TESDA scholarships are one of the fastest ways to gain job-ready skills without paying a single peso. Whether you’re a high school graduate, out-of-school youth, unemployed adult, or even an OFW looking to upskill, TESDA has a scholarship program for you.
This guide explains the three main TESDA scholarship programs: TWSP, PESFA, and STEP. You’ll learn who can apply, what courses are covered, how much you’ll receive, and where to submit your application.
What is TESDA?
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is the government agency responsible for technical-vocational education and training (TVET) in the Philippines. TESDA offers free skills training through accredited schools and training centers nationwide.
After completing a TESDA course, you can take the National Competency Assessment and earn a National Certificate (NC), which is recognized by employers in the Philippines and abroad.
TESDA Scholarship Programs Overview
TESDA administers three main scholarship programs:
| Program | Full Name | Target Beneficiaries | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| TWSP | Training for Work Scholarship Program | Unemployed, underemployed, OFWs | Training costs + allowances |
| PESFA | Private Education Student Financial Assistance | Students in private TVET schools | Tuition subsidy + allowances |
| STEP | Special Training for Employment Program | Community-based learners | Free short-term training |
TWSP Scholarship 2026 (Training for Work Scholarship Program)
TWSP is TESDA’s largest and most popular scholarship. It covers the full cost of training at TESDA-accredited centers, plus daily allowances for enrolled scholars.
Who Can Apply for TWSP?
- Filipino citizens aged 18 and above
- High school graduates (Old Curriculum) or at least Grade 10 completers (K-12)
- Unemployed or underemployed individuals
- Returning OFWs
- Displaced workers
- Indigenous peoples (IPs)
TWSP Benefits:
- Free training: Full tuition coverage at TESDA-accredited schools
- Daily allowance: PHP100-200 per day (varies by region)
- Training materials: Books, handouts, and equipment provided
- Assessment fee: NC assessment covered for first attempt
- Starter toolkit: Some programs provide toolkits after graduation
TWSP Courses Available:
TWSP covers hundreds of TVET programs including:
High-Demand Courses:
- Automotive Servicing NC I/NC II
- Electrical Installation and Maintenance NC II
- Welding (SMAW, GMAW, GTAW)
- Plumbing NC II
- RAC (Refrigeration and Air Conditioning) Servicing NC II
- Computer Systems Servicing NC II
- Bookkeeping NC III
- Caregiving NC II
- Housekeeping NC II
- Food and Beverage Services NC II
- Bread and Pastry Production NC II
- Bartending NC II
Tech and Digital Courses:
- Animation NC II
- Visual Graphic Design NC III
- Contact Center Services NC II
- Programming NC IV
- Web Development
Healthcare:
- Health Care Services NC II
- Massage Therapy NC II
- Barangay Health Services NC II
How to Apply for TWSP:
Step 1: Visit the TESDA website or your nearest Provincial/District Training Center.
Step 2: Register in the TESDA Online Program (TOP) at tesda.gov.ph or directly at the training center.
Step 3: Choose your preferred course and training center.
Step 4: Submit the following requirements:
- Accomplished TWSP Application Form
- Birth Certificate (PSA copy)
- High School Diploma or Grade 10 Certificate
- Barangay Clearance
- 2×2 ID Photos (white background)
- Valid ID
Step 5: Wait for the assessment and slot confirmation.
Step 6: Attend the training and complete all requirements.
Step 7: Take the NC Assessment to earn your certificate.
PESFA Scholarship 2026 (Private Education Student Financial Assistance)
PESFA provides financial support for students enrolled in private TVET institutions. This program helps cover tuition and other school fees at private technical-vocational schools.
Who Can Apply for PESFA?
- Filipino citizens
- Enrolled in a TESDA-registered program at a private TVET school
- From low-income families (income threshold applies)
- Must not be receiving other government scholarships
PESFA Benefits:
- Tuition fee subsidy (partial or full, depending on the program)
- Book and school supplies allowance
- Transportation allowance (for some programs)
- Assessment fee coverage
How to Apply for PESFA:
- Inquire at your chosen private TVET school
- Submit income documents (ITR, Certificate of Indigency)
- Complete the PESFA application through the school
STEP Scholarship 2026 (Special Training for Employment Program)
STEP provides community-based training, often delivered directly in barangays. These are shorter programs (2 weeks to 3 months) designed for quick skills acquisition.
Who Can Apply for STEP?
- Out-of-school youth (OSY)
- Unemployed adults
- Indigenous peoples
- Persons with disabilities (PWDs)
- Senior citizens
- Informal sector workers
- Farmers and fisherfolk
STEP Benefits:
- Free skills training
- Training materials provided
- Shorter program duration (quick certification)
- Community-based delivery (no need to travel far)
STEP Courses:
- Basic electronics
- Dress making
- Food processing
- Small engine repair
- Organic agriculture
- Handicraft making
- Beauty care services
How to Apply for STEP:
- Contact your barangay or municipal LGU
- Register at the nearest TESDA Provincial/District Office
- Attend the scheduled training in your community
Documents Needed for TESDA Scholarships
While requirements vary by program, prepare these documents:
Required for All:
- PSA Birth Certificate
- High School Diploma or Grade 10 Certificate
- 2×2 ID Photos (white background)
- Valid Government ID
For Need-Based Programs:
- Certificate of Indigency from Barangay
- Parents’ ITR or Certificate of No Income
For Returning OFWs:
- OEC or OFW ID
- Certificate from OWWA or POEA
TESDA Scholarship Application Timeline 2026
TESDA scholarships are offered year-round, but slots are limited. Here’s a general timeline:
| Period | Activity |
|---|---|
| January-March | New batch enrollments for summer training |
| April-May | Summer intensive programs |
| June-August | Regular semester enrollments |
| September-November | Second semester enrollments |
| December | Assessment and graduation |
Tip: Apply early because popular courses fill up fast. Slots are first-come, first-served.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is TESDA training really free?
A: Yes. TWSP and STEP cover training costs, materials, and assessment fees. You may only need to pay for personal items like uniforms.
Q: How long are TESDA courses?
A: Program length varies from 2 weeks (STEP) to 6 months or longer (TWSP), depending on the NC level.
Q: Can I apply for multiple TESDA scholarships?
A: You cannot hold multiple TESDA scholarships at the same time. However, after completing one program, you can apply for another.
Q: Is there an age limit for TESDA scholarships?
A: Most programs require applicants to be at least 18 years old. There’s no strict upper age limit for many courses.
Q: Will TESDA help me find a job?
A: TESDA has a Public Employment Service Office (PESO) network that connects graduates with employers. Many training centers also have industry partners for job placement.
Q: Can OFWs apply for TESDA scholarships?
A: Yes. Returning OFWs are actually a priority group for TWSP. TESDA has specific programs for displaced OFWs seeking new skills.
Official TESDA Links
- TESDA Website: tesda.gov.ph
- TESDA Online Program (TOP): e-tesda.gov.ph
- Course Catalog: tesda.gov.ph/course-catalog
- Find a Training Center: tesda.gov.ph/findtvipage
Final Thoughts
TESDA scholarships are your ticket to gaining practical skills that employers actually need. Whether you want to become an automotive mechanic, electrician, IT support specialist, or caregiver, TESDA can train you for free and certify your skills.
Don’t wait for the “perfect time” to apply. Slots fill up quickly, especially for in-demand courses. Visit your nearest TESDA office or register online today.