If you’re dreaming of a college degree in agriculture, fisheries, or any related field and you’re worried about how to pay for it, there’s a government scholarship that might be perfect for you. ACEF-GIAHEP is a program by CHED and the DA that helps students like you pursue higher education and build a future in agriculture.
If you’re a farmer’s child, a senior high school graduate, or already in college, this scholarship can help lighten the load, both financially and academically. Read on to find out if you’re eligible, how to apply, and what amazing support ACEF-GIAHEP offers!
What is ACEF-GIAHEP?
ACEF-GIAHEP stands for Agricultural Competitiveness Enhancement Fund – Grants-in-Aid for Higher Education Program. It’s a government scholarship under Republic Act No. 10848 that aims to boost the agriculture and fisheries sectors by supporting students who want to study in these fields.
The program provides financial assistance to deserving Filipino students, especially those who are dependents of registered farmers and fisherfolk. It covers tuition, allowances, and book support, all designed to help produce more graduates who are equipped with technical skills, scientific thinking, and an entrepreneurial mindset in agriculture-related fields.
Who Can Apply?
You may qualify for ACEF-GIAHEP if:
- You have not been convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude.
- You’re a Filipino citizen.
- You’re a senior high school graduate, a graduating student, or already enrolled in college.
- You plan to take up or are currently enrolled in agriculture, fisheries, forestry, veterinary medicine, or any related course.
- Your family’s combined annual gross income is ₱400,000 or less. Below are the exemptions:
- Applicant who has four (4) or more dependent siblings;
- Applicant who has family member/s with medical findings of serious illness;
- Applicant whose OFW parent faces employment problems, termination, or deportation; and
- Other similar cases as mentioned above
- Preferably, you are a dependent of a registered farmer or fisherfolk in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA).
- You’re not receiving any other government-funded scholarship.
What Courses Are Covered?
ACEF-GIAHEP supports courses that help strengthen the agriculture and fisheries sectors in the Philippines. These include:
As long as the course is CHED-recognized and offered by an approved university or college, it may qualify under the scholarship.
What Are the Scholarship Benefits?
The ACEF-GIAHEP scholarship offers generous financial support to help ease the cost of college education. Depending on the type of school you attend, here’s what you can expect:
These benefits aim to cover not just your school fees but also your day-to-day needs and learning materials, so you can focus more on your studies and less on financial worries.
How to Apply
Here’s a quick guide to applying for ACEF-GIAHEP:
Step 1: Check if you’re eligible
Make sure you meet the requirements, especially the income limit and preferred background in farming or fisheries.
Step 2: Prepare your documents
Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, proceed with the preparation of the following documents:
- Birth certificate
- Academic record:
- SHS student: Duly certified G11 grades and G12 first semester grades
- SHS graduate: Form 138
- College student: Duly certified copy of grades for the latest semester attended
- Certificate of Good Moral Character from the last school attended
- Notice of college admission
- Income documents (whichever is applicable):
- Latest Income Tax Return (ITR)
- Certificate of Tax Exemption from BIR
- Indigence Certificate from Barangay or DSWD
- DSWD Case Study Report
- Latest contract for OFW and seafarers
- I.D. card if you fall under the following special groups:
- Underprivileged or Homeless
- PWD
- Solo Parent
- Senior Citizen
- Indigenous People
- Original Barangay Certification that parents/guardians and siblings had never attended college/university (if applicable)
Each document must be scanned or photographed clearly and saved in the correct file format as specified on the portal.
Step 3: Submit your application and documents online
Visit your CHED Regional Office’s online portal.
| CHEDRO I | CHEDRO V | CHEDRO IX | CHEDRO IX (BARMM) | CARAGA |
| CHEDRO II | CHEDRO VI | CHEDRO X | CHEDRO X (BARMM) | MIMAROPA |
| CHEDRO III | CHEDRO VII | CHEDRO XI | CHEDRO XII (BARMM) | NCR |
| CHEDRO IV | CHEDRO VIII | CHEDRO XII | CAR |
Each CHEDRO may have specific instructions, so it’s best to check their official page or contact them directly. CHEDRO will review and endorse your application, and CHED OSDS will then validate the list and release funding for qualified scholars.
Additional Tips for Applicants
- Start early. Some documents may take time to process, especially income and registry certifications.
- Keep extra copies of all your paperwork, just in case!
- Double-check your course and school to ensure they’re covered by the program.
- Reach out to CHEDRO if you have questions. They’re there to help!
- Be honest and complete all forms accurately to avoid delays or disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I apply if I’m already in college?
Yes! As long as your course is eligible and you meet the other requirements, college students with earned units can apply. - What if our family income is slightly above ₱400,000?
You may still apply if you fall under special cases, like having four or more siblings, serious medical conditions in the family, or if your OFW parent lost their job. - Do I need to be related to a farmer or fisherfolk to qualify?
It’s preferred, but not required. Being a dependent of someone registered in RSBSA adds points to your application, but it isn’t the only way to qualify. - How much financial assistance will I receive?
It depends on your school. Scholars in private schools receive up to ₱60,000 per year, while those in SUCs or LUCs get up to ₱40,000 per year. - Can I apply for this and another government scholarship?
No. You must not be a recipient of any other government-funded financial assistance program.
Final Thoughts
The ACEF-GIAHEP scholarship is more than just financial help, it’s a chance to grow your future while helping improve the country’s agriculture and fisheries sectors. If you’re passionate about farming, fishing, or simply want to build a meaningful career that supports food and sustainability, this is a great step forward.
So gather your documents, check your eligibility, and apply early. Your future in agriculture starts today, and ACEF-GIAHEP is here to help you every step of the way.
Useful Links
- Official CHED Website: https://ched.gov.ph/
- Regional CHED Offices: https://ched.gov.ph/regional-offices/
