The PHINMA National Scholarship (PNS) is a premier leadership and financial assistance program in the Philippines. Unlike traditional grants, the PNS focuses on “Nation Building,” providing high-achieving, underprivileged students with 100% tuition coverage and a lifelong professional network.
2026 Status Update: As of January 4, 2026, the application cycle for the 2025–2026 academic year is now closed. The next application window for the 2026–2027 cycle is expected to open in May 2026. Interested applicants should use this time to gather the required documents listed below.
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Is the PHINMA Scholarship Still Open? (2026 Update)
The PHINMA Foundation typically opens its National Scholarship applications every May of the year.
- Expected Opening: May 2026
- Expected Deadline: August 2026
- Official Announcement: Check the PHINMA Foundation Official Scholarship Page for exact dates.
If you are looking for a scholarship that is currently open, the PHINMA Hawak Kamay (HK) Scholarship is now accepting applications for the 2026–2027 school year at various PHINMA Education campuses.
Program Overview & Quick Facts
| Detail | PHINMA National Scholarship (PNS) |
| Academic Year | 2026–2027 |
| Coverage | Coverage,100% Tuition & Miscellaneous Fees |
| Stipend | ₱3,000 Monthly |
| Selectivity | High (Examination + Panel Interview) |
| Unique Feature | Big Brother, Big Sister (BBBS) Mentorship |
Benefits and Monthly Stipends
The PNS is one of the most generous packages in the country. Scholars receive:
- 100% tuition and school fee coverage
- Monthly stipend of ₱3,000 for daily expenses
- Annual book allowance of ₱2,000
- Annual uniform allowance of ₱1,500
- ₱3,000 professional development allowance for seminars and training
- Financial assistance for graduation fees
- Board exam review support
- Cash incentives for students graduating with Latin Honors
The “Secret Sauce”: The Big Brother, Big Sister (BBBS) Program
What sets the PHINMA scholarship apart is the mentorship. This is the information most other blogs miss:
- Personal Mentors: Every scholar is assigned a “Big Brother” or “Big Sister”- usually a manager or executive from the PHINMA Group.
- Leadership Training: Participation in the PHINMA Leadership and Mentorship Program for soft skills and ethics.
- HERO Network: Scholars join the PHINMA HERO volunteer network to give back to the community.
Editor’s Note: Having reviewed past scholar testimonials, the BBBS mentorship isn’t just a “plus”- it’s often the highlight of the program. Many scholars find their first jobs through the network of their assigned PHINMA “Big Brother” or “Sister.”
Who is Eligible to Apply?
- Must be a Filipino citizen
- Must be an incoming 1st-year or 2nd-year college student
- Must be enrolled in a PHINMA partner university
- Annual family income must not exceed ₱300,000
- Must not have an immediate relative who is a current or former PHINMA scholar
- Must demonstrate leadership qualities and commitment to community service
PHINMA Partner Schools and Eligible Courses
Only students enrolled in the following institutions and priority courses are eligible to apply:
| Partner University | Year Level to Apply | Eligible Priority Courses |
|---|---|---|
| PNU Manila | Incoming 1st Year | Education (English, Math, Science, IT) |
| PUP Sta. Mesa | Incoming 2nd Year | BS Accountancy |
| TUP Manila | Incoming 2nd Year | Engineering (Civil, Elec, Mech, ECE) |
| UP Diliman | Incoming 2nd Year | Engineering (Civil, Elec, Mech, ECE, IE) |
| PHINMA UPang | 1st or 2nd Year | Education & Engineering |
Pro-Tip: If your school is not included in the PHINMA Partner Schools list, you may check the Complete List of SM Scholarship Partner Schools. Many top universities, including UP and PNU, are covered by both scholarship programs, giving you more opportunities to apply.
Required Documents & Paperwork
Applicants must prepare the following documents before applying:
Academic Records
- Senior High School report cards (for incoming 1st year)
- Latest College Transcript of Records (for incoming 2nd year)
Proof of Income
- Latest Income Tax Return (ITR)
- Payslips from the last 3 months
- BIR Certificate of Non-Filing
Other Required Documents
- Two recommendation letters from teachers or school officials
- Recent utility bills (electricity or water – last 3 months)
- Recommendation letters must be sent directly to the PHINMA Foundation at pfi@phinma.com.ph.
Comparison: PNS vs. Hawak Kamay Scholarship
| Feature | National Scholarship (PNS) | Hawak Kamay (HK) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Discount | 100% | 25% to 75% |
| Entrance Exam | Required | None |
| Status for 2026 | May 2026 | OPEN NOW |
PHINMA National Scholarship FAQs
When will PHINMA National Scholarship 2026 applications open?
Applications are expected to open in May 2026.
Can 3rd-year college students apply?
No. Only incoming 1st or 2nd-year students are eligible.
Is there any PHINMA scholarship currently open?
The PHINMA Hawak Kamay (HK) Scholarship 2026is currently open for incoming freshmen. Interested students can apply directly through the PHINMA Education Online Portal. Make sure to prepare your documents in advance to complete the application smoothly.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. For official updates, visit the official PHINMA Foundation website.
Official Contact Information
If you have specific questions about the PHINMA National Scholarship 2026 application process, you may reach out to the foundation directly:
- Email: pfi@phinma.com.ph
- Office Address: 12/F PHINMA Plaza, 39 Plaza Drive, Rockwell Center, Makati City
- Official Website: www.phinmafoundation.org
- Facebook: PHINMA National Scholarship Program
Have a question about the PHINMA scholarship? Leave a comment below! Our team frequently updates this page based on your feedback and official foundation announcements.
college scholarship, whelre i can post the card?
I am so excited!
Open po ba ito sa BISU BILAR?
Gusto ko sana mg apply Ng scholarship BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURE mag 2nd year college na po Ako this year
Gusto maka pasa sa iskolarships dahil nanay ko lang nag bubuhay samin, broken family kami, Hindi man ako maka pasok sa iskolarships ay pag bubutihan ko pag aaral ko para maging isang successful at para matulongan ko ang aking magulang
Gusto ko makapasa sa scholarship para makatulong sa mga magulang ko at makabawas sa mga gastusin nila sana makapasa
Gusto ko makapasa sa scholarship dahil gusto kong makabangin sa aming kahirapan
Gusto ko makakuha ng scholarship upang makatulong sa mga gastusin sa paaralan dahil ngayong taon ay tutungtong na ako sa college.
It was give me an opportunity to continue my dreams and reached it
Pwede po ba mag apply ang may edad na first year college undergrad lng
How can apply this scholar?
Gusto maka pasok scholarship KC mahirap na lng kami single mother mama ko
Maam gusto ko Maka Sali ng scholarship
Bakit hindi po kasama and PHINMA ARAULLO UNIVERSITY – Cabanatuan City?
Gusto kung makakuha ng scholarship nang sa ganon makakatulong ako sa aking mga magulang sa pagbabayad ng tuition or kaya kunang sustianan ang aking pangaingailangan tulad ng mga materials sa aming gagawing project dahil matatanda na sila.