The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Scholarship is a financial assistance program for the dependents of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). If your parent or guardian is an active OWWA member, you may be eligible for this scholarship, which helps cover tuition and other educational expenses.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the OWWA Scholarship, including its types, requirements, and application process.
Types of OWWA Scholarships
OWWA offers two main scholarship programs:
1. Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP)
- For incoming first-year college students.
- Must belong to the top 400 qualifiers in the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) national exam.
- Provides financial assistance of up to PHP 60,000 per academic year.
2. OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP)
- For incoming first-year college students OR currently enrolled college students.
- For dependents of OFWs with a monthly salary of USD 600 or below.
- Provides financial assistance of PHP 20,000 per academic year.
This scholarship is open to apply: One Cainta Scholarship
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the OWWA Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a dependent (child or sibling) of an active OWWA member.
- Must not be over 21 years old (EDSP) or under 30 years old (ODSP) at the time of application.
- Must be a Grade 12 student (for EDSP) or a college student (for ODSP).
- Must have a General Weighted Average (GWA) of at least 80%.
- Must pass the OWWA scholarship qualifying exam (for EDSP).
- Must not be a recipient of any other scholarship grant.
How to Apply for the OWWA Scholarship (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, make sure you meet the requirements for either the EDSP or ODSP.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
Gather the following documents:
- Accomplished OWWA Scholarship Application Form (download from OWWA’s website or get from regional offices).
- Birth certificate (NSO/PSA copy).
- Proof of OWWA Membership (official receipt or verification form).
- Form 137/138 or Transcript of Records (for academic performance verification).
- Certificate of Good Moral Character (from school).
- 2×2 recent ID pictures.
- Proof of income (Certificate of Indigency or OFW payslip for ODSP applicants).
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Submit the completed application and documents to the nearest OWWA Regional Office before the deadline.
Step 4: Take the Scholarship Exam (For EDSP Applicants Only)
If applying for the EDSP, you must take and pass the DOST national exam. Top scorers (usually the top 400) will be awarded the scholarship.
Step 5: Wait for the Results
- The OWWA Regional Office will evaluate applications.
- If you qualify, you will receive a confirmation notice via email or phone.
- Scholarship grants will be released before the start of the school year.
OWWA Scholarship Benefits
- EDSP Scholars receive PHP 60,000 per year for tuition, books, and other fees.
- ODSP Scholars receive PHP 20,000 per year for educational expenses.
- Access to OWWA training programs and career guidance.
FAQs
Deadlines vary per region but are typically announced in June-July every year. Check with your local OWWA office for updates.
If you don’t qualify for EDSP, you may still apply for ODSP if eligible.
No. OWWA requires that recipients do not receive any other government scholarships.
You can still apply as long as your parent was an active member at least 3 years before your application.
Conclusion
The OWWA Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for OFW dependents to receive financial assistance for their education. If you meet the qualifications, start preparing your documents and submit your application as early as possible.
For more details, visit the official OWWA website or inquire at the nearest OWWA Regional Office.
