University-Based Scholarships: Ateneo, UP, De La Salle, and Others

University-based scholarships in the Philippines are among the most competitive yet rewarding opportunities for students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and service. Leading universities such as Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU), University of the Philippines (UP), and De La Salle University (DLSU) offer a variety of financial assistance programs designed to support students from different backgrounds. This guide provides an in-depth look at the types of scholarships available, eligibility requirements, and how to apply for them.

Overview of University-Based Scholarships in the Philippines

University-based scholarships are grants or financial aid programs offered directly by universities. Unlike government scholarships (e.g., CHED or DOST), these are funded by the institutions themselves or through their private donors and alumni foundations. They can be merit-based, need-based, or a combination of both.

Top universities in the Philippines—particularly Ateneo, UP, and De La Salle—maintain a strong commitment to accessibility, ensuring that qualified students can pursue quality education regardless of financial capability. These programs cover tuition, miscellaneous fees, and sometimes include stipends, book allowances, and housing support.

Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) Scholarships

Ateneo de Manila University offers one of the most comprehensive scholarship systems in the country. The school focuses on academic excellence, leadership potential, and service to the community.

Merit-Based Scholarships

The Ateneo Freshman Merit Scholarship (AFMS) is awarded to incoming students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and leadership in high school. Recipients are automatically considered during the admission process; no separate application is required.

Benefits include:

• Full or partial tuition coverage

• Annual book allowance

• Possible stipend for living expenses

Eligibility:

• Top percentile in the Ateneo College Entrance Test (ACET)

• Outstanding high school grades and extracurricular achievements

Need-Based Scholarships

The Ateneo Financial Aid Program (FAP) provides assistance to students with proven financial need. Applicants must submit detailed financial documents, including family income and household expenses.

Application Process:

1. Indicate intent to apply for financial aid during admission.

2. Submit required financial documents and interview forms.

3. Await evaluation by the Office of Admission and Aid.

Special and Named Scholarships

Ateneo also offers donor-funded scholarships such as:

• San Ignacio Scholarship for top academic achievers

• Gabriel L. Fabella Scholarship for leadership and social engagement

• Scholarships for Public School Graduates

University of the Philippines (UP) Scholarships

As the country’s national university, the University of the Philippines provides numerous scholarships, both academic and need-based, funded by the university system and private endowments.

Free Tuition Under the RA 10931 Program

All undergraduate students enrolled in UP benefit from the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, which provides free tuition and other school fees for Filipino students.

UP Grants-in-Aid Program (GIAP)

The GIAP helps financially challenged students by providing full or partial subsidies depending on family income. The assistance is tiered based on socioeconomic classification.

Benefits:

• Tuition and miscellaneous fee subsidies

• Monthly living allowance (for lower-income brackets)

• Book and transportation allowance

Requirements:

• Proof of income (ITR or certification of low income)

• Application through the Office of Scholarships and Student Services (OSSS)

UP Oblation Scholarship

This is a prestigious merit-based scholarship granted to the top 50 UPCAT passers across all UP campuses.

Coverage:

• Full tuition and miscellaneous fee exemption

• Monthly stipend

• Book and transportation allowance

Renewal:
Recipients must maintain a specified general weighted average (GWA) and uphold good moral standing.

Private and Alumni-Funded Scholarships

UP also collaborates with alumni and organizations for specialized scholarships like:

• UPAA Scholarship Fund

• UP Engineering Research and Development Foundation, Inc. (ERDFI)

• UP President’s Scholars Program

De La Salle University (DLSU) Scholarships

De La Salle University offers a variety of scholarships that recognize excellence, service, and financial need. DLSU’s Lasallian mission focuses on making quality education accessible to deserving students.

St. La Salle Financial Assistance Grant

This grant is for students who demonstrate both strong academic potential and financial need.

Coverage:

• Full or partial tuition waiver

• Miscellaneous fee discounts

Requirements:

• Proof of family income

• Letter of intent and financial documents

• Personal interview

Vaugirard Scholarship Program

The Vaugirard Scholarship is offered to incoming freshmen from public schools who are among the top 120 applicants in the DLSU College Admission Test (DCAT).

