UniFAST Scholarship Guide for AY 2026–2027: CHED Programs, Requirements, and Application Process
The Philippine government continues to strengthen access to higher education through a unified and transparent financial assistance framework. As Academic Year (AY) 2026 to 2027 approaches, thousands of Filipino students are actively searching for accurate, updated information about the UniFAST scholarship, its benefits, requirements, and application process.
This comprehensive guide explains what is UniFAST scholarship, how it works with CHED programs, and how students can successfully apply for the UniFAST scholarship 2026–2027.
Table of Contents
What Is UniFAST Scholarship?
The Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST) is a government-mandated system established under Republic Act No. 10687. Its primary goal is to harmonize all government-funded scholarships, grants-in-aid, and student loan programs into one coordinated framework.
Rather than being a single scholarship, UniFAST serves as an umbrella system that manages multiple financial assistance programs administered mainly by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). This structure ensures efficient fund distribution, transparency, and equitable access for students—especially those from financially disadvantaged backgrounds.
CHED UniFAST Scholarship Framework for AY 2026–2027
The CHED UniFAST scholarship system plays a central role in implementing the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (RA 10931). For UniFAST scholarship 2026 to 2027, the system continues to support students through a multi-modal approach designed to eliminate both tuition and non-tuition financial barriers.
UniFAST-managed programs apply to:
- State Universities and Colleges (SUCs)
- CHED-recognized Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs)
- Qualified private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs)
This unified model allows students to benefit from multiple assistance programs simultaneously, depending on eligibility.
Core UniFAST Scholarship Programs and Benefits
The UniFAST scholarship ecosystem consists of several key programs, each designed for different student profiles:
Free Higher Education (FHE)
- Covers tuition and miscellaneous fees
- Applies to SUCs and qualified LUCs
- Automatically granted to eligible students
Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES)
- Provides financial support for living and educational expenses
- Need-based rather than merit-based
- One of the most impactful UniFAST programs for low-income families
CHED Merit Scholarship Program (CMSP)
- Targets academically excellent students
- Offers Full Merit and Half Merit grants
- Prioritizes courses aligned with national development goals
Student Loan Program (SLP)
- Offers low-interest or zero-interest loans
- Acts as a safety net for students with unmet financial needs
Together, these programs form the backbone of the UniFAST scholarship 2026 implementation.
UniFAST Scholarship 2026–2027: Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) Explained
For many applicants, the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) is the most relevant UniFAST component. TES focuses on students at risk of dropping out due to financial hardship, regardless of academic ranking.
TES Financial Benefits for 2026–2027
- Public HEIs (SUCs/LUCs): ₱40,000 per year
- Private HEIs: Up to ₱60,000 per year
- Persons with Disabilities (PWDs): Additional ₱30,000 allowance
These funds cover books, transportation, accommodation, food, and other educational expenses.
UniFAST Scholarship Requirements for AY 2026–2027
Understanding the UniFAST scholarship requirements is crucial to avoid disqualification. While specific criteria may vary per program, the general requirements include:
- Filipino citizenship
- Enrollment in a CHED-recognized HEI and program
- Compliance with the Maximum Residency Rule (MRR)
- No existing full government scholarship (for TES or SLP applicants)
Common Documentary Requirements
- PSA Birth Certificate
- Senior High School Form 138 / SF9
- Proof of income or Certificate of Indigency
- Certificate of Residency
- Valid PWD or Solo Parent ID (if applicable)
Applicants are advised to prepare documents before application periods open, typically between May and June.
How to Apply UniFAST Scholarship Through CHED and HEIs
Many students ask how to apply UniFAST scholarship, but it’s important to note that there is no single national walk-in application.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Enroll in a CHED-recognized HEI
- Coordinate with your school’s UniFAST or TES Focal Person
- Submit personal and academic data through the HEI
- HEI uploads information to the UniFAST Partner Portal
- UniFAST conducts national assessment and validation
- Qualified students submit physical documents for final verification
The HEI Focal Person plays a critical role and serves as the official link between students and UniFAST.
CHED Merit Scholarship Under UniFAST for 2026–2027
The CHED Merit Scholarship Program (CMSP) caters to high-performing students pursuing priority degree programs.
Academic Requirements
- Full Merit: 96% GWA and above
- Half Merit: 93%–95% GWA
- Annual family income must not exceed ₱500,000
Priority Courses
CHED prioritizes programs in:
- Science and Mathematics
- Information Technology
- Engineering and Technology
- Health Professions
- Teacher Education
These fields are selected based on labor market demand and the Philippine Development Plan.
Digital Systems Supporting UniFAST Scholarship Applications
For UniFAST scholarship 2026–2027, CHED continues to expand digital governance through systems such as:
e-CAV (Electronic Certification, Authentication, and Verification)
- Online verification of academic records
- Required for scholarship release and employment
- Accessible through CHED One Touch accounts
This modernization significantly reduces processing time and applicant expenses.
Student Loan Program (SLP) as a UniFAST Option
Students who do not qualify for grants may consider the UniFAST Student Loan Program (SLP).
Key Features
- Loan amount: up to ₱60,000
- 0% interest if paid within 12 months
- Repayment period: up to 8 years
- Requires a co-guarantor
The SLP ensures that financial constraints do not permanently disrupt a student’s education.
Conclusion: Preparing for UniFAST Scholarship 2026–2027
The UniFAST scholarship system for AY 2026 to 2027 reflects the Philippine government’s shift from short-term aid to long-term human capital investment. With improved digital systems, clearer prioritization, and expanded coverage, students now have better opportunities to complete higher education regardless of economic background.
Strategic Tips for Applicants
- Choose CHED priority programs
- Verify HEI and program accreditation (COPC)
- Prepare documents early
- Stay in close contact with your school’s UniFAST Focal Person
- Be digitally ready for eGovPH and e-CAV systems
By understanding the CHED UniFAST scholarship, meeting the UniFAST scholarship requirements, and following the correct application process, Filipino students can maximize their chances of receiving government-funded educational support in 2026–2027.