications typically open August 1, deadline September 1; scholars announced September 30
- How to Apply: Apply through partner universities or the Aboitiz Foundation website
12. Ayala Foundation U-Go Scholar Grant
A partnership between Ayala Foundation and U-GO, a global nonprofit supporting higher education for talented young women. Over 1,000 scholars have been supported since 2023.
- Eligibility: Female Filipino citizen; enrolled in a public or state university; 1st to 3rd year (or 4th year in 5-year courses); GWA of at least 85%; total annual family income below PHP 400,000
- Benefits: PHP 40,000 per year until course completion
- Deadline: Applications typically open May 5, closing June 6
- How to Apply: Apply through ayalafoundation.org
13. Jollibee Group Foundation Scholarship
The Jollibee Group Foundation provides educational assistance to deserving students pursuing food service and business-related courses.
- Eligibility: Filipino student enrolled in food service, hospitality, or business courses; demonstrated financial need
- Benefits: Tuition assistance and allowances; OJT opportunities within Jollibee Group
- Deadline: Announced annually
- How to Apply: Check jollibeegroup.com for current openings
14. San Miguel Foundation Scholarship
San Miguel Corporation's foundation arm supports students in engineering, agriculture, and business-related courses.
- Eligibility: Academically deserving and financially challenged students; enrolled in partner universities
- Benefits: Tuition fee coverage and allowances
- Deadline: Varies by partner school
- How to Apply: Apply through partner university scholarship offices
School-Based Scholarships
15. University of the Philippines (UP) Socialized Tuition
UP implements a socialized tuition and financial assistance program (STFAP) that adjusts fees based on family income.
- Eligibility: Admitted UP students classified under income brackets
- Benefits: Ranges from full free tuition to partial subsidies; stipend for lowest income brackets
- How to Apply: Automatically assessed upon admission; submit financial documents to the Office of Scholarships and Financial Assistance
16. Ateneo de Manila University Financial Aid
Ateneo offers comprehensive financial aid packages for admitted students with demonstrated need.
- Eligibility: Admitted Ateneo students with financial need
- Benefits: Tuition discounts ranging from 20% to 100%; stipend programs for qualifying students
- How to Apply: Apply through the Ateneo Scholarships and Financial Aid Office
17. De La Salle University Scholarship Programs
DLSU offers academic scholarships, athletic scholarships, and need-based financial aid.
- Eligibility: Varies by program — academic scholarships require high entrance exam scores; financial aid requires income documentation
- Benefits: Partial to full tuition coverage depending on the grant type
- How to Apply: Apply during the DLSU admission process
18. UST Scholarship Programs
The University of Santo Tomas offers entrance scholarships, academic scholarships, and Pag-asa grants.
- Eligibility: High USTET scores for entrance scholarships; maintaining Dean's List status for academic scholarships
- Benefits: 25% to 100% tuition discounts
- How to Apply: Automatically assessed based on entrance exam or semester GPA
LGU and Special Scholarships
19. City/Municipal Government Scholarships
Most local government units in the Philippines offer scholarship programs for their constituents.
- Eligibility: Resident of the city or municipality; income and GWA requirements vary by LGU
- Benefits: Typically PHP 5,000 to PHP 30,000 per semester
- How to Apply: Visit your local city hall or municipal scholarship office. Major cities like Manila, Quezon City, Cebu City, and Davao City all maintain active programs
20. DOLE/TESDA Skills Training Scholarships
For students pursuing technical-vocational education, TESDA offers training scholarships through the Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP).
