The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has announced the opening of CHED Scholarship for all eligible and interested Filipino students for the Academic Year 2025-2026.
The CHED Merit Scholarship Program is implemented under Republic Act No. 7722, also known as the Higher Education Act of 1994, which mandates CHED to support and promote accessible quality education in the Philippines.
Table of Contents
Overview of the CHED Scholarship
The CHED Merit Scholarship Program is now open to apply for all eligible and interested incoming first-year college students who will be studying in public or private universities, colleges, or higher educational institutions (HEIs). To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must be enrolled in any of the CHED Priority Courses.
CHED Scholars will receive either a Full Scholarship or a Partial (Half) Scholarship under the Student Financial Assistance Programs (StuFAPs).
Eligibility Requirements for CHED Scholarship
The CHED Scholarship Program is open to all eligible students enrolled in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs) with a Certificate of Program Compliance, or Private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Applicants who meet the qualifications may apply for the CHED Merit Scholarship Program.
Qualified students will receive scholarship grants under the following programs:
- State Scholarship Program (SSP) – Awarded to deserving students who will enroll in any State University or College (SUC) or accredited Local University or College (LUC).
- Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA) – Awarded to qualified applicants who will enroll in any Private Higher Education Institution (HEI).
Both SSP and PESFA offer Merit Full Scholarships and Half Scholarships on an annual and semestral basis.
Benefits of the CHED Scholarship
Following is the list of benefits that a CHED Scholar is entitled to receive:
- Tuition and Other School Fees (TOSF)
- Stipend per semester
- Book/Connectivity Allowance
The stipend will be released directly to the scholars or through their respective HEIs. The book/connectivity allowance will be provided every semester of the academic year until the completion of the degree program.
Financial Assistance for Private HEIs Students
Students enrolled in Private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) will receive financial assistance to help cover their tuition, allowances, and other school-related expenses.
Full PESFA – Annual Benefits
Scholars under Full PESFA – Annual will receive a total of ₱120,000, which shall be distributed as follows:
- Tuition and Other School Fees (TOSF) – ₱40,000
- Stipend – ₱70,000
- Book/Connectivity Allowance – ₱10,000
Full PESFA – Semestral Benefits
Scholars under Full PESFA – Semestral will receive a total of ₱60,000, which shall be distributed as follows:
- Tuition and Other School Fees (TOSF) – ₱20,000
- Stipend – ₱35,000
- Book/Connectivity Allowance – ₱5,000
Half PESFA – Annual Benefits
Scholars under Half PESFA – Annual will receive a total of ₱60,000, which shall be distributed as follows:
- Tuition and Other School Fees (TOSF) – ₱20,000
- Stipend – ₱35,000
- Book/Connectivity Allowance – ₱5,000
Half PESFA – Semestral Benefits
Scholars under Half PESFA – Semestral will receive a total of ₱30,000, which shall be distributed as follows:
- Tuition and Other School Fees (TOSF) – ₱10,000
- Stipend – ₱17,500
- Book/Connectivity Allowance – ₱2,500
Financial Assistance for SUCs/LUC Students
Following are the financial assistance benefits for students studying in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs):
Full SSP – Annual Benefits
Scholars under Full SSP – Annual will receive a total of ₱80,000, which shall be distributed as follows:
- Tuition and Other School Fees (TOSF) – FREE
- Stipend – ₱70,000
- Book/Connectivity Allowance – ₱10,000
Full SSP – Semestral Benefits
Scholars under Full SSP – Semestral will receive a total of ₱40,000, which shall be distributed as follows:
- Tuition and Other School Fees (TOSF) – FREE
- Stipend – ₱35,000
- Book/Connectivity Allowance – ₱5,000
Half SSP – Annual Benefits
Scholars under Half SSP – Annual will receive a total of ₱40,000, which shall be distributed as follows:
- Tuition and Other School Fees (TOSF) – FREE
- Stipend – ₱35,000
- Book/Connectivity Allowance – ₱5,000
Half SSP – Semestral Benefits
Scholars under Half SSP – Semestral will receive a total of ₱20,000, which shall be distributed as follows:
- Tuition and Other School Fees (TOSF) – FREE
- Stipend – ₱17,500
- Book/Connectivity Allowance – ₱2,500
Scholarship Qualifications
Following are the qualifications that a student must meet to apply for the CHED Scholarship Program:
- The applicant must be a Filipino citizen.
