OWWA Scholarship 2026: 10,000 More Slots Open for OFW Dependents

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has announced a massive expansion of its scholarship programs, pledging to open 10,000 additional slots for children of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) this year.

The announcement was made by OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan during a visit to Dubai. She revealed that the agency’s trust fund has reached a record-high of $368 million for 2026, the highest amount since the agency was established in 1982.

Patricia Yvonne Caunan, administrator of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), addresses overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Dubai earlier this month. (Contributed photo by Jojo Dass)

Record-Breaking Growth in OWWA Funds

According to Administrator Caunan, the trust fund’s growth from $350 million in late 2024 to $368 million today is the largest increase in 43 years.

Ang OWWA Trust Fund ay protektado, at hindi lamang protektado, lalong lumalago, said Caunan. (The OWWA Trust Fund is protected, and it also grows.)

Because of this financial strength, OWWA is expanding its current pool of 15,000 scholars by adding 10,000 more, bringing the total to 25,000 beneficiaries.

New Program: Alagang OWWA Fund

In addition to the scholarship slots, OWWA also introduced the Alagang OWWA Fund. This is a dedicated fund for:

Health and Welfare: Medical support for OFWs and their families.
Livelihood Assistance: Support for returning OFWs starting businesses in the Philippines.
Global Support: Programs accessible to OFWs both in the Philippines and in international hubs like Dubai.

Scholarship Benefits & Qualifications

While specific application dates for the new 10,000 slots are still being finalized, the standard benefits for OWWA scholarships (EDSP and CMWSP) include:

Financial Grant: Up to ₱60,000.00 per academic year.
Open to children or siblings of active OWWA members.
GWA of at least 80% with no failing grades.
The eligibility threshold has recently been raised from USD 600 to USD 1,000 monthly income, allowing more families to qualify.

How to Apply

As of February 2026, the online application portal for these specific new slots has not yet opened. Applicants are advised to monitor the official portal: https://scholarship.owwa.gov.ph/

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why was the announcement made in Dubai?

Dubai is home to one of the largest OFW populations. The announcement was made during an OWWA event to reassure members that their $25 membership fees are being returned to them in the form of direct benefits.

How many active OWWA members are there?

As of December 2025, there are 2.6 million active OWWA members, an increase of 600,000 from the previous year.

Can I apply if my family income is above USD 600?

Yes. For 2026, OWWA has increased the income threshold to USD 1,000 to make the scholarships more accessible to middle-income OFW families.

When will the application for these 10k slots open?

Official dates are usually announced in the third or fourth quarter of the year. Keep your documents ready!

Conclusion

The addition of 10,000 scholarship slots is a historic move by OWWA to support the dreams of OFW families. While the portal is not yet open, now is the perfect time to ensure your OWWA membership is active and your school records are ready.

For other scholarship opportunities, check out OWWA Scholarship programs.