Dreaming of completing college without worrying about tuition fees? The SM Scholarship has helped thousands of Filipino students turn that dream into reality. Every year, the SM Foundation opens its college scholarship program to deserving youth who need financial support and who want to pursue degrees in fields that can lead to stable careers.
If you’re considering applying, this guide will walk you through the key details of what you need, what you get, which courses are covered, and how to apply, explained in a practical and reader-friendly way.
What Is the SM Scholarship?
The SM Scholarship is a college scholarship program offered by SM Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of the SM Group, one of the largest organisations in the Philippines. The program was created by Henry Sy Sr., who believed that education is the greatest equaliser.
The scholarship aims to support financially challenged but academically capable students, especially those who want to study in fields like business, IT, and engineering. In short, it gives talented Filipino youth a ladder to climb toward a brighter future.
Who Can Apply for the SM Scholarship?
Before jumping into the application portal, check if you meet the qualifications. Don’t worry, they’re clear, fair, and aligned with the program’s mission.
- Grade 12 graduates from a public or private school.
- Belonging to the current academic year’s graduating batch.
- With a General Weighted Average (GWA) of at least the threshold set by SM Foundation (typically 92%, based on previous years).
- Total household income must be ₱250,000 or below per year.
Documentary Requirements
Applicants usually submit:
- Grade 12 report card.
- Birth certificate.
- Photos (usually 2×2).
- Income documents.
- Certificate of Good Moral Character.
- Latest Income Tax Returns of parent/s or guardian/Certificate of Non-Filing of Income/Certificate of Indigency;
Also Read: Owwa Scholarship 2025-2026 open for college students
Benefits of Becoming an SM Scholar
Here are the main reasons thousands of students apply for this scholarship every year.
- The scholarship covers full or partial tuition fees, depending on the partner school.
- Scholars receive a monthly stipend for school expenses.
- Students gain access to internships within the SM Group. This means real experience, real mentors, and real chances of landing a job after graduation.
- Part-time job opportunities during semestral and Christmas breaks
- While SM doesn’t require scholars to work for them after graduating, opportunities are usually open for those who want to join the SM family.
- SM Foundation supports courses that are in demand in the Philippines and globally. These usually include:
Courses Covered by the Scholarship
- BS in Computer Science
- BS in Computer Engineering
- BS in Mechanical Engineering
- BS in Accounting Information Systems
- BSBA in Management Accounting
- BS in Information Technology
- BS in Civil Engineering
- BS in Accountancy
- BS in Internal Auditing
- BS in Elementary Education
- BS in Electronics & Communications Engineering / Electronics Engineering
- BS in Electrical Engineering
- BS in Accounting Technology
- BSBA in Financial Management
- BS in Secondary Education (Majors in Biology, Chemistry, General Science, Physics, Mathematics, English)
SM Scholarship 2026 Timeline
- The SM Foundation College Scholarship 2026 online application will open on February 1, 2026.
- The Deadline to apply for the Scholarship is March 31, 2026.
How to Apply for the Scholarship
Those who are interested in applying can visit the Scholarship Online Application portal from the link given below:-
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting Selected
You can’t control everything, but you can improve how you present yourself.
- Maintain Strong Grades
- Submit Documents Early
- Prepare for Interviews
- Align Your Goals with the Program
Common Reasons for Disqualification
Knowing the pitfalls helps you avoid them.
- Incorrect or inconsistent information
- Failure to meet grade requirements
- Missing or unreadable documents
- Incomplete application fields
- Submitting past the deadline
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the SM Foundation Scholarship?
The SM Foundation Scholarship is a college aid program that helps financially challenged but deserving Filipino students complete their education.
2. How much is the SM Scholarship monthly allowance?
The SM Scholarship provides a monthly allowance to help cover daily school expenses, with the exact amount depending on the partner school and program.
3. What is GWA in SM Scholarship?
GWA means General Weighted Average, which reflects a student’s overall academic performance and is used to assess eligibility for the Scholarship.
4. Who is eligible for the SM Scholarship?
The SM Scholarship is open to Grade 12 graduates with good academic records from low-income families who meet the program’s requirements.
5. Is the SM Scholarship 100% free?
Yes, the Scholarship is fully funded and does not require repayment from scholars.
6. Is the SM Scholarship 100% free?
SM’s scholarship mission is to empower young Filipinos through education and help them build better futures for themselves and their communities.
Conclusion
The SM Scholarship stands as one of the most trusted and life-changing scholarship programs in the Philippines. It opens real opportunities for hardworking students who have the talent but lack financial support. If you meet the requirements, start early, prepare your documents carefully, and apply with confidence, this could be the opportunity that shapes your future.
Education is never easy, but with support from programs like the SM Scholarship, the path to achieving your dreams becomes clearer, lighter, and truly possible.