GSIS launches scholarship program offering P15K to 1K STEM freshmen

The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) will launch a new scholarship program this year, providing financial assistance to 1,000 incoming college freshmen enrolled in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses for Academic Year 2026–2027.

Under the GSIS Subsidy for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Program (GSSP), each qualified grantee will receive an annual subsidy of P15,000 to help cover education-related expenses. The program will run for four academic years, from AY 2026 to 2030, supporting a total of 4,000 students, with a projected budget of P240 million by 2034.

GSIS stated that the initiative aligns with the Marcos administration’s push to enhance economic competitiveness through education, particularly in STEM fields. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has earlier underscored the importance of innovation and agility as key drivers of long-term economic growth.

“Our program is a direct response to the President’s call for a technologically proficient workforce,” said GSIS President and General Manager Wick Veloso. “By supporting the education of these young minds, we are building a pipeline of talent that will drive innovation and secure our nation’s economic future.”

The scholarship is open to children of active GSIS members and permanent total disability pensioners who are below 60 years old. To promote inclusivity, 200 of the 1,000 annual slots will be reserved for children of persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, and solo parents.

Priority will be given to applicants whose parents belong to Salary Grade 15 and below or receive lower pension amounts. 

Applicants must be incoming first-year college students accepted into a STEM course at a Philippine college or university recognized by the Commission on Higher Education, and must have a senior high school general weighted average of at least 90%.

GSIS said that it has been providing educational assistance to dependents of its members since 1998, benefiting nearly 28,000 grantees and disbursing about P836 million in scholarships and subsidies.

The shift toward a STEM-focused program, the agency said, reflects the country’s need to develop a workforce capable of driving innovation and sustaining economic growth.

Applications for the GSSP will open on June 30, 2026. GSIS said further details and updates will be posted on its official website. –NB, GMA Integrated News