As a member of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), it is beneficial to be informed about the various scholarship and training programs they have launched to assist you and your dependents in pursuing further education. Below, we have compiled a list of OWWA scholarships and education assistance projects offered by this government agency.

OWWA Scholarships and Training Programs

It is crucial to familiarize yourself with these education aid programs as they can greatly benefit you, your children, or even your siblings in terms of their education. As an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW), one of your primary goals for working abroad is to provide a better future for your family.

By being an OWWA Scholarships and Training Programme member and taking advantage of these scholarships, you can increase the likelihood of sending your children or siblings to college. The success of a scholarship program can be measured by the number of scholars it supports. Thus, increasing the number of scholars is an indication of a successful program. Here are the available programs you can benefit from through OWWA:

Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP)
- The EDSP is designed for qualified dependents of active OWWA members.
- It provides financial assistance to scholars pursuing a four- or five-year baccalaureate course in any field.
- Scholars receive a maximum of PHP 60,000 per academic year, which covers tuition fees and other educational expenses.
OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (OFWDSP)
- The OFWDSP caters to qualified dependents of active or former OWWA members.
- It grants financial assistance to scholars pursuing a four- or five-year baccalaureate course in any field.
- Scholars receive a maximum of PHP 30,000 per academic year, which covers tuition fees and other educational expenses.
Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP)
- The SESP aims to provide technical-vocational courses to qualified dependents of OWWA members.
- It supports scholars pursuing vocational or technical courses in various fields.
- Scholars receive a maximum of PHP 14,500 per academic year, covering training costs and other related expenses.
Seafarers’ Upgrading Program (SUP)
- The SUP assists active or former OWWA-member seafarers in upgrading their skills and competencies.
- It provides financial support for seafarers pursuing upgrading courses and other maritime-related programs.
- Scholars receive a maximum of PHP 7,500 per course, covering tuition fees and other training expenses.
Education and Livelihood Assistance Program (ELAP)
- The ELAP offers educational assistance to qualified OWWA member-dependents who were affected by crises or natural disasters.
- It provides financial aid for the continuity of education, skills training, and livelihood projects.
- The amount of assistance varies depending on the specific needs and circumstances of the beneficiaries.

These programs are intended to support and promote education among OFWs and their dependents. By taking advantage of these opportunities, you can contribute to your family’s development and secure a brighter future for your loved ones. For further details and application procedures, please visit the OWWA website or contact their nearest regional office.

1. OFW Dependent OWWA Scholarshipand TrainingProgram (ODSP)

As a member of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), it is beneficial to be aware of the numerous scholarship and training programs launched to support you and your dependents in advancing their education. Below, we have compiled a list of OWWA scholarships and education assistance projects offered by this government agency.

This ODSP scholarship program is exclusive for the dependents of active OWWA member-OFW with a salary of less than $600.00. The dependents will get educational assistance of P20,000.00 per school year.

Who is qualified?

They should be the child of an active member of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
They can also be the sibling of an unmarried OWWA member who is single and under the age of 21.
If they are already enrolled or have been enrolled in college, they must be under the age of 30.

Additionally, applicants must fulfill the following requirements:

They need to pass the entrance examination conducted by the state college/university in the OWWA Regional Welfare Offices where they plan to enroll.
They should not have received any other scholarship grants.

I hope this provides the clarification you were looking for. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!

Process

Step 1: You need to have the following documents:

Accomplished ODSP Application Form (2 copies
Proof of OWWA membership
OR of OWWA contribution
OFW Verified Employment Contract
Proof of relationship to OFW

Birth Certificate (issued by PSA) of the applicant, if a child of OFW

Birth Certificate (issued by PSA) of both applicant and OFW (if brother or sister of OFW)

Step 1: Gather the necessary documents, including:

Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) if you are unmarried.
Two copies of 2″x2″ pictures.
Form 2A: Health/Medical Certificate.
Form 2B: Certificate of Good Moral Character.
Form 137 for incoming first-year college students, or Transcript of Records or Certificate of Grades for those already enrolled in college.

Step 2: Download the Application Form from the Official Facebook Page of OWWA NCR or from the OWWA website at https://www.owwa.gov.ph/index.php/downloads.

Step 3: Fill out the application form completely.

Step 4: Submit the accomplished form and required documents either online or at a regional office of OWWA.

Step 5: Wait for a response from OWWA regarding your scholarship application.

Please note that this information is a general summary, and it’s always advisable to visit the official OWWA website or contact their office directly for the most up-to-date and accurate instructions and requirements for the OWWA scholarship application.

2. Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP)

The EDSP (Education for Development Scholarship Program) is a scholarship grant that is available to eligible beneficiaries or dependents of OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) members who intend to enroll in a 4-5 year course program. All qualified applicants will undergo a scholarship-qualifying examination, and their performance in this exam will be used to select and rank the applicants.

The OWWA Scholarship Committee will be responsible for selecting and recommending the scholars, and the final approval will be given by the administrator. Each scholar will receive a total amount of 30,000 per semester. The tuition fees will be paid directly to the school, and the remaining funds will be released to the scholar upon submission of their semester grades.

Who is qualified?

Must be below 21 years old.
Must be a child of an OWWA member. If the OWWA member is single, you must be a brother/sister of the member.
Must not be a recipient of any scholarship award.
Must be a High School graduate with a general average of at least 80%.
Must pass the qualifying tests.

Process

Step 1: You need to have the following document

Complete the Application Form in duplicate.
Provide evidence of the relationship to the OWWA member, such as certified copies of the Marriage Contract and/or Birth Certificates of both the member and the applicant-dependent, duly certified by the Local Civil Registry.
Submit two (2) copies of recent 1×1 ID pictures.
Include the 137 / High School Report Card.

Please note that this paraphrased version aims to provide a clearer understanding of the requirements in English. However, it’s important to consult the original document for precise information and specific instructions.

Step 2: Download the Application Evaluation Form from the following link: https://owwa.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/APPLICATION-FORM-FOR-EDSP-FOR-REGIONS.pdf. Alternatively, you can visit the nearest branch of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

Step 3: Complete the form and gather all the required documentation.

Step 4: Wait for a call from OWWA to inform you if there is an available slot for you.

If you have any further questions or need assistance, feel free to ask!

3. Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP)

The Special Education and Skills Training Program (SESP) is designed for both land-based and sea-based members of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), as well as their dependents and beneficiaries. This scholarship program is made possible through the collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), which offers various vocational and technical courses spanning six months to one year, following the regular school year calendar.

Under the SESP, the financial assistance provided will be directly paid to the training facility where the dependents or beneficiaries are enrolled. For individuals undertaking a one-year technical course, they will receive P14,000 in financial assistance. Those pursuing a six-month vocational course will receive P7,250 in financial assistance.

Please note that the information provided above is subject to change, and it’s always best to refer to the official guidelines and announcements for the most accurate and up-to-date details regarding the SESP.

Who is qualified?

Child not older than 21 years old of a married OFW
Brother/sister not older than 21 years old of an unmarried OFW

Process

Step 1: You need to have the following documents

Complete two sets of application forms.
Provide proof of OWWA membership, such as the Official Receipt (OR) of OWWA contribution or the OFW E-Card.
Submit Form 137/HS Report Card or Transcript of Records.
Prepare two copies of 1″x1″ ID pictures.
Submit proof of relationship to the OWWA member.
Provide a certified copy of the marriage contract or birth certificate of both the OFW and the applicant, certified by the Local Civil Registrar.
The applicant must be an active OWWA member (land-based or sea-based) or a beneficiary/dependent of an active OWWA member.

Step 2: Download and complete the scholarship application form from this link: [insert link here].

Step 3: Bring the completed application form and all required documents to the nearest OWWA office.

Please note that this information may be subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to double-check with the relevant authorities or the OWWA office for the most up-to-date application requirements and procedures.

4. Educational Livelihood Assistance Program (ELAP)

PERAPHEAS “It Elap” is a financial assistance program that specifically caters to dependents of deceased Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). To be eligible for this program, the deceased OFW must have been a member of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) at the time of their death.

Under this program, a scholarship grant is provided to one child of the deceased OFW, typically the eldest child. The scholarship aims to support the education of the eligible dependent. It is important to note that only one child per deceased OFW is entitled to receive the scholarship grant.

Additionally, the parents of single OFWs or the surviving spouse of married OFWs will also receive a livelihood financial grant. This grant amounts to P15,000 and is designed to assist the parents or surviving spouse in establishing a livelihood or sustaining their existing business.

These provisions of the PERAPHEAS “It Elap” financial assistance program aim to provide support and opportunities for the dependents of deceased OFWs, helping them pursue their education and establish sustainable livelihoods.

The dependent is entitled to the following allowances as financial assistance:

P5,000 (Elementary)
P8,000 (High School)
P10,000 (College)

Who is qualified?

One of the children of the deceased OFW OWWA member.
Surviving spouse
Parents

Process

For faster claim processing, secure the following documents:

OWWA Membership (for OFW)
Proof of relationship to the OWWA member (for OFW dependent)

Go to the nearest OWWA office at your place to get the necessary assistance.

