The CHED Scholarship for Future Statisticians (ESTATISTIKOLAR) is a government-funded program designed to support Filipino students pursuing a career in Statistics. This initiative aims to fill the growing demand for statisticians in the country, especially in critical fields like data science and community-based monitoring.
With a focus on inclusivity, the program prioritizes applicants from underprivileged families, persons with disabilities (PWDs), solo parents and their dependents, senior citizens, and indigenous peoples. Understanding the requirements and process for this scholarship ensures qualified students can access financial assistance to pursue their education.
Program Overview
The CHED ESTATISTIKOLAR program is an initiative aimed at improving statistical literacy and data management among higher education institutions in the Philippines by providing training, resources, and tools to enhance the collection, analysis, and use of accurate statistics for decision-making and policy development. The program stems from the growing need for reliable and accurate data to address challenges in higher education. It aligns with Republic Act 7722, also known as the “Higher Education Act of 1994,” which empowers CHED (Commission on Higher Education) to oversee and improve higher education systems. Historically, the program was introduced in response to the increasing importance of statistics in education planning and policy-making as higher education institutions faced challenges in enrollment management, program evaluation, and resource distribution.
ESTATISTIKOLAR was designed to cover areas such as statistical literacy, data collection methodologies, data analysis, and the use of statistical tools for informed decision-making. It was later improved to extend its reach by fostering partnerships with relevant stakeholders like government agencies and research institutions. By enhancing the statistical capabilities of higher education institutions, the program contributes to efficient governance and improved educational planning nationwide. To date, the program specifically provides financial assistance to third or fourth year students taking Bachelor of Science in Statistics or Bachelor of Science in Applied Statistics in recognized State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs), or Private Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs).
Benefits
Successful applicants of CHED ESTATISTIKOLAR receive various financial benefits to support their education and research endeavors.
- Financial assistance for conducting research and statistical studies.
- For SUCs/LUCs:
- Scholarship Type: Full Scholarship
- Tuition Fee: Free
- Stipend (per semester): ₱35,000
- Book/Connectivity Allowance: ₱5,000
- Scholarship Type: Half Scholarship
- Tuition Fee: Free
- Stipend (per semester): ₱17,500
- Book/Connectivity Allowance: ₱2,500
- Scholarship Type: Full Scholarship
- For Private HEIs:
- Scholarship Type: Full Scholarship
- Tuition Fee: ₱20,000
- Stipend (per semester): ₱35,000
- Book/Connectivity Allowance: ₱5,000
- Scholarship Type: Half Scholarship
- Tuition Fee: ₱10,000
- Stipend (per semester): ₱17,500
- Book/Connectivity Allowance: ₱2,500
- Scholarship Type: Full Scholarship
- For SUCs/LUCs:
- Access to training programs on data analysis, research methodologies, and policy development.
- Thesis or Dissertation Grant: ₱30,000
- Research Dissemination Grant: ₱10,000
- Transportation Allowance: ₱10,000 per academic year
- Opportunities for collaboration with higher education institutions and government agencies.
- Recognition and support for research outputs contributing to evidence-based education policies.
- Enhanced capacity to address challenges in higher education through data-driven solutions.
- Increased visibility and credibility in the academic and research community.
Target Beneficiaries
The program is designed to target specific beneficiary groups who can contribute to the advancement of data-driven research in higher education:
- Higher education students pursuing degrees related to statistics and data science.
- Faculty members and researchers in fields requiring statistical expertise.
- Individuals from marginalized or underserved sectors in the educational system.
- Professionals seeking further training in educational data analysis and research.
- Government personnel involved in policy development and educational reforms.
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for the scholarship, applicants must first meet the following requirements:
- Filipino Citizenship: Must provide proof of citizenship, such as a certified true copy of their birth certificate.
- Academic Requirement: Applicants must have a General Weighted Average (GWA) of at least 80% or its equivalent.
- Financial Criteria: Combined gross annual income of parents or guardians must not exceed ₱400,000. If the income exceeds this amount, the applicant must submit supporting documents such as medical certifications for illnesses or proof of multiple dependents in college.
Documentary Requirements
Applicants also need to prepare the following documents to prove their eligibility and support their application:
- Proof of Citizenship
- Certified true copy of Birth Certificate
- Academic Records
- Certified true copy of grades for the latest semester attended.
- Financial Documents (Choose any that apply):
- Latest Income Tax Return (ITR) of parents or guardians
- Certificate of Tax Exemption from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)
- Certificate of Indigence from the Barangay or Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)
- Case Study Report from DSWD
- Latest contract or proof of income for children of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and seafarers
- Additional Requirements for Special Groups
- Valid identification cards or certificates for underprivileged citizens, PWDs, solo parents, senior citizens, or indigenous peoples.
How to Apply for the CHED ESTATISTIKOLAR Scholarship
To apply, simply follow the guide listed below to submit your application for the ESTATISTIKOLAR program:
Step 1. Prepare the Required Documents
Collect all documentary requirements, including proof of citizenship, grades, financial documents, and additional certifications if you belong to a special group.
Step 2. Scan the Documents
Ensure all documents are scanned clearly and saved in PDF format.
Step 3. Submit the Application Online
Send your application and supporting documents to your respective CHED Regional Office (CHEDRO) via email. You can find the contact information for each CHEDRO on CHED’s official website.
Step 4. Wait for Notification
CHEDRO will review and rank all applications. Qualified applicants will receive a Notice of Award (NOA), either in hard copy or electronic format.
Step 5. Accept the Scholarship
Once you receive the NOA, sign the return slip to confirm acceptance and submit it to CHEDRO within 30 working days. If you wish to decline, indicate “WAIVED” on the return slip.
Ranking and Selection Process
CHED evaluates applications based on academic performance and financial need. The ranking system gives 70% weight to academic qualifications and 30% weight to financial standing. Applicants belonging to priority groups, such as PWDs or solo parents, receive an additional 5 points in the ranking process.
The final list of qualified scholars is based on this ranking, ensuring that deserving students receive the appropriate scholarship slot.
Responsibilities of a Scholar
Once awarded the ESTATISTIKOLAR scholarship, students must meet specific conditions to maintain their eligibility:
- Enroll in an authorized Statistics program in an accredited institution.
- Maintain a GWA of at least 80% each semester.
- Carry a regular academic load of at least 15 units per term.
- Avoid availing of other publicly-funded scholarship grants.
- If a scholar needs to defer or transfer to another institution, they must seek written approval from CHEDRO before proceeding.
Where to Secure Application Form and Submit Applications
To secure the application form for this CHED program, applicants can visit the official website of the CHED and request the form via email. The application form can also be obtained directly from the CHED regional offices. Once completed, applicants must submit the form online via email to the concerned CHEDRO along with the required documents or at the designated regional office. Contact your regional CHED office for assistance and additional inquiries.
Fees and Processing Time
The CHED ESTATISTIKOLAR program does not charge any fees for application or enrollment. Applicants are required to submit necessary documents, which will be processed by the designated CHEDRO. The processing time typically takes several weeks, depending on the volume of applications and the completeness of the documents submitted.
Summary
The CHED Scholarship for Future Statisticians (ESTATISTIKOLAR) is a valuable scholarship opportunity for Filipino students pursuing a Statistics career. This program addresses the country’s growing demand for skilled statisticians while providing financial assistance to deserving applicants. By meeting the eligibility requirements and following the application procedure, students can secure support for their education. For further details, contact your regional CHED office and begin your journey toward becoming a future statistician.