- Eligibility: Filipino citizen; at least 18 years old; willing to undergo skills assessment
- Benefits: Free training in priority courses; assessment and certification fees covered
- How to Apply: Visit the nearest TESDA office or apply at tesda.gov.ph
Scholarship Comparison Table
| Scholarship | Type | Annual Benefit | GWA Requirement | Income Limit | Application Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DOST-SEI | Government | ~PHP 120,000+ | Top exam scorers | None | Oct-Nov |
| CHED Full Merit (FSSP) | Government | Up to PHP 120,000 | 96%+ | PHP 500,000 | May-Jun |
| CHED Half Merit | Government | Up to PHP 60,000 | 93-95% | PHP 500,000 | May-Jun |
| OWWA EDSP | Government | PHP 60,000 | Exam-based | OFW dependent | Nov |
| OWWA ODSP | Government | PHP 20,000 | 80%+ | USD 600/mo | Nov |
| SM Foundation | Private | Full tuition + allowance | 92%+ | PHP 250,000 | Feb-Mar |
| Megaworld Foundation | Private | Full tuition + allowance | 85%+ | PHP 400,000 | Apr |
| GBF STEM | Private | PHP 85,000 | 85%+ (top 10%) | Need-based | Varies |
| Aboitiz Foundation | Private | Full tuition + allowance | 88%+ | Need-based | Aug-Sep |
| Ayala U-Go (Women) | Private | PHP 40,000 | 85%+ | PHP 400,000 | May-Jun |
| TES (RA 10931) | Government | Varies | None | Need-based | Ongoing |
| LGU Scholarships | Government | PHP 10,000-60,000 | Varies | Varies | Varies |
Tips for Maximizing Your Scholarship Applications
- Apply to multiple programs. There is no rule against holding applications at several scholarship providers simultaneously. Cast a wide net.
- Prepare documents early. Gather your PSA birth certificate, Form 137/SF10, income tax returns, barangay clearance, and school records at least two months before deadlines.
- Watch for announcement dates. Follow scholarship providers on Facebook and bookmark their official websites. Many programs have very short application windows.
- Maintain your grades. Almost every scholarship requires a minimum GWA. Even need-based grants look at academic performance as a tiebreaker.
- Write a compelling personal statement. For scholarships that require essays, focus on your story, your goals, and how the scholarship will help you create impact — not just that you need money.
- Leverage your school's guidance office. They often have information about local and school-specific scholarships that are not widely advertised.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hold multiple scholarships at the same time?
It depends on the terms of each scholarship. Some government scholarships like DOST-SEI prohibit you from receiving other government scholarships simultaneously. However, you can usually combine a government scholarship with a private foundation grant. Always read the terms and disclose all grants to avoid complications.
What if my GWA does not meet the requirement?
Look into need-based scholarships like TES, OWWA ODSP, or LGU grants, which have lower or no GWA requirements. Some school-based financial aid programs also prioritize financial need over academic standing.
Are scholarships only for incoming freshmen?
No. Many scholarships accept continuing students. The Megaworld Foundation accepts up to 3rd-year students, the Aboitiz scholarship specifically targets sophomores, and most CHED and DOST scholarships allow continuing students who meet the criteria.
Do I need to be from a public school to qualify?
Not necessarily. While some scholarships like SM Foundation prefer public school graduates, many are open to all. DOST-SEI, CHED Merit, and most private foundation scholarships accept applicants from both public and private schools.
What happens if I lose my scholarship?
Most scholarships have retention requirements — usually maintaining a minimum GWA and not incurring disciplinary actions. If you fall below the requirement, you may be placed on probationary status for one semester. Repeated failure to meet standards results in revocation.
Is the DOST scholarship only for students taking science courses?
Yes, the DOST-SEI scholarship requires enrollment in priority S&T courses identified by DOST. These include engineering, natural sciences, mathematics, IT, and allied health sciences. The complete list is available on the DOST-SEI website.
How do I find LGU scholarships in my area?
Visit your city or municipal hall and ask for the scholarship division. You can also check your LGU's official Facebook page or website. Cities like Quezon City, Makati, and Pasig have well-funded programs.
Are there scholarships specifically for women?
Yes. The Ayala Foundation U-Go Scholar Grant specifically supports female Filipino students at state universities, providing PHP 40,000 per year.
Scholarships can make the difference between dropping out and graduating. Start your search early, prepare your documents, and apply to as many programs as you qualify for. Use SchoolFinderPH to find schools near you and explore which institutions are covered by these scholarship programs.