DOST scholarship is one of the most prominent scholarship grants in the Philippines. The scholarship’s prestige and benefits attract a lot of Filipino students. It’s no wonder thousands of applicants compete for the scholarship’s limited slots every year.

Are you one of those dreaming to be a DOST scholar? Let this article guide you on how to become an Iskolar ng Agham Para sa Bayan.

Table of Contents

• At a Glance: Latest Updates About DOST Scholarship
• What Are the DOST Scholarship Programs?
  • 1. RA 7687 or the “Science and Technology Act of 1994”
  • 2. DOST-SEI Merit Scholarship Program
• Who Are Qualified To Apply for the DOST Scholarship Program?
  • 1. R.A. 7687 or the “Science and Technology Act of 1994”
  • 2. DOST-SEI Merit Scholarship Program
• Where Can I Study as a DOST Scholar? (List of Schools Accredited by DOST Scholarship)
• What Are DOST’s Priority Courses? (DOST Scholarship Courses)
• What Are the Benefits of the DOST Scholarship Program?
• Pros and Cons of Being a DOST Scholar
  • 1. Pros of being a DOST Scholar
  • 2. Cons of being a DOST Scholar
• What Are the DOST Scholarship Requirements?
• How To Apply for DOST Scholarship Program
  • Option 1: Manual Application
    • 1. Obtain an application form
    • 2. Submit the accomplished form
    • 3. Wait for your test permit
  • Option 2: Online Application
• What Is the Coverage of the DOST Qualifying Exam?
  • 1. Science
    • a. Chemistry
    • b. Physics
    • c. Biology
    • d. Earth Science
  • 2. Mathematics
    • a. Algebra
    • b. Geometry and Trigonometry
    • c. Combinatorics and Probability
    • d. Business Mathematics
    • e. Set Theory
    • f. Logic
  • 3. English
    • a. Grammar and Syntax
    • b. Vocabulary
    • c. Reading Comprehension
  • 4. Logical Reasoning
  • 5. Mechanical-Technical
• How To Pass the DOST Scholarship Qualifying Exam: Tips and Tricks
  • Before the Exam
  • On the Day of the Exam
• How To Maintain DOST Scholarship
• Tips and Warnings
• Frequently Asked Questions
  • 1. How long will the DOST Scholarship support my studies?
  • 2. When is the DOST Qualifying Exam usually held?
  • 3. How long is the DOST Qualifying Exam?
  • 4. Are calculators allowed during the exam?
  • 5. Is the DOST scholarship exam hard?
  • 6. What is the DOST Return Service Agreement (RSA)?
  • 7. I’m already a college student. Can I still apply for a DOST-SEI S&T Undergraduate Scholarships?
  • 8. Can a DOST scholar shift course?
  • 9. Can DOST scholars avail of other government scholarships?
  • 10. What will happen to my DOST scholarship if I incurred an INC (incomplete) or Failed grade in one of my classes? 
  • 11. What will happen to my DOST scholarship if I have failing grades in two or more of my classes?
  • 12. What will happen to my DOST scholarship if I file a Leave of Absence (LOA) for a semester?
  • 13. Do I have to complete my RSA (Return Service Agreement) first before taking a graduate study or entering med school?
  • 14. Are there DOST scholarship programs offered to graduate students? 
  • 15. How do I apply for the DOST scholarship for graduate studies?
  • 16. Are there DOST scholarships for medical students?
  • 17. I’m planning to study abroad. Is there any DOST scholarship available for me?
• References

 

At a Glance: Latest Updates About DOST Scholarship

• November 24, 2021: The deadline for the submission of application for the 2022 DOST-SEI Undergraduate Scholarship has been extended until December 31, 2021

 

What Are the DOST Scholarship Programs?

DOST-SEI (Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute) scholarships help deserving college and graduate students pursue a science and technology career.

If you’re a graduating senior high school student, you may qualify for any of these DOST-SEI Science and Technology Undergraduate scholarships¹:

1. RA 7687 or the “Science and Technology Act of 1994”

This undergraduate scholarship program is offered to deserving yet financially challenged students who are willing to pursue a course in one of the priority fields of science, mathematics, or engineering.

Your family’s annual gross income must not exceed the scholarship’s cut-off values to be qualified for this scholarship.

2. DOST-SEI Merit Scholarship Program

If your family’s annual income exceeds the poverty threshold limit, don’t lose hope yet.

You can still qualify for the DOST-SEI Merit Scholarship Program as long as you have a high aptitude in science and mathematics and are going to pursue a DOST priority field.

 

Who Are Qualified To Apply for the DOST Scholarship Program?

