If you’re a Filipino senior high school graduate with a strong academic record and dreams of pursuing college, the CHED Merit Scholarship Program (CMSP) could be your golden opportunity. With over 2,700 slots open for Academic Year 2025–2026, this program is designed to support students with academic excellence and limited financial means.
Here’s everything you need to know about the CMSP, from eligibility and benefits to application steps and deadlines.
What is the CHED Merit Scholarship Program?
The CHED Merit Scholarship Program (CMSP) is a competitive scholarship offered by CHED. It provides financial support to academically deserving incoming or current first-year college students across the Philippines.
The program doesn’t just focus on grades—it also recognizes equity. Special consideration is given to students from marginalized sectors, including persons with disabilities (PWDs), indigenous peoples (IPs), solo parents, underprivileged households, senior citizens, and first-generation college students. If you fall under one of these categories, you’ll receive additional ranking points, though you still need to meet the core qualifications.
Who Can Apply For the CHED Merit Scholarship?
The CHED Merit Scholarship Program is open to Filipino citizens who are either incoming or current first-year college students.
To be eligible, applicants must have graduated from senior high school with a minimum General Weighted Average (GWA) of 93% or its equivalent, as reflected in their Grade 12 report card. In addition, the combined annual gross income of their parents or legal guardian must not exceed ₱500,000.
This program welcomes students from all backgrounds regardless of age, gender, disability, religion, or political affiliation. However, while applicants from special or marginalized sectors—such as persons with disabilities (PWDs), indigenous peoples (IPs), solo parents, and first-generation college students—may receive additional ranking points, they must still meet all minimum academic and financial qualifications to be considered.
Applicants must also be enrolling in a CHED-recognized priority course at an eligible public or private higher education institution.
What Courses Are Covered Under CMSP?
Applicants must enroll in a CHED-identified priority program. These are fields that support national development goals, including:
This full and updated list of national priority programs was taken from CHED Memo No. 7 Series of 2023.
CHED Merit Scholarship Benefits
The CHED Merit Scholarship provides varying levels of financial support depending on the type of institution you attend and whether you qualify for full or half merit.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for CHED Merit Scholarship Program:
Step 1: Prepare your documents
Core Documents
- Accomplished CHED CMSP Online Application Form
- Birth Certificate (NSO/PSA-issued)
- Form 138 / SF9 (Report Card) for Grade 12
Financial Documents (any one of the following):
- Latest Income Tax Return (ITR) of parents/guardian
- Certificate of Tax Exemption or Non-Filer from BIR
- Proof of income (contract) for OFW or seafarer parents
- Social Case Study Report from the MSWD or CSWD
If Applicable – Supporting Documents for Special Groups:
- PWD ID or certification from PDAO
- Solo Parent ID
- Senior Citizen ID (if applicable)
- Certificate of indigency from DHSUD, CSWD, or MSWD
- First-generation college student or Magna Carta of the Poor certification
- IP Certificate from the NCIP
- Notarized Certificate of Guardianship (if student lives with a legal guardian)
Prepare and scan all required documents. Ensure they are clear and legible.
Step 2: Visit your CHED Regional Office’s online portal
| CHEDRO I | CHEDRO V | CHEDRO IX | NCR | BARMM – IX |
| CHEDRO II | CHEDRO VI | CHEDRO X | CAR | BARMM – X |
| CHEDRO III | CHEDRO VII | CHEDRO XI | CARAGA | BARMM – XII |
| CHEDRO IV | CHEDRO VIII | CHEDRO XII | MIMAROPA | NIR |
Step 3: Submit your application and documents online
Each CHEDRO may have specific instructions, so it’s best to check their official page or contact them directly.
Helpful Tips & Info
While the scholarship is competitive, many students qualify each year by preparing thoroughly and submitting accurate and complete documents. Here are the important details to keep in mind:
- Deadline for submission: June 20, 2025
- Available slots for AY 2025–2026: 2,779
- Full list of CHEDROs and their contact details
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is there an entrance exam?
No. Applicants are ranked based on academic performance, financial need, and applicable equity points. - Can I apply if I already have a scholarship from another government agency?
No. You must not be a recipient of any other government-funded scholarship or grant. - What if my parents’ income exceeds ₱500,000?
Unfortunately, you may no longer be eligible unless exceptional cases apply and are backed by proper documentation. - Can I apply if I’m already in college?
Only incoming or current first-year students are eligible. - Where can I ask questions or follow up on my application?
Contact your CHED Regional Office directly. They manage and process all applications within their jurisdiction.
Final Thoughts
The CHED Merit Scholarship Program is more than just financial support—it’s an opportunity to start your college journey with stability and purpose. Whether you’re pursuing engineering, education, or health sciences, CMSP is here to help ease the burden of tuition and living costs.
If you’ve got the grades, the passion, and the potential, don’t miss this chance. Apply now before the June 20, 2025 deadline, and take a meaningful step toward your future.
For full details and updates, visit the official CHED website.
