How Do I Get Scholarship to Study Abroad?

Studying abroad as a Filipino is absolutely possible, even with little to no personal funds, if you choose the right path. Scholarships range from partial support to fully funded (free study) programs that cover tuition, living expenses, and even travel.

Below is a complete guide to your options and what outcomes you can expect.

1. Fully Funded Scholarships (FREE Study Abroad)

These are the best-case scenario scholarships. If accepted, you can study abroad with almost zero cost.

What They Usually Cover

100% tuition fees

Monthly allowance (rent, food, transport)

Health insurance

Airfare

Visa support

Examples Open to Filipinos

Government Scholarships (Foreign Governments)

Japan (MEXT)

South Korea (GKS)

Hungary (Stipendium Hungaricum)

Taiwan (MOE Scholarships)

Germany (DAAD – mostly for Master’s/PhD)

International Programs

Erasmus+ (Europe, for Master’s)

Chevening (UK – Master’s)

Fulbright (USA – Graduate level)

Requirements (Usually)

Strong academic records

English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL, sometimes waived)

Essays / motivation letter

Recommendation letters

✅ Outcome:

You study abroad for free and receive international credentials.

2. Partial Scholarships + Affordable Countries

If you don’t qualify for full funding yet, this is still a very realistic path.

What Partial Scholarships Cover

Tuition discounts (25%–75%)

Sometimes dormitory or meal support

Popular Affordable Countries for Filipinos

Germany (public universities = low or no tuition)

Poland

Czech Republic

Malaysia

Taiwan

Some schools in Japan and South Korea

You may still need to pay for:

Living expenses

Some fees

✅ Outcome:

Lower total cost, often manageable with family support, savings, or part-time work.

3. University-Based Scholarships

Many universities offer scholarships just for international students, including Filipinos.

Types

Merit-based (good grades)

Need-based (financial situation)

Talent-based (sports, arts, leadership)

💡 Tip:

Apply to multiple universities, not just one. Some give scholarships automatically once you’re admitted.

✅ Outcome:

Reduced tuition and easier admission compared to government scholarships.

4. Working While Studying Abroad

In many countries, international students are allowed to work part-time.

Common Limits

20 hours per week during school

Full-time during breaks

This can help cover:

Food

Rent

Transportation

⚠️ Note:

Part-time work cannot replace tuition, but it helps with daily expenses.

✅ Outcome:

You become more financially independent while studying.

5. Exchange Programs (Short-Term, Low Cost)

If full degrees feel overwhelming, start small.

1 semester or 1 year abroad

Often partnered with Philippine universities

Sometimes tuition-free

Examples:

ASEAN exchange programs

University partnerships

✅ Outcome:

International experience with less cost and risk.

6. What If I Don’t Get a Scholarship?

Don’t give up. Many successful Filipinos:

Applied 2–3 years in a row

Improved grades or English scores

Started with a short program, then upgraded

❌ Myth: “Only rich or top students can study abroad”

✅ Truth: Persistence + smart choices matter more.

Step-by-Step What You Should Do Now

Decide your level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Short Course

Prepare documents:

Transcript

Passport

Resume

Personal statement

Improve English (IELTS/TOEFL if needed)

Apply to:

Government scholarships

Universities

Exchange programs

Apply early and multiple times

As a Filipino, you are not limited by where you were born. Thousands of Filipinos study abroad every year—many on full scholarships.

If you’re willing to prepare, apply, and try again if needed, free study abroad is possible.