For Filipino students who dream of finishing college but worry about the expenses, there’s a major scholarship development worth knowing about.
The Philippine government is moving closer to establishing the Presidential Merit Scholarship Program, a nationwide initiative intended to help academically outstanding Filipino students pursue college degrees and technical-vocational education.
And the latest development is significant.
In October 2026, both the Senate and House of Representatives ratified the bicameral conference committee report on the proposed Presidential Merit Scholarship Programs Act. The measure aims to establish a permanent scholarship framework supporting deserving senior high school graduates, particularly those pursuing courses aligned with the country’s workforce and development needs.
Under the proposal, qualified scholars may receive assistance for tuition, school fees, living expenses, books, transportation, internet connectivity, and other education-related costs.
The measure also seeks to integrate the existing Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program, which was launched earlier in 2026 and already accepted applications for Academic Year 2026–2027.
But there’s an important distinction.
As of October 11, 2026, the latest verified congressional announcement indicates that the bill has been ratified and transmitted for presidential action. Its enactment into law has not yet been confirmed in the official sources reviewed for this article.
So, who can qualify for the Presidential Merit Scholarship? How much financial assistance can students receive? Is the program already accepting applications? And what happens to students who applied for the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship earlier this year?
Here’s everything you need to know.
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What Is the Presidential Merit Scholarship Program?
The Presidential Merit Scholarship Program (PMSP) is a proposed national scholarship framework designed to help academically outstanding and technically skilled Filipino students pursue higher education or technical-vocational studies.
The initiative is connected to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s commitment to expand educational opportunities for high-performing Filipino students.
The idea is that academic excellence should open doors to higher education, even for students whose families cannot comfortably afford the associated expenses.
While the Philippines already has several government scholarship programs, the Presidential Merit Scholarship seeks to establish a more permanent national system supporting students who excel academically and want to enter fields considered important to the country’s development.
These include science, technology, engineering, healthcare, agriculture, teacher education, artificial intelligence, and other priority industries.
The program also aims to encourage graduates to use their education and skills to contribute to the Philippine economy and society.
Under the latest version approved by Congress, the scholarship framework would establish two separate programs.
1. Presidential Merit College Scholarship Program (PMCSP)
This scholarship would be administered by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
It would support qualified Filipino students pursuing bachelor’s degree programs in recognized higher education institutions.
The focus would be on academically outstanding senior high school graduates who meet the scholarship’s academic, financial, and other eligibility requirements.
2. Presidential Merit Technical Scholarship Program (PMTSP)
This scholarship would be administered by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
It would support qualified students pursuing technical-vocational education and training programs, particularly those aligned with priority occupations and industries.
This recognizes that students can contribute to national development through different educational pathways, whether they pursue college degrees or technical skills training.
Latest Presidential Merit Scholarship Updates as of October 2026
The proposed scholarship program has moved through several important legislative stages in 2026.
Here’s a look at the latest developments.
January 23, 2026: Government Launches Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship
The government officially launched the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program (BPMSP) as part of its initiatives to expand access to education.
The launch involved CHED, the Department of Education (DepEd), and TESDA.
The program was designed to assist academically outstanding senior high school graduates entering priority higher education and technical-vocational programs.
For Academic Year 2026–2027, the government allocated approximately ₱634.9 million for the program, with CHED announcing 20,000 scholarship slots for its initial implementation.
May 2026: Applications Open for Academic Year 2026–2027
CHED opened applications for the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program.
The application period ran from April 30 to June 30, 2026, or until available slots were filled.
The scholarship primarily targeted incoming first-year college students who had demonstrated outstanding academic performance in senior high school.
Students were required to meet specific academic qualifications, household income requirements, and program eligibility criteria.
July 16, 2026: CHED Announces Application Evaluation
CHED announced that applications for the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship were undergoing evaluation and validation.
Regional offices were responsible for reviewing submissions and determining whether applicants met the program’s requirements.
Applicants were advised to coordinate with their respective CHED Regional Offices regarding the status of their applications.
August 1, 2026: CHED Issues Advisory on Changing Schools or Courses
CHED issued an advisory allowing BPMSP applicants to request changes to their declared higher education institution or degree program.
However, any replacement school or course must still meet the scholarship’s eligibility requirements.
Students were instructed to coordinate immediately with the CHED Regional Office responsible for their applications.
This matters because enrolling in an institution or program different from the one declared in the application could affect scholarship evaluation.
September 7, 2026: Senate Approves Presidential Merit Scholarship Bill
The Senate approved the proposed legislation seeking to institutionalize the Presidential Merit Scholarship Program.
The measure aimed to establish a long-term scholarship framework rather than rely only on individual annual scholarship initiatives.
October 6–8, 2026: Congress Ratifies Scholarship Bill
This is the biggest recent update.
The Senate and House of Representatives ratified the bicameral conference committee report on the proposed Presidential Merit Scholarship Programs Act.
The House ratified the reconciled measure on October 6, while the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) confirmed the bicameral ratification in an October 8 announcement.
The approved measure establishes the framework for the Presidential Merit College Scholarship Program and the Presidential Merit Technical Scholarship Program.
It also includes provisions integrating the existing Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program into the proposed new system.
According to EDCOM 2, the bill will now proceed to the Office of the President for presidential action.
October 11, 2026: Is the Presidential Merit Scholarship Already a Law?
As of October 11, 2026, the latest verified official announcement confirms congressional ratification but does not establish that the measure has already been signed into law.
This distinction is important.