1. R.A. 7687 or the “Science and Technology Act of 1994”

To be qualified under this scholarship program, you must be:

• Natural-born Filipino citizen;
• From a family whose socio-economic status must pass the scholarship’s criteria which will rely on your family’s annual income, properties, parent’s employment status, etc.;
• A graduating STEM senior high school student OR a member of the top 5% of the non-STEM senior high school graduation class;
• Of good moral character and in good health;
• First-time taker of the DOST-SEI examination;
• A resident of a municipality as attested by the barangay; and
• A qualifier of the S&T scholarship examination.

2. DOST-SEI Merit Scholarship Program

The qualifications for the Merit Scholarship are almost the same as the qualifications for the previous type of scholarship, except for the second qualification. In other words, your socioeconomic status will not be considered under this program.

 

Where Can I Study as a DOST Scholar? (List of Schools Accredited by DOST Scholarship)

You might have ensured that you meet the qualifications and your desired course is covered by the DOST Scholarship. However, you also have to consider the university where you’ll be studying because not all institutions are accredited by the scholarship.

Here are the lists of schools accredited by DOST scholarship²:

1. State Universities and Colleges;
2. CHED Centers of Excellence or Centers of Development; or 
3. Institutions with FAAP Level III Accreditation.

 

What Are DOST’s Priority Courses? (DOST Scholarship Courses)

You have to pursue any of the DOST-SEI undergraduate scholarship priority programs so that you can enjoy its benefits. 

Wondering whether your dream course is covered by the DOST-SEI Scholarship? To help you save time, here’s the updated list of DOST scholarship priority courses you can choose from:

Course	School
Aeronautical Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Aerospace Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Agribusiness	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Agribusiness Management	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Agribusiness Management and Entrepreneurship	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Agricultural Biotechnology	UP Systems only
Agricultural Chemistry	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Agricultural Economics	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Agricultural Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Agricultural Technology	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Agriculture	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Animal Husbandry	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Animal Science	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Applied Mathematics	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Applied Mathematics Major in Mathematical Finance (4 years)	ADMU only
Applied Physics	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Applied Physics with Applied Computer System	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Applied Physics with Materials Science and Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Applied Statistics	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Architecture	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Astronomy	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Astronomy Technology	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Bachelor in Technology and Livelihood Education with Specialization in Information and Communications Technology	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Bachelor of Library and Information Science	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in Science	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Biochemistry	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Biology	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Ceramics Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Chemical Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Chemistry	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Chemistry with Applied Computer Systems	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Chemistry with Materials Science and Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Civil Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Clothing Technology	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Community Nutrition	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Computer Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Computer Science	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Electrical Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Electronics and Communications Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Electronics Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Environmental Science	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Fisheries	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Food Technology	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Forestry	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Geodetic Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Geography	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Geology	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Geothermal Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Health Science	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Human Biology	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Industrial Design	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Industrial Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Industrial Management Engineering-Information Technology	DLSU only
Industrial Pharmacy	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Information and Communications Technology	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Information System	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Information Technology	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Information Technology Systems	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Instrumentation and Control Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Life Sciences	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Management Information Systems (4 years)	ADMU only
Manufacturing Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Manufacturing Engineering-Management-Biomedical Engineering	DLSU only
Manufacturing Engineering-Management-Mechatronics and Robotics	DLSU only
Marine Biology	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Marine Science	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Materials Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Mathematics	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Mathematics and Science Teaching	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Mathematics Teaching	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Mechanical Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Mechatronics Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Medical Laboratory Science	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Medical Technology	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Metallurgical Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Meteorology	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Microbiology	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Mining Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Nutrition	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Nutrition and Dietetics	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Packaging Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Petroleum Engineering	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Pharmaceutical Sciences	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Pharmacy (4 years)	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Pharmacy Major in Clinical Pharmacy (5 years)	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Physics	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Psychology (BS program)	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Public Health	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Science Teaching (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Physical Science, Biology and Chemistry, Science)	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Speech Pathology	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School
Statistics	Any DOST Scholarship-Accredited School

But what if your desired course is not included in the list? Unfortunately, you’ll not be able to enjoy the benefits if you pursue a non-priority program even if you qualify for the scholarship.

 

What Are the Benefits of the DOST Scholarship Program?

