I used to think working abroad was enough. That the long hours and homesickness were the sacrifice—and the paycheck was the prize. But over time, I realized something else: education is the real investment.
Whether you’re an OFW hoping to finish a degree, upskill for a better job, or support your child’s college dream, there are scholarships and training grants that can help make that happen. These aren’t just perks—they’re tools to create a more secure, more empowered future for your family.
If you wish to gain insight into the different programs available through OWWA and Taiwan’s government, what they offer, who can apply, and how to get started—keep on reading. Because every OFW deserves more than just survival. We deserve options, opportunity, and growth.
OWWA Scholarships and Training Grants
Most OFWs I know send money home not just for bills, but so their children can finish school—or so they themselves can go back and complete what they started. That’s where OWWA comes in.
Here are programs built for us—and for the people we love:
1. Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP)
- What It Offers: ₱60,000/year for 4- or 5-year college courses
- Who Can Apply: Dependents of active OWWA members who pass a national qualifying exam
- Why It Matters: Your child can study without you worrying about full tuition
2. OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP)
- What It Offers: ₱20,000/year for a college degree
- Who Can Apply: Dependents of OFWs earning USD 600 or less per month
- Why It Matters: Ideal for families relying on a single income source
3. Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP)
- What It Offers: Up to ₱14,500 for tech-voc training (TESDA, MARINA, etc.)
- Who Can Apply: OFWs or dependents who want quick, employable skills
- Why It Matters: Helps you or your family gain a new skill—even on a short break from work
4. Seafarers’ Upgrading Program (SUP)
- What It Offers: ₱7,500 for training at accredited maritime centers
- Who Can Apply: Filipino seafarers with active OWWA status
- Why It Matters: A small upgrade can lead to a higher post—and better pay
5. Mariner’s Dugtong Aral Program (MDA)
- What It Offers: Financial support to complete a Bachelor’s in Marine Engineering or Transportation
- Who Can Apply: Those with maritime-related associate degrees
- Why It Matters: It bridges the gap between unfinished schooling and professional credentials
6. Educational Livelihood Assistance Program (ELAP)
- What It Offers: Education and livelihood assistance for dependents of deceased OFWs
- Who Can Apply: Surviving family members of OFWs who passed while abroad
- Why It Matters: It gives grieving families a fighting chance to rebuild
Taiwan Scholarships: For OFWs Who Want to Study While Abroad
Some OFWs dream not just of supporting someone else’s education—but of pursuing their own. If you’re working in Taiwan and want to study, these scholarships are open to Filipinos:
1. Taiwan Ministry of Education (MOE) Scholarship
- What It Offers: Up to NT$40,000 per semester for tuition + monthly stipend (NT$15,000–NT$20,000)
- Who Can Apply: Filipino nationals with strong academic records admitted to Taiwanese universities
- Application Timeline: February 1 to April 30, 2025
2. Huayu Enrichment Scholarship
- What It Offers: NT$25,000–28,000/month for 3 to 6 months
- What It’s For: Intensive Mandarin language study
- Why It Matters: Learning Mandarin can open up more job opportunities in Taiwan
3. TaiwanICDF International Higher Education Scholarship
- What It Offers: Full coverage—tuition, airfare, books, monthly living allowance (NT$18,000–20,000)
- Who Can Apply: Filipino students admitted to participating schools
- Application Timeline: December 1, 2024 to March 15, 2025
These scholarships are handled through TECO Philippines, and you need to be accepted into a Taiwan university first before applying.
Are OFWs in Taiwan Using These Grants?
According to OWWA’s latest data, 6,988 OFWs and dependents accessed scholarship and training programs in one recent cycle. While there’s no Taiwan-specific breakdown, MECO and the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Taipei actively process education-related services for Filipinos in Taiwan.
So yes—it’s happening. And you can be next.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step for OWWA Programs
Don’t wait until your contract ends. You can start your application while still working abroad.
Here’s how:
- Check if You’re Eligible
- Active OWWA membership?
- Income and academic standing? Review your chosen program’s criteria
- Prepare Your Requirements
- Proof of OWWA membership
- Birth certificate (for dependents)
- Report card/transcript
- Application form (available on OWWA website)
- Apply Online or In Person
- Visit OWWA Scholarship Portal
- Or head to the nearest MWO or MECO office in Taiwan
- Take the Required Exam
- EDSP requires the DOST-SEI qualifying test
- Wait for Confirmation
- Approved applicants will be notified through email or mail
Want to Study in Taiwan?
If you’re applying for Taiwan-based scholarships:
- Secure university admission first
- Visit TECO Philippines or their official site for updates and requirements
- Prepare your transcript, passport, study plan, and recommendation letters early
Final Tip: Don’t Miss the Deadlines
Mark your calendar. OWWA programs are typically year-round, but Taiwan scholarships have set windows. Start early. Ask questions. Visit MECO. Message TECO. The help is there—you just need to take the first step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply for a scholarship even while working in Taiwan?
Yes! You can apply as an active OWWA member or as a student aiming to study in Taiwan, as long as you meet the criteria.
Q: Can my child in the Philippines apply while I’m working abroad?
Yes. Many OWWA programs are built for dependents of active OFWs.
Q: Are there scholarships for short courses or tech-voc training?
Yes. SESP and SUP offer financial aid for skills training and certification.
Q: Do Taiwan scholarships require Mandarin fluency?
Not always. Some programs are in English, but learning Mandarin improves your chances of getting accepted and succeeding in school or work.
Final Thoughts
Being an OFW isn’t just about sending money home. It’s about building something lasting—skills, diplomas, dreams. These scholarships and training grants are not handouts. They’re bridges. Whether you’re investing in yourself or your family, don’t wait. Apply. Grow. Move forward.