5. Pre-Departure Education Program (PDEP)

This is a mandatory orientation/training for all departing OFWs. It consists of the following:

The Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) is a day-long orientation program designed for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). It covers various important topics to prepare OFWs for their journey abroad. The seminar includes a comprehensive module on the profile of the destination country, which provides valuable information about the culture, customs, laws, and regulations of the specific country where the OFWs will be working.

One crucial aspect of the PDOS is the employment contract familiarization. OFWs are educated about the terms and conditions of their employment contracts, ensuring that they are well-informed about their rights and responsibilities. This knowledge empowers them to protect themselves from any potential exploitation or abuse.

The PDOS also covers the different stages of an OFW’s life, addressing the challenges they may face while working overseas and providing guidance on how to overcome them. This includes information on managing homesickness, dealing with cultural differences, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Health and safety are paramount concerns in the PDOS. OFWs are educated on potential health risks in their destination country and provided with guidance on how to stay healthy and access medical services. They are also informed about safety precautions, emergency procedures, and resources available to them in case of any unfortunate events.

Airport procedures are explained in detail during the PDOS. OFWs are guided on immigration processes, baggage handling, and other essential steps involved in international travel. This helps them navigate airports smoothly and avoid any complications during their journey.

In addition, the PDOS provides information about various government programs and services available to OFWs. This includes details about financial assistance, legal support, and consular services provided by the Philippine government. OFWs are made aware of their rights and the resources they can rely on if they encounter any issues while working abroad.

Overall, the PDOS plays a crucial role in equipping OFWs with the necessary knowledge and skills to have a successful and safe overseas employment experience. By providing comprehensive information and support, it aims to empower OFWs and protect their rights while working in foreign countries.

6. OWWA Seafarers’ Upgrading Program (SUP)

Seafarers have the opportunity to receive free training through the Seafarers’ Upgrading Program (SUP) offered by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). This program aims to assist seafarers in enhancing their skills by providing training for short-term maritime courses. Additionally, seafarers can benefit from a subsidy of up to Php7,500 per course they take.

Seafarers are given the freedom to choose the specific courses they wish to pursue, taking into account factors such as course availability and the accreditation of the institution where they plan to study. It allows flexibility for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to select the training that aligns with their career goals and aspirations.

To avail themselves of the subsidy, interested seafarers must apply for the SUP within 90 days from their arrival in the Philippines.

The Seafarers’ Upgrading Program is an excellent initiative by the OWWA to support seafarers in their professional development and equip them with the necessary skills to succeed in their maritime careers.

Who is qualified?

Seafarers that are active OWWA members.

Process

Submit the following requirements to the nearest OWWA office:

Accomplished Application Form
Proof of OWWA Membership (can be secured at OWWA)
Valid Seaman’s book (SIRB) & Passport (bring original and photocopy)
2”x2” Picture (2 copies)

7. Mariner’s Dugtong Aral (Bridging) Program (MDA)

Mariner’s Dugtong Aral (MDA) is available for qualified graduates of BS Mechanical Engineering and BS Electrical Engineering, with a maximum scholarship of Php 38,120.00 plus a stipend of Php 15,000.00 for three months.

Who is qualified?

Filipino citizen
Active OWWA members who are OFW-seafarers
OFW relatives to the first degree of consanguinity Married OFWs – Dependent is a single child under 30 years of age or Single OFWs – Dependents is a single child/sibling/niece under the age of 30

Requirements:

- Accomplished application form
- OWWA Membership in OR of contribution
- Proof of relationship to the OFW:
  - Birth Certificate of the child (If the OFW is Married or Single Parent)
  - Cenomar of OFW & Birth Certificate of the sibling (If the active OWWA member OFW is single)
- Proof of residency (most recent)
- 2”x2” Picture (2 copies)
- Transcript of Records
- Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering
- Passport/Seafarer’s ID/Record Book (Any of the following)

Proof that there are no current or pending scholarship applications with OWWA/NGA/NGOs

Process

Step 1: Ready all documentation/requirements.

Step 2: Go to the nearest Local OWWA office.

Step 3: Submit all requirement requirements to the nearest OWWA office

Step 4: Wait for a call from OWWA if your application was approved

8. Tabang OFW Program

Tabang OFW is a tertiary education subsidy program that has been developed in collaboration with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) specifically for dependents of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, either through repatriation, displacement, or the unfortunate event of the OFW’s passing.

The primary objective of the Tabang OFW program is to provide financial assistance to qualified dependents, enabling them to pursue higher education. Under this program, eligible individuals receive a one-time grant amounting to Php 30,000.00.