The primary reason most students apply for this scholarship is to ease the financial burden of attending college. Indeed, DOST supports its scholars with the following benefits: 

1. Tuition Fee Subsidy: Php 40, 000 per year (Only for those who will enroll in private Higher Education Institutions)
2. Book Allowance: Php 10, 000 per academic year
3. Group Health and Accident Insurance: Premium
4. Transportation Allowance: 1 economy-class round trip fare (for those studying outside the home province)
5. Monthly Living Allowance: Php 7, 000
6. Thesis Allowance: Php 10, 000
7. Graduation Allowance: Php 1, 000
8. PE/MS Uniform Allowance: Php 1, 000

If summer classes are required in your curriculum, the DOST scholarship will also provide these benefits:

1. Tuition and Other School Fees: Php 1, 500
2. Book Allowance: Php 500
3. Monthly Living Allowance: Php 7, 000

 

Pros and Cons of Being a DOST Scholar

1. Pros of being a DOST Scholar

Aside from offering financial benefits, the DOST scholarship can also help you:

• Boost your credibility in your resume and curriculum vitae. Being a DOST scholar may give you an edge when you apply for internships, employment, or graduate school. Being able to maintain the scholarship gives an impression to an employer that you’re a responsible, industrious, and competent person.
• Develop financial independence. Once you receive your stipend, you need to spend your money wisely to acquire everything you need. You will learn how to plan your budget and save for your future. Since you can now sustain your education alone without relying too much on your parent’s income, you will start to develop financial independence. 
• Build connections with other DOST scholars through DOST scholars’ organizations. The DOST scholars’ organizations aim to foster a helping community among scholars. They will serve as your support system whether it’s for academics or for your well-being. Furthermore, these organizations have connections in different companies through their alumni which can help you once you start your job hunting. 

2. Cons of being a DOST Scholar

Being a DOST scholar has a few disadvantages. These include:

• Pressure to maintain the scholarship. Maintaining your scholarship is not a walk in the park. It is challenging to maintain high grades especially if your classes are very difficult and demanding. You need to learn how to handle pressure every time you have a quiz, graded recitation, or an exam.
• Return Service Agreement. DOST scholars should set aside their dreams of working abroad for a while since it is prohibited by the DOST Return Service Agreement (RSA). RSA states that you have to serve the country for several years first before working abroad. 

 

What Are the DOST Scholarship Requirements?

To ensure a smooth application process, you have to secure the following documentary requirements:

1. Certificate of Good Moral Character (Form C)
2. Certificate of Good Health (Form D)
3. Principal’s Certification (Form E1 or E2)
4. Certificate of Residency (Form F)
5. Parent’s Certification (Form G) proving that the applicant has no pending immigration application to another country
6. Applicant’s Certification (Form H) proving that the applicant is not an existing DOST scholar or didn’t become a DOST scholar prior to application
7. Signed Declaration of the Applicant and the Parent/Legal Guardian (Form I)
8. Certified Copy of Permanent Student Record (Form 137) for Grades 9, 10 and 11
9. Recent passport size picture (4.5 cm x 3.5 cm or 1.8 inches x 1.4 inches) taken within the last three months prior to the application. It must have a name tag positioned at approximately 1 inch or 2.54 cm below the chin. The name tag must be in this format: <first name> <middle name><last name><extension name>
10. Photocopy of Birth Certificate (May be issued by the PSA, NSO, or Municipal Registry Office)
11. Parent/s or Legal Guardian’s Latest Income Tax Return / BIR Form 1701 / Employment Contract for OFW / BIR Cert. of Exemption from Filing of ITR / Brgy. Cert. of Indigency / Certificate of Employment / Proof of Pension

You must download requirements #1 to #7 via the E-Scholarship Application System. Print each form in an A4 size bond paper and make sure that it is signed by the respective authorities indicated in the form. Furthermore, scan or take clear photos of these forms since you will upload them once you proceed with the online application.

In addition to the documentary requirements listed above, you must also determine the following information since they will be asked for the filing of your online application:

• Father’s and mother’s annual gross income (In case the applicant has a legal guardian: Legal guardian’s annual gross income)
• Contributions from outside sources received by your family including the giver, amount, and purpose of these contributions
• Agricultural lands owned by your family and how many hectares they are (if applicable)
• Vehicles owned by your family and the type, year, and model of these vehicles (if applicable)

In addition to the list above, make sure that you have a valid email address, an active mobile number, and a stable internet connection to ensure a smooth online application. 

 

How To Apply for DOST Scholarship Program

There are two possible ways for you to apply: Manual Application or Online Application. 

Option 1: Manual Application

UPDATE: Due to our current health situation and quarantine restrictions, DOST discourages Manual Application for the 2022 DOST Scholarship Program unless it is really necessary. For this reason, applicants must use the DOST Online Application Portal to submit their documentary requirements.

1. Obtain an application form

For NCR applicants, you can secure an application form at Science Education Institute (SEI), 2nd level, Science Heritage Bldg. DOST Compound, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City. 

