DAVAO — Aspiring scientists, engineers, and technologists across the Davao Region have until September 17, 2026, to submit applications for the 2027 DOST-SEI Undergraduate Scholarships. The Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute is calling on qualified students to seize this opportunity before the deadline.
Davao's Role in National STEM Development
The Davao Region serves as the economic and technological powerhouse of Southern Mindanao, driving research and innovation across the island. Its universities consistently produce graduates who lead in biotechnology, engineering, and agricultural science. The DOST-SEI scholarship program strengthens this position by nurturing the next generation of Mindanawon innovators and problem-solvers.
The scholarship ensures that talented students from Davao City, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao de Oro, Davao Oriental, and Davao Occidental can pursue priority STEM degrees without financial burden. This investment directly supports the region's growing industries and research institutions. The initiative reflects the government's commitment to building human capital across all regions.
Two Scholarship Tracks to Suit Every Student
The program offers two distinct paths for qualified applicants. The RA 7687 Scholarship supports academically talented students from families meeting socio-economic thresholds, ensuring that financial constraints do not block promising futures. This track prioritizes inclusivity and equal access to quality STEM education.
The Merit Scholarship, on the other hand, recognizes exceptional academic performance in mathematics and science. This track is awarded regardless of family income, celebrating students who demonstrate top-tier aptitude and mastery. Both tracks aim to cultivate the best scientific minds for the nation's development.
Comprehensive Benefits for Scholars
Recipients receive a substantial financial package designed to remove barriers throughout their academic journey. A monthly living allowance of ₱8,000 covers daily expenses, while tuition subsidies of up to ₱40,000 per academic year apply for private institutions. Students at State Universities and Colleges enjoy waived tuition under Republic Act 10931.
Additional benefits include a ₱10,000 annual allowance for learning materials and connectivity, a ₱10,000 thesis grant, and ₱1,000 allowances for clothing and graduation. Transportation support assists scholars studying outside their home province. Group accident and health insurance provides security throughout the program.
Premier Universities in Davao Region
Davao Region hosts several accredited institutions offering DOST-approved priority programs. The University of the Philippines Mindanao leads in natural sciences, computing, and biotechnology. The University of the Southeastern Philippines excels in engineering, technology, and agricultural research.
Private institutions also offer strong pathways. Ateneo de Davao University holds CHED Center of Excellence status in engineering and computer studies. The University of Mindanao and Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao provide additional options in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering. San Pedro College and the University of the Immaculate Conception offer programs in medical laboratory science and pharmacy.
Application Steps and Critical Deadline
The application process is conducted entirely online through the official science-scholarships.ph portal. Applicants must prepare documents including birth certificates, report cards, certificates of good moral character, and income tax returns for RA 7687 applicants. Non-STEM students need certification of class rank from their school principal.
The qualifying examination is scheduled for November 14-15, 2026, at designated testing centers across the Davao Region. Students are strongly encouraged to complete their applications early to avoid technical issues near the deadline. The September 17 cut-off is strict, with no extensions announced.
A Promise to Serve the Nation
Upon graduation, scholars are required to render full-time service in the Philippines for a period equal to the duration of their scholarship. This return service can be fulfilled through employment in government agencies, research centers, private technology firms, or as science and mathematics educators. The obligation ensures that the nation directly benefits from its investment in human capital.
For Davaoeño scholars, this often means contributing to local institutions like DOST XI, the Department of Agriculture, or the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The requirement fosters a culture of giving back and strengthens the domestic STEM workforce. It transforms scholarship recipients into active nation-builders committed to Mindanao's progress.
