UniFAST Scholarship: How to Apply, Benefits, and Requirements

by

The Unified Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST) is one of the most important government initiatives in the Philippines under the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). Its goal is simple but powerful: to ensure that no qualified Filipino student is denied access to higher education because of financial difficulties.

For 2025, the UniFAST program continues to cover Free Higher Education (FHE), the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES), and the Student Loan Program (SLP). This guide provides a detailed look into the scholarship, eligibility requirements, benefits, deadlines, and step-by-step instructions on how to apply.

📌 Introduction to the UniFAST Scholarship

The UniFAST Scholarship 2025 streamlines financial aid into one unified system. Instead of navigating multiple disconnected programs, students now access support through a centralized framework that makes scholarships more transparent and equitable.

UniFAST is not just a single scholarship—it is an umbrella system covering tuition, allowances, books, miscellaneous fees, and even loans for emergency educational needs.

🎯 Importance of UniFAST for Filipino Students

In the Philippines, where many families struggle with the high cost of tertiary education, UniFAST is a lifeline. It ensures that qualified students enrolled in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs), and CHED-recognized private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) can continue their studies without crippling financial strain.

See also  TES Scholarship 2025: Application Process, Requirements, and Benefits

Key reasons UniFAST is vital:

  • It reduces the financial burden of higher education.

  • It guarantees equal access for students from all income levels.

  • It contributes to the government’s long-term goal of producing more college graduates, especially in high-demand fields.

🎓 Types of UniFAST Scholarships

UniFAST consists of three primary programs:

1. Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES)

The TES is one of the most popular UniFAST components.

Benefits of TES 2025:

  • Tuition fee coverage in SUCs, LUCs, and CHED-accredited private HEIs.

  • Allowance for books, school supplies, and living expenses.

  • Transportation support for students living away from school.

Eligibility:

  • Must be a Filipino citizen.

  • Must be enrolled in an eligible SUC, LUC, or private HEI recognized by CHED.

  • Priority is given to students from low-income families (based on DSWD Listahanan or income bracket).

2. Free Higher Education (FHE)

The FHE program fully subsidizes tuition and other fees for students enrolled in SUCs and LUCs.

Coverage of FHE 2025:

  • 100% free tuition in SUCs and LUCs.

  • Exemption from miscellaneous and school fees (library, lab, computer, etc.).

  • No repayment obligation.

Eligibility:

  • Must be a Filipino citizen.

  • Enrolled in an SUC or LUC.

  • Must meet admission requirements of the university/college.

3. Student Loan Program (SLP)

For students not fully covered by TES or FHE, UniFAST offers short-term, low-interest student loans.

Features of SLP:

  • Covers tuition and miscellaneous fees not already subsidized.

  • Flexible repayment terms after graduation.

  • Designed to prevent students from dropping out due to temporary financial issues.

See also  DMSF Scholarship 2025 – Eligibility, Requirements, Application Guide, and Benefits

📝 UniFAST Scholarship 2025 Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, applicants must:

  • Be Filipino citizens with no pending residency abroad.

  • Be enrolled in a CHED-recognized institution (SUC, LUC, or private HEI).

  • Meet the academic standing required by the program (TES scholars must maintain good grades to remain eligible).

  • Be in the low-income or disadvantaged group (for TES priority selection).

📂 Required Documents for UniFAST Scholarship Application

When applying for UniFAST 2025, students must prepare:

  • Completed UniFAST application form (from CHED-UniFAST portal).

  • Certified Transcript of Records (TOR) or latest report card.

  • Certificate of enrollment or proof of registration.

  • Government-issued ID.

  • Proof of residency (barangay certificate).

  • For TES applicants: proof of family income or inclusion in DSWD Listahanan.

Pro Tip: Always keep both scanned and physical copies ready to avoid delays.

📝 Step-by-Step Application Process for UniFAST 2025

Step 1 – Register on the CHED-UniFAST Portal

Go to the official portal and create an account.

Step 2 – Complete the Application Form

Fill out the online form with accurate details (personal info, academic background, and family details).

Step 3 – Upload Required Documents

Ensure documents are clear, complete, and meet CHED’s format.

Step 4 – Submit Your Application

Review carefully before submitting.

Step 5 – Wait for Evaluation and Results

CHED-UniFAST will evaluate based on academic standing, financial need, and institutional eligibility.

📅 UniFAST Scholarship 2025 Deadlines

  • Application Opening: Late 2024

  • Submission Deadline: Early 2025

  • Results Posting: Mid-2025 on the CHED-UniFAST portal

(Note: Exact dates vary per year—always confirm via the official portal.)

📊 Benefits of UniFAST Scholarship 2025

Program Coverage Benefits
TES Tuition + Living Expenses Up to ₱60,000/year (varies)
FHE Tuition & Miscellaneous Fees 100% free tuition in SUCs & LUCs
SLP Short-Term Loans Flexible repayment, covers uncovered fees

Other Perks:

  • Access to career counseling and internships.

  • Government support services like job placement after graduation.

See also  University of Toronto Scholarships for Filipinos 2025: Fully Funded, Merit & Graduate Awards Guide

💡 Tips for a Successful UniFAST Application

  • Apply early—servers are often overloaded near deadlines.

  • Double-check all documents for accuracy.

  • Write a strong essay if required (focus on your goals and financial need).

  • Maintain good grades to ensure renewal of scholarship.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting incomplete documents.

  • Using outdated proof of enrollment.

  • Applying past the deadline.

  • Entering incorrect details (typos in name/ID cause delays).

📌 How to Check UniFAST Scholarship Results

  1. Log in to the CHED-UniFAST portal.

  2. Check the Scholarship Results tab.

  3. Wait for official posting in mid-2025.

  4. Contact CHED offices for clarifications if needed.

📌 Maintaining Eligibility

UniFAST scholars must:

  • Maintain academic standing (TES scholars must not fall below minimum GPA).

  • Stay enrolled in an eligible HEI.

  • Abide by CHED-UniFAST scholarship agreements.

❓ FAQs About UniFAST Scholarship 2025

1. What is the UniFAST Scholarship?
A government program under CHED providing tuition subsidy, living allowance, and student loans.

2. Who can apply for UniFAST 2025?
Filipino citizens enrolled in SUCs, LUCs, or CHED-recognized HEIs.

3. Is UniFAST the same as TES?
No. TES is just one part of UniFAST. UniFAST also includes FHE and SLP.

4. How much can TES scholars receive?
Up to ₱60,000/year depending on need and institution.

5. Can I apply to multiple programs?
Yes, but benefits cannot overlap.

🎯 Conclusion

The UniFAST Scholarship 2025 is a game-changer for Filipino students pursuing higher education. With its TES subsidies, FHE tuition coverage, and SLP loans, the program ensures no student is left behind due to financial difficulties.

By preparing your documents early, submitting on time, and maintaining good grades, you can maximize your chances of becoming a UniFAST scholar.

Education is one of the best investments—and UniFAST continues to make it accessible to every deserving Filipino.

Leave a Comment