- The applicant must be a graduating high school student or a high school graduate with a General Weighted Average (GWA) of at least 96% for the Full Merit Program, or 93% to 95% (or its equivalent) for the Half Merit Program.
- The student must belong to a special group of persons, such as:
- Underprivileged and Homeless Citizens under Republic Act (RA) No. 7279.
- Persons with Disability (PWDs) under RA No. 7277, as amended.
- Solo Parents and/or their Dependents under RA 8371.
- Applicants must submit certifications and/or Identification Cards (IDs) issued by the appropriate offices or agencies.
- The applicant may only avail of one government-funded financial assistance program.
- The applicant must enroll in courses listed under the CHED Priority Programs.
CHED Priority Courses
To apply for the CHED Scholarship, students must enroll in any of the recognized priority programs offered at Private Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs) or State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) / Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs) with a Certificate of Program Compliance.
The following are the CHED Priority Courses available for qualified beneficiaries of the CHED Regular Programs:
A. National Priority Courses
1. Science and Mathematics
- Applied Physics / Physics
- Applied Mathematics / Mathematics
- Applied Statistics / Statistics
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Botany
- Chemistry
- Environmental Science
- Geology
- Human Biology
- Marine Biology
- Marine Science
- Meteorology
- Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
- Volcano and Seismology Related Fields
2. Information Technology
- Computer Science
- Cyber Security
- Game Development and Animation
- Entertainment and Multimedia Computing
- Information Technology
- Library and Information Science
3. Engineering and Technology
- Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Ceramic Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Food Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Electronics Engineering / Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Geodetic Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Robotics Engineering
- Manufacturing / Production Engineering
- Petroleum Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Sanitary Engineering
- Industrial Technology
- Structural Engineering
- Aviation Related Programs
- Engineering Technology
- Mechatronics Engineering Technology
- Aircraft Maintenance Technology
4. Architecture and Related Programs
- Fine Arts
- Architecture
- Landscape Architecture
- Interior Design
- Environmental Planning
5. Business and Management
- Business Analytics (straight or major)
- Accountancy
- Hospitality Management / Hotel and Restaurant Management
- Tourism Management / Tourism
6. Health Profession Education
- Nursing
- Doctor of Optometry
- Midwifery
- Doctor of Dental Medicine
- Pharmacy
- Physical Therapy
- Nutrition and Dietetics
- Occupational Therapy
- Public Health
- Medical Technology / Medical Laboratory Science
- Respiratory Therapy
- Radiologic Technology
- Speech and Language Pathology
7. Maritime Education
- Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering
8. Social Sciences
- Social Work
- Psychology
- Community Development
- Peace Studies / Education
- Human Services (Guidance and Counseling)
- Indigenous Peoples Studies / Education
9. Teacher Education
- Special Needs Education
- Culture and Arts
- Early Childhood Education
- Sports and Exercise Science
- Secondary Education Majors in Science and Mathematics
10. Multi and Interdisciplinary Cluster
- Agro – Forestry
- Agribusiness
- Disaster Risk Management
- Climate Change
- Renewable / Sustainable Energy
- Data Science and Analytics
B. Regional Priority Courses
Region I
- Bachelor of Physical Education
- Bachelor of Technical-Vocational Teacher Education
- Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education
Region II
- Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy
- Bachelor of Elementary Education
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Human
- Resource Development
- Bachelor of Science in Criminology
- Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship
Region III
- Bachelor of Science in Agriculture
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (all majors)
- Bachelor of Elementary Education
- Bachelor of Secondary Education (all majors)
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
Region IV
- Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation
- Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology / Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Electronics / Communications Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Region V
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
- Bachelor of Arts in Accounting Technology
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Financial Management
- Bachelor of Science in Criminology
- Bachelor of Science in Office Administration
Region VI
- Bachelor of Elementary Education
- Bachelor of Science in Criminology
- Bachelor of Science in Fisheries
- Bachelor of Science in Food Technology
- Bachelor of Science in Packaging Engineering
Region VII
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
- Bachelor of Science in Naval Engineering / Architecture
- Bachelor of Science in Office Administration
- Bachelor of Science in Public Administration
