[Direct Apply] TESDA Scholarship and Courses 2026: 650,000 Slots, Free Toolkits & Daily Allowance

Tesda

If you heard that TESDA scholarships stopped in 2022, here is the verified truth: 2026 marks the biggest comeback in the history of technical education in the Philippines.

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President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recently launched the TESDA Skills Passport, backed by a massive Php 19 billion budget. This funding is specifically allocated to train 650,000 to 700,000 Filipinos this year. Whether you want to master AI, Solar Energy, or Healthcare, the government is now paying you to learn.

I. The 2026 “New Era” Scholarship Benefits

Unlike previous years, the 2026 program is fully digital and offers increased financial support:

  • Free Tuition & Assessment: 100% of training and exam fees are covered.

  • Daily Training Support Fund (TSF): Php 160 per day for your meals and commute.

  • Internet & Communication Allowance: Php 500 per month for blended learning.

  • Uniform & PPE Allowance: Up to Php 500 for safety gear and uniforms.

  • Free Starter Toolkits (STEP Scholars): For technical courses (like Electronics or Pastry), you receive a full physical toolkit to start your own business immediately.

  • GSIS Insurance: Automatic accident insurance for every enrolled scholar.

    II. Top High-Demand Courses for 2026

These courses are selected for their 90%+ employability in local and international markets (USA, UK, Middle East).

Sector Top Courses Duration Career Path
Technology Microsoft AI Fundamentals, Cybersecurity, Visual Graphic Design (NC III) 120 – 480 Hours AI Prompt Engineer, Security Analyst
Energy Solar PV System Installation (NC II/III), Electrical Maintenance 240 – 320 Hours Solar Technician, Electrician
Healthcare Caregiving (NC II), Medical Coding, Massage Therapy 160 – 640 Hours Overseas Caregiver, Medical Billing
Agriculture Mushroom Production, Organic Farming, Rice Machinery 15 – 40 Days Agri-entrepreneur
Tourism Barista (NC II), Cookery (NC II), Bread & Pastry 1 – 3 Months Hotel/Cruise Staff, Cafe Owner

III. 2026 Mandatory Requirements

To secure your slot among the 650,000 available, you must meet these criteria:

  • Age: 15 years old and above (Note: Some overseas-linked courses require 18+).

  • Nationality: Filipino Citizen.

  • Education: High School Graduate, ALS Completer, or College Undergraduate.

  • Documents:

    1. PSA Birth Certificate (Original & Photocopy).

    2. Transcript of Records (TOR) or High School Diploma.

    3. 4 pcs 1×1 & 2×2 Photos (White background, with collar).

    4. Valid Government ID (PhilSys National ID is highly preferred for the new app).

IV. How to Apply in 5 Minutes (The “Skills Passport” Method)

For 2026, manual walk-ins are being replaced by the BSRS (Biometric-enabled Scholarship Registration System) to prevent fraud and speed up approvals.

  1. Download the Super-App: Install the TESDA Skills Passport from the Play Store or App Store.

  2. Instant Verification: Register using your PhilSys (National ID). The app uses facial recognition to verify you instantly.

  3. Search Active Slots: Use the “Scholarships” icon. You can filter by “Centers Near Me” or specific qualifications like “Cybersecurity.”

  4. One-Tap Apply: Click “Apply Now” and upload your digital documents.

  5. Track Status: Monitor your application status (Pending > Approved > Enrolled) directly within the app dashboard.

V. Official “Direct-Link” Resources