Meanwhile, applicants from other regions can also obtain one at any DOST Regional Office or Provincial Science and Technology Center.

Here is a sample of the DOST-SEI Scholarship Form:

2. Submit the accomplished form

Submit it at Science Education Institute or the nearest DOST Regional Office/Provincial Science and Technology Center.

3. Wait for your test permit

The test permit will be mailed to you or your school principal. In case the test permit is not received within a week before the examination day, you may inquire at the DOST Regional Office or check the nearest designated test center a day before the examination.

 

Option 2: Online Application

Once you have all the documentary requirements secured and you know all the information we have listed above (i.e., father’s annual gross income, mother’s annual gross income, etc.), you are now ready to take your first step to be a DOST scholar.

Here’s how you can apply for the DOST scholarship online:

1. Access the DOST-SEI Undergraduate E-Scholarships Application System.

2. Register using your valid email address.

You also have to provide your personal details (complete name and birthdate) together with your email address. Expect to receive a verification message through the email you have provided.

3. Access the link provided in the email notification sent to you.

Clicking this link will direct you to the Eligibility Module. Note that you might receive a disqualification notice in case you are ineligible for the scholarship.

4. Provide the required information in the succeeding modules.

You have to provide the following information in order to continue with the application process:

• Personal Data and Contact Details
• Family Data
• Financial Contribution
• Household Information Questionnaire
• School and Grades

5. Upload documentary requirements.

For the list of DOST documentary requirements, refer to the What are the DOST Scholarship Requirements? section of this article. 

Note that the E-scholarship application system only accepts the following file types: .jpeg, .png, .bmp, and .pdf files. 

After selecting the correct and complete files, click the Upload button.

6. Press the Submit button to complete the application.

Make sure that you have verified the correctness of the documents and information you have provided before doing this step. Once you have submitted your application, you can no longer make any changes or revisions.

You will also receive an email confirming the receipt of your application.

Take note that the announcement of scholarship qualifiers will be released via the DOST-SEI website around May 2022. 

Additional Information for 2022 DOST Scholarship Application:

1. In case the name of the school you went to in your Grade 9 to Grade 12 cannot be found in the E-scholarship system, you have to send a request to a DOST staff located in your school region. The request must contain the following information:

• Scholarship Program: Undergraduate
• Complete school name
• Complete school address
• Name of the School Registrar
• Contact Information of the School: Landline and Mobile number, Email Address

Send this information to the email address designated to your school region, as listed in the table below. You will receive a notification via email once your school is added to the system.

Region	Email Address
CAR	[email protected]
1	[email protected]
2	[email protected]
3	[email protected]
4A	[email protected]
4B	[email protected]
5	[email protected]
6	[email protected]
7	[email protected]
8	[email protected]
9	[email protected]
10	[email protected]
11	[email protected]
12	[email protected]
CARAGA	[email protected]
BARMM	[email protected]
NCR	[email protected]

Important Note: If your school is not among the given options in the system, do not select a different school just to continue your application process. Doing this will make you unable to proceed to the next steps of the application anyway.

2. You can use your downloadable grades from your school’s portal provided they are certified by your School’s Principal or School Registrar. Make sure that it reflects your name, strand (STEM, ABM, HUMSS, etc.), and school.

3. Although the submission of documentary requirements for the 2022 DOST Scholarship will be done purely online, DOST encourages applicants to keep a hard copy of their requirements as they may request them in case their health situation returns to normal.

 

What Is the Coverage of the DOST Qualifying Exam?

The DOST exam covers the following subjects and topics³:

1. Science

This subtest is not your typical Science quiz where you only need to identify a term from its given definition. Instead, it is situational and involves the application of scientific concepts. There are also items where you have to interpret graphs or perform calculations.

Here are some of the topics included in this subtest:

a. Chemistry

• Atoms and Subatomic Particles
• Elements and Compounds
• Features of the Periodic Table
• Mixtures and Separating Mixture Components
• Chemical Formula and Chemical Name
• Electronic Configuration
• Ionic and Covalent Bonds
• Balancing Chemical Equations

b. Physics

• Distance and Displacement
• Speed, Velocity, and Acceleration 
• Velocity versus Time graph
• Work and Energy
• Friction
• Heat and Types of Heat Transfer
• Thermodynamics
• Mechanical and Electromagnetic Waves
• Projectile Motion
• Gravity 

c. Biology

• Cell Biology
• Biomes and Habitats
• Genetics
• Compound Microscopes
• Photosynthesis

d. Earth Science

• Layers of the Earth
• Classification of Rocks
• Plate Tectonics
• Earthquakes
• Earth’s Atmosphere
• Weather Disturbances
• Solar and Lunar Eclipse
• Heavenly bodies: planets, asteroids, comets
• Meteor, Meteoroids, and Meteorites

2. Mathematics

This subtest measures the quantitative ability of the examinee. Most of the questions are challenging but you can manage to answer them since they are already discussed in your high school mathematics class.

