If you’re a student or parent looking for support to pursue a college degree, the Scholarship Program for Coconut Farmers and their Families (CoScho) could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
This scholarship aims to ease the financial burden of higher education while empowering the next generation of agricultural leaders. Before you dive into the application process, let’s take a closer look at what CoScho is all about: how it works, who it’s for, and why it’s such a meaningful step forward for farming communities.
What is the CoScho?
The Scholarship Program for Coconut Farmers and their Families (CoScho) is a government initiative that provides full support for college education to qualified coconut farmers and their dependents. It was created under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act (RA 11524), and is jointly implemented by the CHED and the PCA.
The goal of CoScho is to improve the lives of coconut farming families by making quality education more accessible. It also hopes to inspire the younger generation to pursue careers in agriculture, agribusiness, and other related fields, helping boost productivity, innovation, and long-term sustainability in the coconut industry. Whether you want to become an agricultural engineer, an agripreneur, or simply want to earn a degree and support your family, CoScho could be the first big step toward that dream.
Who Can Apply?
The CoScho scholarship is open to Filipino coconut farmers and their immediate family members, like children or dependents, who are ready to pursue a college degree. To qualify, applicants must be registered under the National Coconut Farmers Registry System (NCFRS) or be a dependent of someone who is.
You can apply if you’re a graduating high school student, a high school graduate, or even a current college student enrolled in a course related to agriculture or other PCA-approved programs. Just make sure you have a GWA of at least 80%, aren’t already receiving another government-funded scholarship, and that your family’s annual gross income doesn’t exceed ₱300,000.
It’s all about giving opportunities to those who need it most, so if you meet the requirements, you’re strongly encouraged to apply!
What Courses Are Covered?
The CoScho scholarship supports degree programs that can help improve the agriculture sector, especially the coconut industry. That means if you’re planning to take up a course that contributes to farming, agribusiness, or rural development, you’re likely eligible!
CoScho’s priority courses include:
So if your passion lies in farming, technology, or helping communities grow, this scholarship could be a perfect fit for your goals!
What Are the Scholarship Benefits?
As a CoScho scholar, you won’t have to worry about the usual financial burdens that come with going to college. While the scholarship does not cover tuition fees (which you can get free if you enroll in a state university), it comes with:
- Monthly living allowance amounting to Php 7,000
- Book and learning allowance
These supports let you focus on your studies without the stress of financial pressure. Beyond the financial help, being a CoScho scholar also connects you to a program that values your potential to contribute to your community and the future of Philippine agriculture. CoScho also provides the following one-time benefits:
- Thesis or OJT allowance
- Conference attendance allowance
- Laptop/Computer allowance given in your first year as a scholar
It’s an investment not just in your education but in your future.
What Happens After Graduation?
After graduation, CoScho scholars are encouraged to give back through a return service commitment. This means you’ll need to work in the Philippines for one year for every year you received the scholarship, ideally in roles that support the coconut industry.
You may serve in government agencies, organizations, or even private companies involved in agriculture and rural development. It’s a great way to apply what you’ve learned, gain real-world experience, and make a positive impact on the community that helped support your education.
How to Apply
Applying for the CoScho scholarship is simple, just follow these steps:
Step 1: Check if you’re eligible
Make sure you or your parent is a registered coconut farmer in the National Coconut Farmers Registry System (NCFRS), and that you meet the other requirements, like grades and income.
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)
- PCA certification issued by the PCA Regional Office to registered coconut farmers/farmworkers in the NCFRS, with endorsement from the PCA Provincial Office, LCIDCs, or recognized farmers’ groups.
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, complete the application, and submit the documents before July 31, 2025.
| CHEDRO I | CHEDRO VI | CHEDRO XI | CHEDRO IX – BARMM |
| CHEDRO II | CHEDRO VII | CHEDRO XII | CHEDRO X – BARMM |
| CHEDRO III | CHEDRO VIII | CARAGA | CHEDRO XII – BARMM |
| CHEDRO IV | CHEDRO IX | MIMAROPA | |
| CHEDRO V | CHEDRO X |
Each CHEDRO may have specific instructions, so it’s best to check their official page or contact them directly.
Additional Tips for Applicants
- Start early. Don’t wait until the last minute to gather your documents, some may take time to process, especially the PCA Certification and proof of income.
- Double-check your requirements. Make sure all your forms are complete, signed, and properly labeled. Incomplete applications might not be accepted.
- Keep copies of everything. Always have photocopies or digital backups of your documents for your own records.
- Stay in touch with your CHED Regional Office (CHEDRO). They can answer your questions and guide you through the process. Don’t hesitate to reach out!
- Tell your story. If there’s a part of the application that lets you share more about your background, take the chance to show your motivation and commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I apply if I’m already in college?
Yes! As long as you meet the eligibility requirements (including the grade and income criteria) and are taking a course approved by the PCA, you can still apply even if you’ve already started college. - What if my parents are coconut farmers but not registered in the NCFRS?
Only registered coconut farmers in the NCFRS or their dependents are eligible. You’ll need to register with the PCA before applying. - Can more than one person from the same family apply?
Yes. No. Only one family member may apply for the CoScho scholarship at a time. - Can members of special groups automatically qualify for the scholarship?
Yes. Scholars must meet the academic standards set by CHED and their school to continue receiving the scholarship each semester. - What happens if I don’t complete the return service after graduation?
The return service is a required part of the scholarship. If not completed, the scholar may be required to refund the financial assistance received, as outlined in the program’s terms.
Final Thoughts
The CoScho scholarship is more than just financial aid; it’s an opportunity for coconut farmers and their families to build brighter futures and play a bigger role in shaping the agriculture sector.
If you or someone you know qualifies, don’t let this chance pass by. Prepare early, stay organized, and believe in your potential. With the right support and determination, your dreams are within reach, and CoScho is here to help you get there.
Useful Links
- Official CHED Website: https://ched.gov.ph/
- Regional CHED Offices: https://ched.gov.ph/regional-offices/
