The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has announced the opening of the online application for the Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP) and the OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP). These programs aim to provide financial assistance to dependents of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) for their college education. Here’s what you need to know about the requirements and application process.
Application Period:
July 26, 2024, to August 16, 2024
Programs overview:
Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP):
- Category 1: For incoming 1st-year college students
- Category 2: For 2nd to 5th-year college students
- Financial Assistance: Up to PHP 60,000 per year
OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP):
- Category 1: For incoming 1st-year college students
- Category 2: For 2nd to 5th-year college students
- Financial Assistance: Up to PHP 20,000 per year
Documentary requirements:
Proof of Identity:
- Copy of a valid passport of the OFW (biopage or information page)
- School ID of the dependent/applicant or any other valid ID
- Birth Certificate or Baptismal Certificate of the dependent/applicant
Proof of Grades from the Previous School Year:
- Form 137 or Form 10 (TOR), Form 138 or Report Card, or Certificate of Grades from the school
Photocopy of Birth Certificate:
- Issued by PSA, NSO, or City/Municipal Registry Office
2×2 ID Picture with Name Tag (2 pieces):
- Taken within the last three months
- White background
- Full name, handwritten signature, and name tag with complete details
Photocopy of Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR):
- For the dependent of a single OFW
- Clear copy issued by PSA
Original Copy of Affidavit of No Child/Sibling Dependent:
- For single or married OFW without any dependent children or siblings
- Affidavit stating no qualified dependent up to the 2nd degree of consanguinity
Photocopy of Proof of Enrollment:
- Registration card, course syllabus/curriculum, or Certificate of General Weighted Average (GWA) per term or school year
Application Process:
- Review the OWWA Guide for EDSP 2 and ODSP Scholarships for the latest requirements.
- Log on to https://scholarship.owwa.gov.ph and complete the online application form with the necessary attachments.
- Wait for confirmation from the regional or overseas post through text or email using the provided contact information.
Difference Between EDSP and ODSP:
EDSP (Education for Development Scholarship Program):
Eligibility:
- Category 1: For incoming 1st-year college students
- Category 2: For 2nd to 5th-year college students
Qualifications:
- Must be a child or sibling of an active OFW member
- Single
- Not older than 21 years old for Category 1, and not older than 30 years old for Category 2
- Must have a GWA of at least 80% for Category 1 and 85% for Category 2
- Must pass the DOST-SEI exam (for Category 1)
Financial Assistance:
- Up to PHP 60,000 per year
ODSP (OFW Dependent Scholarship Program):
Eligibility:
- Category 1: For incoming 1st-year college students
- Category 2: For 2nd to 5th-year college students
Qualifications:
- Must be a child or sibling of an active OFW member
- Single
- Not older than 21 years old for Category 1, and not older than 30 years old for Category 2
- Monthly income of the OFW should not exceed USD 600
- Must pass the grade or GWA
Financial Assistance:
- Up to PHP 20,000 per year
Important Reminders:
- Ensure all requirements are complete to avoid delays.
- Only submit original documents for verification purposes as requested by regional offices.
- Be wary of online scams; OWWA will only ask for the application form and necessary documents.