TESDA is now accepting applications for its free skills training and scholarship programs for Filipinos nationwide. These opportunities are offered by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the national agency responsible for developing workforce skills and enhancing employment opportunities in the Philippines.
If you’re preparing for a new career, planning to learn a trade, or looking to upgrade your skills without paying tuition fees, TESDA’s scholarship programs might be the perfect place to start.
What is the TESDA Scholarship?
The TESDA Scholarship Program supports Filipinos by providing free vocational and technical training, national certification, and training allowances through accredited training centers. These programs are designed to help individuals gain job-ready skills and qualifications recognized by both local industries and overseas employers.
TESDA has helped thousands of Filipinos secure employment in fields such as construction, food & beverage, IT, automotive, caregiving, and hospitality. The scholarship is ideal for those who want a practical career path that allows them to start earning quickly, often within months of finishing training.
TESDA Scholarship Benefits
Scholars under TESDA may receive the following benefits:
- Free tuition and training
- National Assessment Fee Coverage
- Training Support Allowance
- Insurance Coverage
- Access to accredited training institutions
- Certificate of Completion or National Certificate (NC I / NC II)
Who Can Apply?
You may qualify for the TESDA scholarship if you:
- Be a Filipino citizen
- Are at least 18 years old
- Are not currently a scholar under another government program
- Can submit the required documents during the application
- Meet additional course-specific requirements (if applicable)
TESDA welcomes applicants such as:
- Out-of-school youth
- Job seekers
- Workers want new skills
- Stay-at-home parents who want home-based livelihoods
- Returning OFWs
- Senior high graduates looking for faster employment
Required Documents
Make sure you prepare the following items when applying:
- Valid government ID
- PSA birth certificate
- 2×2 ID photos
- High School diploma or ALS certificate
- Report card / latest grades
- Barangay certificate of residency
- Proof of income (if applying under STEP or need-based program)
- Medical certificate
- Additional documents required by your training center
Training Centers & Partner Institutions
TESDA conducts training through:
- TESDA Provincial Training Centers
- TESDA Regional Training Centers
- Public Technical-Vocational Institutions (TVIs)
- Private accredited training institutions
- TESDA Technology Institutions (TTIs)
- Community-based partner organizations
Courses Available
Here are examples of commonly offered TESDA courses across many regions:
- Welding (SMAW NC I / NC II)
- Computer Systems Servicing (CSS NC II)
- Cookery NC II
- Bread and Pastry Production NC II
- Caregiving NC II
- Automotive Servicing NC II
- Housekeeping NC II
- Electrical Installation and Maintenance NC II
- Food & Beverage Services NC II
- Driving NC II
- Contact Center Services
- Beauty Care Services (Nail Care / Hairdressing)
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the TESDA Scholarship:
- Visit your nearest TESDA Provincial Office or online at www.tesda.gov.ph
- Ask for scholarship availability and a list of open courses
- Submit requirements and fill out the scholar application form
- Register through the TESDA Online Scholarship System if required (BSRS-based registration)
- Wait for screening and notification
- Attend orientation and begin training once approved
Deadline for TESDA Scholarship Application
TESDA opens scholarship slots on a rolling basis. There is no single nationwide deadline because each region and school opens its own training slots depending on funding, available seats, and batch schedules.
Best advice: Apply early. Seats are limited and fill up fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the TESDA Scholarship?
A government-funded program offering free vocational training and national certification to qualified Filipino learners.
2. Who can apply?
Filipino citizens aged 18+ (or 15+ with guardian consent), including students, job seekers, OFWs, and workers who want skills training.
3. Does TESDA provide allowance?
Some programs provide training support allowance depending on funding and regional implementation. Check with your TESDA office.
4. Can working adults enroll?
Yes. Many trainees are currently employed and take TESDA courses to upgrade skills or shift careers.
5. Is there an online application?
Some centers require registration through the TESDA Biometric-Enabled Scholarship Registration System (BSRS). Others accept walk-ins.
6. Is there a deadline?
None of the national-level application timelines depend on regional training availability.
Conclusion
The TESDA Scholarship 2025 is a practical opportunity for Filipinos who want to gain employable skills without spending on tuition. Whether you want a short-term course, a new career path, or a certification that helps you work abroad, TESDA provides a government-recognized way to achieve it. Furthermore, it gives you practical skills that lead to real income and opportunities.