Here are some of the topics included in this subtest:

a. Algebra

• Algebraic Expressions
• Special Products and Factoring
• Functions (Domain, Range, One-to-one functions, etc.)
• Equations (Linear, Quadratic, Polynomial, etc.)
• Systems of Linear Equations
• Arithmetic and Geometric Sequences

b. Geometry and Trigonometry

• Pythagorean Theorem
• Properties of a Right Triangle (and Special Right Triangles)
• Properties of Quadrilaterals (Parallelograms, Trapezoids, Rectangles, etc.)
• Trigonometric Functions (Sine, Cosine, Tangent, etc.)
• Angle of Elevation and Depression
• Trigonometric Identities

c. Combinatorics and Probability

• Permutations
• Combinations
• Theoretical Probability

d. Business Mathematics

• Computing Simple Interest

e. Set Theory

• Representing Sets Using Venn Diagrams
• Set Operations: Union, Intersection, and Complement of Sets

f. Logic

• Propositional Forms and Logical Symbols

3. English

This subtest measures your understanding of English grammar and syntax. Moreover, it will test your vocabulary and reading comprehension. As long as you have a good grasp of the English language and regularly read English texts, you’re good to go.

The topics included in the subtest are:

a. Grammar and Syntax

• Subject-Verb Agreement
• Identifying Grammatical Errors in a Sentence
• Parts of Speech (Prepositions, Conjunctions, Adjectives, etc.)
• Verb tenses

b. Vocabulary

• Determining the Meaning of a Word Using Context Clues.

c. Reading Comprehension

• Identifying the Main Idea or the Gist of a Text (Paragraphs, Poems, Sentences, etc.)
• Determining a Good Paraphrase of a Given Sentence.
• Pattern of Paragraph Development
• Identifying a Sentence that Has the Same Meaning to a Given Sentence.

4. Logical Reasoning

This subtest measures your critical thinking skills. Most of the questions are verbal analogies (verbal reasoning) or those that require you to complete 2D or 3D visual patterns (non-verbal reasoning). With enough practice, you will be familiar with common patterns used in these types of questions.

5. Mechanical-Technical

This subtest gauges your understanding of everyday physics and mechanical relationships. For example, you’ll be asked to determine whether the given gears will rotate clockwise or counterclockwise based on the provided scenario.

Developing your visual imagination is the key to acing this subtest. Try solving sample problems so you will be familiar with the commonly asked questions in this subtest.

 

How To Pass the DOST Scholarship Qualifying Exam: Tips and Tricks

Whether you’re an academic achiever or an average student, you can’t fully rely on your stocked knowledge and luck to pass the exam. To help you ace the DOST scholarship qualifying exam, you need to prepare and condition yourself.

We have asked DOST scholars for the best tips and suggestions in preparing for the exam. Let’s discuss them one by one.

Before the Exam

1. Start reviewing during your summer break.

Some qualifiers started reviewing as early as summer break before their Grade 12 year. With no academic requirements to distract them, they used their free time to study for the DOST scholarship qualifying exam.

2. Solidify your understanding of basic concepts,

Most of the exam questions are situational and require the application of basic concepts. But what if you have already forgotten these basic concepts?

The solution is to allot time recalling these basic concepts (terminologies, relationships, formulas, etc.). Fortunately, there are free learning sources online that can help you go back to basics like the following:

• The Organic Chemistry Tutor
• Shaw English Online, 
• Khan Academy
• Math Antics
• Crash Course

3. Answer practice exams under time pressure.

According to previous takers, the time given was more than enough to finish the exam. However, you must still practice answering exams under time pressure. This will familiarize you with the exam setup and determine how you can manage your time while answering the exam.

4. Address your weaknesses.

Determine which subjects or topics you find difficult. You can take a short diagnostic exam to see where you score the lowest. Afterward, set aside ample time to study the subjects where you performed poorly. Every time you answer a mock exam, take note of the items you answered incorrectly. Determine why your answer was wrong and study the rationale behind each correct answer.

5. Create a “formula sheet”.

Of course, you will not use this for the actual exam but for review. Indicate here when these formulas are used, what the variables in the formula are, and a sample problem with a solution in which the formula was used.