- Bachelor of Secondary Education majors in English, Filipino, Social Studies and Values
Region VIII
- Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship
- Bachelor of Science in Travel Management
- Bachelor of Secondary Education majors in Filipino and Social Science
- Bachelor of Technical-Vocational Teacher Education
Region IX
- Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology
- Bachelor of Science in Criminology
- Bachelor in Islamic Education
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
- Bachelor in Early Childhood Education
Region X
- Bachelor of Science in Agriculture
- Bachelor of Science in Development Communications
- Bachelor of Science in Ecology
- Bachelor of Science in Forestry
- Bachelor of / Bachelor of Science in Performing Arts
Region XI
- Bachelor of Arts / Bachelor of Science in Theology
- Bachelor of Physical Education
- Bachelor of Technical Vocational Education
- Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education
- Creative and Performing Arts
Region XII
- Bachelor of Science in Criminology
- Bachelor of Science in Agriculture
- Bachelor of Science in Fisheries
- AB Islamic Education
- Bachelor of Elementary Education
CAR
- Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship
CARAGA
- Bachelor of Science in Fisheries
- Bachelor of Science in Agroforestry
- Bachelor of Science in Geology
- Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management
- Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management
MIMAROPA
- Bachelor of Elementary Education
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (all majors)
- Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship
- Bachelor of Science in Physical Education
- Bachelor of Secondary Education (all majors)
NCR
- Bachelor in Multimedia Arts
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Supply Chain / Logistics Management
- Bachelor of Science in Criminology
- Bachelor of Secondary Education (all majors)
Important Note: Applicants must ensure that the course they plan to enroll in is aligned with the CHED Priority Courses. Check all the required documents, as only those with complete documents and a General Weighted Average (GWA) of at least 90% will be allowed to proceed to the online application.
Number of Available Scholarship Slots
A total of 2,779 slots are available for the CHED Scholarship Program for the Academic Year 2025-2026.
CHED Scholarship Requirements for 2025
The following are the list of documents required to apply for the CHED Merit Scholarship:
A. Proof of Citizenship
- A certified true copy of the Birth Certificate.
B. Academic Documents
- High school report card for incoming freshmen students eligible for college.
- Duly certified true copy of grades for Grade 11 and 1st semester of Grade 12 for graduating high school students.
C. Financial Documents
Student-applicants must submit any of the following documents, whichever is applicable:
- 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 Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
- Case Study report from DSWD.
- Latest copy of contract or proof of income for children of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and seafarers.
D. Other Requirements
- Identification Card (ID) for special groups, such as underprivileged or homeless individuals, persons with disability (PWDs), solo parents, senior citizens, or Indigenous Peoples.
CHED Scholarship Application Period
- The online application for CHED Merit Scholarship will start on May 5, 2025.
- The deadline to submit applications is June 20, 2025.
How to Apply for CHED Scholarship
All interested and eligible college students in the Philippines can apply for the CHED Scholarship by visiting the Online Application Portals of their respective regions.
Below is the complete list of CHED Merit Scholarship Online Application Portals:
CHED Scholarship Online Application Links
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is now accepting applications online. Each region has its own application form URL. Applicants must submit their application by following the link to their regions:
| CHED Regions | Online Application Links |
|---|---|
| CHEDRO I | https://stufaps.chedro1.com/application2025/home |
| CHEDRO II | https://stufaps.chedregion2.com/CMSP_application |
| CHEDRO III | https://chedro3.ched.gov.ph/chedro3stufap/ |
| CHEDRO IV | https://forms.gle/SiTpcnYmzKQ8t2DL9 |
| CHEDRO V | https://dexus.chedro5.com/student/login |
| CHEDRO VI | https://tinyurl.com/RO6CMSPApplicationAY2025-2026 |
| CHEDRO VII | https://tinyurl.com/chedro7CMSP2025 |
| CHEDRO VIII | https://chedro8stufap.com/ |
| CHEDRO IX | https://bit.ly/CMSP2025CHEDROIX |
| CHEDRO X | https://bit.ly/CHED10CMSP2025-2026 |
| CHEDRO XI | https://stufaps.chedroxi.com/ |
| CHEDRO XII | https://bit.ly/CHEDRO12-CMSP |
| NCR | https://tinyurl.com/CHED-NCR-CMSP-2025-Application |
| CAR | https://cmsp.chedcar.com/ |
| CARAGA | https://scholarship.chedcaraga.ph/login |
| MIMAROPA | https://mimaropa.ched.gov.ph/cmsp-ay-2025-2026/ |
| BARMM – IX | https://bit.ly/CMSP2025CHEDROIX-BARMM |
| BARMM – X | https://bit.ly/BARMM10CMSP2025-2026 |
| BARMM – XII | https://come.ac/CMSP-REGION-12-APPLICATION-2025-2026 |
| NIR | https://tinyurl.com/NIRCMSPApplicationAY-2025-2026 |
For Questions and Inquiries
For questions or concerns, applicants may contact their respective CHED Regional Office.
