The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has announced the opening of its scholarship programs for eligible Filipinos for the academic year 2025-2026. Established under Republic Act No. 7722, or the Higher Education Act of 1994, CHED is the government agency responsible for ensuring accessible and quality higher education in the Philippines. Through its scholarship programs, CHED aims to support deserving students, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds, in pursuing their academic dreams.
This article provides a detailed guide to the CHED Scholarship for 2025-2026, including eligibility requirements, benefits, priority courses, application procedures, and more.
What is the CHED Scholarship?
The CHED Scholarship is a financial assistance program designed to help Filipino students pursue higher education in priority fields. It covers tuition fees, stipends, and other allowances, making it easier for students to focus on their studies without financial burdens.
The scholarship is divided into two main programs:
- State Scholarship Program (SSP): For students enrolling in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) or Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs).
- Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA): For students enrolling in Private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).
Both programs offer full and half scholarships, which can be awarded annually or semestrally.
Who Can Apply for the CHED Scholarship?
To be eligible for the CHED Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Filipino Citizenship: Applicants must be Filipino citizens.
- Academic Performance:
- For Full Merit Scholarships: A general weighted average (GWA) of at least 96% in high school.
- For Half Merit Scholarships: A GWA of 93% to 95%.
- Special Groups: Priority is given to students belonging to special groups, such as:
- Underprivileged or homeless individuals (under RA No. 7279).
- Persons with disabilities (PWDs) (under RA No. 7277).
- Solo parents and their dependents (under RA 8371).
- Enrollment in Priority Courses: Applicants must enroll in one of CHED’s priority courses (listed below).
- No Other Government Scholarship: Applicants must not be beneficiaries of other government-funded financial assistance programs.
Benefits of the CHED Scholarship
The CHED Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support to its beneficiaries. Below is a breakdown of the benefits:
For Private HEI Students (PESFA):
- Full PESFA – Annual Benefits:
- Tuition and Other School Fees (TOSF): ₱40,000
- Stipend: ₱70,000
- Book/Connectivity Allowance: ₱10,000
- Total: ₱120,000
- Full PESFA – Semestral Benefits:
- TOSF: ₱20,000
- Stipend: ₱35,000
- Book/Connectivity Allowance: ₱5,000
- Total: ₱60,000
- Half PESFA – Annual Benefits:
- TOSF: ₱20,000
- Stipend: ₱35,000
- Book/Connectivity Allowance: ₱5,000
- Total: ₱60,000
- Half PESFA – Semestral Benefits:
- TOSF: ₱10,000
- Stipend: ₱17,500
- Book/Connectivity Allowance: ₱2,500
- Total: ₱30,000
For SUC/LUC Students (SSP):
- Full SSP – Annual Benefits:
- TOSF: FREE
- Stipend: ₱70,000
- Book/Connectivity Allowance: ₱10,000
- Total: ₱80,000
- Full SSP – Semestral Benefits:
- TOSF: FREE
- Stipend: ₱35,000
- Book/Connectivity Allowance: ₱5,000
- Total: ₱40,000
- Half SSP – Annual Benefits:
- TOSF: FREE
- Stipend: ₱35,000
- Book/Connectivity Allowance: ₱5,000
- Total: ₱40,000
- Half SSP – Semestral Benefits:
- TOSF: FREE
- Stipend: ₱17,500
- Book/Connectivity Allowance: ₱2,500
- Total: ₱20,000
CHED Priority Courses
To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must enroll in one of CHED’s priority courses. These courses are divided into national and regional categories.
National Priority Courses:
- Science and Mathematics
- Information Technology Education
- Engineering and Technology
- Architecture and Related Programs
- Business and Management
- Health Profession Education
- Maritime Education
- Social Sciences
- Teacher Education
- Multi and Interdisciplinary Cluster
Regional Priority Courses:
Each CHED region has its own list of priority courses. Applicants should check the official CHED website or their regional office for the updated list.
Number of Slots Available
For the academic year 2025-2026, CHED has allocated 1,374 scholarship slots nationwide.
CHED Scholarship Requirements
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Proof of Citizenship: Certified true copy of the birth certificate.
- Academic Documents:
- High school report card (for incoming freshmen).
- Certified true copy of grades for Grade 11 and 1st semester of Grade 12 (for graduating high school students).
- Financial Documents:
- Latest Income Tax Return (ITR) of parents or guardian.
- Certificate of Tax Exemption from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).
- Certificate of Indigence from the Barangay or DSWD.
- Other Requirements:
- Identification Card (ID) for special groups (e.g., PWD, solo parent).
How to Apply for the CHED Scholarship
- Visit the Official CHED Website: Go to the CHED Regional Office website corresponding to your location.
- Fill Out the Online Application Form: Provide accurate and complete information.
- Upload Required Documents: Ensure all documents are clear and legible.
- Submit the Application: Review your application before final submission.
Application Period:
- Opening Date: June 7, 2025
- Closing Date: July 15, 2025
Grounds for Termination
Scholarships may be terminated for the following reasons:
- Submission of fake documents.
- Enrollment in a non-priority course.
- Failure to maintain the required academic performance.
- Shifting to another program or transferring to another HEI without approval.
Conclusion
The CHED Scholarship is a valuable opportunity for Filipino students to achieve their educational goals without financial constraints. By meeting the eligibility requirements and enrolling in priority courses, students can benefit from comprehensive financial support, including tuition fees, stipends, and allowances.
For more information, visit the official CHED website or contact your regional CHED office. Don’t miss this chance to secure your future through the CHED Scholarship 2025-2026!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who is eligible for the CHED Scholarship?
- Filipino students with a GWA of at least 93% and enrolled in priority courses.
- How much is the CHED Scholarship?
- Benefits range from ₱20,000 to ₱120,000, depending on the program and type of scholarship.
- Can I apply if I’m already enrolled in college?
- Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria and are enrolled in a priority course.
- Is there a return service agreement?
- No, the CHED Scholarship does not require a return service agreement.
- Where can I apply?
- Applications are submitted online through the CHED Regional Office portals.
For updates and announcements, join the official CHED Facebook group or visit their website.
