Are you an incoming college freshman who dreams of pursuing higher education but faces financial challenges? If yes, then you might want to apply for the SM Scholarship program, a generous initiative by the SM Foundation that aims to help poverty-stricken youth achieve their full potential through education.
What is the SM Scholarship program?
The SM Scholarship program was established in 1983 by the late SM patriarch, Henry “Tatang” Sy, Sr., and his wife, Felicidad T. Sy. They believed that education is the primary solution to poverty and that by sending one child from an economically challenged family to college, they could create more opportunities for gainful employment and economic upliftment.
The SM Scholarship program provides financial assistance to deserving and qualified students who want to enroll in any of the following fields of study:
- BS in Computer Science
- BS in Computer Engineering
- BS in Mechanical Engineering
- BS in Accounting Information Systems
- BSBA in Management Accounting
- BS in Information Technology
- BS in Civil Engineering
- BS in Accountancy
- BS in Internal Auditing
- BS in Elementary Education
- BS in Electronics and Communications Engineering/ BS In Electronics Engineering/ BS Electronics Engineering
- BS in Electrical Engineering
- BS in Accounting Technology
- BSBA in Financial Management
- BS in Secondary Education major in Biology, Chemistry, General Sciences, Physics, Mathematics, English
The program covers the full tuition and other school fees of the scholars, as well as a monthly stipend. The scholars also enjoy part-time job opportunities during semestral and Christmas breaks, enrichment programs and other fun activities sponsored by SM, and exclusive job offers with the SM Group after graduation.
How to apply for the SM Scholarship program?
The SM Scholarship program is open to grade 12 graduates from public and private schools in the areas covered by SM. Applicants from private schools must have a DepEd voucher and must be grade 10 finishers from public high schools. They must also have a general weighted average grade of at least 92% or its equivalent for grade 12 – 1st semester, and a total household income of at most P250,000 per year.
The application process for the SM Scholarship program is done online through the SM Foundation website. The online application portal is open from February 1 – March 31, 2024. Applicants must fill out the online application form and upload the required documents, such as:
- Birth certificate
- 2×2 ID picture
- Grade 12 report card
- Parent’s or Guardian’s Latest Income Tax Return / Certification of Non-Filing of Income / Certificate of Indigency
- Sketch of home address
The applicants will receive an email confirmation after submitting their online application. They will also be notified of the schedule and venue of their exam and interview, which will be conducted by the SM Foundation staff.
The final list of SM scholars will be announced on the SM Foundation website and social media pages, as well as through email and SMS.
What are the benefits of being an SM scholar?
Being an SM scholar is not only a privilege, but also a responsibility. The SM scholars are expected to maintain good academic performance, attend regular meetings and activities, and uphold the values of the SM Foundation.
In return, the SM scholars enjoy the following benefits:
- Full tuition and other school fees
- Monthly stipend
- Part-time job opportunities during semestral and Christmas breaks
- Enrichment programs and other fun activities sponsored by SM
- Exclusive job offers with the SM Group after graduation
The SM scholars also become part of a network of over 8,000 SM scholar-graduates who have made their mark in various fields and industries. They also have the opportunity to give back to their communities through volunteer work and social responsibility projects.
Conclusion
The SM Scholarship program is a great opportunity for aspiring scholars who want to pursue their dreams and make a difference in the world. If you think you have what it takes to be an SM scholar, don’t hesitate to apply and join the SM family. Remember, education is the key to a brighter future. Good luck! 🍀
For more information: Visit the SM SCholarship Foundation Website.