Grounds for Termination of CHED Scholarship
Following are the reasons why a CHED Scholarship application or grant may be terminated:
- Submission of fake or fraudulent documents
- Offenses involving moral turpitude
- Enrollment in a non-priority program
- Non-completion of the degree program
- Not carrying a regular load (required number of units)
- Shifting to another program or transferring to another HEI without the approval of the concerned CHED Regional Office (CHEDRO)
CHED Scholarship Video Tutorial
A video guide is available to help applicants understand the application process and requirements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Scholarship is a valuable program that provides financial assistance to deserving students pursuing higher education. This scholarship covers tuition and other educational fees, as well as living expenses and book allowances.
The CHED Scholarship Program aims to support Filipino students in achieving their educational goals and improving their future.
CHED Scholarship FAQs and Answers
Who is Eligible for CHED Scholarship?
Students enrolled in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs) with a Certificate of Program Compliance, or Private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are eligible to apply for the CHED Scholarship Program.
What does one need to do before applying?
Before applying for the CHED Scholarship, applicants must inform their school of the course they plan to enroll in under the scholarship program. They should also prepare and organize all required documents for the online scholarship application.
What if I am unable to enroll in the course for which I applied? Can I transfer to a different course or university?
Yes, but you must reapply for the scholarship. If admission is revoked due to noncompliance with requirements, no refund or assistance will be provided. Shifting to another course or university is not allowed without CHED approval.
How many courses can I enroll in?
Candidates may enroll in no more than two courses from different disciplines.
What if I am unable to enroll? Can I defer enrollment?
Yes, applicants may defer enrollment to the following semester. However, a new application must be submitted along with all required documents.
If my application was accepted, how long do I have before enrollment?
Applicants must officially enroll within one semester after receiving the notification of approval. Failure to enroll within this period will result in the forfeiture of the scholarship, which may then be awarded to other qualified applicants.
Are there cases where a scholarship is not granted even after all requirements have been submitted and met?
Yes. A scholarship may not be granted if. The school has no vacancy in the course applied for. The applicant does not meet the academic requirements (e.g., grade requirements). The applicant fails to comply with other CHED qualifications or requirements. The applicant falsifies information on the application form.
What are the additional documentary requirements?
Aside from the academic transcript, applicants must also submit. Birth certificate, Marriage contract (if married), Medical certificate, NBI/Police clearance, Latest Income Tax Return (ITR), Applicants should coordinate with their school to ensure all additional requirements are complete.
When will the CHED scholarship application be available?
The CHED Scholarship application period is announced every year. For the School Year 2025-2026, the application period is from May 5, 2025, to June 20, 2025.
When will applicants be informed of their status?
Applicants will be notified once all applications are reviewed and shortlisted. If approved, students will receive notification. For more details, visit your nearest CHED Regional Office.
Where can I get the CHED Scholarship application form?
CHED Scholarship application forms are region-specific. Applicants should use the online portal provided for their respective CHED region.
What if I’m not sure what course to take? Can I still apply?
Yes, you may still apply. However, you must select a CHED Priority Course under FYSEP or StuFAP. First-year students may take two different courses offered by CHED-recognized universities or colleges. Transfer students do not need to retake previously passed subjects but must obtain approval from their school before applying.
How many slots are available each academic year?
The number of scholarship slots changes every year. There are 2,779 CHED scholarship slots available.
Am I eligible for a scholarship for my intended graduate studies?
Yes, CHED may grant scholarships for graduate studies if the applicant: Meets all CHED requirements, Attended a CHED-recognized institution, Graduated with an undergraduate degree, Has not pursued another baccalaureate degree.
Are there any law student scholarship programs?
Yes, CHED provides scholarships for graduate law studies at both public and non-profit private colleges. Scholars must: Not be in default of any CHED financial obligation, Have no pending administrative or criminal cases, Meet course and institutional standards.
Who will pay the tuition of StuFAP scholars?
Under the StuFAP program, selected CHED scholars will receive financial assistance for tuition and other school fees directly from CHED.
Is there a requirement for residency?
CHED law does not specify a minimum length of stay, but residency requirements may be guided by subsequent CHED issuances.
When will I be notified of my scholarship acceptance?
