The PESFA Scholarship, initiated by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in the Philippines, aims to provide financial assistance to students enrolled in technical-vocational education and training (TVET) programs at private institutions.
This program targets marginalized students from low-income families who cannot afford the cost of technical education.
Through this scheme, students receive free tuition, training materials, a monthly stipend, health and accident insurance, and job referral assistance upon graduation.
Applicants must be Filipino citizens, at least 15 years old, have completed at least a 6th-grade education, and belong to a low-income family with an annual income not exceeding Php 120,000.00.
They must also pass a qualification exam and submit required documents to TESDA.
If you meet these criteria, the Scholarship can be a valuable opportunity to pursue technical education and improve your career prospects.
What is the PESFA Scholarship?
PESFA stands for Private Education Student Financial Assistance.
It’s a program initiated by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in the Philippines.
The aim is to provide financial assistance to students enrolled in technical-vocational education and training (TVET) programs at private institutions.
This program helps marginalized students who cannot afford the cost of technical education.
Additionally, it supports private institutions by providing a steady flow of enrollees for their courses.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this Scholarship, applicants must meet specific criteria.
Basic Requirements
- Must be a Filipino citizen
- At least 15 years old at the time of enrollment
- Must have completed at least a 6th-grade education
- Accepted for enrollment in a TESDA-registered TVET program
- Not a recipient of any other scholarship program
Specific Requirements
- Belong to a low-income family with an annual income not exceeding Php 120,000.00
- Pass the qualification exam conducted by a TESDA-approved testing center
- Submit all required documents
Application Process
The Scholarship by TESDA offers several modes of application to make it accessible for everyone. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
1. Barangay Listing of Prospective Beneficiaries
Step 1: Contact Your Barangay Chairman
- Reach out to your Barangay Chairman or the designated representative.
- Inquire about the Barangay Skills Need Survey (BSNS) Form 1.
Step 2: Complete the BSNS Form 1
- Fill out the BSNS Form 1, providing accurate details about the skills training you need.
Step 3: Submission
- Ensure your Barangay Chairman submits the completed list of prospective beneficiaries to the TESDA Regional/Provincial Office.
- This list should be inclusive and indicate the specific skills training needed by each prospective beneficiary.
Step 4: Follow-Up
- Check with your Barangay Chairman or TESDA Regional/Provincial Office for updates on your application status.
2. Online Scholarship Application
Step 1: Visit the TESDA Website
Step 2: Register and Log In
- If you don’t have an account, register by providing the necessary personal information.
- Log in to your account.
Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form
- Complete the online application form with accurate details about your personal information, educational background, and desired training program.
Step 4: Submit Required Documents
- Upload the necessary documents, including your high school report card/diploma, NCAE or YP4SC result, and proof of family income.
Step 5: Submit the Application
- Review your application to ensure all information is correct and all documents are uploaded.
- Submit your application online.
Step 6: Confirmation
- Wait for a confirmation email or message from TESDA regarding the status of your application.
3. Walk-in Application
Step 1: Choose the Application Location
- Decide where you want to apply: TESDA Central Office, Regional Office, Provincial Offices, or directly at the Technical Vocational Institutions (TVIs).
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
- Prepare the necessary documents, including:
- Accomplished application form
- Two 2×2 ID photos
- Birth certificate or any valid government-issued ID
- High school report card or transcript of records
- Certificate of good moral character
- Certificate of indigency (issued by the Barangay captain)
- Certification of acceptance from the school
Step 3: Visit the Office or Institution
- Go to the chosen TESDA office or TVI.
- Submit your application form and required documents.
Step 4: Interview and Assessment
- You may be required to attend an interview or take a qualification exam.
- Participate in any required assessments.
Step 5: Verification and Approval
- The TESDA office or TVI will verify your documents and eligibility.
- The list of qualified beneficiaries will be reported to the Provincial Office for final verification and approval.
Step 6: Enrollment
- Once approved, you will receive instructions on how to proceed with your enrollment in the training program.
Scholarship Benefits
PESFA scholars enjoy numerous benefits designed to support their education and future employment.
1. Free Training and School Fees
The scholarship covers tuition and other school fees, removing a significant financial burden from students and their families.
2. Training Materials and Supplies
Scholars receive the necessary training materials and supplies so that they have all the tools needed for their courses.
3. Monthly Stipend
A monthly stipend is provided for living expenses. This amount varies by region, generally ranging from Php 2,500 to Php 3,500.
4. Health and Accident Insurance
PESFA scholars are covered by health and accident insurance, giving them peace of mind during their studies.
5. Job Referral Assistance
After graduation, scholars receive job referral assistance, helping them find employment in their field of study.
6. Mandatory Competency Assessment
Upon completing their courses, grantees must undergo a competency assessment.
This assessment determines if they are eligible for certification and a National Certificate from TESDA.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much is the monthly stipend for PESFA scholars?
The stipend varies by region, generally ranging from Php 2,500 to Php 3,500.
2. Can PESFA scholars transfer to another school?
Yes, as long as the new school is a TESDA-registered TVET program.
3. Can PESFA scholars work while studying?
Yes, scholars may work while studying as long as it does not interfere with their studies.
4. How long does the Scholarship program last?
The scholarship covers the entire duration of the TVET program, which usually ranges from six months to two years.
Recent Updates
Barista NCII Farm Immersion Experience
Barista NC II PESFA scholars embarked on a coffee farm immersion to gain insights into the coffee industry, processing, and market. They visited local coffee farms in Davao del Sur, experiencing firsthand the practices and flavors that make the region’s coffees renowned. The immersive learning opportunity, made possible by TESDA’s PESFA scholarship, aims to equip aspiring baristas with a deeper understanding of coffee production and appreciation for the efforts of coffee farmers.
In collaboration with various Technical Vocational Institutes in the province, TESDA’s Davao Occidental Provincial Office disbursed the Training Support Fund to over 200 graduates of programs like Driving NC II, Food and Beverage Services NC II, Shielded Metal Arc Welding NC I and NC II, Carpentry NC II, and Hydraulic Excavator NC II. The beneficiaries completed their training under different scholarship programs, including TWSP, TTSP, DOTR, and PESFA, enhancing their skills for the workforce.
Conclusion
The PESFA Scholarship offers a valuable opportunity for students facing financial challenges to pursue technical education.
By providing financial support and comprehensive benefits, PESFA helps students achieve their educational and career goals.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, consider applying for this Scholarship to take the next step towards a brighter future.
For more information, visit the TESDA website or contact your local TESDA office.