EXPLAINER

Philippines: $1,025/year scholarship for OFW dependents, application deadline set

Scholarship offers financial aid for certain categories of Filipino students

Last updated: July 29, 2024 | 16:21

Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor

3 MIN READ

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has announced that dependents of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) may submit their documents for the upcoming online application period for its scholarship programmes.

Gulf News File

Manila: The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is encouraging dependents of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to prepare their documents and file an online application for its scholarship programmes.

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The application period for both the Education for Development Scholarship Programme (EDSP) and the OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP) will run from July 26 to August 16, 2024.

The Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP) is open to OFW children and dependents who are either 2nd to 5th-year college students or incoming Senior High School students (Grade 12) and incoming college freshmen.

How to avail of OWWA scholarships

OWWA focuses on the welfare of the OFWs and their families. It is present in all three stages of migration: pre-departure, on-site, and upon arrival. Before the first-time workers leave, OWWA educates them on the realities of overseas work. OWWA scholarship application period: • Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP) • OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP) • Dates: July 26 to August 16, 2024

Who is qualified?

To qualify, applicants must be a child or sibling of a single active OWWA member.

Incoming freshmen must not be older than 21 years and must have a general weighted average (GWA) of at least 80 per cent with no failing grades.

Selection for incoming freshmen is conducted through the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) national examinations.

Current college students from 2nd to 5th year must not be older than 30 years and should have a GWA of not lower than a B (85 per cent equivalence).

$1,025 per year

Successful applicants will receive up to Php60,000 (about $1,025) per school year until they complete a 4- to 5-year baccalaureate course.

ODSP

The OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP) is intended for dependents of OFWs earning not more than $600 (Php34,000) monthly.

This program is available for students enrolling, currently enrolled, or previously enrolled in any 4- or 5-year baccalaureate course or associate course in any college or university.

The ODSP provides financial assistance of Php20,000 (about $342) per school year.

Interested applicants should visit any OWWA Regional Office to obtain information on the required documents and to submit their applications. Ensuring all documentation is prepared and submitted within the application period is crucial for those seeking to benefit from these scholarship programs.

Summary of benefits

OWWA Scholarship is a programme with the following benefits:

Scholarship grant of up to Php60,000 per school year until graduation (4-5 years).

Funding can be used for tuition, accommodation, books, or other educational expenses.

Eligibility: Dependent of an active OWWA member (child or sibling).

Enrolled or planning to enroll in a 4-year or 5-year baccalaureate course at any college or university.

The OFW relative must have a monthly income of not more than $600.

Types of Scholarship Programs:

OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP): Offers financial aid of Php20,000 ($342) per school year.

Qualifications for ODSP:

Applicant must be:

Single and under 21 years old (incoming freshmen)

Single and under 30 years old (already enrolled in college)

High school graduate with good physical and mental health.

Good moral character.

Not a recipient of other scholarships.

Must pass an admission exam conducted by the chosen state college or university.

How to apply for ODSP

Visit the OWWA Scholarship Online Application portal (https://scholarship.owwa.gov.ph/)

Complete the online application form.

Gather and submit all required documents to your nearest OWWA Regional Welfare Office or online portal.

You can also send the application form, evaluation form, and documents via courier service.

Wait for notification from OWWA regarding your application status.

Important notes:

This year, the application period begins on July 26, 2024 and ends on August 16.

Applicants must be graduating high school seniors at the time of application.

Incomplete applications will not be processed.

Applications are subject to screening and verification.

Only qualified applicants can take the DOST national competitive exam.

The top 200 scorers in the exam will be eligible for scholarships.

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