SM Foundation reaches record number of active scholars, marking highest level to date

SM Foundation’s college scholarship program now supports its highest number of active scholars to date, with 3,492 scholars currently pursuing their college education across the country.

That growth is set to come full circle this September, as 274 scholars are recognized at the Presentation of the SM College Scholar Graduates, marking the close of one chapter in their academic journey and the start of another as they move into their careers.

A new milestone year for the SM Scholarship

The SM College Scholarship Program was established in 1993 by SM founder Henry “Tatang” Sy Sr., built on the belief that education is one of the most effective tools for breaking the cycle of poverty and creating lasting opportunities for social mobility.

Since then, the program has grown into one of the largest privately funded college scholarship initiatives in the country, supporting students in partner colleges and universities nationwide.

The current count of 3,492 active scholars represents the highest number the program has supported at any single point since its founding, reflecting SM Foundation’s continued expansion of its scholarship intake in recent years.

What the September Graduation Represents

The Presentation of the SM College Scholar Graduates is SM Foundation’s annual tradition of formally recognizing scholars who have completed their degrees.

This September’s batch of 274 graduates will mark another chapter in a program that has, over the years, produced thousands of graduates who have gone on to build careers many within the SM Group of companies itself and support their own families and communities.

For the scholars being recognized, the event typically serves as both a celebration of their academic achievement and a transition point, connecting many of them with job opportunities as they move from their college years into the workforce.

Why this matters for future scholars

A growing number of active scholars signals continued investment in the program’s capacity to accept new applicants each year. Students interested in applying for a future SM scholarship batch can review the program’s general qualifications and benefits in our SM College Scholarship guide.

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