Yes, some TESDA courses pay you while you train. TESDA scholarship programs can cover your tuition, your competency assessment and a daily training allowance (₱160 per training day in recent TESDA announcements). Here is how the main programs work and how to apply.
- Tuition
- Free (scholars)
- Assessment
- Usually included
- Allowance
- ₱160/training day*
- Apply via
- BSRS / TESDA office
₱160 per training day is the Training Support Fund reported by TESDA and government news in 2021–2024. Amounts, extra allowances and slots change by program, region and year — confirm with your TESDA provincial office.
TESDA scholarship programs at a glance
| Program | What it is | What scholars may get |
|---|---|---|
| TWSP — Training for Work Scholarship Program | TESDA’s main scholarship for in-demand qualifications at TESDA and private training institutions | Free training, free assessment, Training Support Fund (daily allowance); some batches also got internet or PPE allowances |
| STEP — Special Training for Employment Program | Community-based training, often for livelihood and self-employment | Free training and, for some courses, a starter toolkit on completion (for example automotive tools) |
| PESFA — Private Education Student Financial Assistance | Financial assistance for students of private technical-vocational institutions | Tuition support and allowances, subject to program guidelines |
| UAQTEA — Free tertiary TVET | Free TVET programs in TESDA Technology Institutions under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act | Free tuition in covered programs |
How the allowance is paid
- The Training Support Fund (TSF) is computed per training day you actually attend.
- TESDA has partnered with GCash so scholars can receive allowances digitally; checks are still an option in many areas.
- Allowances are released by TESDA, not by the school — ask your trainer or the TESDA office about the release schedule.
Who can apply
- Filipino citizens who meet the age and education requirements of the course (many programs ask for 18+ and a high school diploma; some accept younger applicants or non-graduates).
- Priority is often given to the unemployed, low-income households, displaced workers, OFW returnees and their families, and other vulnerable sectors.
- You usually cannot hold two government scholarships at the same time.
How to apply for a TESDA scholarship
- Choose your course and schoolPick a qualification and a TESDA-registered training institution that has scholarship slots. Our course guides help you choose.
- Register in BSRSCreate your profile in TESDA’s Biometric-Enabled Scholarship Registration System (bsrs.tesda.gov.ph): personal data, live photo and documents. See TOP vs BSRS.
- Submit your documentsUsually your PSA birth certificate, school records or diploma, ID photos and any document the institution requires (for example a barangay certificate).
- Wait for the interview or confirmationSlots are limited and first-come, first-served in many areas. Keep your phone reachable.
- Attend every training dayThe allowance is based on actual attendance — and you need to finish to take the free assessment.
Ask the school directly: “Do you have TWSP or STEP slots for this course, and is the assessment included?” Private schools with no slots will charge tuition.
Frequently asked questions
Which TESDA courses have an allowance?
Courses taken under a TESDA scholarship such as TWSP can include a Training Support Fund. Not every course or batch has scholarship slots — ask the TESDA office or the training institution.
How much is the TESDA allowance per day?
TESDA and government news have reported a Training Support Fund of ₱160 per training day for scholars. Amounts can change, so confirm with TESDA.
Is the TESDA assessment free for scholars?
Under TWSP, the competency assessment is generally included. Confirm with your institution before enrolling.
How do I apply for TWSP?
Register in TESDA’s BSRS online, choose a qualification and institution with available slots, submit the required documents and wait for confirmation. You can also ask your TESDA provincial or district office.
Can OFWs or their families get TESDA scholarships?
TESDA has programs and priority slots for OFWs, returnees and their families. Ask your TESDA provincial office about current programs.
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Related guides
Sources: The POST — TSF ₱160/day via GCash (2022) · PIA — TESDA La Union allowances and toolkits (2024) · The POST — TESDA Antique TWSP (2021) · TESDA BSRS. Disclaimer: Courses TESDA is an independent guide, not TESDA. Information may contain errors or change without notice — always verify with official sources before making decisions.