Getting into a good university is one thing. Being able to afford it is another. Every year, thousands of Filipino students dream of entering top schools like Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) or the University of the Philippines (UP). But the tuition, dorm fees, and daily costs can make that dream feel out of reach. Here’s the good news: there are Ateneo and UP scholarships program that make it possible.
In this article, we’ll break down the major Ateneo and UP scholarship opportunities available for School Year 2025–2026. Whether you’re a high achiever, a student from a public high school, or someone in need of financial help, this guide is for you.
Ateneo de Manila University Scholarships
1. Ateneo Freshman Merit Scholarship (AFMS)
- For the top 60 scorers in the ACET
- Covers 100% tuition
- Includes a ₱50,000 yearly allowance
- Non-Metro Manila students may also get dorm support
No need to apply separately. Ateneo automatically considers all eligible ACET takers. This is one of the most competitive Ateneo and UP scholarship options available.
2. Director’s List Scholarship
- For the next ~200 high performers
- Comes with a ₱100,000 annual grant
- Based on ACET results, high school grades, and extracurriculars
This Ateneo and UP scholarship track rewards students with consistent academic excellence and a strong leadership background.
3. Academic Scholarships for Valedictorians and Salutatorians
If you’re a Valedictorian or Salutatorian from a recognized high school, you may be eligible for:
- 100% tuition coverage (Valedictorian)
- 50% tuition coverage (Salutatorian)
These are automatically applied during admissions, based on school certification.
4. Financial Aid and Magis Scholarship
Financial Aid Grants
Ateneo provides flexible tuition discounts—₱25k, ₱50k, ₱75k, or even 100% tuition coverage—plus optional book and dorm support. This is for students who demonstrate real financial need.
Magis Scholarship
This is Ateneo’s full support scholarship for high-potential students from underprivileged backgrounds. It covers:
- Full tuition
- Dorm and meal allowances
- Monthly stipend
- Book, transport, and gadget support
📖 Learn more about Magis here
5. Athletic and Government Scholarships
If you’re an athlete or a DOST/CHED scholar, Ateneo allows scholarship layering depending on program guidelines. These are part of the broader Ateneo and UP scholarship ecosystem that supports diverse talents.
Ateneo Application Tips
- Focus on ACET results—this determines AFMS and Director’s List eligibility
- Prepare leadership and extracurricular records early
- For financial aid, submit complete documents, including family income
- Monitor Ateneo’s application page for deadlines and forms
Being strategic early gives you the best chance at securing an Ateneo and UP scholarship.
University of the Philippines (UP) Scholarships
UP’s system-wide scholarship and aid programs support a wide range of students—from academic achievers to those from disadvantaged households. Understanding how to qualify for a UP or Ateneo and UP scholarship means knowing your campus-specific options.
1. UP Academic Scholarships
For students with exceptional academic standing, both on entry and while enrolled. Benefits vary by campus but often include:
- Full or partial tuition
- Priority enrollment
- Book allowances
Each campus has its own OSS (Office of Student Scholarships), so processes may differ slightly.
2. Financial Assistance Programs (FAP)
These programs help cover:
- Tuition
- Monthly allowances
- Book and school supply expenses
Applicants must show proof of financial need (ITR or income statements). Many recipients of this aid go on to qualify for other Ateneo and UP scholarship tiers as well.
📖 Example from UP Diliman OSS
3. Government Scholarships Accepted at UP
- DOST-SEI Scholarship: For STEM students; includes tuition + ₱7,000 monthly stipend
- CHED Merit Scholarship: For top-performing high school graduates
- TES (Tertiary Education Subsidy): For public school enrollees from low-income households
These government-backed programs are often combined with an Ateneo and UP scholarship to reduce costs even further.
How to Apply for UP Scholarships
- Once accepted to UP, visit your campus OSS for the scholarship directory
- For financial aid, prepare:
- Proof of income
- High school records
- Entry credentials (e.g., UPCET result)
- DOST/CHED programs require direct application through their websites
Staying organized with your documents is essential when targeting any Ateneo and UP scholarship program.
Summary Chart
| School | Program | Who It’s For | What You Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ateneo | AFMS | Top 60 ACET scorers | 100% tuition + ₱50k/year |
| Ateneo | Director’s List | Top ~200 applicants | ₱100k/year |
| Ateneo | Magis | High-need, high-merit | Full support (all-in) |
| UP | FAP | Low-income students | Tuition + living allowance |
| UP | DOST-SEI | STEM students | Tuition + ₱7k/month |
| UP | Academic Scholars | High-performing students | Tuition discounts or grants |
What to Do Next for Ateneo and UP Scholarships
- If you’re applying to Ateneo, register for the ACET and aim high.
- If you’re aiming for UP, prep for the UPCET and research OSS guidelines.
- Apply early to financial aid offices—don’t wait until enrollment.
- Need inspiration? Check out our article on How to Get a Scholarship to Study in Germany
Financial access shouldn’t stop a good student from reaching their full potential. The right Ateneo and UP scholarship can change a student’s life, not just academically, but economically and emotionally.
If this guide helped, share it with someone who needs it. Or bookmark it for later. We’ll keep updating our education guides, so stay tuned.
