Championing the tagline, “Iskolar ng bayan, para sa bayan,” the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) 1 continues to provide scholarship opportunities for students aiming to pursue education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs.
Janine Abuan, Project Technical Assistant III of the DOST-Region 1, shared details about the agency’s scholarship programs tailored for aspiring Ilokano students.
DOST’s scholarship programs
DOST offers four primary scholarship programs to meet the diverse needs of students:
- RA 2067 – Merit Scholarship: For students excelling in Science and Mathematics and committed to careers in science and technology.
- RA 7687: For talented students from economically disadvantaged families.
- RA 10612: For third-year college students planning to teach Science and Mathematics in secondary schools.
- Philippine Science High School System: For secondary education students who demonstrate exceptional aptitude in science.
Eligibility criteria
The criteria for eligibility to the said scholarship programs includes the following:
- Must be a natural-born Filipino citizen.
- Must be in good health and of good moral character.
- Must be a Grade 12 STEM student ranked in the top five percent of their class.
DOST aims to maximize the number of scholarship recipients, particularly in areas that lack representation.
With no limit on the applications they accept, the DOST’s goal is to enhance access to financial assistance for students pursuing education in priority fields such as science, technology, engineering, agriculture, and mathematics.
Scholarship benefits
Applicants who get accepted in the DOST scholarship programs can enjoy the following benefits:
- P40,000 for tuition and other school fees
- P10,000 monthly allowance for learning materials and connectivity
- P8,000 monthly stipend
- P1,000 initial clothing allowance
- P10,000 thesis allowance
- Fare allowances for transportation
- Health and accident insurance
The DOST Scholarship programs also support scholars enrolled in summer or mid-year classes, where they can get the following benefits:
- P2,000 allowance for learning materials
- P10,000 tuition assistance
- P8,000 monthly stipend
Scholarship success
Patricia Balico is among the Ilokano youth who benefited from the DOST scholarship under Republic Act No. 7687.
Last July, she graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Teaching degree from the Mariano Marcos State University – College of Teacher Education (MMSU-CTE) in Batac City, Ilocos Norte.
She also ranked 9th in the Professional Teachers Licensure Examination with a score of 92.80 percent.
Raised by a solo parent, Balico faced financial hardships, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I was raised by my mother since I was six but my life took a positive turn when my parents started co-parenting. During the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, we had a lot of expenses and my mother got laid off of work, so I really worked hard to get the DOST scholarship,” she said.
She shared that the DOST scholarship not only alleviated her financial burdens but also provided her with the stability and support she needed to fully focus on her studies and excel academically.
Beyond academics, Balico honed her leadership skills, serving as Director of the DOST-Mobilized Amianan Youth Scholars’ Association (MAYSA) and Vice President of the Science and Math Club at MMSU-CTE.
“I would like to thank the National Government and the Administration of President Bongbong Marcos for continuing to provide us with such opportunities as DOST scholars. I would also like to thank the DOST for never hesitating to support us in our ideas and projects, no matter how big and difficult they may be,” she added.
Patricia was under the DOST scholarship program from 2020-2024.
Creating a supportive community among scholars
Abuan also urged hopefuls to check the DOST scholarship website to access updates about their scholarship programs at www.science-scholarships.ph.
Applicants are also encouraged to join the “DOST 1 – 2025 Undergraduate Scholarships Campaign” Facebook group for updates and support during the application process.
“The DOST created this Facebook page so that we can familiarize the applicants with the atmosphere of the application process and to avoid culture shock on the day of the examination. There are group review sessions that we are sure will help pass the DOST exams,” Abuan added.
Abuan expressed optimism that supporting young minds through the DOST scholarship programs not only helps students reach their full potential but also contributes to national growth by empowering future scientists and leaders.
The DOST scholarships not only open doors for deserving students but also strengthens the nation’s commitment to advancing science and technology education across the Philippines. (CCMT/EJFG/MTDA, PIA Ilocos Norte)
