DOST Scholarship 2026–2027: Requirements, Benefits, and Step-by-Step Application Guide

The Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) offers one of the most prestigious and competitive scholarship programs in the Philippines. Designed to fast-track the country’s scientific and technological development, the DOST Scholarship provides financial assistance, mentorship, and career opportunities to deserving Filipino students who show high aptitude in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Whether you are a graduating Grade 12 student dreaming of a career in engineering or an incoming third-year college student looking for financial support to finish your degree, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the DOST-SEI Undergraduate Scholarships, including eligibility, requirements, benefits, and how to apply.

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Types of DOST Undergraduate Scholarships

To cater to students from various backgrounds, the DOST-SEI implements three main undergraduate scholarship programs:

1. RA 7687 Scholarship (Science and Technology Scholarship Act of 1994)

This program is dedicated to talented and deserving students whose families’ socio-economic status does not exceed the poverty threshold limit. RA 7687 scholars are expected to pursue priority fields of study in the basic sciences, engineering, other applied sciences, and science/mathematics teaching.

2. DOST-SEI Merit Scholarship Program

Unlike RA 7687, the Merit Scholarship is awarded to students with a high aptitude in science and mathematics regardless of their family’s annual gross income. It aims to develop top-tier scientific manpower in the basic and applied sciences.

3. Junior Level Science Scholarship (JLSS)

The JLSS is designed for regular third-year college students currently enrolled in DOST-approved priority S&T courses. It includes components under RA 7687, Merit, and RA 10612 (which fast-tracks science and mathematics teachers for secondary schools).

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DOST Scholarship Benefits and Privileges

The DOST-SEI provides a comprehensive financial package to support its scholars throughout their academic journey. The table below outlines the specific benefits for the undergraduate programs:

Note on Mid-Year/Summer Terms: If the student’s curriculum requires a mid-year or summer term, DOST-SEI provides a tuition subsidy of up to ₱10,000, a learning materials allowance of ₱2,000, and a monthly living allowance of ₱8,000 for two months.

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Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

To qualify for the DOST-SEI Undergraduate Scholarship (RA 7687 and Merit), an applicant must meet the following general qualifications:

• Citizenship: Must be a natural-born Filipino citizen.
• Academic Status:
  • Must be a graduating Grade 12 student in the current school year; OR
  • Must be a Grade 12 graduate who has not yet enrolled in any college or post-secondary vocational units.
• Academic Track:
  • STEM Strand: All graduating Grade 12 STEM students are eligible to apply.
  • Non-STEM Strand: Non-STEM students may apply provided they belong to the top 5% of their graduating high school class.
• Character and Health: Must be of good moral character and in good health.
• Socio-Economic Status (for RA 7687): Must belong to a family whose socio-economic indicators do not exceed the established poverty cut-off values.

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DOST Priority Courses

The DOST Scholarship is highly specialized and is only applicable to specific science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Some of the most popular DOST-approved priority courses include:

• Engineering: Civil, Chemical, Electrical, Electronics, Mechanical, Computer, Agricultural and Biosystems, Aeronautical, and Materials Engineering.
• Basic Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Applied Physics, Biochemistry, and Environmental Science.
• Mathematics and Statistics: Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, and Applied Statistics.
• Information Technology & Emerging Fields: Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Cybersecurity.
• Science Education: Bachelor in Secondary Education (major in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics).

Ensure that your preferred degree program is listed on the official DOST Priority Courses catalog before finalizing your college enrollment. If you are looking for alternative funding options that do not focus strictly on S&T, you can read our complete guide on the CHED Merit Scholarship 2026: The Ultimate Guide to Funding Your College Dreams to see if it fits your academic profile better.

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Step-by-Step Online Application Process

All applications for the DOST-SEI Undergraduate Scholarship are processed online through the official E-Scholarship System. Follow these steps to complete your application:

Step 1: Access the E-Scholarship Portal

Go to the official portal at https://www.science-scholarships.ph/. Ensure you have a stable internet connection and a valid personal email address.

Step 2: Register an Account

Create an account using your active email address. Verification links and subsequent updates about your application status, exam schedules, and results will be sent to this email.

Step 3: Complete the E-Application Form

Accurately fill out the online forms, which include:

1. Personal Information
2. Family Socio-Economic Profile (essential for RA 7687 classification)
3. Academic Records (including high school grades)

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Scan and upload clear copies of the following documents:

• Birth Certificate (PSA copy)
• Certificate of Good Moral Character
• Certificate of Good Health
• Principal’s Certification (confirming your Grade 12 enrollment and strand)
• Income Tax Return (ITR) or Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Certificate of Tax Exemption of parents (for RA 7687 applicants)
• Recent passport-size ID picture

Step 5: Submit and Wait for Your Test Permit

Review all information carefully before final submission. Once approved, you will receive instructions on how to download your Test Permit, which contains your testing center, date, and exam session details.

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The Return Service Obligation (ROS)

One of the most critical terms of accepting a DOST Scholarship is the Return Service Obligation (ROS). As a scholar, you are expected to give back to the country upon completing your degree.

Key Rules of the Return Service Obligation:

1. Duration: You must render full-time service in the Philippines for a period equivalent to the number of years you enjoyed the scholarship (e.g., if you received funding for 4 years, you must work in the country for 4 years).
2. Field of Work: The service must preferably be in your field of specialization or in an approved science and technology industry.
3. Government Service: When you enter public service, you will likely need to fill out the PDS Form 2026 to apply for government roles. Furthermore, your salary in government research institutes or public schools will follow the Salary Standardization Law VI (SSL 2026).
4. Breach of Contract: If you fail to complete your return service or decide to work abroad without fulfilling the obligation, you are legally required to refund the total financial assistance received plus a 12% interest rate.

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Important Dates and Deadlines

For the Academic Year 2027–2028 intake, keep these official dates in mind:

• Opening of Online Application: August 17, 2026
• Deadline for Submission: September 17, 2026
• Qualifying Examination: November 14–15, 2026
• Release of Qualifiers: Tentatively March 2027

Make sure to prepare all your documentary requirements early to avoid last-minute server overloads on the official portal.

Sources & Citations

1. PRC Board – “DOST SCHOLARSHIP 2027: Undergraduate Application, Requirements, and Exam Schedule”
2. Government PH – “DOST Scholarship 2027: Requirements, Benefits, and How to Apply”
3. DOST Regional Office VI – “DOST Undergraduate Scholarship Programs”
4. DOST-SEI Official E-Scholarship System (https://science-scholarships.ph)