To apply for a TESDA scholarship, you simply need to choose a course, inquire at a TESDA office or online, submit your requirements, pass the screening (interview + exam if needed), and enroll in a training center with available scholarship slots. The entire process is free, and TESDA will guide you step-by-step—from inquiry to admission.
You can apply face-to-face (via the Provincial Office or training center) or online, depending on what’s easier for you. After applying, you’ll be referred to a training provider, complete your documents, and go through evaluation. Once accepted, you’ll receive an admission slip and start training—no tuition fees required under most scholarship programs. If you’re 15+ years old and willing to learn skills, you already qualify to start.
Overview of TESDA Scholarships
A TESDA scholarship is a government-funded program under the TESDA that provides free technical-vocational training, assessment, and certification to Filipinos. It was established through the Republic Act No. 7796 following the merger of skills training agencies to create a unified system that responds directly to labor market needs. The reason for this is simple: Equipping Filipinos with practical, job-ready skills not only improves employability and reduces unemployment, but also supports national economic growth.
Because here’s the reality today: Skills training can lead to faster employment than traditional paths and because of this, TESDA ks willingly giving you that opportunity—for free.
Benefits
Some of the benefits that come with availing TESDA scholarships, include getting the following:
- Free skills training in various in-demand industries
- Free national assessment and certification (NC)
- Daily allowance (for selected programs)
- Training support fund (materials, tools, and supplies)
- Starter toolkits for specific qualifications
- Higher employability and job readiness
- Opportunities for local and overseas employment
- Flexible learning options (online and face-to-face)
- Short training duration (weeks to months only)
- Inclusive access for marginalized groups (PWDs, IPs, OFWs, etc.)
Take note that TESDA doesn’t just give free training—it gives you:
- Practical, job-ready skills
- National certifications
- Opportunities for local and overseas employment
This is one of the fastest and most accessible ways to improve your income potential in the Philippines.
Who Can Avail TESDA Scholarships?
You can apply if you are:
- A Filipino citizen (15 years old and above)
- A high school graduate or ALS passer
- Part of the working-age population
- A member of special groups (PWDs, IPs, senior citizens, returnees, etc.)
TESDA is inclusive. If you’re willing to learn, there’s likely a slot for you.
Requirements
Depending on the scholarship program, you may be required to provide these requirements listed below:
Basic Documents
- Accomplished Registration/Enrolment Form
- Diploma / Transcript / Form 137 / ALS Certificate
- PSA Birth Certificate
- Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
- 4 pcs 1×1 ID picture
Additional Requirements
- Medical Certificate (fit to train)
- Barangay / Police / NBI Clearance
- Personal Accident Insurance
- Long folder with fastener
Take note that some training centers may require:
- Drug test
- Sketch of residence
- POWERTEST exam
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Avail TESDA Scholarship
To avail of the TESDA Scholarships, simply follow these ateps:
Step 1: Inquire About Available Scholarships
You have two options:
Option A: Face-to-Face Inquiry
- Visit your TESDA Provincial or District Office
- Approach the scholarship focal person
- Ask about available courses and scholarship slots
- You’ll be informed about available programs
- You’ll be referred to a training center
Option B: Online Inquiry
- Fill out the TESDA scholarship inquiry/application form online
- TESDA receives your application
- They forward and process it
- They contact you and refer you to a training provider
Note: If you are in a hurry and you want faster results, online is the way to go.
Step 2: Choose a Training Program
Once TESDA responds, you’ll be:
- Referred to a training center with available scholarship slots
- Given details about the course (duration, schedule, requirements)
Pro Tip: Don’t just pick what’s popular—choose a skill that matches job demand.
Step 3: Prepare the Requirements
Make sure your requirements are in order. Double-check to see that you have everything in duplicates if you can.
Step 4: Screening Process
Before enrollment, you’ll have to go through:
1. Interview
- Conducted by a trainer
- Assesses your readiness and interest
2. Qualifying Exam (if required)
- Usually takes about 1 hour
- Tests basic knowledge and aptitude
3. POWERTEST (for some programs)
- Measures your capability for technical training
Step 5: Submit Requirements and Register
Once you pass:
- Submit all documents
- TESDA checks completeness (5 minutes)
- Your data is encoded into the system
- You receive your admission slip
Step 6: Enrollment and Training
After approval:
- You officially enroll in the training program
- Training begins based on schedule
- Some programs include OJT or Supervised Industry Learning (SIL)
After completion:
- You receive a Certificate of Completion
- Or Certificate of Employment if directly hired
Other TESDA Online Systems
TESDA has made things easier with digital platforms. Here’s how they fit into your application:
1. TESDA Online Program (TOP)
- You can start learning even before formal enrollment
- Choose free courses online
- Build foundational skills
Ideal for: Beginners who want to explore skills first
2. TESDA Biometric-Enabled Scholarship Registration System (TESDA BSRS)
- Used during official registration
- Ensures your identity is verified
- Prevents duplicate or fraudulent applications
Note: This step usually happens at the training center. You may also check out our previous guide on applying for scholarships via the BSRA
3. TESDA Skills Passport
- Tracks your completed trainings and certifications
- Serves as your digital skills record
- Useful when applying for jobs
- You may also apply for scholarship here, though you will still be redirected back to the BSRS
Note: Think of this as your career portfolio inside TESDA
Common Problems When Availing TESDA Scholarships
Let’s be real—many applicants fail not because they’re unqualified, but because they’re unprepared. Some of the problems that show up because they are unprepared include:
- Missing Documents: Prepare everything early. Don’t wait until enrollment day.
- Choosing the Wrong Course: Ask TESDA which courses are in-demand locally.
- Not Following Up: If you applied online, check your email and phone regularly.
- Failing the Screening: Be honest, show willingness to learn, and take the exam seriously.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
To ensure success in availing of TESDA scholarships, make aure to:
- Apply early—slots fill up fast
- Be flexible with schedules
- Consider nearby training centers
- Ask about multiple scholarship programs
- Stay updated with TESDA announcements
Take note: TESDA scholarships don’t stay open forever. Slots are limited, and thousands apply every cycle. So, if you’re serious about improving your future, inquire today (online or in person), get your documents in order, and make sure to commit to finishing the training
With TESDA, you don’t need perfect grades. You don’t even need money. You just need to start.