If you’re a college student enrolled in a public or private higher education institution in the Philippines and looking for financial support to ease your educational expenses, UniFAST’s Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) could be the assistance you need. Though not a scholarship, TES is a grant-in-aid program that provides substantial help to qualified students—especially those who need it most.
Let’s break down everything you need to know.
What is TES?
The Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) is a flagship program under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (RA 10931), implemented by UniFAST, an attached agency of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
TES aims to help Filipino students from low-income households afford tertiary education by providing financial assistance for tuition, books, and living expenses.
It’s important to note: TES is not a scholarship. You don’t compete for it based on grades—it’s a grant, and eligibility is determined by specific criteria, not academic ranking.
Who Can Apply for TES?
To be eligible for TES, a student must be a Filipino citizen and must meet the admission and retention requirements of their enrolled institution. There are no age, grade, or financial qualifications needed. However, applicants must not have previously earned an undergraduate degree and must not be overstaying at the college level—this means they should be within the maximum residency period set by their school, plus a one-year grace period.
Additionally, students applying for TES must not be beneficiaries of any other national government-funded student financial assistance programs. Only students enrolled in CHED-recognized undergraduate programs are eligible.
What Courses Are Covered Under TES?
The TES program supports a wide range of undergraduate courses offered by CHED-qualified higher education institutions. These courses can span various fields, including science and technology, engineering, agriculture, education, health sciences, information technology, business, and the arts, as long as they are part of recognized and accredited programs.
While TES does not have a strict list of “priority courses,” eligible students must be enrolled in programs that are recognized by CHED and offered by institutions with a valid Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with CHED-UniFAST. If you’re planning to apply, it’s best to check with your school’s registrar or scholarship office to ensure your course is covered under TES.
How Much Financial Assistance Can You Receive?
The TES grant varies based on the type of school where the student is enrolled:
This covers tuition and other school fees, books and learning materials, and transportation or connectivity support. Funds are disbursed directly to the grantee or through the school, depending on arrangements with CHED-UniFAST.
How to Apply for TES
TES does not accept walk-in or direct applications at CHED or UniFAST offices. The application process is school-based and opens only when officially announced.
- Enroll in a partner school with a valid MOA (Memorandum of Agreement) with CHED-UniFAST.
- Wait for official instructions from your school. TES applications are announced through HEIs, typically midway through the 1st semester.
- Prepare the required documents (based on school guidance).
- Submit your TES application through your school, which will process it via the official TES Portal.
As of now, applications for AY 2025–2026 have not yet opened. UniFAST is waiting for the fund allocation for new grantees.
Helpful Tips & Info
- TES is not guaranteed. Even if you meet the eligibility criteria, your approval depends on:
- Fund availability
- Prioritization rules (e.g., socio-economic status, location, marginalized groups)
- No online forms or unofficial links should be trusted—always go through your school or the official UniFAST Facebook page.
- TES is not an emergency fund or immediate assistance. It is a formal government grant with a selection and approval process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is TES a scholarship?
No, TES is not a scholarship. It is a grant-in-aid program under RA 10931. Unlike merit-based scholarships, TES provides financial assistance based on eligibility and need, not academic performance. - How much financial support does TES provide?
Depending on your school, you can receive ₱20,000 to ₱27,000 per year. - How do I apply for TES?
You cannot apply directly to CHED or UniFAST. TES applications are facilitated by your school’s scholarship or student affairs office. Only HEIs with a valid Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with CHED-UniFAST can submit applications on behalf of their students during the official application period. - When does TES open for applications?
TES applications usually open in the middle of the 1st semester of the academic year. However, there is no fixed date, as the schedule depends on funding availability. It’s important to monitor announcements from your HEI or the official UniFAST Facebook page for updates. - Can I apply for TES if I already receive another government scholarship?
No. TES grantees cannot be recipients of other national government-funded financial assistance programs, such as the CHED Merit Scholarship, DOST scholarships, or the Tulong Dunong Program. You must choose only one form of government aid to avoid disqualification.
Final Thoughts
The TES program is one of the government’s strongest commitments to making college education more accessible for Filipino students, especially those from low-income families. If you’re enrolled or planning to enroll in an SUC, LUC, or CHED-recognized private HEI, keep your eye out for the TES announcement this coming school year.
Speak to your school’s scholarship coordinator, prepare your documents early, and follow updates closely. A ₱20,000–₱27,000 annual grant can go a long way toward achieving your college goals.
For more information, visit https://unifastsecretariat.com or follow https://www.facebook.com/unifastofficial.