Benefits:

• Full tuition and fees

• Monthly stipend

• Book and uniform allowance

Eligibility:

• Graduate of a Philippine public high school

• High academic standing and leadership background

Merit and Donor-Based Scholarships

• Br. Andrew Gonzalez Academic Scholarship – for top academic performers

• Gokongwei College of Engineering Scholarship – for students pursuing STEM degrees

• Sports and Arts Scholarships – for student-athletes and artists with exceptional talent

Other Prominent University-Based Scholarships

University of Santo Tomas (UST)

UST offers scholarships under its Office for Student Affairs (OSA), including:

• Santo Tomas Scholarship for top-performing students

• San Lorenzo Ruiz Scholarship for community service and leadership

• Athletic Scholarship for varsity players

Mapúa University

Mapúa provides merit scholarships such as:

• President’s Scholarship (100% coverage for top entrance exam scorers)

• Dean’s Scholarship (partial tuition discount)

• Entrance Scholarship for Valedictorians/Salutatorians

Far Eastern University (FEU)

FEU’s Academic Scholarship recognizes students who excel in the FEU College Admission Test (FEUCAT) and maintain a certain GPA during their stay.
FEU also has Cultural and Athletic Grants for artists and athletes.

Adamson University

Adamson’s Institutional Scholarship Program includes:

• Academic Excellence Scholarships

• Athletic and Cultural Scholarships

• Scholarships for Children of Alumni and Employees

Common Eligibility and Application Tips

Though requirements differ by school, most university-based scholarships in the Philippines share similar eligibility criteria:

Basic Requirements

• Strong academic record (usually top 10% of the class)

• Good moral character and community involvement

• For need-based grants: proof of financial hardship

Common Documents

• Application form (available at each university’s scholarship office)

• Report cards or transcripts

• Certificates of good moral character

• Income Tax Return (ITR) or affidavit of low income

• Personal essay or statement of purpose

• Recommendation letters

Application Timeline

Most universities open scholarship applications alongside admission cycles:

• UPCAT, ACET, DCAT applications: around August to October

• Scholarship announcements: typically March to May

• Enrollment and award release: July to August

Tips for Applicants

1. Apply early. Slots are limited, especially for full scholarships.

2. Prepare documentation thoroughly. Missing income proofs or recommendation letters can lead to disqualification.

3. Write a strong personal essay. Highlight leadership, resilience, and your long-term goals.

4. Maintain your grades. Scholarship renewals depend on academic performance.

5. Participate in community or volunteer work. Many programs value social involvement.

Comparison Summary

Final Thoughts

University-based scholarships in the Philippines reflect the nation’s growing commitment to accessible and inclusive education. Whether you are an honor student, a public school graduate, or a talented athlete, there are opportunities across leading institutions like Ateneo, UP, and De La Salle.

The key to success lies in early preparation, strong academic performance, and dedicated community involvement. By applying strategically and maintaining excellence, students can not only earn financial support but also join a network of scholars who make meaningful contributions to society.

FAQs

What are university-based scholarships and how are they different from government programs?

University-based scholarships are awards funded and administered by individual universities or their partner foundations. They may be merit-based, need-based, talent-based, or hybrid. Unlike government programs (e.g., CHED TOSF, DOST-SEI), university awards use campus-specific criteria, deadlines, and application portals, and often bundle benefits like tuition waivers with book stipends, housing assistance, or mentorship within the same institution.

Who is eligible to apply for Ateneo, UP, and De La Salle scholarships?

Eligibility varies by program but commonly includes strong academic performance, good moral character, and—in the case of need-based aid—documented financial hardship. Ateneo considers top ACET performers for merit awards and runs a Financial Aid Program for need. UP offers merit awards (e.g., Oblation Scholarship) and a Grants-in-Aid Program tiered by income. DLSU runs merit and donor-funded grants and the St. La Salle Financial Assistance Grant for those with demonstrated need.

Do I need to submit a separate application, or am I automatically considered?

