DOST-SEI Scholarship Program 2024: Requirements and Application

February 21, 2024

Unlocking Opportunities: The Ultimate Guide to DOST-SEI Scholarship Program

In today’s rapidly evolving world, education stands as the cornerstone of progress and empowerment. For many aspiring Filipino students, particularly those with a passion for science and technology, the DOST-SEI Scholarship Program represents a beacon of hope and opportunity. This comprehensive guide aims to illuminate the path towards unlocking the countless opportunities offered by this esteemed scholarship program. From demystifying the application process to providing invaluable insights into the benefits and requirements, embark on a journey with us as we delve into the intricacies of the DOST-SEI Scholarship Program, empowering you to pursue your dreams and make a lasting impact in the realm of science and innovation.

Understanding the DOST-SEI Scholarship Program: An Overview

The DOST-SEI Scholarship Program, administered by the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI), stands as a flagship initiative in the Philippines aimed at nurturing the country’s future leaders in science and technology. Rooted in the belief that education is a catalyst for societal progress, this program seeks to provide deserving Filipino students with access to quality education, particularly in the fields of science, mathematics, and engineering. Through a combination of financial assistance, academic support, and professional development opportunities, the DOST-SEI Scholarship Program empowers students to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of their communities and the nation as a whole.

At its core, the DOST-SEI Scholarship Program embodies a commitment to excellence, equity, and inclusivity. By offering scholarships to qualified students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, the program aims to level the playing field and create pathways for upward mobility. Beyond the provision of financial aid, recipients of the scholarship are also exposed to a rich array of learning experiences, including mentorship programs, research opportunities, and industry partnerships, all geared towards fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Through this comprehensive approach, the DOST-SEI Scholarship Program not only invests in the individual success of its scholars but also cultivates a culture of scientific inquiry and technological innovation that is vital for the nation’s sustainable development.

Navigating the Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Navigating the Application Process for the DOST-SEI Scholarship Program demands meticulous attention to detail and adherence to specific guidelines.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you successfully navigate through the application journey:

Online Application for the DOST Scholarship

Initiate the process by visiting the DOST-SEI website at https://ugrad.science-scholarships.ph/ and complete the registration using a valid email address. Upon registration, an email will be sent to you for verification.

Filling out the Undergraduate E-Application: Access the provided link in the verification email and proceed to the Eligibility Module. Ensure to provide accurate information to determine your eligibility for the scholarship. If deemed ineligible, a Notice of Disqualification will be sent to your email.

Completing the Modules

If eligible, proceed to fill out various modules including Student Information Questionnaire, Personal Data, Contact Information, Family Data, Financial Contribution, Household Information Questionnaire, School Information, and Upload Documents. Ensure all information is accurate and all required documents are uploaded in acceptable file formats (.jpeg, .png, .bmp, and .pdf).

Selection of Test Center Location

Successful applicants can choose their preferred test center location. This choice is crucial as it determines where you will take the qualifying examination. Once submitted, changes cannot be made, so choose wisely based on your whereabouts during the examination dates.

Submission and Test Permit Issuance

Review all modules thoroughly before pressing the SUBMIT button. Upon successful submission, wait for the issuance of the Test Permit, which contains details about your test center, session, and other relevant examination information. Test permits will be sent to registered email addresses in February 2024, with the examination scheduled for April 6-7, 2024.

Announcement of Qualified Scholars

Keep an eye on the SEI website (https://sei.dost.gov.ph) for announcements regarding scholarship qualifiers, tentatively scheduled for June 2024. If you qualify, you’ll receive a Notice of Award via your registered email address.

Effectivity of Scholarship Award

Upon acceptance of the scholarship award, attend the orientation on scholarship policies and sign the Scholarship Agreement to formalize your status as a DOST-SEI scholar. The scholarship award becomes effective in the First Semester of AY 2024-2025, marking the beginning of your journey towards academic and professional excellence.

