Scholarships and Financial Aid Options for Students in Baguio

Baguio City, known as the “Education Center of the North,” attracts thousands of students each year from all over the Philippines and abroad. While the city offers a wide variety of excellent universities and colleges, the cost of tuition, lodging, and daily living can be a concern for many learners. Fortunately, Baguio has numerous scholarships and financial aid programs that can help make education more accessible and affordable.

In this guide, we will explore the available scholarships, grants, and financial assistance options for students in Baguio—whether you’re a local resident, an out-of-town student, or an international learner pursuing higher education in the city.

Overview: Education Costs in Baguio

Before diving into scholarship options, it’s important to understand the general cost of education in Baguio. Tuition fees vary depending on the institution and program:

• Public Universities such as the University of the Philippines Baguio (UP Baguio) or Benguet State University (BSU) offer affordable tuition, often covered by government subsidies.

• Private Universities and Colleges like Saint Louis University (SLU), University of Baguio (UB), and University of the Cordilleras (UC) charge higher tuition, typically ranging from ₱25,000 to ₱70,000 per semester depending on the program.

• Living Expenses such as dormitory fees, meals, transportation, and other necessities can range between ₱10,000 to ₱20,000 per month.

Because of these costs, scholarships and financial aid play an essential role in helping students manage their education-related expenses.

Government-Funded Scholarships

1. CHED Scholarship Program (CSP)

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) provides one of the most well-known financial aid programs for Filipino students. The CHED Scholarship Program supports academically qualified but financially needy students in both private and public higher education institutions.

Types of CHED Scholarships:

• Full Merit Scholarship (FMS)

• Half Merit Scholarship (HMS)

Benefits:

• Full or partial tuition and other school fees

• Monthly stipend and book allowance

• Priority for students enrolled in priority courses such as STEM, education, and health sciences

Eligibility:

• Filipino citizen

• Incoming freshman or continuing student with good academic standing

• Combined family income not exceeding ₱400,000 per year

How to Apply:
Applications are done online through CHED regional offices. Required documents include a certificate of registration, income tax return (ITR), and academic records.

2. DOST-SEI Scholarship

The Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) offers scholarships for students who want to pursue degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

Benefits:

• Full tuition coverage

• Monthly stipend

• Book allowance

• Thesis and graduation clothing allowance

Eligibility:

• Must pass the DOST-SEI exam

• Filipino citizen of good moral character

• Belongs to the top 5% of the graduating class

This program is perfect for those aiming to study engineering or natural sciences at universities like Saint Louis University or UP Baguio.

3. Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES)

Under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (RA 10931), the Tertiary Education Subsidy provides financial assistance to students in both public and private colleges and universities.

Benefits:

• Up to ₱60,000 annual allowance for tuition, books, and living expenses

• Priority given to students from poor families or those in state universities

Students can apply through their school’s financial aid office or the Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST) portal.

Local Government and City-Based Scholarships

1. Baguio City Scholarship Program

The City Government of Baguio offers scholarships to deserving residents who show strong academic potential and community involvement.

Qualifications:

• Resident of Baguio City

• Good academic performance

• Participation in community service

Benefits:

• Tuition assistance per semester

• Book allowance

• Priority consideration for renewal based on grades

Applicants can submit requirements to the Baguio City Mayor’s Office or Education Committee.

2. Provincial Government of Benguet Scholarship

Students originally from Benguet Province but studying in Baguio can apply for provincial scholarships.

Coverage:

• Annual cash grants or semestral tuition subsidies

• Additional incentives for academic excellence

These scholarships aim to promote access to education for students from rural municipalities.

3. Barangay and Congressional District Scholarships

Certain barangays and congressional offices in Baguio offer small-scale scholarship programs, especially for youth leaders, athletes, and student achievers. Benefits range from ₱5,000 to ₱20,000 per year.

These community-level scholarships can be an excellent supplement for students who need partial assistance.

University-Specific Scholarships in Baguio

Many of Baguio’s top universities offer institution-based financial aid programs for students who excel academically, demonstrate leadership, or need financial support.

1. Saint Louis University (SLU)

SLU provides various scholarships under its Office of Student Affairs and Services, including:

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

• Athletic Scholarship

• Financial Aid Program for low-income students

• Alumni Foundation Grants

2. University of Baguio (UB)

UB’s scholarship office offers:

• Academic Honor Scholarships (for Dean’s Listers)

• Performing Arts and Athletics Scholarships

• UB Employees’ Dependents Grants

• UB Foundation Financial Aid

3. University of the Cordilleras (UC)

UC provides merit-based and need-based assistance:

• UC Scholars Program

• UC President’s List Grant

• Sports and Cultural Scholarships

• Assistance for working students

4. Pines City Colleges (PCC)

PCC offers several tuition discounts and academic scholarships for high-performing students and those pursuing medical and allied health programs.

5. University of the Philippines Baguio

UP Baguio follows the Socialized Tuition System (STS), which adjusts tuition based on the student’s family income. Some students may pay zero tuition, while others pay reduced rates.

Private and Non-Governmental Scholarships

1. SM Foundation College Scholarship

The SM Foundation offers scholarships to underprivileged but deserving students pursuing business, IT, or engineering courses. Baguio students studying at partner universities may qualify.

Benefits:

• Full tuition coverage

• Monthly allowance

• Internship and job opportunities with SM Group

2. Aboitiz Foundation Scholarship

The Aboitiz Foundation supports students enrolled in engineering, business, and IT programs. Recipients are mentored by Aboitiz professionals and given internship opportunities.

3. Jollibee Group Foundation and other CSR-based Grants

Several corporations operating in Baguio offer scholarship grants through their corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs. These include:

• Jollibee Group Foundation

• Coca-Cola Foundation

• Metrobank Foundation
  These programs often focus on leadership, volunteerism, and community service.

Religious and NGO-Based Scholarships

1. Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP)

Many Catholic schools in Baguio, including SLU, offer scholarships funded by CEAP for underprivileged students.

2. Rotary Club and Lions Club Grants

Local civic organizations such as the Rotary Club of Baguio and Lions Club offer small grants and cash assistance for students who demonstrate academic excellence and involvement in community work.

3. Church-Based Aid Programs

Churches and religious missions in Baguio occasionally provide partial assistance for students active in parish work or youth ministries.

Tips for Applying for Scholarships

1. Prepare Early: Many scholarship applications close months before the school year begins. Prepare your documents in advance.

2. Maintain Good Grades: Academic excellence is a key requirement for most scholarships.

3. Write a Strong Personal Essay: Highlight your goals, community service, and commitment to education.

4. Secure Recommendation Letters: Endorsements from teachers or community leaders strengthen your application.

5. Track Renewal Requirements: Most scholarships require maintaining a certain grade average each semester.

Alternative Financial Aid Options

If scholarships are not sufficient, students can explore additional financial aid methods:

• Student Loans: Some banks and financial institutions offer low-interest education loans.

• Work-Study Programs: Several universities allow students to work part-time in offices or libraries on campus.

• Tuition Installment Plans: Schools like UC and UB offer flexible payment schemes for tuition.

Conclusion

Baguio City provides a wealth of opportunities for students seeking quality education with financial support. Whether through government initiatives, university programs, or private foundations, a wide range of scholarships can make studying in this academic hub more affordable and rewarding. With dedication, strong academic performance, and proactive research, students can find the right scholarship to support their educational journey in Baguio.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What types of scholarships are available to students in Baguio?

Students can access government scholarships (CHED, DOST-SEI, TES via UniFAST), local government and barangay grants, university-based merit and need aid (SLU, UC, UB, PCC, UP Baguio), and private/NGO programs from corporate foundations and civic groups. Many awards can be stacked with school installment plans or work-study, subject to each program’s rules.

Who is eligible for CHED scholarships and how do I apply?

CHED Merit Scholarships target academically qualified Filipino citizens with limited family income. Applicants typically submit grades, income documents (e.g., ITR/Certificate of Indigency), and school admission or enrollment papers through their CHED regional office or official online portal. Slots are competitive and deadlines are strict, so prepare early and monitor announcements.

How does the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) work?

TES provides yearly support for tuition and education-related expenses, prioritizing students in public institutions or those who are economically disadvantaged. Applications usually go through the school’s financial aid office and UniFAST channels. Funding availability and prioritization lists determine final awards, so maintain updated documents and stay in contact with your registrar/aid office.

What is the DOST-SEI scholarship and who should consider it?

DOST-SEI supports undergraduate degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It offers tuition coverage, stipends, and research-related allowances. You must pass the national exam and meet academic and residency requirements. It’s well-suited for students planning to study engineering, natural sciences, mathematics, or IT at institutions in Baguio.

Do Baguio City or Benguet Province offer local scholarships?

Yes. The Baguio City Government, Benguet Provincial Government, and some congressional and barangay offices offer grants for resident students, often focusing on academic merit, leadership, or financial need. Benefits vary—ranging from semestral allowances to book or transport support. Check your city hall, provincial capitol, or barangay for current guidelines.

Which Baguio universities have their own scholarships?

Saint Louis University (SLU), University of Baguio (UB), University of the Cordilleras (UC), Pines City Colleges (PCC), and UP Baguio all run institutional aid. Typical options include academic excellence awards, athletics and performing arts scholarships, need-based tuition support, and discounts for honor graduates or employees’ dependents. Consult each school’s scholarships/OSA page.

How does financial aid at UP Baguio differ?

UP Baguio follows a socialized tuition framework aligning tuition with household income. Qualified students may pay reduced or zero tuition. Additional grants, learning support, and allowances may be available. Because requirements are income-verified, gather official proofs (ITR, certificate of indigency, etc.) and apply within posted timelines.

Can international students in Baguio apply for scholarships?

Some university-specific or private foundation grants may consider non-Filipino students, but most government-funded programs require Filipino citizenship. International students should consult their chosen university’s admissions/aid office for available institutional or partner-funded options and confirm visa-related work-study eligibility before counting on campus employment.

What documents are commonly required for scholarship applications?

Expect a combination of: valid ID, PSA birth certificate, Form 137/138 or TOR, certificate of enrollment/admission, proof of income (ITR, payslips, COI), barangay or residency certificate, good moral certificate, and sometimes a personal essay and recommendation letters. Keep scanned copies ready and ensure names and addresses are consistent across files.

How do I strengthen my scholarship essay?

Show a clear goal statement, specific academic and community impact plans, and authentic financial context. Use concrete examples (projects, leadership roles, volunteer work) and quantify results. Tie your proposed course to local needs (e.g., health, engineering, education in the Cordillera region). Edit tightly; ask a mentor to review for clarity and tone.

Can I hold multiple scholarships at once?

Sometimes. Many programs permit “stacking” with institutional discounts or small barangay grants, but some have exclusivity clauses or cap total benefits. Always read acceptance forms and ask the aid office to confirm how awards interact. If overlapping benefits exceed actual costs, programs may adjust or reduce payouts.

Are there options if I don’t qualify for merit-based aid?

Yes. Explore need-based institutional aid, TES (if eligible), barangay or civic group assistance, tuition installment plans, and campus work-study. Some banks and lending partners offer education loans with student-friendly terms. Short professional certificates or ladderized programs can reduce upfront costs while still building employable skills.

What GPA do I need to keep my scholarship?

Retention requirements vary—common thresholds are around a general average of 2.0–2.5 (or its percentile equivalent), with no failing grades. Some awards require full course load completion, service hours, or participation in official activities. Track your Terms and Conditions, and meet with your aid office early if you foresee academic challenges.

When should I start applying and how do I track deadlines?

Start 4–6 months before the semester. Create a deadline calendar covering CHED, DOST, TES, LGU, and campus programs. Subscribe to official pages, join school mailing lists, and set reminders two weeks ahead for document checks. Submit early—some schemes are first-come, first-served or close immediately after quotas are filled.

Do scholarships cover non-tuition expenses like housing or books?

Many programs include stipends for books, supplies, uniforms, and sometimes board and lodging. Others fund tuition only. If housing isn’t covered, combine scholarships with dorm discounts, shared rentals, or partial grants from barangay or civic groups. Keep receipts; some programs reimburse rather than prepay.

What if my family income changes midyear?

Notify your financial aid office and the granting body right away. Provide updated proofs (e.g., separation notice, medical bills). Some programs allow midyear reclassification or emergency assistance. Schools may offer bridge loans or temporary payment plans while you await recalculation or release of funds.

Are volunteerism and leadership really important?

Yes. Many Baguio-based and corporate foundation grants weigh community service and campus leadership. Sustained involvement—tutoring, environmental projects, cultural groups—signals impact and maturity. Document roles, hours, and outcomes; ask supervisors for detailed recommendation letters to make your application stand out.

How can working students balance jobs and scholarship rules?

Confirm hour limits and performance expectations. Choose on-campus roles aligned with your schedule (library, labs, admin). Use time blocks for study, protect sleep, and communicate early with supervisors during exams. If grades slip, scale back hours or request flexible shifts to preserve eligibility.

Where can I find reliable, up-to-date announcements?

Monitor your university’s official scholarship page and guidance office, CHED and UniFAST channels, DOST-SEI announcements, and the Baguio City or Benguet Provincial Government pages. Avoid unofficial social posts that lack source documents. When in doubt, verify by calling or emailing the listed contact person.

What’s a smart first step if I feel overwhelmed?

List your target schools and courses, estimate total yearly costs, and shortlist 6–8 relevant programs (mix of government, LGU, institutional, and private grants). Prepare core documents and a master essay you can tailor. Book a guidance/aid office consultation to map deadlines and compatibility of awards.

Baguio University Guide: Top Universities and Student Life in the Summer Capital of the Philippines