It depends. Some merit scholarships automatically consider high-ranking exam passers during admissions, while most need-based grants require a separate set of financial documents (income statements, affidavits, household expense summaries). Always read the admissions email carefully; if the scholarship requires a separate form, submit it early to avoid bottlenecks.

What documents should I prepare for need-based scholarships?

Typical documents include: recent income tax returns or income certifications, proof of employment or unemployment, household utility/expense summaries, school records or report cards, a personal statement detailing financial circumstances, and recommendation letters. International applicants may need authenticated financial statements and translated documents when applicable.

What benefits can I expect beyond tuition coverage?

Beyond full or partial tuition, many awards include miscellaneous fee waivers, monthly living allowances, book and learning material stipends, uniform or laboratory allowances, and occasionally housing support or dorm priority. Some donor-funded awards add mentorship, research assistantships, or internship pipelines to help scholars thrive academically and professionally.

How competitive are university-based scholarships?

Highly competitive—especially merit awards tied to entrance examination performance or class rank. Public high school priority programs (e.g., some DLSU scholarships) also have limited slots. Early, complete, and well-documented applications significantly improve your chances, as do strong extracurriculars, leadership roles, and community service.

When should I apply and what are typical timelines?

Plan months ahead of entrance exams. Many universities open scholarship portals alongside admissions and close applications shortly after exam results. As a rough guide: entrance exam registration often occurs August–October, admissions decisions publish around March–May, and scholarship confirmations align with enrollment from June–August. Always check the current cycle dates for your target campus.

How do I write a compelling personal statement for scholarships?

Be specific and reflective. Explain your academic interests, leadership or service impact, challenges you have overcome, and how the scholarship enables you to contribute to campus and society. Use concrete examples (projects, initiatives, measurable outcomes). Keep the tone authentic, demonstrate growth, and close with clear goals that align with the university’s mission.

What GPA or standing is required to maintain the scholarship each year?

Renewal rules vary. Many programs require a minimum GWA/GPA each term (e.g., being in good standing or meeting a defined numerical threshold), adherence to a full-time load, and no major disciplinary cases. Some awards require participation in leadership, outreach, or research activities. Read your grant’s contract and track your standing each semester.

Can I combine multiple scholarships or financial aid sources?

Sometimes. Universities often allow stacking up to the cost of attendance, but may adjust amounts to prevent over-awarding. If you receive an external donor scholarship, immediately disclose it to the university’s scholarship office so they can coordinate benefits and ensure compliance with institutional policies.

Are there scholarships for athletes, artists, or students in specific programs?

Yes. Many institutions offer athletic and cultural grants for varsity athletes and performing or visual artists. Colleges or departments (e.g., engineering, education, health sciences) may also run discipline-specific awards funded by alumni or industry partners. Check both the university-wide scholarship office and your program department.

How do international students fit into these scholarships?

Some scholarships are open to international students, though eligibility and benefits may differ. International applicants should verify whether awards are limited to Filipino citizens, what tuition rates apply, and what documentation (e.g., proof of funds, visa, insurance) is needed. Contact the international admissions office and scholarship unit for definitive guidance.

What if I do not qualify for merit or flagship scholarships?

Look for smaller donor-funded grants, department-level awards, research assistant roles, or work-study opportunities. Explore installment plans, partial discounts, or flexible payment schemes through the finance office. Consider applying again after establishing a strong first-year GPA, as some universities offer continuing-student scholarships for top performers.

How can I strengthen my application beyond grades?

Demonstrate leadership (club officer roles, projects launched), sustained community service, and evidence of initiative (competitions, research fairs, hackathons, publications). Secure recommendations from mentors who can speak to your character, work ethic, and impact. Submit a clean, error-free application file that meets all formatting and deadline requirements.

Who should I contact for the most accurate and updated information?

Always consult the official admissions website and the university’s scholarships and student services office (or financial aid office). Policies, benefits, and deadlines can change each year. If in doubt, email the scholarship office using your applicant details and ask specific questions about eligibility, documents, and timelines.

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