CHED Scholarship
The CHED (Commission on Higher Education) Scholarship in the Philippines encompasses several scholarship programs aimed at helping Filipino students pursue higher education. These programs are designed to provide financial assistance to qualified students who wish to pursue tertiary education in both public and private institutions.
Types of CHED Scholarships
CHED offers several scholarship programs, each with its own specific eligibility criteria and coverage. Some of the most common types of CHED scholarships include:
Tulong Dunong Program:
This is for undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need and academic excellence.
Full Merit Program:
This scholarship is awarded to top-performing students who excel in the field of Science and Technology.
State Scholarship Program:
This is for students who belong to indigenous communities, have disabilities, or are dependents of military personnel.
Graduate Scholarships:
CHED also offers scholarships for those pursuing postgraduate degrees like Master’s or Doctorate programs.
CHED Scholarship for Private Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs):
This program provides financial assistance to deserving students who are enrolled in private colleges or universities.
Eligible students can receive full or partial coverage of their tuition fees and other school-related expenses.
CHED Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA):
UAQTEA, also known as the Free Higher Education Act, covers tuition and miscellaneous fees for Filipino students in state colleges and universities.
This program also includes a Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) for eligible students, which helps cover living, transportation, and other education-related costs.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the CHED Scholarship Program, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria. These criteria can vary slightly from one type of scholarship to another, but there are some fundamental requirements that applicants should be aware of:
Filipino Citizenship:
All applicants must be Filipino citizens to be eligible for the CHED Scholarship Program.
Academic Excellence:
Most CHED scholarships require applicants to have a strong academic record. This typically involves maintaining a high-grade point average (GPA) in high school or during their undergraduate studies.
Financial Need:
Demonstrated financial need is a critical factor in the eligibility criteria. Applicants should come from low-income families or marginalized communities, and they must meet the specific income requirements set by CHED.
Entrance Examination:
Some CHED scholarship programs may require applicants to pass an entrance examination or meet certain standardized test score requirements.
No Pending Scholarship:
Applicants should not be recipients of any other scholarship or financial assistance program at the time of application.
No Dropping of Subjects:
Scholars are typically required to complete their courses without any dropped subjects, and they must maintain a specific academic performance standard.
No Previous CHED Scholarship:
Applicants who have previously availed of a CHED scholarship are generally not eligible for the same type of scholarship again.
Application Process
Check Eligibility Criteria:
Before you start the application process, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for the specific CHED scholarship program you are interested in. Eligibility criteria can vary, but they often include factors such as academic performance, financial need, and citizenship requirements.
Prepare Required Documents:
Gather all the necessary documents required for the scholarship application. These documents may include:
Accomplished scholarship application form (available on the CHED website)
High school or college transcript of records (TOR)
Certificate of Good Moral Character
Birth certificate (NSO/PSA copy)
Certificate of Residency
Typically, a couple of recent passport-sized photos are required.
Income Tax Return (ITR) of parents or guardians
Other specific documents as required by the scholarship program
Submit Application:
Complete the application form accurately and honestly. Ensure that you have all the required documents ready for submission.
Take the Qualifying Examination:
Some CHED scholarship programs may require applicants to take a qualifying examination. If this is the case, be sure to prepare for the exam and follow the instructions provided by CHED regarding the date, time, and location of the exam.
Attend Interviews (if applicable):
Depending on the scholarship program, applicants may be required to attend an interview as part of the selection process. Prepare for the interview by reviewing your academic achievements and personal goals.
Wait for the Results:
After the application deadline has passed, CHED will evaluate all applications and conduct the necessary assessments, including the examination (if applicable) and interviews. Wait for the official announcement of the scholarship results.
Acceptance and Compliance:
If you are selected as a scholarship recipient, you will receive an official notification from CHED. Follow the instructions provided to accept the scholarship and comply with any additional requirements, such as attending orientation sessions or submitting additional documents.
Maintain Eligibility:
Throughout your scholarship period, it is important to maintain the eligibility criteria, which often include maintaining a specified grade point average (GPA) and academic performance.
Renewal (if applicable):
Some CHED scholarships are renewable, meaning you may need to reapply and meet certain criteria to continue receiving the scholarship in subsequent years.
Comply with Scholarship Terms:
Be sure to adhere to all the terms and conditions of the CHED scholarship, including any required community service or research projects, if applicable.
Timeline:
The application process for the year 2023-24 has been closed now. The application process usually begins in February OR March and ends in April OR May every year. So, prepare yourself for the next opportunity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the CHED (Commission on Higher Education) Scholarship program is a valuable initiative that plays a crucial role in making higher education more accessible to deserving Filipino students. By providing financial support, and educational opportunities, and reducing the financial burden of pursuing a college degree, CHED Scholarships contribute significantly to the development of skilled professionals and the overall progress of the Philippines. These scholarships not only empower students to achieve their academic dreams but also strengthen the nation’s workforce and economy. It is essential for eligible students to explore and avail themselves of the various CHED Scholarship options to realize their full potential and contribute to the betterment of society.