SIKAP Scholarship: Full Guide to Eligibility, Application, and Benefits

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What is the SIKAP Scholarship?

The SIKAP Scholarship is a financial assistance program launched by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in the Philippines. It supports Filipino professionals who want to pursue advanced studies, especially in fields aligned with national development goals.

  • SIKAP stands for “Scholarships for Instructors’ Knowledge Advancement Program”

  • It targets higher education institution (HEI) faculty and non-teaching personnel

  • The scholarship aims to upskill professionals, raise educational quality, and support lifelong learning

SIKAP is funded by the CHED K to 12 Transition Program, under the Faculty Development Component.

Who is Eligible for the SIKAP scholarship?

To qualify, applicants must meet several specific requirements. Eligibility depends on citizenship, employment status, educational background, and institutional affiliation.

Requirement Type Eligibility Criteria
Nationality Must be a Filipino citizen
Employment Status Must be a regular/permanent/contractual HEI faculty or staff
Affiliated Institution Must be employed in a CHED-recognized higher education institution
Academic Background Must hold a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree for intended study program
Health Must be physically and mentally fit
Age Limit Usually below 50 years old at time of application (some exceptions may apply)
Legal Standing Must have no pending administrative or criminal case
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Note: Part-time faculty may qualify under specific arrangements approved by their HEIs.

What Programs Does the SIKAP Scholarship Support?

SIKAP covers postgraduate studies in recognized local graduate schools with Level III accreditation or equivalent.

Supported Levels:

  • Master’s degree programs (e.g. MA, MS, MBA)

  • Doctorate programs (e.g. PhD, EdD, DBA)

Priority Fields:

  • Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM)

  • Agriculture, Fisheries, Environmental Science

  • Health Sciences

  • Teacher Education

  • Public Administration

  • Filipino Language and Literature

  • Social Sciences and Humanities (select areas)

Partner Institutions:

  • Must be CHED-recognized and preferably Centers of Excellence (COEs) or Centers of Development (CODs)

How to Apply for the SIKAP Scholarship

The application process involves registration, document submission, screening, and selection.

Application Steps:

  1. Create an account at https://ched.gov.ph or through the CHED SIKAP portal

  2. Complete the online application form

  3. Upload scanned documents (see next section)

  4. Wait for evaluation and feedback

  5. Attend an interview, if required

  6. Receive results via email or portal notification

Key Timelines:

  • CHED usually opens calls once or twice per year

  • Deadline for each cycle is typically 45–60 days after announcement

What Documents Are Required?

Applicants must submit valid, complete, and updated documents. Missing or incorrect files often lead to disqualification.

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Document Description
Valid Government ID Passport, driver’s license, or any acceptable ID
Appointment Papers / Service Record Proof of employment at an HEI
Admission Letter From CHED-recognized graduate school
Transcript of Records (ToR) For undergraduate/master’s (as applicable)
Updated Curriculum Vitae With professional and academic history
Medical Certificate Issued by a licensed physician
Certificate of No Pending Case From institution’s legal officer
Essay / Personal Statement Explaining motivation and goals

Optional: Endorsement letter from HEI President or Dean (often strengthens application)

What Are the Benefits of the SIKAP Scholarship?

SIKAP provides comprehensive financial support during the study period.

Financial Coverage:

Benefit Type Amount / Description
Tuition and Fees Full coverage as billed by university
Stipend Up to ₱25,000/month depending on study load
Book Allowance ₱10,000 per academic year
Thesis / Dissertation ₱50,000 (Master’s), ₱100,000 (PhD)
Travel Allowance For scholars studying outside their home region
Insurance & Health Partial reimbursement depending on CHED rules

Are There Obligations After Graduation?

Yes. Scholars must comply with service return obligations.

  • Must return to the sending HEI and serve for at least 1–2 years depending on the degree completed

  • Scholars who fail to complete the program or violate terms must return funds received

  • CHED monitors compliance through periodic HEI reporting

How Does SIKAP Compare to Other Scholarships?

SIKAP is distinct from other Philippine scholarships due to its focus on HEI personnel and graduate studies only.

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Feature SIKAP CHED Regular Scholarship DOST-SEI TES (UniFAST)
Target Group Faculty/Staff in HEIs Undergraduate students STEM students Poor undergrads
Study Level Master’s & PhD Bachelor’s Bachelor’s to PhD Bachelor’s
Service Return Requirement Yes No Yes No
Monthly Stipend Up to ₱25,000 ₱2,000–₱7,000 ₱7,000–₱10,000 ₱4,000–₱6,000

What Tips Increase Your Chances of Approval?

Use proven strategies to strengthen your application.

  • Write a clear, compelling personal essay showing alignment with national development goals

  • Double-check documents for accuracy and completeness

  • Highlight academic excellence and HEI contributions

  • Request strong endorsements from your institution’s heads

  • Prepare for possible interviews by reviewing your academic goals

Where Can You Find Official Information?

Always refer to verified and CHED-endorsed platforms.

  • CHED Official Website: https://ched.gov.ph

  • CHED SIKAP Portal: May vary per cycle, always linked via CHED main page

  • HEI Registrar or HR Office

  • CHED Regional Offices

  • Official CHED Facebook Page for announcements

Avoid third-party agents or unofficial websites.

FAQs About the SIKAP Scholarship

Q1: Is the scholarship renewable yearly?
Yes. Scholars must submit progress reports to qualify for renewal.

Q2: Can I hold other scholarships alongside SIKAP?
No. Double funding is not allowed under CHED guidelines.

Q3: How long does approval take?
Processing usually takes 2–3 months after the deadline.

Q4: Can I apply without current employment at an HEI?
No. Employment at a CHED-recognized HEI is required.

Q5: What happens if I fail or drop out?
You must reimburse CHED for the funds released to you.

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