What is the BDO Foundation Scholarship?
The BDO Foundation Scholarship is an educational assistance program offered by BDO Foundation, Inc., the corporate social responsibility arm of BDO Unibank, Inc. – the largest bank in the Philippines by total assets. This scholarship supports academically excellent but financially challenged Filipino students pursuing degrees in business, finance, and related fields.
As part of BDO’s commitment to nation-building through education, the foundation has helped thousands of scholars complete their college education and become successful professionals in banking, finance, and business sectors.
The scholarship provides comprehensive support including tuition coverage, monthly allowances, and potential career opportunities within the BDO network after graduation.
BDO Foundation Scholarship Benefits 2026
| Benefit | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fee | Full or partial coverage |
| Monthly Stipend | ₱5,000 – ₱8,000/month |
| Book Allowance | ₱3,000 – ₱5,000/semester |
| Miscellaneous Fees | Covered |
| Graduation Support | One-time assistance |
Additional Benefits
- Internship Opportunities at BDO and SM Group companies
- Mentorship Program with BDO professionals
- Leadership Training and workshops
- Networking Events with fellow scholars and alumni
- Employment Consideration at BDO after graduation
- Financial Literacy Training
Eligibility Requirements
Academic Requirements
| Applicant Type | Minimum GWA |
|---|---|
| Incoming Freshmen | 88%+ (High School) |
| College Students | 85%+ (No failing grades) |
Financial Requirements
- Combined annual family income must not exceed ₱400,000
- Must demonstrate genuine financial need
- Priority for families with no college graduate
General Requirements
- Filipino citizen
- Enrolled in a CHED-recognized institution
- Taking a priority course (Business, Finance, Accountancy, IT)
- Not receiving another full scholarship
- Good moral character
- Willing to comply with scholarship terms
Priority Courses
BDO Foundation typically prioritizes:
- Accountancy
- Business Administration
- Banking and Finance
- Financial Management
- Information Technology
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Management
Documentary Requirements
- Completed Application Form (from BDO Foundation)
- PSA Birth Certificate (original and photocopy)
- Academic Records:
- High School Report Card (Form 138) for freshmen
- College Transcript of Records for continuing students
- Certificate of Good Moral Character
- Certificate of Enrollment or Admission Slip
- Recent 2×2 ID Photos (4-6 pieces, white background)
- Parent’s/Guardian’s Income Documents:
- Income Tax Return (ITR) or
- Certificate of Employment with Compensation or
- Certificate of Non-Filing from BIR
- Certificate of Indigency (if applicable)
- Barangay Certificate of Residency
- Two Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Essay (500-800 words)
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Check Announcements
- Visit BDO Foundation website
- Follow BDO Foundation social media pages
- Contact partner schools’ scholarship offices
Step 2: Verify Eligibility
- Confirm you meet academic and financial requirements
- Check if your course is eligible
- Ensure you’re in a partner institution
Step 3: Prepare Documents
- Gather all required documents
- Request recommendation letters
- Write your personal essay
Step 4: Submit Application
Submit complete application to:
- BDO Foundation Office
- Partner school’s scholarship office
- Online portal (when available)
Step 5: Screening Process
- Document review
- Academic evaluation
- Financial assessment
Step 6: Interview
- Panel interview with foundation representatives
- Questions about goals and motivation
Step 7: Final Selection
Results announced via:
- Email notification
- Official website
- Partner school announcements
Step 8: Orientation
- Attend mandatory orientation
- Sign scholarship contract
- Begin benefits
Application Timeline 2026
| Activity | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | January – February 2026 |
| Submission Deadline | March – April 2026 |
| Screening | April – May 2026 |
| Interviews | May – June 2026 |
| Results | June – July 2026 |
| Orientation | July – August 2026 |
Partner Schools
BDO Foundation partners with various universities including:
Metro Manila
- De La Salle University
- Ateneo de Manila University
- University of the Philippines
- University of Santo Tomas
- Far Eastern University
- Polytechnic University of the Philippines
Provincial
- Selected state universities and colleges
- Regional private universities
Contact BDO Foundation for current partner list.
Maintaining Your Scholarship
Academic Requirements
| Year Level | Minimum GWA |
|---|---|
| First Year | 2.25 (82%) |
| Second Year | 2.0 (85%) |
| Third Year | 2.0 (85%) |
| Fourth Year | 2.0 (85%) |
Other Requirements
- No failing grades
- Full academic load each semester
- Attendance at scholar activities
- Good moral character
Frequently Asked Questions
Is BDO Foundation Scholarship fully funded?
The scholarship offers substantial support including tuition and stipends. Coverage varies by program and availability.
Is there employment after graduation?
While not guaranteed, scholars receive priority consideration for positions at BDO Unibank and SM Group companies.
Can I apply for other scholarships too?
You generally cannot hold two full scholarships. Check specific terms for combining partial grants.
How competitive is this scholarship?
It’s competitive with many applicants. Strong academics and genuine financial need increase chances.
Does BDO Foundation offer graduate scholarships?
Programs focus primarily on undergraduate students. Check foundation for current offerings.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply early – Don’t wait for deadlines
- Complete all documents – Incomplete applications are rejected
- Write a compelling essay – Show your passion for business/finance
- Highlight leadership – Extracurricular activities matter
- Demonstrate financial need honestly
- Maintain excellent grades
- Prepare for interviews – Practice discussing your goals
- Get strong recommendations
- Show interest in banking/finance career
- Follow instructions carefully
Contact Information
BDO Foundation, Inc. BDO Corporate Center 7899 Makati Avenue Makati City, Philippines
Phone: (02) 8840-7000 Email: bdofoundation@bdo.com.ph Website: www.bdofoundation.org
About BDO Foundation
BDO Foundation, Inc. is the corporate social responsibility arm of BDO Unibank, Inc. The foundation focuses on:
- Education – Scholarships and school building
- Livelihood – Skills training and microfinance
- Environment – Sustainability programs
- Community Development – Disaster response and relief
Related Scholarships
- Metrobank Foundation Scholarship
- Security Bank Foundation Scholarship
- SM Foundation Scholarship
- Accountancy Scholarships
- CHED Scholarship
Conclusion
The BDO Foundation Scholarship 2026 offers an excellent opportunity for Filipino students pursuing business, finance, and related courses. With comprehensive benefits and potential career paths at the country’s largest bank, this scholarship provides both financial support and professional development.
If you’re passionate about banking, finance, or business and need financial assistance, start your application today.
Corporate Foundation Scholarships vs. Government Scholarships
Unlike government programs with a fixed annual schedule, corporate foundation scholarships like this one are managed at the discretion of the sponsoring company and can change in scope, partner schools, or availability from year to year based on the foundation’s current priorities and budget. Treat any figures or timelines you find online as a general guide, and always confirm the current cycle directly with the foundation or your school’s financial aid office before assuming a specific opening date.
What Usually Strengthens an Application to a Corporate-Funded Scholarship
- A clear, honest personal statement connecting your background and goals to the values of the sponsoring company or foundation
- Consistent academic standing, even if not top-of-class, since many corporate scholarships weigh financial need alongside grades
- Community involvement or leadership activities, which many corporate foundations specifically look for beyond grades alone
Staying Alert for Scams
Corporate-branded scholarships are sometimes impersonated by scam pages asking for an upfront “processing fee.” A legitimate corporate foundation scholarship does not require payment to apply. Only trust information from the foundation’s verified official channels.