6. Write what you’re learning.

We remember information much better if we write them down. This is useful when reviewing topics that are too conceptual such as Earth Science or Biology. 

7. Practice reading (and scanning) long texts.

There are some items in the English subtest involving long passages. It is advisable to train yourself to read long English texts under limited time and assess whether you understand the text or not. Read a variety of English texts such as short stories, poems, or even news articles. The more you practice, the more speed reading techniques (like scanning) you’ll learn that will help you answer questions quickly without reading the whole passage.

8. Take advantage of free study materials to prepare for the DOST Scholarship Qualifying Exam.

These materials can help you grasp what an actual DOST Qualifying Exam looks like. These review materials include:

• DOST Undergraduate Scholarship Primer. This primer from DOST will orient you to the type of questions that are asked in the exam. 
• SIYENSYA-bilidad. This material from DOST gives students an idea of what topics are included in the exam. It also comes with an answer key with explanations that you can use as additional review material.
• College Entrance Exam Reviewers. There are similarities between the type of questions that appear in the DOST qualifying exams and college entrance exams (UPCAT, PUPCET, ACET, etc.). There are a lot of available CET reviewers online that you can use, including our very own free UPCAT reviewer.

On the Day of the Exam

1. Go to your testing center as early as possible.

Arriving late at your testing center might stress you out and distract you.

2. Keep calm but maintain the pace while answering.

According to previous takers, the questions are quite manageable. Hence, stay calm.

Don’t freak out if you can’t answer an item, since the exam is a combination of easy and difficult questions. Just skip the difficult ones and return to them if you have some time remaining. 

However, don’t forget that you’re answering a time-constrained exam. Maintain the pace so you won’t go into panic mode when the exam is about to conclude.

3. Eat something that makes you feel “energized”.  

Your brain will work a lot in this exam and you might feel tired after a couple of questions. Therefore, make sure that you eat a healthy, energy-releasing snack and drink water before taking the exam⁴.

 

How To Maintain DOST Scholarship

You might have passed the qualifying exam, but it’s just the start of the journey. How you’ll be able to maintain that scholarship is the real battle that lies ahead.

In this section, we’ll provide some tips from DOST scholars on how to maintain the scholarship. 

1. Submit documentary requirements every semester.

DOST requires you to submit important documents such as University Registration Form every semester. Make sure that you submit them so that you will receive your benefits on time.

2. Develop good study habits to maintain your grade.

Here are some good study habits that you can use to maintain your scholarship:

• Study daily – If you’re not the type of person who loves to open their books every day, it’s now the time to be one. Studying daily at least for an hour trains your brain and develops long-term memory of the concepts.
• Avoid procrastination – Accomplish requirements as early as possible to avoid a stressful hell week (midterms or finals week). If you can finish homework today, don’t wait until tomorrow to get it done.
• Organize your notes – Write your notes according to how you understand them, not based on the exact information you got from your teacher or a book.

4. Keep a good balance between your well-being and academic performance.

Find a time for you to relax and do the things that you want. Remember that taking a break is productive.

Moreover, incentivize yourself every time you accomplish a tiring requirement. Watch a movie, play video games, hang out with your friends, or do anything that will celebrate these “little victories”.

5. Avoid committing any act of academic dishonesty such as plagiarism.

Cheating and plagiarism are a big no if you want to maintain your scholarship. Refrain from committing these acts for you will lose your benefits once you get caught.

 

Tips and Warnings

• Ask your teachers for assistance or advice. They can provide you with study materials or books that you can use to supplement your review. Moreover, they might also help you clarify some concepts that confuse you.
• Decide whether you’re really committed to becoming a DOST scholar. The privileges of the scholarship come with plenty of responsibilities. Learn to deal with and accept the tradeoffs. Moreover, voluntary termination of the scholarship has consequences so make sure you’ll stay committed to the program.
• Beware of Facebook pages and groups sharing fake information about DOST scholarship and even employment opportunities related to it

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long will the DOST Scholarship support my studies?

DOST-SEI will support you until you complete your degree program, the duration of which depends on the period stated in your approved Program of Study (POS). For example, if you take a 4-year course (the course must be a DOST priority program), you will be supported for 4 years.

2. When is the DOST Qualifying Exam usually held?

 The DOST qualifying exam is usually held every October. However, expect possible changes in the conduct of the qualifying exam given the current circumstances.

3. How long is the DOST Qualifying Exam?

The exam is approximately 4 hours long. Some examinees claim that the time given is more than enough to accomplish the exam.

4. Are calculators allowed during the exam?

No, you have to perform calculations manually.

