Study in the Philippines with Scholarship I Topic 1

Being able to study at a university abroad is the dream of many people. However, not everyone gets that opportunity, because they must undergo a series of selection processes and tough competition. I tried applying to several scholarship providers and campuses but haven't received any good news. until one day I saw information on a scholarship offered by Visayas State University, Philippines during the pandemic in 2021. I idly tried to apply for the scholarship because it was mentioned that the lectures would be held online until the time the face-to-face class was determined. Fortunately, I made it through the file selection stage and finally passed the interview stage. I can't describe how my mood was at that moment because one of my dreams had been achieved.

Many people ask why to go to the Philippines when there are many good countries that offer scholarships and better education. my first reason is that the Philippines is one of the countries in ASEAN that uses English as a daily language. secondly, the culture is not far from Indonesia. the Philippines and Indonesia have similarities in terms of face, culture, customs, and language. I found some of the same vocabularies as the Bisaya / Cebuano language on the island of Visayas. of course, this makes it not too difficult for me to adapt to the society and environment. How did I end my online course and head to the Philippines? In March 2022, the Philippine government granted permission to universities to conduct limited face-to-face courses and it was time for me to depart for the Philippines.

Some information that I can share to apply for scholarships abroad:

1. decide on a study abroad destination. everyone has a different destination be it country, scholarship, environment, and cultural preference. for me, the Philippines is on my list of country destinations in terms of English usage and similar culture.
2. don't be shy to ask and seek information regarding scholarship details. I contacted the international office and graduate school of Visayas State University several times to confirm the completeness of documents and other requirements needed.
3. collect the necessary documents. English proficiency is a very crucial thing that you must have to apply for a scholarship. So, make sure you have the English proficiency as requested.
4. show your best at the interview. my interview experience was very good. nervousness is natural but if you have prepared your best, you will be able to answer the interviewer's questions confidently.

Useful link VSU Scholarship: https://www.vsu.edu.ph/articles/news/1829-vsu-graduate-fellowship-program