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OWWA Scholarships for OFW Dependents (EDSP/ODSP/CMWSP)

With over 2 million OFWs working hard across the globe, countless families back home rely on them not just for support, but also for the dream of a better future, especially through education.

If you’re a child or sibling of an OFW and you’ve been worrying about college tuition, here’s some good news: OWWA scholarships are here to help. These scholarship programs were created specifically to support OFW dependents who want to pursue a 4- to 5-year degree.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of OWWA scholarships, who can apply, what benefits they offer, and how to apply, so you can focus more on your dreams and less on the expenses.

Table of Contents

What Are OWWA Scholarships?

OWWA scholarships are financial aid programs offered to qualified dependents of OFWs. These programs aim to make college more affordable for students who show academic promise or financial need. There are three main types of OWWA scholarships you can apply for:

  • Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP)
  • OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP)
  • Congressional Migrant Workers Scholarship Program (CMWSP)

Each of these has its own set of qualifications and benefits. Let’s break it down.

Who Can Apply for OWWA Scholarships?

To qualify for any OWWA scholarship, the applicant must be a child or sibling of an active OWWA member. You also need to be single, not a previous scholarship grantee, and planning to enroll, or already enrolled, in a 4- to 5-year college degree in the Philippines.

Here’s a closer look at the requirements for each program:

  • For Incoming Freshmen:
    • Must be a Grade 12 graduating student
    • 21 years old or younger
    • General Weighted Average (GWA) of 80% or higher
    • Must pass the DOST exam (Top 1,000 qualifiers are eligible)
  • For 2nd to 5th Year Students:
    • Must be 30 years old or younger
    • GWA of at least 85% with no failing grades
  • OFW must be earning US$600 or less per month
  • For Incoming Freshmen:
    • 21 years old or younger
    • With a passing GWA
  • For 2nd to 5th Year Students:
    • 30 years old or younger
    • With a passing GWA
  • For children of active/inactive OFWs or the OFWs themselves (up to 45 years old)
  • Dependent must be 21 years old or younger
  • GWA of at least 80% (no failing grades) or belong to the top 20% of their class
  • Total family income must not exceed P76,000 or USD 2,400 annually
  • Must enroll in priority Science and Technology courses

What Courses Are Covered?

All three scholarships cover any 4- to 5-year bachelor’s degree at a recognized college or university in the Philippines. However, the CMWSP prioritizes degrees in science and technology fields.

How Much Financial Assistance Can You Receive?

One of the best aspects of OWWA scholarships is the generous financial support they provide, amounting to up to P60,120 per year. The specific amount for each type is shown below.

OWWA Scholarship Benefits

How to Apply?

Step 1: Prepare the following documents.

Identity Documents:
  • Valid passport (bio page) of the OFW
  • Birth or Baptismal Certificate
  • School ID or a valid government-issued ID of the dependent
  • 2×2 ID photo with white background, name tag, and applicant’s signature
Academic Records (any of the following):
  • Form 137
  • Certificate of Grades
  • Report Card (Form 138)
  • Transcript of Records (TOR)
Proof of Income (for ODSP and CMWSP – any of the following):
  • OEC
  • Payslips
  • Bank remittance slips
  • Other valid documents showing the OFW’s income

Step 2: Scan your documents. Make sure all details are legible.

Step 3: Visit the OWWA scholarship portal and register. Make sure you use an active email and mobile number to receive updates. Avoid duplicate submissions, and make sure you apply using a stable internet connection.

When Will Applications Open?

OWWA scholarship applications are closed as of May 2025. Applicants are advised to wait for an official announcement or contact the nearest OWWA Regional Office.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I apply for more than one OWWA Scholarship?
    No. Each OFW family can only have one grantee at a time under the OWWA Scholarship Program.
  2. Do I need to take the DOST exam?
    Only if you’re applying for the EDSP as an incoming college freshman.
  3. I’m already in college. Can I still apply?
    Yes! If you’re a 2nd to 5th year student and meet the qualifications, you can still apply for the EDSP or ODSP.
  4. Can I enroll in any course?
    Yes, for EDSP and ODSP. For CMWSP, your course must be in the Science and Technology field.
  5. Are there age limits?
    Yes. The age limits vary by program: 21 or 30 years old for dependents, and 45 years old for OFWs applying under CMWSP.

Final Thoughts

The OWWA scholarships offer a golden opportunity for dependents of OFWs to earn a college degree without the heavy financial load. Make sure to prepare early, double-check your documents, and apply before the deadline. If you have any doubts or need help, visit the OWWA Scholarship Portal for updates and contact information.

Good luck with your application!

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