The TESDA Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) offers financial assistance to individuals seeking to enhance their skills for immediate employment. Launched in 2006, this initiative pioneered by the TESDA (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority) addresses the growing demand for skilled workers in priority industries such as IT, agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The TWSP provides free training, assessment, and certification for Filipinos who want to be job-ready for local and international opportunities.
By addressing the issue of job-skills mismatch, the program connects vocational training to actual job requirements. It also builds the capacity of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions to deliver high-quality, efficient training programs. If you are a Filipino looking for student financial assistance to boost your skills, this guide will walk you through the process of applying for TWSP.
Program Overview
The TWSP is a scholarship program under TESDA that aims to produce skilled workers for key industries that generate employment. These include agri-business, IT-business process management (IT-BPM), automotive, logistics, and tourism. It also supports training for emerging industries such as green jobs and advanced manufacturing.
The scholarship provides free skills training, certification, and other benefits to help scholars secure employment or improve their qualifications. The TWSP promotes technical education for Filipinos to foster economic growth, reduce poverty, and meet the requirements of both local and global industries.
Programs Under TWSP
The TWSP covers over 230 qualifications across 18 sectors registered under TESDA. Key programs include:
- Automotive services
- Tourism and hospitality
- Metals and engineering
- Construction
- IT-BPM
- Language skills training
- Agriculture and fishery
- Electronics and semiconductor
Additionally, higher-level courses (NC III/IV), trainers’ methodology programs, and specialized training at TESDA centers are prioritized. Scholars may also avail of competency assessment and certification after completing their training.
Benefits
The TWSP offers the following benefits to its scholars:
- Free Skills Training – Scholars can take TESDA-registered courses at no cost.
- Free Assessment and Certification – After completing the program, scholars undergo a free assessment to obtain their certification.
- Entrepreneurship Training – Some programs include free workshops on entrepreneurship to encourage self-employment.
- Training Allowance – A daily allowance of PHP 60 is provided for scholars under specific programs.
TESDA-approved fees are strictly implemented, and no additional charges are required from scholars.
Target Beneficiaries
The TWSP targets various sectors of the population, including:
- Unemployed and underemployed individuals
- Out-of-school youth
- Displaced workers
- OFWs and their dependents
- Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)
- Senior citizens
- Rebel returnees and decommissioned combatants
- Victims of natural disasters and human trafficking
Additionally, microentrepreneurs, informal workers, and farmers are encouraged to apply for training to improve their livelihoods.
Qualifications
To qualify for the TWSP, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a Filipino citizen.
- Be at least 18 years old at the time of completing the training program.
- Not be a current beneficiary of other government scholarships or educational subsidies.
This scholarship is open to individuals from all walks of life, including out-of-school youth, displaced workers, women, persons with disabilities (PWDs), senior citizens, and OFW dependents.
Documentary Requirements
To apply for the TESDA Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP), applicants must prepare the following documentary requirements:
- Accomplished TESDA Scholarship Application Form – Fully filled out and signed.
- Valid Government-Issued ID – Such as a passport, driver’s license, or voter’s ID.
- Birth Certificate – Issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) or Local Civil Registrar.
- Proof of Residency – Barangay clearance or utility bill under the applicant’s name.
- Educational Attainment Documents – Diploma, Transcript of Records, or Certificate of Graduation.
- Certificate of Indigency or Proof of Low Income – Optional for applicants availing of specific financial assistance programs.
- Medical Certificate – Declaring fitness to undergo training, if applicable.
- 2×2 ID Pictures – Recent photos in white background, typically 2-4 copies.
- Other Documents – Additional documents as specified by the chosen Training Center or TESDA office.
Application Process
Here’s how to apply for the program.
Modes of Availing the Scholarship
The TWSP can be availed through three modes:
- Online Application – Apply via TESDA’s online platform or T2MIS database.
- Walk-in Application – Visit the nearest TESDA Provincial or Regional Office and submit your application form.
- Industry or Partner Referrals – TESDA collaborates with industries and partner organizations to nominate potential beneficiaries.
Steps to Apply
For a detailed guide on the step-by-step procedures of applying for the TESDA TWSP, simply follow these steps:
Step 1. Check Program Availability
Visit the TESDA website or your local TESDA office to view the list of available courses and partner training institutions under TWSP.
Step 2. Prepare Requirements
Gather and prepare all the required documents to prove your eligibility
Step 3. Submit Application
Submit your completed application and requirements to your chosen TESDA training institution.
Step 4. Wait for Notification
TESDA will notify you if you qualify. Once selected, you will receive information on your training schedule and venue.
Step 5. Attend the Training
Attend the required classes and complete all modules to qualify for assessment.
Step 6. Undergo Competency Assessment
After finishing the training program, you will undergo a free assessment to obtain your national certificate (NC).
Where to Get the Application Form
You can get the application form for the TESDA Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) directly from the nearest TESDA office or accredited training center. Some regional TESDA offices also provide downloadable forms on their official websites for easier access. Make sure to inquire about any additional instructions or requirements when obtaining the form.
Fees and Processing Time
The TESDA Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) is offered free of charge, covering both training and assessment costs for qualified beneficiaries. Processing time may vary depending on the training center, but applicants can expect approval within a few weeks after submitting all required documents. Additional allowances or toolkits may also be provided depending on the program.
Monitoring and Evaluation
TESDA closely monitors the implementation of the TWSP to maintain quality and transparency. Training institutions must comply with TESDA’s reporting requirements, including attendance sheets and completion certificates. Any violations, such as unauthorized fees or false reporting, may result in the institution’s disqualification from participating in scholarship programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For your reference, here are some commonly asked questions and answers about the TWSP:
1. Can I apply for multiple scholarships under TESDA?
Yes, multiple availment of scholarships is allowed, provided that scholars complete one training program before enrolling in another. The additional course must be related or lead to a higher-level qualification.
2. How long does the training take?
The training duration varies depending on the program. Most courses last between several weeks to a few months.
3. Do I need to pay any fees?
No, all training and assessment fees are covered under the TWSP. TESDA-registered institutions are not allowed to collect additional fees.
Video: TESDA Training for Work Scholarship Program Graduation Ceremony
Watch this video and see for yourself how the beneficiaries of the TESDA TWSP feel about enjoying the benefits of this program:
Summary
The TESDA Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) provides financial assistance to Filipinos seeking skills training for employment in key industries. Through this program, TESDA connects technical education to actual job opportunities, addressing job-skills mismatch and promoting economic growth. With benefits like free training, assessment, and daily allowances, the TWSP makes education more accessible to underserved communities.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can take advantage of this scholarship to gain new skills, improve your qualifications, and secure better employment opportunities locally or abroad. Visit your nearest TESDA office today to start your journey toward a brighter future.