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More students could get DOST scholarships as proposed funding rises to P8.67 billion
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Add The Colleges PH on GoogleMANILA, Philippines – More Filipino students are expected to receive government scholarships for science and technology programs next year, as the Marcos administration proposed raising funding for Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Scholarship Programs to ₱8.67 billion.
The allocation under the 2027 National Expenditure Program (NEP) is expected to support 67,504 scholars nationwide, which is 2,407 more than the 65,097 beneficiaries funded in this year’s national budget – a 3.70% increase in government-supported scholars.
Why the Increase?
The increase is part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s push to expand the country’s pool of scientists, engineers, researchers, and innovators, Palace press officer Claire Castro said on Wednesday.
“The government recognizes the vital role of Filipino scientists, researchers and innovators in research, innovation, policymaking, national competitiveness and addressing the country’s major challenges,” Castro said.
According to Castro, the expanded scholarship program would give more young Filipinos a pathway to STEM careers and help develop the talent needed to address national priorities, including research, innovation, policymaking, and economic competitiveness.
Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Acting Secretary Kim Robert C. De Leon said the higher allocation reflects the Marcos Administration’s continuing investment in Filipino talent and its push to build a stronger pool of scientists, engineers, researchers, and innovators who can help address the country’s development challenges.
Through the proposed FY 2027 National Budget, the government aims to open more opportunities for young Filipinos to pursue STEM education and apply their knowledge in areas such as agriculture, health, disaster resilience, digital transformation, and industry.
How the ₱8.67 Billion will be allocated
Of the proposed funding:
- ₱7.55 billion will go to the DOST-Science Education Institute (SEI), which administers undergraduate and graduate scholarships and advanced specialized training, while promoting science education and a stronger science and technology culture in the country.
- ₱1.12 billion is proposed for the Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS), to continue providing specialized secondary education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), helping prepare its scholars to become globally competitive Filipino scientists and professionals equipped with 21st-century skills.
READ: How to apply for DOST Scholarship 2027
Part of a Broader STEM Talent Strategy
The investment forms part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen the Philippines’ science, technology, and innovation ecosystem not only by investing in research and emerging technologies, but also by developing the Filipino talent that will turn scientific knowledge and discoveries into practical solutions and economic opportunities.
Through the proposed FY 2027 National Budget, the DBM is helping expand the country’s pipeline of STEM talent, from promising students in science high schools to undergraduate and graduate scholars who could become the Philippines’ next generation of scientists, engineers, researchers, and innovators.
In his 2027 Budget Message, President Marcos emphasized the role of scientists, researchers, and innovators in driving discovery, supporting evidence-based policymaking, and developing solutions to pressing national problems.
“At the heart of our digital transformation are the Filipino scientists, researchers, and innovators whose expertise drives discovery, strengthens evidence-based policymaking, and develops solutions to the nation’s most pressing challenges.
Their work continues to advance innovation, enhance national competitiveness, and prepare the Philippines for the opportunities of the future,” Marcos said.
What’s next?
The proposed funding for DOST scholarships under the 2027 NEP still has to go through the congressional budget process before it can take effect. This follows a challenging 2026 cycle, in which DOST-SEI limited new undergraduate scholar intake to 8,500 due to budget constraints, resulting in an estimated 8.3% acceptance rate, the lowest in the program’s history.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the proposed DOST scholarship budget for 2027?
The proposed budget is ₱8.67 billion under the 2027 National Expenditure Program (NEP).
How many scholars will this budget support?
The allocation is expected to support 67,504 scholars nationwide, 2,407 more than the 65,097 funded under the FY 2026 General Appropriations Act.
How is the ₱8.67 billion divided?
₱7.55 billion goes to DOST-SEI for undergraduate and graduate scholarships and specialized training, while ₱1.12 billion goes to the Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS).
Is this budget final?
No, the proposed funding under the 2027 NEP still has to go through the congressional budget process before it can take effect.
What was the situation with DOST scholarships in 2026?
DOST-SEI limited new undergraduate scholar intake to 8,500 in 2026 due to budget constraints, resulting in an 8.3% acceptance rate, the lowest in the program’s history.
