The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Undergraduate Merit Scholarship is a scholarship program offered by the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) in the Philippines to help support academically talented students who wish to pursue undergraduate degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The scholarship, otherwise known as Project 5801 Education or DOST-SEI Undergraduate Scientific Manpower Development Program, is part of the government’s effort to promote scientific and technological advancements in the country by nurturing a skilled and knowledgeable workforce. It provides financial assistance to deserving individuals who meet specific academic and eligibility criteria, helping them pursue their studies without the burden of tuition fees and other educational expenses.
The scope of the program extends to a wide array of STEM disciplines offered in both public and private higher education institutions across the Philippines. Coverage includes tuition fees, allowances for books, transportation, and living expenses, ensuring that scholars have the resources to excel in their studies. In addition to financial support, scholars are also given the opportunity to join DOST’s network of researchers and professionals, gaining access to various programs and collaborations that foster career development in STEM fields. The scholarship is renewable each year, contingent on maintaining a satisfactory academic standing, thereby encouraging scholars to consistently perform well throughout their academic journey. If you are interested, below is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for this DOST Undergraduate Merit Scholarship.
Program Features
The DOST Undergraduate Merit Scholarship Program offers a comprehensive range of benefits and opportunities to deserving students pursuing degrees in STEM fields.
- Full tuition fee coverage (PHP 40,000 per regular academic year and Actual fees up to PHP 10,000 during summer/midyear)
- Monthly living allowance (PHP 8,000 per month)
- Book and transportation allowances (PHP 10,000 per year or PHP 2,000 during midyear)
- Opportunity to join DOST’s network of researchers and professionals
- Access to various career development programs and collaborations
- Renewable annually based on academic performance
- Financial assistance for academic-related expenses (PHP 10,000 for thesis allowance, PHP 1,000 clothing allowance, and PHP 1,000 graduation allowance)
Benefits
Beneficiaries of the scholarship program can enjoy a variety of financial and professional benefits that support their academic and career growth in STEM fields.
- Financial support for tuition, books, transportation, and living expenses
- Opportunities for internships and research collaborations
- Access to DOST’s professional network for career development
- Priority consideration for employment in government research and development institutions
- Recognition as part of an esteemed group of science and technology scholars
- Support for continued studies through scholarship renewal based on academic performance
Target Beneficiaries
This DOST scholarship program targets academically talented students pursuing undergraduate degrees in STEM fields, providing them with opportunities for financial support and career development.
- Filipino high school graduates with strong academic records
- Students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields
- Those enrolling in public or private higher education institutions in the Philippines
- Individuals who meet the specific eligibility requirements set by the DOST, including financial need and academic performance
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the DOST Merit Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a natural-born Filipino citizen.
- Be a graduating senior high school student.
- Show strong academic performance, especially in science and mathematics.
- Have a family gross income exceeding the regional poverty threshold.
- Not have taken any DOST-SEI Undergraduate Scholarship Examination before.
- Not have enrolled in any undergraduate or post-secondary course prior to the application.
Required Documents
Applicants need to prepare and upload the following documents before they can complete their application:
- Accomplished Application Form (DOST-SEI Undergraduate Scholarship Application Form via E-Scholarship Application System)
- Certificate of Good Moral Character (Form C)
- Proof of STEM Strand or Academic Standing:
- Form D1 (STEM Strand Certification) or
- Form D2 (Certification of being in the upper 5% of a Non-STEM Strand Class)
- Statement of No Previous DOST-SEI Examination or Enrollment in Higher Education (Form E)
- Statement of No Pending Immigration Application (Form F)
- Recent ID Photos (1×1 inches, 2 copies)
- Photocopy of Birth Certificate
- Parent’s Proof of Income, which may include:
- Latest Income Tax Return (BIR Form 1701 or 2316)
- Certificate of Employment with Compensation
- OFW Employment Contract
- Proof of Pension
- BIR Tax Exemption Certification
- Certificate of Indigency
- Form D (Certificate of Good Health)
- Principal’s Certification (Form E1/E2)
- Certificate of Residency (Form F)
- Applicant and Parent’s Certification (Form G, Form H, Form I)
- Certified Copy of Permanent Student Record (Form 137) or Report Card (Form 138) for Grades 9 to 11
- Philippine Educational Placement Test (PEPT) or Alternative Learning System (ALS) Certificate Rating (if applicable)
- Affidavit of Guardianship (if applicable)
Application Process
The application process involves several steps, from registration to submission of requirements:
Step 1: Registration
- Visit the official DOST-SEI website: [https://www.science-scholarships.ph/](https://www.science-scholarships.ph/).
- Register by providing your full name, date of birth, valid email address, and schools attended from Grade 9 to Grade 12.
- Receive an email with a link to the eligibility questionnaire.
Step 2: Eligibility Check
- Access the emailed link and answer the eligibility questionnaire.
- If eligible, receive an Application ID and a link to the online application form.
- If not eligible, receive a notification with the reason for disqualification.
Step 3: Filling Out the Application Form
- Download the application form from the DOST-SEI website.
- Get the necessary signatures from school officials and barangay officials where required.
- Log in to the online system and input the required information.
Step 4: Uploading of Documentary Requirements
- Scan and upload all required documents to the online application portal.
- The system will review the uploaded files.
- If all documents are complete, the system will confirm the application submission.
Step 5: Scholarship Examination
- Prepare for the DOST-SEI scholarship exam, scheduled within two months after application submission.
- Take the exam at the designated testing center.
Step 6: Checking of Results
- Exam results will be published on the DOST-SEI website, leading newspapers, and DOST regional offices.
Step 7: Orientation and Agreement Signing
- Qualifiers will be notified and invited to an orientation.
- Sign the scholarship agreement with parents or legal guardians.
- Receive a Letter of Introduction for the Scholar’s LVDC ATM Card.
Step 8: Scholarship Implementation
- Scholars must submit their grades and academic performance reports at the end of each semester.
- The DOST-SEI team monitors scholars throughout their academic journey.
Important Notes and Reminders
To ensure smooth application, you may want to keep these reminders in mind:
- The application process requires careful preparation of documents and strict compliance with deadlines.
- Applicants should monitor official DOST-SEI announcements for updates on exam schedules and results.
- Passing the DOST Merit Scholarship exam is competitive, so it is advisable to review science, mathematics, and logical reasoning subjects.
- For inquiries, visit the DOST-SEI website or contact their regional offices.
Video: FAQs on the DOST Scholarships
Applying for the DOST Merit Scholarship is just one of the numerous scholarship opportunities offered by the DOST for students aspiring to pursue careers in science and technology in the Philippines. For more information and to better clarify the fineprint of their scholarship programs, applicants can watch this video from Dale Ellivera so they can smoothly navigate the process and increase their chances of securing this scholarship program.