Last Update: 6 August 2024

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”  - Nelson Mandela

Before you can change the world, you have to change yourself first for the better. What better way to do it than to get an education!

Though not necessarily the only way to have a good life (you can try going into business), nevertheless it is essential in life to be educated.

Some Filipinos are unable to get a college degree due to financial reasons. There are however many ways to pay for college (or get it for free in public schools). 

With the surging prices of basic commodities, the cost of attending schools have become unbearable for some.

Here is the list of scholarships available to Filipinos to help them finish their studies.

But first, what is a scholarship?

A scholarship is financial support awarded to a student, based on academic achievement or other criteria that may include financial need, for the purpose of schooling. 

There are various types of scholarships – the two most common being merit-based and need-based. 

The donor or department funding the scholarship sets the criteria for recipient selection, and the grantor specifically defines how the money is to be applied. 

The funds are used to defray the costs of tuition, books, room, board and other expenses directly tied to a student’s educational cost through the university. 

Scholarships are typically awarded using a variety of factors, including - but not limited to, academic achievement, departmental and community involvement, employment experience, areas of study, and financial need. (University of Southern Alabama)

In the Philippines, public education in all levels is free. But the cost of attending these public schools is being shouldered by the student and their families.  Some have the means to pay for school expenses, but some cannot afford the daily expenses.

Good thing, there are other means to finance education specially in college through different scholarships, grants, financial aid or work in campus arrangement.

Public 

(Local or national government)

Private

 (Individuals, NGOs, Corporations)

Some scholarships are school specific (meaning only selected schools are eligible to get the scholarship).

Some scholarships are course specific (meaning only the listed courses are eligible to get scholarship).

Some scholarships are given one time only (meaning for one semester or one year only).

Some scholarships are given for the entire duration of the course (meaning you get full scholarship).

Some scholarships are for a certain year level (meaning intended for students in their 3rd, 4th or 5th year).

Some scholarships are location specific (meaning only students from a specified geographical location are eligible).

Some scholarships are given to certain beneficiary (meaning member of a particular ethnic group, profession, special group etc.).

Read through the scholarship details specially the eligibility part.

If you have questions and clarification, ask them directly.

If your certain that you are qualified, prepare all requirements. Submit before deadline.

If possible, ask previous and current scholars for their feedback on how to go about the process for better chance of getting one.

If you get one, pay it forward later.

Reminder: Scholarship application is usually free. If fees are being demanded, kindly confirm this with the school or scholarship in charge.