Applicants will be notified within 120 days of the semester start, provided all documentary requirements are complete. For inquiries, contact your CHED Regional Office.
What are CHED Priority Courses?
CHED Priority Courses are the programs in which a student must enroll to be eligible for the scholarship. Updated lists are issued via CHED Memorandum Orders each year.
How many semesters can I use the scholarship for?
The scholarship may be applied for each year of undergraduate studies, provided all CHED standards are met.
Is there a CHED Scholarship Program exam?
No. There is no qualifying exam. Applicants only need to submit the required documents and meet all qualifications.
Do I need to enroll in a university or institution before applying?
No. While the CHEDRO online application will ask for information about your intended college and course, enrollment is not required at the time of application.
Can I submit my application directly to the CHED Regional Office?
No. Applications for CHED Scholarship 2025 must be submitted through the online scholarship portal. Manual submission at CHED offices is not accepted, though you may visit your regional office for inquiries.
Can I apply if I’m already 22 years old?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old to qualify for the CHED Scholar Grant.
Does CHED currently offer new scholarship programs?
Yes. CHED offers various programs including: CHED Merit Scholarship, CHED Medical Scholarship, CHED CoScho Scholarship.
Where should I submit my application form?
All applications must be submitted online via the CHED Scholarship portal for your region.
Can I transfer to another SUC/CHED institution as a scholar?
Yes, under certain conditions:
1. The transfer may be within or outside your region.
2. The new school will cover tuition if you are a non-resident student.
3. You must be in good standing and have no outstanding CHED obligations.
4. You have not completed another baccalaureate degree.
What if I do not meet the scholarship requirements?
Failure to meet any CHED scholarship condition will result in forfeiture or cancellation of the scholarship.
How do I re-apply for my CHED scholarship?
Continuing scholars: Submit updated income tax return forms before the scholarship period ends.
New scholars: Follow the same process as during the first year
Can I get a scholarship grant without passing the CHED Scholar examination?
Yes, as long as you pass the exam and meet all other CHED requirements.
Do I need to submit anything besides college credentials?
Yes, some courses require an interview. For others, no additional documents are needed.
What are CHED StuFAPs?
Student Financial Assistance Programs (StuFAPs) provide full or partial scholarships to eligible students in SUCs, LUCs, and PHEIs.
Can I get a scholarship if my school is recognized but board exam results are not yet released?
No. Scholars must pass the board exams before appointment. A Certification of Eligibility from the dean may be submitted in lieu of official results.
What is my tax period for a CHED scholarship application?
Tax documents are used for income verification and are not directly related to scholarship approval.
Is there a specific form to apply for the 2025-2026 school year?
Yes. Applicants must use the CHED online scholarship application form for the school year 2025-2026.
Is there a Return Service Agreement for CHED Scholars?
No. Unlike the DOST Scholarship, the CHED Scholarship does not require a return service commitment after receiving its benefits.
What about primary and secondary education?
CHED Scholarships do not cover K-12 or primary/secondary education. Applicants must be enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program for the current academic year to qualify.
Is there an online portal to apply for CHED Scholarships?
Yes, applications can be submitted directly online via the CHED Scholarship portal for your region.
Does CHED have scholarships for technical-vocational graduates?
Yes. For details, visit the CHED website and look for the Technical-Vocational Scholarship Program (TVSP).
What should I do if my scholarship application is rejected?
Contact your nearest CHED Regional Office for guidance and possible next steps.
How will I know if my application has been accepted?
CHED will notify applicants after validating all submitted documents and ensuring that the applicant meets the scholarship requirements.
Can a scholar take a course other than their priority course?
Yes, only if:
1. It is part of the eight-semester core curriculum.
2. It is a school-approved elective for non-majors.
3. The course is not offered by the SUC/CHED institution.
4. The scholar is in good standing and has not pursued another degree.
How will I know if my scholarship application has been approved?
Applicants’ status will show as “NOT YET APPROVED” until a valid email address is provided, which will receive automated notifications upon approval or denial.
What are the other documentary requirements for continuing scholars?
1. SUC students: Submit past semester grades.
2. Government-employed scholars: Submit ITR, job contract, or appointment papers.
3. Self-employed scholars: Submit business permit or confirmation of intention to operate.
4. Employed but unpaid: Employer certification or board resolution.
If I want to apply as a scholar from Region X, where should the school be located?
Your school location does not determine your application region. You must apply in your domicile region, which is where you have resided the most over the past ten years. If unclear, your current address will be used.