The Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program (BPMSP) is now set to provide 20,000 scholarship slots for qualified Filipino students nationwide. Under this program, scholars may receive tuition support, stipends, and allowances of up to ₱104,000 per semester, making it one of the most generous government scholarship programs today.
Through the program, scholars may receive tuition support, stipends, and other financial assistance while studying in CHED-recognized public or private universities and colleges offering priority programs. The initiative aims to support academically excellent students from low to middle-income households who wish to pursue degrees in fields essential to national development.
What is the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program?
The Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program is a merit-based scholarship for senior high school graduates who meet strict academic and eligibility requirements set by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
The scholarship supports incoming first-year college students enrolled in priority programs offered by CHED-recognized Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) with Centers of Excellence (COE) and Centers of Development (COD).
Scholars are expected to contribute to national development by completing a return service agreement after graduation, helping strengthen the country’s workforce and public service sectors.
20,000 Scholarship Slots for College Students
According to official announcements, the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program may benefit around 20,000 college students nationwide.
The Commission on Higher Education is set to finalize and present the program guidelines, which aim to expand access to higher education and help academically outstanding Filipino students pursue degrees in key development sectors.
The large number of scholarship slots reflects the government’s commitment to investing in the education and future of Filipino youth.
Scholarship Available for Public and Private Universities
The Bagong Pilipinas scholarship program supports students studying in both public and private higher education institutions.
Eligible scholars must enroll in CHED-recognized universities and colleges that offer priority programs aligned with national development goals. These institutions must have recognized programs designated as Centers of Excellence (COE) or Centers of Development (COD).
Scholarship Benefits and Stipends
Scholars under the BPMSP may receive generous financial assistance, including stipends, tuition support, and allowances, depending on their school and location.
Each scholar may receive:
- Tuition and other school fees based on actual costs
- Annual stipend for living expenses
- Book allowance
- Connectivity allowance
Students enrolled in state universities and colleges (SUCs) in Metro Manila may receive:
- ₱25,000 stipend per semester
- ₱4,000 book and connectivity allowance per semester
- Total: ₱29,000 per semester
For students studying in SUCs outside the National Capital Region (NCR), the stipend may be lower, depending on the approved guidelines.
Students enrolled in private universities within NCR may receive:
- ₱75,000 tuition fee subsidy
- ₱25,000 stipend per semester
- ₱4,000 book and connectivity allowance per semester
- Estimated total per semester: ₱104,000
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the total annual support is up to ₱208,000 for students studying in private institutions within NCR. For students in private universities outside NCR, the estimated total annual support may reach up to ₱98,000 per year.
Read Also: CHED Scholarship 2026 | Application Guidelines (How to Apply)
Priority Programs Supported by the Scholarship
The Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program supports enrollment in programs considered critical for national and regional development. Check this article: CHED Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Priority Courses 2026.
These include fields such as:
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
- Agriculture, Forestry, and Environmental Science
- Health and Allied Health Programs
- Information Technology, Computing, and Data-related fields
- Teacher Education in specialized subject areas
CHED may also include additional programs considered vital for the country’s development in the official guidelines.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants for the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Must be a Filipino citizen
- Must be an incoming first-year college student
- Must enroll in a CHED-recognized Higher Education Institution offering a BPMSP priority program
- Must be a Senior High School graduate with High Honors or Highest Honors (GWA of at least 95%)
- Must belong to a low-to-middle-income household based on CHED income guidelines
- Must have good moral character
- Must not be receiving another scholarship from other national government programs
TESDA National Certificate (NC) holders may also apply provided they meet the academic requirements and have not yet earned any units in tertiary education.
Documentary Requirements
Applicants may be required to submit the following documents during the application process:
- Accomplished BPMSP Application Form
- Birth Certificate issued by PSA
- Certificate of Ranking or Honors from Senior High School
- TESDA National Certificate (if applicable)
- Honorable dismissal from Senior High School
- Proof of household income
- Other documents that may be required in the official scholarship guidelines
Return Service Requirement
Scholars under the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program will be required to fulfill a Return Service Agreement (RSA) after completing their degree.
This requirement ensures that scholars will contribute to nation-building and public service, which may include:
- Working in government institutions
- Participating in community development programs
- Contributing to research initiatives
- Supporting other national development activities
Specific return service terms will be detailed in the official BPMSP implementing guidelines.
How to Apply for the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program
Interested applicants for the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program (BPMSP) are advised to follow the official application process through the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
While the full guidelines are still being finalized, here is the expected step-by-step application process:
Step 1: Visit the Official BPMSP Portal
Go to the official scholarship portal: bpms.ched.gov.ph
This is the main platform where applicants can access updates, announcements, and application details.
Step 2: Check Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, make sure you meet the qualifications such as:
- Filipino citizen
- At least 95% GWA (High or Highest Honors)
- Incoming first-year college student
- From a low-to-middle-income household
See full eligibility requirements above for complete details.
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
Prepare the necessary documents such as:
- Application form
- PSA Birth Certificate
- Certificate of Honors
- Proof of income
Refer to the Documentary Requirements section above for the complete list. Make sure all documents are complete and accurate before submission.
Step 4: Submit Your Application Online
Once the application officially opens, submit your application through the BPMSP portal. Applicants must ensure that all required fields are properly filled out and documents are uploaded correctly.
Step 5: Wait for Evaluation and Results
After submission, CHED will evaluate all applications based on:
- Academic performance
- Eligibility requirements
- Availability of scholarship slots
Qualified applicants will be notified through official channels. For inquiries and further assistance, interested applicants may contact the Office of Student Development and Services (OSDS), Undergraduate Studies Division (UGSD) of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). You may reach them via email at [email protected] or through their telephone number at (+632) 8988-0001 for official guidance and support related to the scholarship program.
Read Also: CHED Merit Scholarship Program | Nationwide Online Application
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many slots are available in the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program?
The program is expected to offer around 20,000 scholarship slots nationwide.
How much is the stipend in BPMSP?
Scholars may receive ₱25,000 per semester plus ₱4,000 book and connectivity allowance per semester.
Who can apply for the Bagong Pilipinas scholarship?
Incoming college freshmen with at least 95% GWA (High or Highest Honors) and from low to middle-income households may apply.
When is the deadline for the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program application?
As of now, the official application deadline for the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program (BPMSP) has not yet been announced. Applicants are advised to regularly check the official CHED website and the BPMSP portal for updates on the application schedule and deadlines.
Official Sources
For more information about the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program, you may visit the following official sources:
- CHED Official Website: ched.e.gov.ph/stufaps
- BPMSP Scholarship Portal: bpms.ched.gov.ph/
- Presidential Communications Office: pco.gov.ph
- Philippine News Agency: pna.gov.ph
Hello my name is Victor Paul Barrios I need this financial assistance for my education I hope I choose this this program thank you
Hello Victor Paul! To be considered in the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements and prepare your documents early.