Top 15 Scholarships in the Philippines: Guide & Benefits

Education is one of the most powerful tools for changing lives, but for many Filipinos, financial challenges stand in the way.

Thankfully, there are government agencies, universities, corporations, and international organizations offering scholarship programs to help students pursue their dreams without the heavy cost burden.

Explore 15 of the most recognized scholarships in the Philippines today—including what they offer, steps on how to apply, tips to improve your chances, and reliable sources for official updates.

Disclaimer:

This list was curated based on publicly available information as of the latest update.

Criteria used in ranking include:

• Coverage and Reach: Number of students served and nationwide availability.
• Support and Benefits: Tuition, allowances, and additional perks.
• Sustainability and Track Record: Years of continuous operation and proven alumni success.
• Alignment with National Priorities: Focus areas that match the country’s development goals.
• Accessibility: Clear requirements and fair opportunity for various applicants.

We are not affiliated with any of these programs and do not process applications on their behalf.
All information is shared for awareness and discussion purposes only.
Applicants should always check official sources for the latest details.

CHED Scholarship Program (CSP)

About:
The Commission on Higher Education’s flagship program for academically deserving Filipino students in both private and public colleges.

Benefits:

• Full or partial tuition coverage
• Stipend and book allowance

How to Apply:

1. Visit your CHED regional office or its website.
2. Prepare documents: PSA birth certificate, report card, income proof, and good moral certificate.
3. Submit online or via the CHED regional office.

Tips:

• Apply early; slots are limited per region.
• Keep grades consistently high to retain benefits.

FAQ:
Q: Can current college students apply?
A: Yes, if they still have remaining years within the program’s coverage.

Official Sources:

• Website: ched.gov.ph
• Facebook: CHED Philippines

DOST-SEI Science and Technology Undergraduate Scholarship

About:
For students in STEM fields, funded by the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute.

Benefits:

• Full tuition and fees
• Monthly stipend
• Book, uniform, and thesis allowance

How to Apply:

1. Register via the DOST-SEI portal.
2. Submit grades, proof of citizenship, and a medical certificate.
3. Pass the qualifying exam.

Tips:

• Review math and science subjects thoroughly.
• Secure recommendations from science teachers.

FAQ:
Q: Is there a service obligation?
A: Yes, you must work in the Philippines after graduation.

Official Sources:

• Website: science-scholarships.ph
• Facebook: DOST-SEI

ADB–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP)

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About:
Supports graduate studies in development-related fields, hosted by partner universities including those in the Philippines.

Benefits:

• Full tuition
• Monthly allowance
• Travel and research grant

How to Apply:

1. Apply to a partner university.
2. Submit proof of work experience, academic records, and intent for ADB-JSP.

Tips:

• Highlight leadership and community involvement in your application.

FAQ:
Q: Is work experience required?
A: Yes, typically at least two years in a relevant field.

Official Sources:

• Website: adb.org/adb-japan-scholarship-program

University of the Philippines (UP) Scholarships

About:
Merit-based and need-based aid available under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act.

Benefits:

• Tuition-free education
• Living and book allowances for select programs

How to Apply:

1. Apply for UP admission.
2. Submit scholarship forms via the Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA).

Tips:

• Keep a high GWA to remain eligible.

FAQ:
Q: Can multiple UP scholarships be combined?
A: Yes, but some have restrictions.

Official Sources:

• Website: up.edu.ph
• OSFA: ovcsa.upd.edu.ph/student-services/osg/

De La Salle University (DLSU) Scholarships

About:
Merit, cultural, and corporate-sponsored scholarships for exceptional students.

Benefits:

• Tuition coverage
• Living stipends for some programs

How to Apply:

1. Indicate interest during DLSU application.
2. Submit records, recommendations, and portfolio (if applicable).

Tips:

• Write a compelling personal essay.

FAQ:
Q: Is the DLSU CAT required?
A: Yes, for most scholarships.

Official Sources:

• Website: dlsu.edu.ph/scholarships
• Facebook: DLSU

Ateneo de Manila University Scholarships

About:
Emphasis on leadership, service, and academics.

Benefits:

• Tuition assistance
• Book and living allowances

How to Apply:

1. Submit application after Ateneo admission.
2. Provide proof of need and achievements.

Tips:

• Highlight service work in your application.

FAQ:
Q: Is there a grade requirement?
A: Yes, you must meet the QPI standard.

Official Sources:

• Website: ateneo.edu
• Facebook: Ateneo de Manila University

Ayala Foundation Scholarship

About:
Corporate-backed support for promising students with leadership potential.

Benefits:

• Tuition coverage
• Internship opportunities

How to Apply:

1. Watch for announcements on the Ayala Foundation site.
2. Submit essays and recommendation letters.

Tips:

• Show a track record of leadership roles.

FAQ:
Q: Are graduate students eligible?
A: Mostly for undergraduates.

Official Sources:

• Website: ayalafoundation.org
• Facebook: Ayala Foundation

SM Foundation Scholarship

About:
Focuses on students in business, IT, and engineering.

Benefits:

• Full tuition
• Monthly allowance

How to Apply:

1. Apply through the SM Foundation portal.
2. Submit grades, proof of income, and barangay clearance.

Tips:

• Strong academic record improves approval chances.

FAQ:
Q: Is employment in SM required after graduation?
A: No, but job opportunities are available.

Official Sources:

• Website: sm-foundation.org
• Facebook: SM Foundation

San Miguel Foundation Scholarship

About:
A corporate-funded program focused on supporting students in STEM and technical-vocational fields that match industry needs.

Benefits:

• Full or partial tuition coverage
• Monthly stipend
• Internship and employment priority within San Miguel Corporation

How to Apply:

1. Watch for announcements on the San Miguel Foundation website or through partner schools.
2. Prepare academic records, proof of financial need, and a personal statement.
3. Submit via their online portal or through designated partner institutions.

Tips:

• Tailor your application to show skills relevant to San Miguel’s industries (engineering, food science, etc.).
• Highlight hands-on project experience.

FAQ:
Q: Is the program available nationwide?
A: It is generally available, but preference may be given to students in areas where San Miguel operates.

Official Sources:

• Website: sanmiguel.com.ph
• Facebook: San Miguel Corporation

PAGCOR Scholarship

About:
Funded by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation to support underprivileged but deserving students.

Benefits:

• Tuition coverage
• Monthly living allowance

How to Apply:

1. Coordinate with PAGCOR’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) office or partner schools.
2. Submit proof of indigency, academic records, and barangay certification.

Tips:

• Prepare complete indigency documents to speed up verification.
• If applying through a school, meet their internal deadlines as well.

FAQ:
Q: Are there academic requirements to maintain the scholarship?
A: Yes, maintaining a passing average or higher is usually required.

Official Sources:

• Website: pagcor.ph
• Facebook: PAGCOR

Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) Scholarship

About:
Supports dependents of veterans and active members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Benefits:

• Tuition assistance
• Book allowance and sometimes uniform allowance

How to Apply:

1. Get the application form from the nearest PVAO office or website.
2. Submit proof of relationship to the veteran, academic records, and proof of enrollment.

Tips:

• Verification may take time, so apply early.
• Keep copies of your veteran-relative’s military service records.

FAQ:
Q: Can I study in a private school?
A: Yes, as long as it is CHED-recognized.

Official Sources:

• Website: pvao.gov.ph
• Facebook: PVAO

Peace Corps Alumni Foundation for Philippine Development (PCAFPD) Scholarship

About:
Funded by former Peace Corps volunteers, this program supports students committed to community development.

Benefits:

• Tuition coverage
• Funding for community projects

How to Apply:

1. Download the form from the PCAFPD website.
2. Submit an essay on your leadership and service work, plus academic records and proof of need.

Tips:

• Focus your essay on how your education will benefit your community.
• Include concrete examples of past community projects.

FAQ:
Q: Is there a service requirement after graduation?
A: Yes, you are expected to contribute to local development.

Official Sources:

• Website: rpcvphilippines.org
• Facebook: PCAFPD

National University (NU) Scholarships

About:
Offers both merit-based and need-based scholarships to new and continuing students.

Benefits:

• Tuition coverage
• Stipend for select programs

How to Apply:

1. Indicate interest during NU admission.
2. Submit grades and proof of financial status.

Tips:

• Participate in academic or sports competitions to strengthen your application.
• Keep grades consistently high to retain the scholarship.

FAQ:
Q: Are transferees eligible?
A: Yes, but subject to assessment by the scholarship committee.

Official Sources:

• Website: national-u.edu.ph
• Facebook: National University

Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES)

About:
A government grant under the Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST) for financially challenged students.

Benefits:

• Up to ₱60,000 per school year for tuition and other expenses

How to Apply:

1. Coordinate with your school’s financial aid office.
2. Submit proof of enrollment and proof of indigency.

Tips:

• Check if your school is TES-eligible before applying.
• Submit documents before the semester starts to avoid delays.

FAQ:
Q: Can TES be combined with other scholarships?
A: Yes, unless the other scholarship prohibits it.

Official Sources:

• Website: unifast.gov.ph
• Facebook: UniFAST

Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Scholarship

About:
Supports dependents of active OWWA-member OFWs pursuing tertiary education.

Benefits:

• Tuition coverage
• Living allowance

How to Apply:

1. Apply via the nearest OWWA Regional Office or through their website.
2. Submit proof of OFW membership, grades, and proof of relationship.

Tips:

• Apply at the start of the school year; slots fill quickly.
• Keep your OFW parent/guardian’s membership active.

FAQ:
Q: Is there a grade requirement?
A: Yes, usually at least 85% average.

Official Sources:

• Website: owwa.gov.ph
• Facebook: OWWA Official

Final Thoughts

Scholarships are not just financial help — they’re opportunities to open doors that might otherwise stay closed.
Whether your goal is to study in a prestigious local university, join a STEM-focused track, or gain international training, there’s a scholarship here for you.
Prepare your documents early, tell your story well, and meet deadlines.

The right scholarship could be your bridge to a brighter future.