The Tabang OFW program serves as a support system for the education of OFW dependents who have been adversely affected by the global health crisis. By offering this subsidy, the government aims to alleviate the financial burden faced by these families and ensure that the education of their dependents is not compromised. Through the collaborative efforts of CHED and DOLE, the program strives to create more opportunities for the affected OFW dependents, allowing them to continue their education and secure a better future.

Who is qualified?

The individual described in the provided information is eligible for the TABANG OFW scholarship program if they meet the following criteria:

They must be a Filipino citizen.
They should be dependent of an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) who has been certified by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). The certification is given when the OFW lost their job or passed away due to COVID-19.
If they are the child of a married OFW, they must be below 30 years old.
If they are the sibling, niece, or nephew of an unmarried OFW, they must also be below 30 years old.
They must meet the admission and retention requirements of State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), CHED-recognized Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs), or Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) registered with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
They must be currently enrolled in college.
They must not have been expelled from any educational institution.
They should not be a beneficiary of other government scholarship grants.
It’s worth noting that beneficiaries of Project EASE can still qualify for the TABANG OFW scholarship program.

Please note that this information is based on the provided description, and for the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s recommended to consult the official guidelines or contact the relevant authorities responsible for the TABANG OFW scholarship program.

Process

Step 1: You need to have the following documents:

Copy of Valid Passport
Flight ticket or boarding pass or arrival stamp (February 2020 onwards)
Proof of relationship to the OFW
If OFW is married – Birth certificate of child
If OFW is single – Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) of OFW
Birth certificate of OFW
Birth certificate of a sibling
Filled up assessment form or Admission Test Result
Affidavit that the applicant is not a beneficiary of other scholarship grants as per DOLE AO 207 series of 2020
Proof of displacement
POLO/Company Certification
Death Certificate (in case the OFW died)
- Copy of Valid Passport
- Official Receipt or other proof of OWWA Membership
- Flight ticket or boarding pass or arrival stamp attached in the Passport evidencing return to the country from February 1, 2020, onwards
- Proof of relationship to the OFW
- Birth certificate (if a child of married OFW);
- CENOMAR of OFW and birth certificate of OFW and sibling (if active OWWA-member OFW is single)
- Certificate of Grade of the dependent

Certificate of grades/proof of grades from the last School Year/Semester attended with passing marks in all subjects from the last School Year/Semester attended.

Step 2: Eligible active members of OWWA who are OFWs should conveniently apply for their assigned child beneficiary through the website ease.owwa.gov.ph and complete all the necessary documentation.

Step 3: An SMS or email containing a unique serial reference/tracking number will be sent to the applicant. You can monitor the progress of your application by visiting the designated website.

Step 4: Upon acceptance of your application, you will receive a printable scholarship agreement and be notified via phone or email.

9. Project EASE (Educational Assistance through Scholarship in Emergencies)

Project EASE (Education Assistance for Students of OFW Dependents) is an initiative designed to offer college-level educational support to eligible dependents of active Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) member-OFWs who have been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The primary objective of this program is to provide qualified dependents with a financial grant of Php 10,000.00 per year for a duration of up to four years. The aim is to alleviate the educational expenses incurred by these individuals and ensure they have access to quality education despite the challenges faced by their OFW families due to the pandemic.

Who is qualified?

Eligible dependent of active OWWA-member OFW (child of married OFW or sibling of single OFW)

Process

Step 1: You need to have the following documents:

- - Copy of Valid Passport
  - Official Receipt or other proof of OWWA Membership
  - Flight ticket or boarding pass or arrival stamp attached in the Passport evidencing return to the country from February 1, 2020, onwards
  - Proof of relationship to the OFW
  - Birth certificate (if a child of married OFW);
  - CENOMAR of OFW and birth certificate of OFW and sibling (if active OWWA-member OFW is single)
  - Certificate of Grade of the dependent

Step 2: Active OWWA-member OFWs who meet the qualifications should proceed to ease.owwa.gov.ph to apply for their designated child-beneficiary and submit all the necessary documents.

Step 3: The applicant will receive a serial reference/tracking number through SMS or email. The status of the application can be checked on the provided website.

Step 4: Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a printable scholarship agreement and will be notified via phone or email. Certificate of grades/proof of grades from the last School Year/Semester attended with passing marks in all subjects from the last School Year/Semester attended.

Summary

Becoming a member of OWWA is a significant investment for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) worldwide. It is essential for both OFWs and their dependents. OWWA Scholarships and Training Programs provide various forms of educational and financial assistance to active members.

OWWA’s objective is to assist not only OFWs abroad but also their dependents in the Philippines. Their programs extend beyond spouses and children to include support for parents, siblings, and other family members of qualified OFWs and OWWA members. If you are unaware of these programs, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with them promptly.

OWWA Scholarships and Training Programs