The Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) is a key financial assistance program under the Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST), aimed at supporting Filipino students in need. If you’re studying in a public or selected private higher education institution in the Philippines, this subsidy can cover tuition, school fees, and even allowances for books, transport, and accommodation.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the TES 2025/2026 application, eligibility, benefits, and how to apply via the official UniFAST portal.
What is the TES Program under UniFAST?
The Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) is part of the Republic Act 10931 or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. It provides government financial assistance to:
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Students enrolled in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs),
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Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs), and
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Private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) included in the CHED-UniFAST List.
The goal is to promote inclusive and equitable access to higher education for all qualified Filipino students.
Unifast TES 2025/2026 – Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) |
| Agency | UniFAST (CHED) |
| Academic Year | 2025/2026 |
| Target Beneficiaries | Filipino undergraduate students in SUCs, LUCs, or selected private HEIs |
| Application Mode | Through school’s UniFAST/Student Affairs Office |
| Official Website | https://unifast.gov.ph |
TES Benefits (Financial Assistance)
Qualified beneficiaries receive financial aid that may include:
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₱40,000–₱60,000 per academic year (amount may vary based on location and category).
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Tuition and other school fees for students in private institutions.
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Allowance for books, supplies, transportation, room & board.
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Special grants for persons with disabilities.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for TES 2025/2026, you must:
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Be a Filipino citizen.
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Be enrolled in an undergraduate program at an SUC, LUC, or CHED-recognized private HEI.
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Belong to households listed in the Listahanan 2.0 by the DSWD, or
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Be part of families whose income falls within the low-income bracket, or
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Be a student with special needs or from geographically disadvantaged areas.
Priority Beneficiaries
The following students are prioritized:
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4Ps (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program) members
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Students from indigent and disadvantaged families
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Persons with disabilities (PWDs)
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Solo parents or children of solo parents
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Students from remote areas
Required Documents
Each applicant may need to prepare the following:
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Certificate of Registration or Enrollment
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School ID or Government-issued ID
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Copy of grades (if required by school)
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Proof of indigency or inclusion in DSWD Listahanan
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Valid government-issued IDs of parents/guardians
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Certificate of Residency (if applicable)
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Solo parent ID / PWD ID (if applicable)
How to Apply for TES 2025/2026
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Inquire at Your School’s UniFAST Focal Person
Visit your school’s Student Affairs or Scholarship Office to confirm if TES is available and open for application. -
Submit Requirements
Provide all required documents for pre-screening and encoding. -
Validation and Endorsement
Your school will validate your eligibility and submit your name to CHED-UniFAST. -
Wait for Approval
Final list of grantees will be posted by UniFAST after proper screening. -
Receive Disbursement
Funds will be released through the school or a designated financial institution.
When is the TES Application Deadline for 2025/2026?
The application schedule varies by school, but it typically begins around mid-year (June–August) before the start of the academic term. Always check with your institution’s UniFAST office or follow official updates from https://unifast.gov.ph.
See also: Alix Earle Scholarship 2025/2026: Apply Now at University of Miami
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there an online TES application portal?
No. TES applications are coordinated through your school. Visit your school’s UniFAST coordinator.
Is the subsidy refundable?
No. TES is a grant, not a loan. It does not need to be paid back.
Can private school students apply?
Yes, but only if your school is CHED-approved and listed as an eligible institution.
Conclusion
The Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) 2025/2026 is a life-changing opportunity for many Filipino students. Whether you’re in a public or eligible private institution, don’t miss the chance to apply. For accurate and updated information, visit the official UniFAST website at https://unifast.gov.ph or consult your school’s TES coordinator.