Meeting the Requirements: Essential Criteria for Eligibility

Meeting the Requirements for the DOST-SEI Scholarship Program entails fulfilling a set of essential criteria to be eligible for consideration. Here are the key eligibility requirements:

Who Can Apply?

Must be a natural-born Filipino citizen.
Graduating Grade 12 male and female students in SY 2023-2024:
- STEM STRAND: All students belonging to the STEM class.
- NON-STEM STRAND: Must be in the top 5% of the graduating class, if belonging to the Non-STEM strand.
Graduates of Grade 12 before SY 2023-2024 who have not yet enrolled in college:
- STEM STRAND: All students belonging to the STEM class.
- NON-STEM STRAND: Must be in the top 5% of the graduating class, if belonging to the Non-STEM strand.
Graduates of high school before the K-12 Program, who must belong to the top 5% of the graduating class.
Must have grades in Grades 9, 10, and 11.
The scores in the Philippine Education Placement Test Certificate of Rating are acceptable if you skip a grade.
Must be of good moral character and in good health.
May have taken the DOST-SEI Undergraduate Scholarship Examination but did not qualify for the scholarship or may have qualified for the DOST-SEI Undergraduate Scholarship but did not avail of the award.
Must NOT have earned any post-secondary (college or vocational) units.

DOST Priority Courses List

For students aspiring to pursue their academic endeavors under the DOST Scholarship Program, understanding the priority courses is crucial. Here’s an extensive list of priority courses categorized alphabetically:

A – B

Aeronautical Engineering
Aerospace Engineering
Agribusiness Management
Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
Agricultural and Biotechnology (at UP System Only)
Agricultural Chemistry
Agricultural Economics
Agricultural Engineering
Agricultural Technology
Agriculture
Animal Science
Applied Mathematics
Applied Mathematics major in Mathematical Finance (4yrs ADMU)
Applied Physics
Applied Physics with Applied Computer System
Applied Physics With Materials Science and Engineering
Applied Statistics
Bachelor of Library and Information Science
Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Science
Biochemistry
Biology

C – E

Ceramics Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Chemistry
Chemistry with Applied Computer Systems
Chemistry with Materials Science and Engineering
Civil Engineering
Computer Nutrition
Computer Engineering
Computer Science
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
Electrical Engineering
Electronics and Communications Engineering
Electronics Engineering
Environmental Science

F – I

Fisheries
Food Technology
Forestry
Geodetic Engineering
Geography
Geology
Geothermal Engineering
Health Science
Human Biology
Industrial Design
Industrial Engineering
Industrial Management Engineering – Information Technology (at DLSU only)
Industrial Pharmacy
Information and Communications Technology
Information System
Information Technology
Information Technology Systems
Instrumentation and Control Engineering

L – N

Life Sciences
Management Information Systems (4 yrs ADMU)
Manufacturing Engineering
Manufacturing Engineering – Management – Biomedical Engineering (at FDLSU only)
Manufacturing Engineering – Management – Mechatronics and Robotics (at DLSU only)
Marine Biology
Marine Science
Materials Engineering
Mathematics
Mathematics Teaching
Mathematics and Science Teaching
Mechanical Engineering
Mechatronics Engineering
Medical Laboratory Science
Medical Technology
Metallurgical Engineering
Meteorology
Microbiology
Mining Engineering
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
Nutrition
Nutrition and Dietetics

P – S

Packaging Engineering
Petroleum Engineering
Pharmacy (4-year Program)
Pharmacy major in Clinical Pharmacy (5-year Program)
Physics
Psychology (BS Program)
Public Health
Science Teaching (Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Physical Science)
Statistics

Maximizing Scholarship Benefits: Financial and Academic Support

The DOST Scholarship Program extends a comprehensive array of financial and academic support to empower scholars in their pursuit of higher education. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits offered:

Financial Assistance Offered by DOST Scholarship:

Tuition and Other School Fees: DOST ensures that scholars’ academic expenses are fully covered, encompassing tuition fees, laboratory charges, miscellaneous fees, and other essential costs associated with their educational endeavors.
Monthly Stipend: Recognizing the importance of easing financial burdens, DOST provides scholars with a monthly stipend. This financial aid is disbursed regularly throughout the scholarship tenure, enabling students to concentrate on their studies without worrying about day-to-day expenses.
Book Allowance: Access to academic materials is paramount for student success. DOST scholars receive a book allowance to alleviate the costs of textbooks, reference materials, and other essential resources crucial for their learning.
Transportation Allowance: Acknowledging the diverse geographical locations of scholars, DOST extends a transportation allowance to facilitate their travel to and from educational institutions. This provision ensures that scholars can attend classes and engage in academic activities without hindrance.
Group Insurance: The DOST Scholarship Program prioritizes scholars’ well-being by providing them with comprehensive group insurance coverage. This insurance encompasses medical and accident coverage, offering peace of mind to scholars and their families throughout the scholarship period.
Graduation Incentive: Upon successful completion of the scholarship program, DOST scholars may be eligible for a graduation incentive. This incentive serves as a token of appreciation for scholars’ dedication and perseverance, motivating them to excel academically and beyond.

Obligations and Responsibilities of DOST Scholars

Being a DOST scholar entails more than just receiving financial support; it also involves fulfilling various obligations and responsibilities to uphold the integrity of the program. Scholars are entrusted with the task of maintaining exemplary academic performance, demonstrating diligence, and adhering to the ethical standards expected of scholars. This entails dedicating themselves wholeheartedly to their studies, engaging actively in academic pursuits, and upholding the principles of academic honesty and integrity at all times.

Furthermore, upon completion of their studies, DOST scholars are called upon to give back to their country by serving in roles that contribute to the advancement of science, technology, and innovation. This commitment to national service underscores the program’s mission to nurture future leaders who are not only academically proficient but also socially responsible. Scholars may fulfill this obligation by working in research and development institutions, government agencies, or industries relevant to their field of expertise, thereby leveraging their knowledge and skills to address pressing societal challenges and drive progress in the Philippines. By fulfilling these obligations, DOST scholars play a pivotal role in fostering a culture of excellence and innovation, ultimately contributing to the nation’s sustainable development and global competitiveness in science and technology.

Frequently Asked Questions: Clarifying Common Queries

Navigating the intricacies of the DOST Scholarship Program can often raise questions and uncertainties. Here are some frequently asked questions to help clarify common queries:

What is a passing grade for DOST?

The passing grade for DOST scholars is typically set at 85%. This maintaining grade ensures that scholars maintain good academic standing throughout their scholarship tenure. Additionally, it’s important to note that a grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 is widely considered equivalent to a passing grade of 85%. For instance, if a scholar receives an 85-88% on a course with a passing grade of 70%, it would translate to a 2.5 grade point.

What are the two types of DOST scholarships?

The DOST Scholarship Program offers different types of scholarships under various legislations, including R.A. 10612, R.A. 7687, and the Merit Scholarship program. Students who qualify under R.A. 10612 and R.A. 7687 are privileged with benefits such as tuition fees, book allowance, monthly living allowance, and other school fees for a specified duration, typically two years.

Which type of scholarship is best?

Merit-based scholarships are widely regarded as one of the best types of scholarships available. These scholarships are awarded to students based on their exceptional achievements in academia, arts, or other related fields. Merit-based scholarships recognize students who excel not only in their academic pursuits but also demonstrate potential to make significant contributions to society through their talents and achievements.

As we conclude our exploration of the DOST-SEI Scholarship Program, it’s evident that this initiative stands as a beacon of opportunity for aspiring Filipino students passionate about science and technology. Through comprehensive financial assistance, academic support, and a commitment to national service, the program empowers scholars to realize their full potential and make meaningful contributions to society.