Applying for OWWA's College Scholarship Programs: Steps for OFW Dependents
In the latest episode of 'Serbisyong OWWA Syete', the focus was on the OWWA's College Scholarship Programs for OFW dependents, a valuable initiative that aids children and siblings of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in pursuing their higher education.
Qualifications for the OWWA's College Scholarship Programs
The OWWA's College Scholarship Programs, known as the ODSP, have specific qualifications. To be eligible, a dependent must be a child or sibling of an active OFW with a valid OWWA membership (subject to validation).
Category 1 (Incoming fresh college students):
- The applicant must be single and not more than 21 years old.
- They must have a passing general weighted average (GWA) of at least 75%.
- The applicant should be enrolled in a Philippine-based college/university.
- The OFW parent's/monthly income should not exceed USD 1,000 or its equivalent.
Category 2 (Currently enrolled 2nd to 5th year college students):
- The applicant must be single and not more than 30 years old.
- They must have a passing GWA.
- The applicant should be enrolled in a Philippine-based college/university.
- The OFW monthly income should not exceed USD 1,000 or its equivalent.
Scholarship Benefit
Successful applicants can expect to receive a scholarship benefit of Php 20,000 per academic year.
Application Process
The application process for the OWWA's College Scholarship Programs is straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare requirements: Gather necessary documents, including a valid passport copy (bio/data page) for the OFW, a valid school ID or valid ID, birth certificate or baptismal certificate for the dependent, and proof of OFW income such as overseas employment certificate (OEC), payslips, or employment certificate showing monthly salary.
- Eligibility verification: Both the OFW and dependent identities will be verified through OWWA’s Membership Processing System (MPS). The Benefits Availment Program (BAP) ensures no duplication of scholarship benefits within the same family.
- Submit application: Applications can be made online through the official OWWA scholarship website. Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis with limited slots available.
- Additional verification: The Regional Welfare Office (RWO) may request further documents for any discrepancies or incomplete submissions.
This scholarship program supports OFW dependents pursuing 4- or 5-year baccalaureate and associate courses at accredited Philippine institutions.
In summary, applicants must meet age and academic requirements, have OFW parents earning below $1,000 monthly, and submit valid IDs and proof of income. The application is done online with document validation by OWWA. This initiative underscores OWWA's commitment to supporting the education of OFW dependents, enabling them to build a brighter future.
[1] PhilStar Global, (2021, March 25). OWWA opens scholarship applications for OFW dependents. Retrieved from https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2021/03/25/2093425/owwa-opens-scholarship-applications-ofw-dependents
[2] OWWA, (n.d.). OWWA OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP). Retrieved from https://www.owwa.gov.ph/scholarship/owwa-ofw-dependent-scholarship-program-odsp/
[3] Rappler, (2021, March 25). OWWA opens scholarship applications for OFW dependents. Retrieved from https://www.rappler.com/nation/2835482-owwa-scholarship-applications-ofw-dependents
[4] Inquirer, (2021, March 25). OWWA opens scholarship applications for OFW dependents. Retrieved from https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1392763/owwa-opens-scholarship-applications-for-ofw-dependents
[5] ABS-CBN News, (2021, March 25). OWWA opens scholarship applications for OFW dependents. Retrieved from https://news.abs-cbn.com/business/03/25/21/owwa-opens-scholarship-applications-for-ofw-dependents
Applicants looking to seize the OWWA's College Scholarship Programs must not only verify their eligibility based on age, academic records, and income of their OFW parents, but also prepare necessary documents such as valid IDs and proof of income before applying online. Successful applicants can subsequently expect to partake in a learning journey that will aid them in building a brighter future through education and self-development with the scholarship benefit of Php 20,000 per academic year.
