Pasay City, Philippines — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making higher education more accessible by expanding tuition assistance for qualified college students under the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST) program.
Speaking at the awarding ceremony for UniFAST scholars and the launch of the Electronic Certification, Authentication, and Verification (E-CAV) system at the Cuneta Astrodome, the President underscored that no Filipino student should have to sacrifice education because of financial hardship.
“No young Filipino should have to give up schooling because of poverty,” President Marcos emphasized.
What the UniFAST Program Covers
Under the UniFAST program, eligible students enrolled in state universities and colleges (SUCs) or CHED-recognized local universities and colleges (LUCs) can now enjoy either full or partial tuition and school fee assistance.
This means parents and guardians will no longer have to shoulder the cost of tuition, allowing students to focus on completing their degrees without financial stress.
Additional Support for Students
The government has also rolled out expanded benefits to further support students:
- ₱20,000 Annual Tertiary Education Subsidy
Covers tuition, transportation, books, food, and other school-related needs. - ₱5,000 Additional Grant for Students with Disabilities
Ensures inclusive support for learners who need special assistance. - Reimbursement of up to ₱8,000 for Licensure-Exam-Required Courses
Helps graduates cover board exam fees as they transition to professional practice.
Long-Term Vision for Education
President Marcos expressed optimism that this initiative will not only keep more students in school but also strengthen communities and national development.
“When a child learns, a family rises. When families rise, the economy becomes stronger. This is how we build a stronger Bagong Pilipinas,” the President said.
He also called on implementing agencies to expand UniFAST’s coverage to reach more students, ensuring that financial assistance truly benefits those who need it the most.
How to Apply for UniFAST
- Check Your Eligibility:
- Must be enrolled in a state or CHED-recognized local university or college.
- Must meet income and academic performance requirements set by CHED.
- Prepare Your Requirements:
- Enrollment or registration form
- Valid ID
- Proof of income (if required)
- Apply Through Official Channels:
- Submit your application through the school’s scholarship office or directly via the UniFAST online portal.
- Wait for Confirmation:
- Successful applicants will receive a notice of grant and disbursement schedule.
Why This Matters
This initiative ensures that Filipino students — especially those from low-income families — have a realistic chance to complete higher education, improving their future job prospects and reducing cycles of poverty.
As more students graduate as teachers, nurses, engineers, and professionals, the program is expected to contribute significantly to the country’s growth and the government’s vision of a “Bagong Pilipinas.”