OWWA Scholarship Program
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Scholarship Program in the Philippines is a government initiative aimed at providing financial assistance to the dependents of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). The OWWA Scholarship Program was established to support OFWs and their families, recognizing the sacrifices and contributions of overseas Filipino workers to the country’s economy.
Before diving deep into the OWWA Scholarship, it’s essential to understand the role of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). OWWA is a government agency in the Philippines that is primarily responsible for protecting and promoting the welfare and well-being of OFWs and their families.
One of OWWA’s flagship programs is the scholarship program, which provides financial assistance to qualified dependents of OFWs to help them pursue higher education. This program offers opportunities for deserving students to access quality education and build a brighter future.
Benefits of OWWA Scholarship:
A special financial aid program is available for the children of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). This program offers a maximum of Php 60,000.00 per school year, which covers their entire bachelor’s degree, usually lasting 4-5 years.
For new students, the selection process for these scholarships depends on how well they perform in the DOST national exams. Only the top 400 achievers are accepted as freshmen, while an additional 600 slots are reserved for current college students.
Scholarship Categories
The OWWA Scholarship Program offers various categories to cater to the diverse needs of OFW dependents. These categories include:
Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP):
For high school graduates who want to pursue a 4- or 5-year baccalaureate course.
OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (OFWDSP):
For legal dependents of OFWs who are active OWWA members and want to pursue a 4- or 5-year baccalaureate course.
Seafarers’ Dependents Scholarship Program (SDSP):
Specifically for legal dependents of seafarers who are active OWWA members and want to pursue a 4- or 5-year baccalaureate course.
Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP):
This is for OFWs and their dependents who want to enroll in technical-vocational or short-term courses.
Eligibility Criteria
Filipino Citizenship:
Applicants should be Filipino citizens.
Dependent of an OFW:
Typically, OWWA scholarships are available to dependents (children or siblings) of active OWWA-member OFWs. The OFW sponsor should have a valid OWWA membership at the time of application.
Good Moral Character:
The applicant must exhibit good moral character and must not have been involved in any form of misconduct.
Academic Excellence:
The applicant should have a strong academic record, typically a high school or college GPA of at least 85% or its equivalent.
Not older than 21 years old:
Most OWWA scholarships target students who are not older than 21 years old at the time of application.
Passing the OWWA Scholarship Exam:
Applicants may need to pass a scholarship exam conducted by OWWA.
No other educational financial assistance:
The applicant should not be a recipient of any other educational financial assistance or grant.
Compliance with application requirements:
All required documents should be submitted correctly and on time.
Application Process
The application process for the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) scholarship in the Philippines typically involves several steps which include:
Check Eligibility Criteria:
Ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for the OWWA scholarship program. Eligibility criteria include being a dependent of an OWWA member who is an overseas Filipino worker (OFW).
Prepare Required Documents:
Gather all the necessary documents, which include:
Accomplished OWWA Scholarship Application Form
Two Recent Passport-sized Photos
Proof of OWWA Membership
Proof of Relationship to the OFW
Transcript of Records
Certificate of Good Moral Character
Submit Application:
Obtain and complete the official OWWA scholarship application form.
Submit the application form and all required documents to the OWWA Regional Welfare Office or OWWA Satellite Office nearest to your location.
Screening and Evaluation:
OWWA will review your application and documents to determine your eligibility and qualifications for the scholarship.
Interview:
If deemed necessary, you may be called for an interview as part of the selection process.
Notification of Results:
Wait for the official notification from OWWA regarding the status of your scholarship application. This notification will inform you whether you have been accepted or not.
Orientation:
Attend the scholarship orientation provided by OWWA if you are accepted into the program. During the orientation, you will receive information about the scholarship’s terms and conditions.
Scholarship Award:
If selected, you will receive the scholarship award, which may cover tuition fees, books, and sometimes a monthly stipend. The specific benefits can vary.
Compliance with Scholarship Requirements:
Fulfill all the requirements and obligations specified by OWWA for scholarship recipients, which may include maintaining a certain grade point average (GPA) and participating in OWWA activities.
Conclusion:
The OWWA Scholarship program provides valuable support to the dependents of OFWs, enabling them to access quality education and build a brighter future. While the application process may seem daunting, following these steps and ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria will increase your chances of successfully obtaining this scholarship. With dedication and determination, you can make your dream of higher education a reality through the OWWA Scholarship program.