Davao City residents can access quality education through the Iskolar ng Dabaw scholarship program and other LGU-funded educational assistance. These programs help Dabawenyo students pursue college without financial hardship.
This guide covers everything about Davao City scholarships for 2026: eligibility, benefits, application steps, and tips for success.
What is Iskolar ng Dabaw?
Iskolar ng Dabaw is the flagship scholarship program of the Davao City Government. It provides comprehensive financial support to qualified Davao City residents pursuing higher education.
The program aims to produce skilled graduates who will contribute to Davao City’s development and growth.
Davao City Scholarship Programs
1. Iskolar ng Dabaw (Main Scholarship)
Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage at partner schools
- Monthly stipend
- Book allowance
- Transportation allowance
- Graduation incentive
Eligibility:
- Bona fide resident of Davao City for at least 3 years
- High school graduate or senior high school completer
- General Weighted Average of at least 85%
- From a low-to-middle income family
- Not receiving another full government scholarship
- Good moral character
2. Davao City Educational Assistance Program
For students who don’t qualify for full scholarship:
Benefits:
- Partial tuition subsidy
- School supplies assistance
- Emergency educational assistance
Eligibility:
- Davao City resident
- Currently enrolled in a recognized school
- Passing grades
- Proof of financial need
3. City Government of Davao Athletic Scholarship
For student-athletes representing Davao City:
Benefits:
- Full or partial tuition
- Training allowances
- Sports equipment and uniform
- Competition support
Eligibility:
- Varsity athlete or member of Davao City sports team
- Competed at regional or national level
- Maintaining academic requirements
4. PESO (Public Employment Service Office) Training Scholarships
TESDA-partnered skills training for Davao City residents:
Benefits:
- Free vocational training
- NC certification support
- Job matching assistance
Required Documents
Standard Requirements:
- PSA Birth Certificate
- Barangay Certificate of Residency (Davao City)
- High School Report Card or Transcript
- Certificate of Enrollment or Admission
- 2×2 ID Photos (white background)
- Valid ID
For Need-Based Programs:
- Certificate of Indigency
- Parent’s ITR or Certificate of No Income
- Proof of family income/employment
Additional:
- Certificate of Good Moral Character
- Medical Certificate (some programs)
- Athletic certifications (for sports scholarships)
How to Apply for Iskolar ng Dabaw
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Review all requirements at the Davao City Scholarship Office or their official announcements.
Step 2: Gather Documents
Prepare all required documents. Get original copies and photocopies.
Step 3: Get Application Form
Where to get forms:
- Davao City Scholarship Office (City Hall)
- District offices
- Official Davao City website/social media
Step 4: Submit Application
Submit completed form with all documents to:
- Davao City Scholarship Office
- City Hall of Davao
- Or designated submission centers
Step 5: Screening and Interview
Qualified applicants undergo:
- Document verification
- Panel interview
- Home visit (for some programs)
Step 6: Results Announcement
Approved scholars are announced through:
- Davao City official website
- Social media pages
- Posting at City Hall
Partner Schools and Universities
Iskolar ng Dabaw can be used at various institutions:
State Universities:
- University of the Philippines Mindanao
- University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP)
- Davao Oriental State University
Local Colleges:
- Davao City National High School – College Division
- City-funded technical-vocational schools
Private Universities (varies by program):
- Ateneo de Davao University
- University of Mindanao
- San Pedro College
- Holy Cross of Davao College
- And other CHED-recognized schools
Application Timeline 2026
| Period | Activity |
|---|---|
| February – April | 1st semester applications |
| July – September | 2nd semester applications |
| Year-round | Special assistance requests |
Note: Check official announcements as dates may vary.
Maintaining Your Scholarship
Iskolar ng Dabaw scholars must:
- Maintain required GWA (usually 2.5 or 85%+)
- Enroll in full academic load each semester
- Not fail any major subject
- Submit grades report every semester
- Attend scholar activities and assemblies
- Render community service hours (some programs)
- Remain a Davao City resident
Tips for Davao City Scholarship Success
- Establish residency early – 3-year residency requirement is strict.
- Apply early – Slots are limited and competitive.
- Complete all documents – Incomplete applications are not processed.
- Maintain high grades – GWA is a major consideration.
- Prepare for interview – Practice answering questions about goals and background.
- Be honest – Falsifying information leads to disqualification.
- Check announcements regularly – Follow Davao City official pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long is Iskolar ng Dabaw valid? A: The scholarship covers your entire undergraduate program as long as you meet retention requirements.
Q: Can I use Davao scholarship for schools in Manila? A: Most Davao City scholarships are for local schools. Check specific program rules for exceptions.
Q: What if my grades drop below the requirement? A: You may receive a warning first. Continued low grades can result in termination. Some programs allow academic probation.
Q: Can I combine Iskolar ng Dabaw with DOST or CHED scholarship? A: Usually not for full scholarships. You cannot receive two full government scholarships simultaneously.
Q: Is there a service obligation after graduation? A: Some programs require community service or return service. Check your scholarship contract.
Contact Information
Davao City Scholarship Office
- Address: City Hall of Davao, San Pedro Street, Davao City
- Phone: (082) 224-1810 (verify current number)
Davao City Government:
- Website: davaocity.gov.ph
- Facebook: Official Davao City Government page
Other Educational Support in Davao
Beyond scholarships, Davao City offers:
- Student loan programs – For those not qualified for scholarships
- Book lending programs – Free textbook borrowing
- Transportation subsidies – For students from far barangays
- Livelihood programs – For working students
Final Thoughts
Iskolar ng Dabaw is your gateway to free quality education in Davao City. If you’re a Dabawenyo with good grades and financial need, this scholarship can change your life.
Start preparing your application now. Gather documents, check deadlines, and apply early. Your future starts with education—and Davao City is ready to support you.