The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) offers the Science and Technology (S&T) Scholarship to deserving students in Grade 12 who are keen on pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The DOST S&T Scholarship is designed to support students in their academic journey and help them contribute to national development through science and technology education.
It offers financial assistance to students who plan to pursue undergraduate courses in STEM fields. The scholarship is offered annually to both graduating Grade 12 students and third-year college students. For Grade 12 students, the scholarship helps cover tuition fees, allowances for books, and living expenses, supporting them as they further their education in scientific and technological disciplines. This guide will walk you through the entire process of applying for the DOST S&T Scholarship, from preparing your requirements to taking the examination.
Features and Benefits
The DOST S&T Undergraduate Scholarship Program offers numerous benefits to Filipino students pursuing degrees in science and technology fields:
- Monthly Living Allowance: Scholars receive a stipend of ₱7,000 per month to assist with daily expenses.
- Tuition and School Fees Subsidy: Up to ₱40,000 per academic year is allocated for tuition and other school-related fees.
- Book Allowance: An annual grant of ₱10,000 is provided for purchasing educational materials.
- Thesis Allowance: A one-time allowance of ₱10,000 is available to support thesis-related expenses.
- Graduation Allowance: Scholars receive ₱1,000 upon graduation to cover associated costs.
- Clothing Allowance: A one-time grant of ₱1,000 is provided during the first semester of the first year.
- Transportation Allowance: For scholars studying outside their home province, one economy-class round-trip fare is covered annually.
- Group Health and Accident Insurance: Coverage is provided throughout the scholarship period.
- Summer Allowance: If required by the curriculum, scholars receive ₱1,500 for tuition and school fees, ₱500 for book allowance (with official receipt), and ₱7,000 per month for living allowance over two months.
These benefits are designed to support and encourage students in their pursuit of science and technology careers.
Who Can Apply?
The DOST S&T Scholarship is open to:
- Graduating Grade 12 students from the STEM strand.
- Graduating Grade 12 students from non-STEM strands, provided they belong to the top 5% of their graduating class.
Scholarship Requirements for Grade 12 Applicants
Before you apply, ensure you have the following documents ready:
- Accomplished DOST-SEI Scholarship Application Form: You can download this from the official DOST-SEI website or access it through the DOST-SEI E-Scholarship Application System.
- Proof of Parent’s Income: Choose one from the following:
- Latest Income Tax Return (ITR) or BIR Form 1701 or 2316 (photocopy)
- Employment Contract for OFWs (photocopy)
- BIR Certification of Tax Exemption (photocopy)
- Barangay Certification of Indigency (photocopy)
- One 1×1 ID Picture: A recent passport-sized photo.
- Photocopy of PSA Authenticated Birth Certificate: This is required to verify your identity.
- Certified True Copy of Grades: This is necessary to demonstrate your academic performance.
- Other Documents
- If you have a legal guardian, submit an affidavit of guardianship.
How to Apply for the DOST S&T Scholarship
The application process is simple but involves several key steps. Whether you’re applying online or manually, here’s how you can submit your application.
Applying Online
Step 1: Registration
- Access the Online System
Visit the official DOST-SEI Science Education Institute (SEI) Scholarship Application website: https://www.science-scholarships.ph/ - Create an Account
Register by entering your full name, birth date, and a valid email address. You will receive a confirmation email with a link to the eligibility questionnaire.
Step 2: Eligibility Check
- Complete the Eligibility Questionnaire
After registering, click on the link sent to your email and answer the eligibility questionnaire honestly. - Receive Application ID
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you will be provided with an Application ID and a link to fill out the scholarship application form. - Disqualification
If you do not meet the eligibility criteria, you will be disqualified, and the system will provide the reason for this.
Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form
- Provide Necessary Information
Complete all the fields in the application form provided through the DOST-SEI online system. - Generate Application Forms
Once you’ve completed the form, the system will generate a downloadable application form, including forms C to I.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
- Sign the Forms
After downloading the application form, make sure that you have all the necessary signatures from the required authorities (e.g., school officials, parents). - Upload the Documents
Upload the signed application forms along with the required supporting documents (e.g., ID picture, birth certificate, parent’s income proof, and other necessary documents).
Step 5: Select Your Test Center
- Once your application is complete, you will be prompted to select a test center from the available options. Choose the location most convenient for you.
Step 6: Customer Satisfaction Feedback
- After you submit your documents, you will be asked to complete a Customer Satisfaction Feedback form. This is part of the DOST’s commitment to improve their processes.
Manual Application for Those Without Internet Access
If you do not have access to the internet, you can still apply manually by visiting the nearest DOST Regional Office or Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO). Here’s how:
Step 1: Submit Your Application
- Submit the accomplished application form along with all the required documents to the nearest DOST office.
Step 2: Document Verification
- The staff will verify your documents and input the details into the DOST-SEI E-Scholarship Application System. Afterward, the original documents will be returned to you for safekeeping.
Step 3: Claim Your Test Permit
- After completing the application, you will receive your test permit.
Step 4: Take the Examination
- As with the online application process, you will need to present your test permit and school ID to take the examination.
Taking the DOST-SEI Undergraduate Scholarship Examination
Once your application is processed, you will be issued a test permit, which will allow you to take the scholarship examination. The test is designed to assess your aptitude and potential in STEM subjects.
Step 1: Present Your Test Permit
- On the day of the examination, bring your test permit and school ID to the designated testing center.
Step 2: Take the Exam
- The DOST-SEI examination will evaluate your knowledge in subjects relevant to STEM fields.
Step 3: Check Your Results
- Results are typically published in national daily newspapers and on the DOST-SEI website around the 3rd or 4th week of March.
Important Tips
To ensure seamless and successful application for this scholarship program, make sure to keep these tips in mind:
- Start Early: Gather all the required documents well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
- Double Check: Make sure all the forms are properly filled out and signed by the appropriate individuals before submission.
- Stay Informed: Follow DOST’s announcements for any updates on the application process and exam schedules.
- Be Honest: Answer all the eligibility questions truthfully, as incorrect information may disqualify you from the scholarship.
Video: DOST Scholarship: What is it About and What Has it Done for Me
The DOST S&T Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for Grade 12 students with a passion for STEM fields to begin their journey towards a rewarding educational experience in science and technology. Just remember to carefully prepare to take this significant step toward achieving your academic and professional goals in the STEM field. To learn more about this DOST scholarship program and how it helps scholars, you may check out this video from msquareddd: