Looking for a scholarship? Start here.
If you’re a current third-year college student in the Philippines and need help with tuition, allowance, or other school expenses, this Scholarship Guide for Current Third-Year College Students is for you.
Table of Contents
No need to feel overwhelmed, we’ll walk you through everything step by step, simply and clearly.
Start with Part 1: Who Can Apply to check if you’re eligible.
🗂️ Scholarship Resources
Want to explore more options? Start here:
- Browse Third-Year College Scholarships
- Track Deadlines on the Scholarship Calendar
- Explore All Scholarship Programs in the Philippines
- Filter by:
- Education Level (High School, College, Graduate School)
- Funding Source (Government, LGU, Private, School-Based)
Part 1: How to Qualify / Qualifications 🤔
For Current Third-Year College Students in the Philippines
Before you gather your documents, check if you meet the qualifications. While requirements vary slightly, most scholarships from schools, LGUs, private companies, and government programs follow similar criteria.
1. You must be a currently enrolled 3rd-year college student
This includes:
- Students officially enrolled in their third year of college this school year
- Students who have already completed the 2nd year and are continuing in the same program
📌 Some programs accept mid-year applicants, as long as you’re still in 3rd year when applying
2. You must be a Filipino citizen
You must be able to provide any of the following:
- PSA Birth Certificate
- Philippine National ID (PhilSys), Voter’s ID, Passport, or any valid government-issued ID
3. You must meet financial need qualifications
Many programs give priority to those who:
- Belong to low-income households (₱100,000–₱300,000 annual family income range)
- Are part of the 4Ps, Listahanan, or other DSWD programs
- Are orphans, self-supporting, or from solo-parent families
Possible documents:
- Income Tax Return (ITR)
- Certificate of Indigency or Barangay Income Certificate
- Payslip or Affidavit of Support
4. You must meet academic performance requirements
Most providers require that you:
- Have a GWA of at least 85% or QPI of 2.0 (or equivalent)
- Have no failing, dropped, or incomplete subjects
- Present your grades or a Certificate of Good Standing
💡 Some scholarships are more lenient on grades if you’re from a priority sector or financially in need.
5. Your course must be eligible
Most scholarships are open to students pursuing degrees in:
- Education
- Engineering
- Business
- Agriculture
- Information Tech
- Health Sciences
- Social Work, and others
📌 Some scholarships support priority courses only, so always check if your field is covered.
6. You may belong to a priority sector
You may have an advantage if you are:
- An Indigenous Person (IP)
- A child of a farmer, fisherfolk, or informal worker
- A Person with Disability (PWD)
- From a solo-parent household
- Living in a remote or underserved community
📝 Supporting documents may be required from DSWD, NCIP, or your barangay.
7. You may not be eligible if:
- You are already in the 4th year or beyond
- You’re taking a second undergraduate degree
- You are already receiving a full scholarship (CHED, UniFAST, etc.)
- Your school or course is not recognized by the scholarship provider
- You submit fake or incomplete documents
You are likely qualified if:
- You are a Filipino citizen
- You are currently in your 3rd year of college
- You meet the financial need or priority sector criteria
- You are enrolled in an eligible school and program
- You meet the academic performance requirements
📂 Next Step:
Go to Part 2: Scholarship Requirements to learn what documents to prepare!
Part 2: What Are the Requirements 📂
For Current Third-Year College Students
Before submitting your application, make sure you have the correct and complete documents. Requirements may vary slightly by scholarship provider, but most programs follow this standard checklist:
A. Identity & Personal Background
| Document | 📌 Where to Get It |
|---|---|
| – PSA Birth Certificate | 📌 Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Office |
| – Recent 1×1 or 2×2 ID Picture (white background) | 📌 Photo studio or school |
| – Valid ID (e.g., student ID, national ID, barangay ID) | 📌 School, 📌 Barangay Hall or 📌 Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) National ID |
| – Certificate of Good Moral Character | 📌 School Registrar or 📌 Guidance office |
B. Enrollment & Academic Records
| Document | 📌 Where to Get It |
|---|---|
| – Certificate of Enrollment (COE) or Acceptance | 📌 School Registrar or 📌 Admissions Office |
| – Certificate of Registration (COR) | 📌 School registrar or 📌 Student Portal |
| – School ID or Registration Card | 📌 School Registrar or 📌 Student Affairs Office |
| – Copy of Grades (1st and 2nd year, and + available 3rd-year semester) | 📌 School Registrar, 📌 Student Portal, 📌 Adviser, or via your 📌 Student Passbook |
| – Certificate of Good Standing (if required) | 📌 Program Chair or 📌 Department Office |
💡 A Transcript of Records (TOR) or academic evaluation form may be accepted in place of individual semester reports if available.
C. Proof of Financial Status
(Submit documents based on your household’s income source)
| Family Situation | Accepted Document | 📌 Where to Get It |
| Formally Employed Example: 👷♂️ Office staff, teachers, government employees, factory workers, etc. | – Income Tax Return (ITR) | 📌 Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) – Revenue District Office (RDO) |
| – Certificate of Employment with Compensation | 📌 Employer / HR | |
| – Latest Payslip | 📌 Employer | |
| – BIR Tax Exemption Certificate | 📌 Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) – Revenue District Office (RDO) |
| Family Situation | Accepted Document | 📌 Where to Get It |
| OFW / Seafarer / Abroad Example: ✈️ Domestic helpers, ship crew, engineers, construction workers abroad, etc. | – Valid Employment Contract | 📌 Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) 📌 Agency (of your parent/legal guardian)📌 Employer |
| – Remittance Slip or Payslip | 📌 Remittance center 📌 Employer abroad | |
| – Proof of Foreign Income | 📌 Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) 📌 Employer | |
| – BIR Tax Exemption Certificate | 📌 Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) – Revenue District Office (RDO) | |
| – Affidavit of Support and Consent | 📌 Notary Public Office |
| Family Situation | Accepted Document | 📌 Where to Get It |
| Self-Employed / Informal Worker Example: 🛒 Vendors, tricycle drivers, online sellers, farmers, fisherfolk, sari-sari store owners, freelancers, etc. | – Affidavit of Non-Filing of ITR | 📌 Notary Public Office |
| – Barangay Certificate of Livelihood | 📌 Barangay Hall | |
| – Certificate of Low Income or Indigency | 📌 Barangay or 📌 Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Office | |
| – Sworn Statement of Estimated Monthly Income | 📌 Notary Public Office | |
| – Business Permit or DTI Certificate (if applicable) | 📌 City Hall or 📌 Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Office | |
| – Affidavit of Support and Consent | 📌 Notary Public Office |
| Family Situation | Accepted Document | 📌 Where to Get It |
| Unemployed or No Regular Work Example: 🙁 No job, stay-at-home, under crisis | – Affidavit of Non-Filing of ITR | 📌 Notary Public Office |
| – Certificate of Indigency | 📌 Barangay or 📌 Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Office | |
| – Sworn Statement of No Source of Income | 📌 Notary Public Office |
| Family Situation | Accepted Document | 📌 Where to Get It |
Under Government Social Programs Example: 🧾 4Ps, Listahanan, DSWD-assisted | – 4Ps ID or Certification | 📌 Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Office |
| – Listahanan Certificate | 📌 Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Office |
D. For Health-Related Courses Only
(For students taking Nursing, MedTech, Pharmacy, etc.)
| Document | 📌 Where to Get It |
|---|---|
| – Certificate of Passing the Entrance Exam | 📌 School Testing or Admissions Office |
| – Medical Certificate or Health Clearance | 📌 Licensed doctor or school clinic |
💡 Only submit these if your course is under health/medical programs and your school requires them.
E. Optional Supporting Documents
| Document | 📌 Where to Get It |
|---|---|
| – Certificate of Residency | 📌 Barangay Hall |
| – Barangay Clearance | 📌 Barangay Hall |
| – DSWD 4Ps ID or Proof | 📌 Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Office |
| – Listahanan Certificate | 📌 Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Regional/Municipal Office |
Tips
- Scan all files clearly (PDF or JPEG), labeled properly (e.g.,
Surname_DocumentType.pdf) - Keep both digital and printed copies organized
- Check for expiration dates on certificates before submission
Now that you’ve confirmed that you’re qualified (🤔 Part 1) and have your required documents ready (📂 Part 2), it’s time to apply.
Part 3: How to Apply❓
Step-by-Step Guide for Current Third-Year College Students
Applying for a scholarship doesn’t have to be confusing. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide that most government, school, LGU, and private scholarship providers follow.
Applying for a scholarship can seem overwhelming, but don’t worry, we’ve broken it down into easy steps. Whether the program is from a government agency, school, LGU, or private foundation, most follow a similar process.
1. Choose a Scholarship to Apply For
Start by checking if the program is open to current third-year college students.
Explore trusted sources like:
- PhilScholar’s Third-Year College Scholarships
- Your school’s official website or scholarship office
- Your local LGU’s education or youth development pages
Carefully review the program details:
- Who can apply
- What are the requirements
- What benefits are provided
- Deadline for application
🎯 Make sure the scholarship is available to your year level, course, and school.
2. Know How the Application Works
Scholarships may use different ways to collect applications:
- Online Application – fill out forms via a website or Google Form
- Walk-In / Manual Submission – submit printed forms to your school, LGU, or office
- Through Your School – some programs collect requirements through your registrar, guidance, or student affairs office
👉 Always follow the official announcement and instructions.
3. Fill Out the Application Form
Take your time to complete the form properly:
- Use your real name and correct contact info
- Double-check for typos
- Upload or attach clear, readable files (PDF or JPEG)
💡 Use an active email address you regularly open. This is where results or updates are usually sent.
4. Submit the Required Documents
Check that your documents are complete and updated. These often include:
- Certificate of Enrollment or Registration (COE / COR)
- Grade report (1st semester or latest)
- Proof of income (ITR, Certificate of Indigency, Affidavit of Income)
- Valid ID, Birth Certificate
- Certificates for special sectors (4Ps, PWD, Solo Parent, IP, etc.)
⚠️ Do not submit fake or edited files, this can lead to disqualification and being blacklisted from future programs.
5. Wait for Evaluation
After the deadline, the committee or provider will evaluate your application. Some might ask you to:
- Attend an interview (online or face-to-face)
- Take an exam or pass a screening
- Prepare for a home visit or validation
📢 Stay alert for emails, texts, or social media announcements.
6. Watch for the Results
Once the evaluation is done, the results will be released. If you qualify, you may receive:
- A message or email of approval
- An orientation notice
- Instructions on benefit claiming or agreement signing
📌 Follow the provider’s official Facebook page or website for updates.
Final Reminders
- Take screenshots or save copies of your submitted form
- Organize your documents in a folder or Google Drive
- Use the Scholarship Calendar to track deadlines
- Don’t rely on one scholarship; apply to all programs you qualify for!
That’s it!
You’re now ready to apply with confidence.
Good luck, and we’re cheering for you here at Philscholar®.
Feel free to message us anytime if you need help.
Part 4: Where to Find Scholarships 🔍
Trusted Sources for Current Third-Year College Students
Finding the right scholarship doesn’t have to be difficult. Here are the best and most reliable places where you can discover financial assistance opportunities as you continue your third year in college.
Your go-to platform for organized, up-to-date scholarship listings.
What you’ll find:
- Scholarships grouped by year level (including third-year college)
- Scholarship Calendar to track deadlines
- Easy-to-read guides, application tips, and direct links
Start here:
- View Third-Year College Scholarships
- Browse All Scholarship Programs
- Track Deadlines on the Scholarship Calendar
- Browse by Year Level
2. Official School Websites & Scholarship Offices
Most schools provide updates on scholarships through their official platforms. Look for:
- School-specific financial aid or academic scholarships
- Department- or course-based grants
- Partnerships with private companies or alumni donors
💡 Tip: Follow your school’s Scholarship Office or Registrar’s page, not fan accounts.
3. Local Government Unit (LGU) Scholarships
Cities, municipalities, and provinces often offer financial aid to residents, especially those continuing in college.
Where to check:
- City Hall or LGU Facebook page
- Youth Development Offices or Mayor’s Office
- Barangay offices or education boards
Examples:
- Cebu Province Educational Assistance
- Iligan City Government Scholarship
- Pasig City College Scholarship Program
📌 Note: Many LGU programs prefer students studying in local colleges/universities.
4. National Government Scholarship Portals
Some programs from national agencies cover students up to the 4th year or beyond.
Explore:
- CHED – CHED Scholarship Programs (CSP), CoScho
- UniFAST – TES and Tertiary Education Subsidy
- DSWD – Scholarships for 4Ps, Listahanan, and other sectors
They often publish downloadable application forms and contact information.
5. Private Foundations and Corporate Scholarships
Many private institutions offer assistance to students continuing their education.
Top providers include:
- SM Foundation
- Megaworld Foundation
- Aboitiz Foundation
- Landbank Gawad Patnubay
- Jollibee Group Foundation
Some may require enrollment in partner schools or specific courses like STEM or business.
6. Professors, Deans & Program Chairs
Not all scholarships are announced online. Ask:
- Your college dean or program chair
- Your course adviser
- Your student affairs or registrar’s office
They may know about ongoing applications or be able to recommend you directly.
⚠️ Avoid Scholarship Scams
Watch out for:
- Pages asking for application fees
- Vague posts with no provider name
- Unofficial emails (e.g., Gmail without institutional domains)
- “Guaranteed approval” offers
Verify through:
- Philscholar
- CHED, UniFAST, or DSWD websites
- Your school registrar or scholarship coordinator
Summary: Best Scholarship Sources for Third-Year Students
| 🎯 Source | 🔍 What You’ll Find |
|---|---|
| Philscholar.com | Updated listings by level, school, deadline |
| School Pages & Registrars | Internal, department-backed scholarships |
| CHED / UniFAST / DSWD | Government-funded national programs |
| LGU Pages & Offices | Local scholarships for residents |
| Private Foundations | Corporate and NGO-sponsored financial aid |
| College Officials | Internal school scholarships and endorsements |
That’s it for Part 4!
Now that you know where to look, you’re one step closer to finding the right scholarship as a current third-year college student. Ready to proceed?
Part 5: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying ❌
Simple Errors That Could Cost You a Scholarship 😬
Before you hit “submit,” make sure you don’t fall into these common traps. Even small errors can lead to disqualification. Here’s what to avoid:
1. Submitting Incomplete Documents
Many students skip a document, thinking it’s optional. Unfortunately, missing even one required file can lead to rejection.
Avoid this:
- No proof of income or the wrong type of certificate
- Missing school forms (like NOA, COR, or enrollment slip)
- Incomplete or expired IDs or barangay certificates
Always review the document checklist. When in doubt, submit more not less.
2. Using Fake, Edited, or Altered Documents
This is a serious violation. Most scholarship providers conduct background checks. If caught, you could be disqualified from current and future applications.
Examples of red flags:
- Fake payslips or certificates
- Edited birthdates or school records
- Falsified indigency, 4Ps, or solo parent documents
⚠️ You may be reported to CHED, LGU offices, or school authorities.
3. Wrong Information on Application Forms
Incorrect or inconsistent details can cause your application to be delayed or rejected.
Common mistakes:
- Using a nickname instead of your full legal name
- Wrong student number, email address, or course code
- Misspelled names or mismatched details between documents
💡 Always use your full legal name and active contact details.
4. Missing the Deadline
One of the most common reasons students miss out is simply being too late.
Avoid waiting until the last minute to:
- Gather your documents
- Request barangay or DSWD certifications
- Submit your application
🗓️ Track deadlines with the Philscholar Scholarship Calendar.
5. Uploading Blurry or Unreadable Files
Reviewers might ignore or reject unclear submissions.
What to avoid:
- Blurred or shadowy scans
- Files that are too large or are not opening
- Cropped photos that cut off important parts
📲 Use a scanner app or printing shop to create clear, well-sized PDFs or JPEGs.
6. Not Reading the Full Instructions
Students often rush without understanding what’s required.
Missed details include:
- The correct file format (PDF, JPEG)
- Naming rules (e.g., LastName_BirthCert.pdf)
- Whether to print and submit manually
📌 Read the entire post or instruction set before asking questions or sending your form.
7. Only Applying to One Scholarship
Don’t place all your hopes in just one program.
🎯 Apply to multiple scholarships from your school, LGU, private orgs, or national providers. This increases your chances, especially since slots are limited and competition is tough.
Summary: Avoid These Mistakes
| ⚠️ Mistake | 🚫 Why It’s a Problem |
|---|---|
| Incomplete documents | Your application might be rejected or put on hold |
| Fake or edited files | Can lead to disqualification or a permanent blacklist |
| Wrong or misspelled info | Causes delays or mismatches that affect approval |
| Missing the deadline | Most programs do not accept late submissions |
| Blurry/unreadable files | Reviewers might skip or reject unclear submissions |
| Not reading instructions | Leads to wrong format or missing details |
| Only applying to one scholarship | Reduces your chances of being selected |
That wraps up Part 5!
Avoiding these mistakes will give you
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Note: We’re not your school’s official scholarship coordinator (except for our partners). Our guides are meant to support your application process, but always follow your institution’s specific requirements and instructions. Read full disclaimer below.
Information Disclaimer
Notice:
Philscholar® is an informational platform dedicated to sharing scholarship and grant opportunities. While we provide guides and articles to assist with admissions and scholarship applications, we do not directly process applications or award scholarships.
Users are encouraged to verify all details independently, as information is for reference purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, scholarship criteria, deadlines, and other details may change without prior notice.
For further verification or inquiries, please refer to the official sources provided at the end of the content section. Read full disclaimer below.
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