CHED Merit Scholarship 2025–2026: Complete Application Guide for Filipino Students
Pursuing higher education can be financially challenging, especially for many Filipino families. Fortunately, the CHED Merit Scholarship Program (CMSP) offers a valuable opportunity for academically deserving students to continue their studies without the heavy burden of expenses.
This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know—from eligibility and requirements to the step-by-step application process—so you can confidently apply and maximize your chances of being selected.
About CHED Merit Scholarship 2025–2026
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is the Philippine government agency responsible for managing and regulating higher education institutions across the country. Established under Republic Act No. 7722 (Higher Education Act of 1994), CHED ensures that colleges and universities maintain high standards of education.
One of its flagship initiatives is the CHED Merit Scholarship Program (CMSP), designed to support academically outstanding students—particularly those facing financial constraints.
Key Objectives of CMSP:
- Promote equal access to quality education
- Support talented students regardless of financial background
- Encourage enrollment in high-demand and priority fields
- Reduce the financial burden of college education
The program offers Full Merit and Half Merit Scholarships for incoming first-year college students for Academic Year 2025–2026.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the CHED Merit Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
General Qualifications:
- Must be a Filipino citizen
- Must be a graduating senior high school student or high school graduate
Academic Requirements:
| Scholarship Type | Required GWA |
|---|---|
| Full Merit | At least 96% |
| Half Merit | 93% – 95% |
Financial Requirement:
- Combined annual gross income of parents/guardian must not exceed ₱500,000
Additional Considerations:
Applicants may belong to special groups such as:
- Underprivileged or homeless individuals
- Persons with disabilities (PWDs)
- Solo parents or their dependents
Supporting documents or certifications are required for these categories.
Important Notes:
- Applicants can only receive one government-funded scholarship
- Must enroll in CHED-recognized programs in:
- Private Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs)
- State Universities and Colleges (SUCs)
- Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs) with COPC
Priority Courses
CHED prioritizes degree programs aligned with national development goals. These include:
Major Fields:
- Engineering & Technology
- Information Technology & Computer Science
- Science & Mathematics
- Health Sciences
- Business & Management
- Education
- Social Sciences
- Agriculture & Environmental Studies
Sample Courses:
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Science
- Nursing
- Data Science and Analytics
- Psychology
- Architecture
- Tourism Management
- Renewable Energy
Scholarship Benefits
The CHED Merit Scholarship provides financial assistance covering tuition, stipends, and other educational expenses.
For Private HEIs:
| Program | Period | TOSF (₱) | Stipend (₱) | Book/Allowance (₱) | Total (₱) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full PESFA | Annual | 40,000 | 70,000 | 10,000 | 120,000 |
| Semestral | 20,000 | 35,000 | 5,000 | 60,000 | |
| Half PESFA | Annual | 20,000 | 35,000 | 5,000 | 60,000 |
| Semestral | 20,000 | 17,500 | 2,500 | 30,000 |
For SUCs and LUCs:
| Program | Period | TOSF | Stipend (₱) | Book/Allowance (₱) | Total (₱) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full SSP | Annual | FREE | 70,000 | 10,000 | 80,000 |
| Semestral | FREE | 35,000 | 5,000 | 40,000 | |
| Half SSP | Annual | FREE | 35,000 | 5,000 | 40,000 |
| Semestral | FREE | 17,500 | 2,500 | 20,000 |
Application Process
Understanding the application process is key to ensuring a smooth submission.
Documentary Requirements
Prepare the following:
Basic Documents:
- PSA/NSO Birth Certificate
- Certified True Copy of Form 138 (Report Card)
Financial Documents (any one):
- Latest Income Tax Return (ITR)
- BIR Certificate of Tax Exemption
- Proof of income (for OFWs/seafarers)
- Social Case Study Report
Additional Documents (if applicable):
- PWD ID or certification
- Solo Parent ID
- Senior Citizen ID
- Indigenous Peoples certification
- Guardianship affidavit
Application Form:
👉 Click here: CHED Merit Application Form 2025-2026
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply
Follow these steps carefully:
- Gather all required documents
- Scan documents clearly (ensure readability)
- Submit your application online to the appropriate CHED Regional Office
Regional Application Status:
🟢 Open | 🟡 Not Yet Opened | 🔴 Closed
Submit based on your region:
- CHEDRO I → 🟢 CHED Regional Office
- CHEDRO II → 🟢 CHED Regional Office
- CHEDRO III → 🟢 CHED Regional Office
- CHEDRO IV (CALABARZON & MIMAROPA) → 🟢
- CHEDRO V to XII → 🟢 Open
- NCR, CAR, CARAGA → 🟢 Open
- BARMM Regions → 🟢 Open
Contact Details
For questions or clarifications, contact your respective CHED Regional Office directly.
Final Thoughts
The CHED Merit Scholarship Program is more than just financial assistance—it’s a gateway to achieving academic and professional success. By supporting deserving students, CHED continues to strengthen the future of Philippine education.
If you meet the qualifications, take action now. Prepare your documents early, follow the application process carefully, and submit before the deadline.
Opportunities like this can shape your future—make the most of it.
References
- Commission on Higher Education. Merit Scholarship
https://ched.gov.ph/merit-scholarship/ - CHED Memorandum Order No. 7, s. 2023
https://ched.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/CMO-8-s.-2019-Policies-and-Guidelines-for-CHED-Scholarship-Programs-CSPs.pdf - Regional Priority Courses Memorandum
https://ched.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/CMO-8-s.-2019-Policies-and-Guidelines-for-CHED-Scholarship-Programs-CSPs.pdf - Call for Application Memorandum
https://ched.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/CMO-8-s.-2019-Policies-and-Guidelines-for-CHED-Scholarship-Programs-CSPs.pdf