5. Is the DOST scholarship exam hard?

Some of the examinees said that the exam consists of easy and difficult questions. Moreover, it is quite easier than the UPCAT but more difficult than most of the college entrance exams. Nevertheless, with enough preparation and good review materials, you can definitely ace the exam.

6. What is the DOST Return Service Agreement (RSA)?

DOST Return Service Agreement serves as your “payment” for the years you enjoyed the scholarship’s benefits. After your graduation, you shall work on your field of specialty in your home region. The period of the RSA is at least equal to the length of time you enjoyed the scholarship. 

This implies that you’re not allowed to work abroad until after you complete your RSA.

7. I’m already a college student. Can I still apply for a DOST-SEI S&T Undergraduate Scholarships?

Generally, no. However, if you’re an incoming third-year college student enrolled in a DOST priority course, you may qualify for DOST Junior Level Science Scholarships. 

UPDATE: As of September 30, 2021, online applications for 2021 DOST Junior Level Science Scholarships (JLSS) are open. The deadline for application and submission of documentary requirements is November 30, 2021. For more details regarding the 2021 DOST JLSS, visit the DOST JLSS online portal.

There are three DOST Junior Level Science Scholarships:

• RA 10612. This program aims to develop the Philippine Science and Mathematics education by helping students who will teach Science and Mathematics in secondary schools in the future.
• RA 7687. This program provides scholarships for financially challenged students who pursue a priority field in Science and Technology.
• Merit. This is offered to those with high aptitude in Science and Mathematics regardless of the student’s socioeconomic status.

Shown below are the qualifications for DOST Junior Level Science Scholarships:

8. Can a DOST scholar shift course?

You are allowed to shift to another DOST-SEI-approved course at the latest second semester of your second year.

Suppose you’re from a 4-year course shifting to a 5-year course (which is a priority course), the scholarship duration is adjusted to 5 years including the period spent in the first course. 

However, if you will shift to a DOST non-priority course, you have to refund the total benefits given to you plus 12% interest.

9. Can DOST scholars avail of other government scholarships?

If the scholarship grant is from another National Government Agency, you have to choose between it and the DOST-SEI scholarship. 

If the scholarship grant is from a Local Government Unit, you can still avail of that scholarship given that its terms will not conflict with any provisions stated in the DOST-SEI Scholarship Agreement.

10. What will happen to my DOST scholarship if I incurred an INC (incomplete) or Failed grade in one of my classes?

If you incurred an INC grade, contact your regional DOST office for your scholarship status. In most cases, DOST allows one INC grade for the first semester assuming that you can complete it in the next semester. 

Meanwhile, if you incurred at least two INC grades, DOST may hold your benefits until you complete them. Note that this still depends on your DOST regional office.

How about if you incurred a failed grade?

You can still file an appeal to maintain your scholarship eligibility. If your appeal was approved, you will be placed under probation and will not receive benefits until you pass the subject where you incurred a failing grade.

11. What will happen to my DOST scholarship if I have failing grades in two or more of my classes?

Unfortunately, incurring two or more failing grades in a semester is a ground for scholarship termination⁵.

If the failing grades were due to health problems, you may submit a letter of appeal to the DOST-SEI National Technical and Selection Committee (NTSC) to maintain your scholarship eligibility.

12. What will happen to my DOST scholarship if I file a Leave of Absence (LOA) for a semester?

If you’re not an incoming freshman, you’re still eligible for the scholarship as long as you ask permission from DOST. However, you will not receive benefits for the semester that you file LOA.

13. Do I have to complete my RSA (Return Service Agreement) first before taking a graduate study or entering med school?

You must send a letter of intent to them so that you can defer your RSA. Note that DOST must approve it first before you proceed.

14. Are there DOST scholarship programs offered to graduate students?

Yes, they have the Accelerated Science and Technology Human Resource Development Program (ASTHRDP), PhilFrance-DOST Fellowship Program, Foreign Graduate Scholarship Program, and a lot more graduate scholarship offers⁶ that can help you.

15. How do I apply for the DOST scholarship for graduate studies?

It depends on which graduate scholarship you wish to apply for. For instance, if you’re applying for the Accelerated Science and Technology Human Resource Development Program (ASTHRDP), you can secure your application form in any of the following:

•  Ateneo De Manila University
• Central Luzon State University 
• De La Salle University
•  Mindanao State University—Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT)
• University of the Philippines (Diliman, Los Baños, Manila, Visayas)
• University of San Carlos
• University of Santo Tomas
• Visayan State University

16. Are there DOST scholarships for medical students?

As of this writing, DOST only offers a scholarship for MD-PhD in Molecular Medicine Program which is open to aspiring Physician-Scientists.

