The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is an organization created to specifically help Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their dependents. Some of its programs are designed to achieve their educational and career goals. One of its flagship initiatives, the Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP), provides financial assistance for short-term training courses in technical and vocational education.
This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the SESP—from eligibility requirements to application procedures, helping you access the benefits offered by this program.
SESP Program Overview
The SESP, part of OWWA’s Short-Term Training Programs for OFWs and Dependents, is a scholarship designed to help OFWs and their qualified dependents pursue technical-vocational education in government-accredited institutions such as TESDA and MARINA. The program aims to enhance participants’ skills in various fields, preparing them for better job opportunities or entrepreneurial ventures, while showcasing the benefits available to OWWA members.
Through this program, applicants can pursue short-term training in occupational safety, automotive, construction, and hospitality, among others. This program is a testament to the organization’s dedication to empowering OFWs and their dependents with the knowledge and tools they need to achieve career advancement, while maximizing the benefits of being an OWWA member.
Courses Offered Under the SESP
Applicants can enroll in any of the following fields under OWWA-accredited institutions:
- Agriculture and Fishery
- Automotive and Land Transport
- Construction and Metals Engineering
- Communication, Electronics, and Information Technology
- Health, Social, and Community Services
- Maritime Training
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Garments, Jewelry, and Decorative Crafts
Benefits
The SESP offers the following advantages:
- Financial Support: Up to ₱14,500 for technical training courses and ₱7,250 for vocational courses, paid directly to the training institution.
- Diverse Course Options: Covers a wide range of technical and vocational fields.
- Extended Availability: OFWs and dependents can apply up to six months after the OFW’s OWWA membership expires.
- Higher Age Limit: Dependents up to 24 years old can qualify, provided they remain unmarried.
- Coverage of tuition fees: The scholarship amount is sent directly to the accredited training institution where the applicant is enrolled.
- Eligibility for dependents: The SESP is available for both OFWs and their dependents, even up to six months after the expiration of the OFW’s membership.
- Valid for multiple use: Can be availed multiple times
Target Beneficiaries
The SESP is available to:
- OWWA Members OFWs: Both land-based and sea-based workers who are:
- Active OWWA contributors.
- Vacationing OFWs or those whose contracts have recently ended.
- OFWs with expired membership (up to six months).
- Qualified Dependents, including the following:
- Spouse of a married OFW.
- Children of OFWs (unmarried, up to 24 years old).
- Siblings of unmarried OFWs (unmarried, up to 24 years old).
Eligibility
To qualify for the OWWA SESP, the target beneficiaries also need to meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Active OWWA Membership
- The OFW must be an active OWWA member with at least one recorded membership contribution.
- For subsequent availment, three additional membership contributions are required.
- Qualified Beneficiaries
- Dependents of an OWWA member in good standing, including:
- Spouse or child (below 24 years old and not currently enrolled).
- Parents of single OFWs.
- Siblings of single OFWs (below 24 years old and not currently enrolled).
- Educational Background
- Must possess at least a high school diploma or its equivalent.
- Residency
- The applicant must be a resident of the Philippines.
- TESDA Assessment
- Applicants must pass either the Multiple Aptitude Battery Test (MABT) or the program-specific qualifying assessment conducted by TESDA or the chosen institution.
- Proof of Relationship (for dependents)
- Submit supporting documents to verify your relationship with the OWWA member.
Note: After completing the chosen course, beneficiaries must undergo a competency evaluation and certification by TESDA or an accredited testing center.
Documentary Requirements
To apply for the SESP, prepare the following documents:
For OFWs
- Application Form (can be acquired at the OWWA Regional Welfare Offices or their website).
- Two 2×2 colored ID photos.
- At least two (2) valid IDs (governmentor company-issued).
- Proof of OWWA membership (e.g., OWWA E-Receipt or membership contribution record).
- Passport photocopy or other valid identification.
For Dependents
- Proof of relationship to the OFW member:
- Birth Certificate (for children or siblings).
- Marriage Certificate (for spouse).
- Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) (if the OFW is single).
- Educational documents (any of the following):
- High School Diploma.
- Transcript of Records (TOR).
- Form 137 or High School Report Card.
How to Apply for the OWWA SESP
Follow these steps to apply for the Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP):
Step 1. Secure an Appointment
- Visit the OWWA website: https://appointment.owwa.gov.ph or use the OWWA Mobile App.
- Select your preferred date and OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO).
Step 2. Prepare Your Documents
- Download the application form and fill it out completely.
- Gather all the required documents listed above.
Step 3. Visit the OWWA RWO
- On your scheduled date, go to your chosen OWWA office.
- Present your ID and other requirements at the Registration Desk.
Step 4. Submit Your Application
- Hand over your completed application form and supporting documents to the Education and Training Unit.
- Wait for the verification of your OWWA membership status and evaluation of your documents (approximately 10 minutes).
Step 5. Claim the Notice of Award (NOA)
- If your application is approved, you’ll receive a schedule to claim your Notice of Award (NOA).
- Applicants from NCR can claim their NOA within 2 working days, while those from other regions may take up to 7 working days.
Step 6. Enroll in a Training Program
- Once you receive your NOA, enroll in your chosen technical or vocational course.
- The financial assistance will be sent directly to the training institution.
Where to Get the Application Form
To get the application form for the SESP, visit the Education and Training Unit or Focal Office at your chosen OWWA RWO. Verify your membership record and request the application form from the assigned personnel or guard. Once completed, submit the form to the duty officer for further processing.
Important Reminders for Applicants
For a hassle-free application, please make sure to take note of the following reminders:
- Incomplete applications will delay processing and approval.
- Submit your application Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- The scholarship covers up to ₱14,500 for technical training courses and ₱7,250 for vocational courses; any excess fees must be shouldered by the applicant.
- After completing the training, applicants must undergo competency assessment and certification by TESDA or another accredited body.
Video: OWWA SESP
For a better understanding of the OWWA SESP and its benefits and procedures, you may check out this video from RICROD-PH:
Summary
The OWWA SESP is a valuable opportunity for OFWs and their dependents to enhance their skills, improve employability, and achieve financial stability. By investing in technical and vocational education, OWWA supports its members in building better futures for themselves and their families. Whether you’re an OFW looking to upskill or a dependent seeking to gain industry-relevant knowledge, this program offers the financial assistance and opportunities you need. For more information, visit the official OWWA website or contact your nearest OWWA Regional Welfare Office.