FASO College Scholarship 2026

The Filipino American Symphony Orchestra College Scholarship was established for college students in a degree program at an accredited higher education institution in the United States.

Through this scholarship, FASO seeks to encourage students to reflect on the meaning and importance of Philippine music and its role in preserving Filipino culture, identity, and community.

Scholarship Award

The recipient will receive a $1,000 one-time scholarship award to support their college education.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Be currently enrolled in or accepted to a degree program at an accredited college or university in the United States.

  • Be pursuing a degree in any field of study.

  • Submit a completed scholarship application by the stated deadline.

  • Submit an original essay responding to the scholarship prompt.

Applicants are not required to be music majors or performers.

Essay Requirement

Applicants must submit an original essay of 750 to 1,000 words in response to the following prompt:

“What does Philippine music mean to you?”

We want to hear your personal thoughts, experiences, and reflections. Please write the essay in your own words. The use of generative AI tools (such as ChatGPT or similar services) to write or substantially revise the essay is not permitted. Essays should reflect the applicant's authentic voice and will be considered as part of the scholarship evaluation.

Application Deadline

Applications must be submitted no later than Sunday, August 30, 2026 at 11:55 p.m. PST.

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

How to Apply

Complete the online application form below. The application form will include a field for submitting the essay.

Selection

Applications will be reviewed based primarily on:

  • The focus, thoughtfulness and substance of the essay in relation to the given prompt

  • Clarity, organization, and originality of the essay

  • Overall completeness of the application

Questions?

For questions about the scholarship or application process, please contact the FASO Education Director Louie Ramos lramos@fasomusic.org

  • Group of students playing string instruments in a music classroom, with a teacher conducting.

    String Classes

    We provide the violins and cellos—you provide the enthusiasm to learn!

  • A person raising their hand during a presentation in a classroom or conference setting, with others seated and watching a speaker or screen.

    Workshops

    Intimate workshops to help students develop all areas of their musicianship.

  • Open sheet music in multiple pages with a silver flute placed on top, showing musical notes and annotations in a warm, orange-toned light.

    Composition Competition

    The FASO’s annual International Composition Competition for Philippine Folk Music for students.