Shown below are the qualifications:

• GWA of 1.75 or higher
• A bachelor’s or master’s degree in the biomedical field
• Passed entrance interview of the UP College of Medicine

The application form can be obtained from the UP College of Medicine Graduate Office or here. 

Additional documentary requirements include:

• Application form with ID picture
• Admission to graduate school (photocopy)
• University Evaluation Sheet (photocopy)
• Transcript of Records (Certified True Copy)
• PSA Birth Certificate
• NBI Certificate
• Medical Certificate
• Endorsement letter from 2 previous professors
• Certificate of Employment (if employed)
• Program of Study/Curriculum

For more details about this scholarship, refer here.

17. I’m planning to study abroad. Is there any DOST scholarship available for me?

Yes, DOST offers various scholarship programs for those who wish to pursue postgraduate degrees abroad. One of them is the PhilFrance-DOST Scholarship which allows scholars to study in the world’s center of art and philosophy – France.

This scholarship provides an opportunity for aspiring Filipino professionals to pursue a Master’s degree or doctorate in a French public university. Aspirant scholars must pursue a field under any of the following fields⁷:

• Agriculture
• Bioengineering
• Bioinformatics
• Biological Sciences
• Climate Change
• Forestry
• Health and Medical Research
• Material Sciences
• Medical Chemistry
• Natural Resources and Environment
• Nuclear Application on Health
• Veterinary Sciences
• Virology

This grant also bestows the “French government scholar” (boursier du gouvernement français) status to the qualifiers. 

The benefits⁸ of this international scholarship program include:

From DOST-SEI:

• Monthly allowance 
• One round-trip ticket 
• Relocation allowance and pre-travel expenses 

From the French Embassy: 

• Exemption from public university registration fees 
• Health care package
• Student housing facilities priority
• French visa application exemption

How To Apply for PhilFrance-DOST Scholarship.

Step 1: Complete the requirements.

To apply, you need the following requirements:

• DOST Application form
• Birth Certificate
• Endorsement from two former college professors
• Medical certificate
• NBI clearance
• Budgetary requirements
•  Re-entry plan

In addition to the requirements above, the French embassy will also require the following: 

• Two-page CV 
• 500-word academic essay explaining why you want to study in France and how your study will benefit the Filipino community

You also have to prepare your transcript of records, the program of study, and a letter of acceptance from a French public university. 

Further details of documentary requirements can be accessed here. 

Step 2: Apply online.

Fill out the online form and upload documentary requirements to the PhilFrance-DOST scholarship online portal. 

You will receive an automated email confirming your online application. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by the scholarship committee. 

Additional information: 

• All scholars who will successfully complete his/her degree program under this scholarship must return to the Philippines and serve his/her institution under his/her specialization for a period equal to twice the length of the duration of the scholarship. 
• Qualified applicants must pursue MS or Ph.D. Program on a full-time basis (i.e., maximum of 24 months for MS, 36 months for Ph.D.). 

 

References

1. Undergraduate Scholarships. Retrieved 7 July 2021, from https://sei.dost.gov.ph/index.php/programs-and-projects/scholarships/undergraduate-scholarships
2. DOST-SEI announces 9,788 new S&T scholarship qualifiers. (2020). Retrieved 7 July 2021, from https://sei.dost.gov.ph/index.php/news-archive/303-dost-sei-announces-9-788-new-s-t-scholarship-qualifiers
3. Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute. (2019). SIYENSYA-Bilidad 2 (Developing One’s Skills in Test-Taking): SIYENSYA-Bilidad 2 (Developing One’s Skills in Test-Tak https://sei.dost.gov.ph/images/downloads/SiyensyaBilidad2e.pdf
4. Cooper, C. (2019). The Best Foods To Eat Before A Test. Retrieved 8 July 2021, from https://prepexpert.com/best-foods-to-eat-before-a-test/
5. Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI). (2020). Frequently Asked Questions About the DOST-SEI S&T Undergraduate Scholarships [PDF]. Retrieved from https://sei.dost.gov.ph/images/stsd/ugradFAQ.pdf
6. Graduate Scholarships. Retrieved 8 July 2021, from https://sei.dost.gov.ph/index.php/programs-and-projects/scholarships/postgraduate-scholarships
7. Rocamora, J. (2022). France opens 2 scholarship programs for Filipinos. Retrieved 4 February 2022, from https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1166351
8. Scholarship benefits. (2021). Retrieved 4 February 2022, from https://philfrance-scholarships.com/scholarship-details/philfrance-dost-scholarships/scholarship-benefits/