The OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP) is an initiative by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) designed to provide financial support to the dependents of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Through this program, qualified dependents of OFWs earning no more than USD $600 per month can receive up to PHP 20,000 annually. This assistance helps students pursue a four-year or five-year baccalaureate degree or an associate course in any college or university in the Philippines.
Understanding the OWWA scholarship for dependents is important for OFWs and their families to maximize available resources. This guide explains the qualifications, requirements, and steps to apply for the ODSP.
ODSP Overview
The ODSP is a government initiative under the OWWA scholarship for dependents, offering financial assistance to the qualified dependents of active OWWA members. Beneficiaries receive up to PHP 20,000 per academic year to support their education in a four-year or five-year baccalaureate program or an associate course at any recognized college or university in the Philippines. This program targets dependents of OFWs earning a monthly salary of USD $600 or less, providing much-needed financial relief for educational expenses.
The OWWA ODSP benefits children and siblings of OWWA member OFWs, promoting access to quality education for families with limited income. Qualified dependents must meet specific eligibility criteria, including age limits and academic performance standards. Applications can be submitted either online or at the nearest OWWA Regional Welfare Office, making the program accessible to all eligible dependents. This initiative is one of the many OWWA programs aimed at maximizing the benefits of OFW membership and addressing the financial challenges faced by their families.
Benefits
The program provides financial assistance to qualified dependents of OFWs not only to help ease the burden of tuition fees but also to offer various opportunities for academic and personal development, such as:
- Financial Support: Each scholar receives PHP 20,000 annually to help cover tuition, books, and other academic expenses.
- Access to Quality Education: The scholarship supports dependents in enrolling in four-year or five-year baccalaureate programs or associate courses at colleges or universities across the Philippines.
- Inclusive for All Dependents: Available to children or siblings of active OWWA members, this program benefits OFW families from different backgrounds.
- Encourages Academic Growth: Students are motivated to maintain a strong academic performance, as renewal requires passing grades.
- Empowerment for Low-Income Families: The program focuses on dependents of OFWs with limited income, providing them access to opportunities they may not otherwise afford.
- Renewable Annual Grant: As long as students meet the eligibility requirements, the scholarship can be renewed each year until they complete their chosen course.
- Support from OWWA Regional Offices: Scholars and their families can rely on assistance and guidance from OWWA Regional Welfare Offices throughout the application and renewal processes.
- No Obligation to Repay: Unlike loans, the ODSP is like the EDSP as it does not require repayment, making it a straightforward financial assistance program.
- Promotes Family Development: By supporting education, the program helps OFW families achieve long-term stability and development.
- Eases Financial Strain: The scholarship reduces the financial burden of education, allowing families to allocate resources to other priorities.
Target Beneficiaries
The ODSP provides educational assistance to the following target groups:
- Qualified dependents of OWWA member OFWs earning no more than USD $600 monthly.
- For students pursuing a four-year or five-year baccalaureate course or an associate degree in any college or university.
Eligibility
This OWWA program opens doors for dependents of OFWs, providing them with the financial assistance necessary to pursue higher education. It benefits families by reducing the cost of schooling while encouraging students to reach their academic goals. Below is a detailed list of eligibility requirements when applying for the OWWA ODSP:
Incoming Freshmen (1st Year College)
- Must be a child or sibling of an active OWWA member.
- Should be single and no older than 21 years.
- Must be a Grade 12 graduate (or currently enrolled in Grade 12).
- Should have a passing grade.
Students Enrolled from 2nd Year to 5th Year in College
- Must be a child or sibling of an active OWWA member.
- Should be single and no older than 30 years.
- Must have a passing grade in the most recent semester.
Additional Eligibility Rules
- The applicant must not be a recipient of any other OWWA or non-OWWA scholarship program.
- Only one dependent per OFW member is eligible to avail of the scholarship.
Documentary Requirements
Below is a list of documents needed to apply for the ODSP:
- Scholarship Application Form: Obtainable from the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO).
- OFW Membership Record: Secured from OWWA RWO.
- Two (2) ID Photos with Name Tag: To be provided by the applicant.
- Valid ID: Government-issued or company-issued ID of the OFW Member or Authorized Representative
- Proof of Relationship to the OFW Member
- Birth Certificate of the dependent (from PSA or Local Civil Registrar).
- OFW’s Birth Certificate if the dependent is a sibling.
- Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) for single OFWs.
- Dependent’s Academic Records (showing at least 80% GWA without failing grades)
- Form 137,
- Form 138, or
- Transcript of Records
- Certificate of Good Moral Character: Issued by the school registrar or authorized personnel.
- Medical Certificate (if applicable): Certifying the dependent is physically fit to attend school if they have a medical condition.
How to Apply for the OWWA ODSP
Step 1: Schedule an Appointment or Submit Online Application
- For in-person applications, secure a queuing number at the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO).
- For online applications, submit the requirements to the regional office’s email address or via the scholarship online application system (https://scholarship.owwa.gov.ph).
- The assigned staff will organize applications for review and evaluation.
Step 2: Submit Documents for Evaluation
- Present your documents at the OWWA office or through the online portal. OWWA staff will verify the completeness of your requirements and membership status.
Step 3: Receive Application Results
- You will be notified of your application status, either approved or disapproved. Successful applicants will receive a Notice of Award containing details of the scholarship orientation.
Step 4: Attend the Scholarship Orientation
- Approved applicants must attend the scholarship orientation and complete the notarization of the Scholarship Agreement.
Fees and Processing Time
The ODSP requires no application fees. Processing times vary depending on the step, starting from 30 seconds to 30 minutes for queuing or online application submission, 5-10 minutes for initial evaluation, and 2-3 working days to confirm the results. For approved applicants, attending the scholarship orientation and notarizing the agreement may take 1-2 hours, with a notarization fee ranging from PHP 50 to PHP 100.
Where to Get the Application Form
You can secure the ODSP application form in two ways:
1. In-Person: Visit your nearest OWWA Regional Welfare Office (Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM).
2. Online: Access the application portal at https://scholarship.owwa.gov.ph.
Key Points to Remember
For a hassle-free application, please take note of the following:
- Only one dependent per OFW member can avail of the ODSP.
- The scholarship is renewable annually, provided the student maintains a passing grade.
- Applicants must ensure that all requirements are complete to avoid delays in processing.
Video: ODSP Application Procedures, Requirements, Etc.
Watch this step-by-step video guide from Rance Santos Official to learn how to apply for the OWWA ODSP:
Summary
The ODSP provides financial assistance of PHP 20,000 per school year to dependents of OFWs earning no more than USD $600 monthly. Open to both incoming and currently enrolled college students, this scholarship helps bridge educational opportunities for OFW families, ensuring that dependents of OFWs can pursue their dreams.