Pursuing higher education in the Philippines can be financially challenging, but numerous online scholarships are available to help students achieve their academic dreams. From government-funded programs to private foundation grants, these scholarships provide financial assistance, stipends, and other benefits.
This guide explores the best online scholarships for college students in the Philippines, including eligibility requirements, benefits, and application processes.
1. Government-Funded Scholarships
A. CHED Scholarship Programs
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) offers financial aid to students from low-income families, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and dependents of solo parents.
1. CHED Merit Scholarship Program (CMSP)
- Benefits:
- Full or partial tuition coverage
- Book and connectivity allowance
- Monthly stipend
- Eligibility:
- Minimum grade average: 93% (partial) or 96% (full)
- Must enroll in a CHED-priority program
- How to Apply:
- Visit your regional CHED office or check the CHED website.
2. Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES)
- Benefits:
- Tuition subsidy for private or state universities
- Eligibility:
- Must be listed in DSWD’s Listahanan 2.0 (low-income households)
- Application:
- Apply via UniFAST.
3. Tulong Dunong Program
- Benefits:
- ₱7,500 per semester (₱15,000 per year)
- Eligibility:
- Family income must be below ₱400,000 annually
- How to Apply:
- Submit requirements to CHED regional offices.
B. DOST-SEI Scholarships (Science & Tech Programs)
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) offers scholarships for STEM students.
- Benefits:
- ₱40,000/year tuition + ₱8,000/month stipend
- Eligibility:
- STEM students OR top 5% of non-STEM class
- How to Apply:
- Apply online via DOST-SEI Portal.
- Contact: (02) 8330 8876
C. OWWA Scholarships (For OFW Dependents)
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) supports children of OFWs.
1. Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP)
- ₱60,000/year for top 400 DOST exam passers.
2. OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP)
- ₱20,000/year for OFW dependents earning ≤US$600/month.
3. ELAP (For Deceased OFW Dependents)
- ₱20,000 for firstborn children of deceased OFWs.
How to Apply:
- Visit OWWA or call 1348.
2. Private Foundation Scholarships
A. Ayala Foundation (U-Go Scholar Grant)
- Benefits:
- Tuition subsidy + allowance (for women)
- How to Apply:
- Email info@ayalafoundation.org or call (02) 7759 8288.
B. SM Foundation College Scholarship
- Benefits:
- Full tuition + monthly allowance
- Eligibility:
- 92% average in STEM, education, or business courses
- Application:
- Apply via SM Foundation.
C. Aboitiz Foundation Scholarship
- Benefits:
- Full tuition + monthly allowance
- Eligibility:
- 88% average + leadership involvement
- Contact:
D. Megaworld Foundation Scholarship
- Benefits:
- Full tuition + job opportunities post-graduation
- Eligibility:
- Top 10% of class + 85% GPA
- Apply:
E. LANDBANK Scholarship (For Farmers/Fisherfolks’ Children)
- Benefits:
- Tuition + allowance
- Eligibility:
- 90% average + agriculture/STEM-related course
- Apply:
- Email customercare@landbank.com.
3. University-Specific Scholarships
A. Ateneo de Manila University
- Freshmen Merit Scholarship:
- Full tuition + ₱50,000/year (Top 50 ACET scorers)
- Financial Aid Grants:
- Tuition discounts + book allowances
- Contact:
- Email scholarships@ateneo.edu.
B. De La Salle University (DLSU)
- Archer Achiever Scholarship:
- Full tuition waiver for top entrance exam takers
- Star Scholars Program:
- Covers college + postgrad studies
- Apply:
- Visit DLSU Scholarships.
C. University of Santo Tomas (UST)
- Santo Tomas Scholarship:
- For academically excellent students
- San Lorenzo Ruiz Scholarship:
- Work-study program (20-30 hrs/week)
- Contact:
- Email ofad@ust.edu.ph.
D. Mapúa University
- Alfonso Yuchengco Scholarship:
- 40% tuition discount + ₱10,000 stipend
- Apply:
- Email scholarships@mapua.edu.ph.
How to Apply for Online Scholarships
- Check Eligibility – Review GPA, income, and course requirements.
- Prepare Documents – Transcripts, proof of income, recommendation letters.
- Submit Online – Most applications are via portals (e.g., CHED, DOST, SM Foundation).
- Follow Up – Monitor email/SMS for updates.
Final Tips for Scholarship Success
✅ Apply early – Deadlines are strict.
✅ Maintain high grades – Most scholarships require ≥90% average.
✅ Write a strong essay – Highlight achievements and financial need.
✅ Explore multiple options – Apply to 3-5 scholarships to increase chances.
Conclusion
Online scholarships in the Philippines provide life-changing opportunities for students in need. Whether through CHED, DOST, private foundations, or universities, financial aid is available for deserving applicants.
Start your application today and invest in your future!
For more details, visit official websites or contact scholarship providers directly.
