Attention, Filipino students in the Philippines! The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is excited to announce the Student Monetary Assistance for Recovery and Transition (SMART) Grant, a financial grant aimed at supporting students who are navigating the challenges of continuing their education during these trying times.

This initiative not only aims to alleviate financial burdens but also to empower you to focus on your studies and achieving your academic goals. If you are a college student enrolled in state universities and colleges in your local district, this one-time grant of Php 25,000 may be just what you need to assist in your educational journey.

Update: Please wait for announcements from your local districts on when the SMART grant will be opened. This is to ensure that you have all the necessary information and requirements before applying for the program.

Overview

The SMART scholarship grant and assistance by CHED gives a substantial cash aid for tuition fees and other educational expenses.

Recipients of the SMART Grant benefit not only from monetary relief but also gain a better chance to achieve their academic ambitions. By alleviating financial concerns, the grant empowers students to concentrate on their education, build a brighter future, and make meaningful contributions to their communities.

Benefits

• Php 25,000 cash grant – to help cover essential expenses like tuition, books, and educational materials, ultimately enhancing the students’ educational experience.

Successful applicants will get a one-time fixed grant of Php 25,000 in cash which is intended to ease some of the financial pressures of higher education, allowing students to concentrate on their studies and transition smoothly despite any obstacles.

Qualifications

To be eligible for the SMART Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Must be a Filipino citizen and a resident of the local district.
2. Household gross annual income (combined, parents/guardians) must not exceed Four Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP 400,000.00), evidenced by a Certificate of Indigency from the barangay.
3. Must be enrolled in any first undergraduate degree in recognized bachelor’s degree programs for the First Semester, Academic Year 2023-2024.
4. The applicant must not be a recipient of any national government-funded scholarship or educational grant, except for the Free Higher Education (HE) program under Section 4 of R.A. No. 10931.

Requirements

To apply for the SMART Grant, students must prepare the following documents:

1. Certificate of Registration/Enrolment (CORs/COEs) as proof of enrollment.
2. Certificate of Indigency issued by the Punong Barangay, indicating the combined income of parents/guardians does not exceed Php 400,000.
3. Completed CHED SMART Application Form, available at this link.

How to Apply for SMART CHED Scholarship Grant

Interested applicants should follow these steps to apply for the SMART Grant:

1. Gather all required documents as listed above.
2. Complete the CHED SMART Application Form, ensuring all information is accurate and up-to-date.
3. Submit the application form along with the requisite documents to the local district office or designated authority overseeing the SMART Grant program.
4. Keep track of your application status and be prepared for any follow-up queries or further documentation requests from the validation team.

Take note that there are limited slots for the SMART Grant, and applications will be subject to validation. Therefore, it is essential to submit all requirements accurately and promptly.

SMART Application Form PDF Download

Applicants who are looking for a quick and convenient way to apply for the SMART Grant can access the application form at this link – SMART CHED PDF Application Form Download.

Please also see a reference to the registration form below.

The form is divided into several sections, such as personal details, educational background, household information, and income declaration. Make sure to fill in all necessary fields accurately and upload any required supporting documents before submitting your application.

Video: SMART CHED Scholar

For an idea what to expect, here’s a testimony from a scholar. Let’s meet Casey Mae Gopez, one of the beneficiaries of the SMART CHED PROGRAM, which provided 25,000 pesos shared by the Ako Ilocano Ako Partylist.

Summary

The SMART Grant represents a valuable opportunity for students enrolled in State Universities and Colleges nationwide. It aims to support students financially during their academic journey, helping them achieve their educational goals.

With specific qualifications and straightforward application requirements, the program seeks to uplift qualified students and ensure their continued success in higher education.