Congressional approval is a major legislative milestone, but students should not assume that every provision of the proposed law is already being implemented.
The existing Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program has already operated for Academic Year 2026–2027.
The proposed Presidential Merit Scholarship framework is intended to institutionalize and build on that program once the necessary legislative and implementation steps are completed.
Who Is Qualified for the Presidential Merit Scholarship?
Under the congressional measure ratified in October 2026, the Presidential Merit Scholarship would focus on academically outstanding and technically skilled Filipino students.
However, the requirements are different for the college and technical-vocational tracks.
Presidential Merit College Scholarship Qualifications
Under the proposed Presidential Merit College Scholarship Program, applicants must satisfy the following principal academic requirements:
- Be among the top 1% of Grade 11 students in their school.
- Have a general weighted average (GWA) of at least 95%.
- Meet the applicable Filipino citizenship and educational qualifications.
- Satisfy the annual family income ceiling.
- Pursue an eligible priority degree program in a qualified institution.
- Meet the additional requirements that CHED will establish under the final implementing rules.
The proposed law also establishes an annual family income ceiling of ₱2 million, subject to periodic review and adjustment.
This means that a student’s academic performance will be important, but it will not be the only basis for qualification.
The chosen course, school, and other eligibility requirements will also matter.
Presidential Merit Technical Scholarship Qualifications
For the proposed Presidential Merit Technical Scholarship Program, the academic threshold is different.
Applicants must have a general weighted average of at least 90%, along with the other eligibility requirements established for the technical scholarship track.
This program would support students interested in technical-vocational education, particularly programs aligned with occupations where the Philippines needs more trained workers.
Specific requirements for eligible training institutions, programs, and other qualifications will depend on the final law and TESDA’s implementation guidelines.
Does Family Income Matter?
Yes.
The proposed Presidential Merit Scholarship framework includes a combined annual family income ceiling of ₱2 million.
The threshold is subject to future review and adjustment.
The measure also provides preference for equally qualified applicants from socioeconomically disadvantaged households and underrepresented communities.
For example, if two applicants meet the required academic standards, the scholarship’s selection framework may give additional consideration to their financial circumstances or geographic backgrounds.
However, students should not assume that meeting the income requirement automatically guarantees a scholarship.
The program remains merit-based, and applicants must meet the other prescribed qualifications.
Presidential Merit Scholarship Benefits: How Much Can Students Receive?
One of the most attractive features of the proposed scholarship is its comprehensive financial assistance.
Rather than focusing only on tuition, the proposed program recognizes that students face many other costs while pursuing their education.
Under the congressional measure, benefits may cover the following expenses.
1. Tuition and Other School Fees
Qualified scholars may receive financial assistance for tuition and other authorized education expenses.
This can help reduce the amount students and their families need to pay directly to colleges, universities, or eligible training institutions.
The amount and payment arrangements will depend on the applicable guidelines.
2. Living Allowance
Students may receive support for living expenses while pursuing their studies.
This is particularly important for scholars who need to live away from their families.
For example, a student from a province who enrolls in a university in Metro Manila may face expenses for meals, accommodation, and other daily necessities.
Living assistance could help reduce these financial pressures.
3. Books and Learning Materials
The scholarship may provide assistance for books, reference materials, and other required educational resources.
These costs can accumulate during a school year, especially in degree programs requiring specialized materials.
4. Internet and Connectivity Allowance
The proposed program includes connectivity-related expenses among the forms of assistance available to scholars.
This recognizes the importance of reliable internet access in modern education.
Students often need connectivity for research, online learning platforms, assignments, and communication with instructors.
5. Transportation Assistance
Transportation support may be provided when applicable.
This could benefit students who regularly travel between home and school or training facilities.
The exact coverage will depend on the program guidelines.
6. Room and Board
Accommodation and related living expenses may also be covered under the proposed scholarship framework.
This would be particularly relevant for students studying away from home.
7. Laboratory and Other Education-Related Expenses
Some courses require laboratory activities, specialized equipment, and additional educational materials.
The proposed scholarship framework recognizes these costs as potentially eligible expenses.
8. Additional Assistance for Disadvantaged Students
The measure also allows additional stipends for scholars from geographically disadvantaged areas and marginalized communities.
These benefits would be determined through the applicable program rules.
Importantly, the congressional measure provides for periodic adjustments to scholarship benefits based on inflation and the prevailing cost of education.
CHED and TESDA would coordinate with the Department of Budget and Management regarding these adjustments.
The proposed law does not establish one universal scholarship amount for every student. Final assistance levels will depend on the approved rules, educational track, institution, and applicable expenses.
How Much Is the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship for 2026–2027?
For students asking about actual scholarship amounts already announced for Academic Year 2026–2027, it is important to look at the existing Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program.
In January 2026, CHED announced illustrative benefit packages based on the type and location of the higher education institution.
For scholars studying at state universities and colleges in Metro Manila, CHED described a package of:
- ₱25,000 stipend per semester
- ₱4,000 allowance for books and connectivity per semester
- ₱29,000 total support per semester
For students attending eligible private universities in Metro Manila, CHED described a package that could include:
- ₱75,000 tuition subsidy per semester
- ₱25,000 stipend per semester
- ₱4,000 books and connectivity allowance per semester
- ₱104,000 total support per semester
This corresponds to a potential annual package of ₱208,000 for the NCR private-university example.
CHED also announced a ₱98,000 annual package for certain scholars in private universities outside Metro Manila.
However, these are benefit figures described in the government’s January 2026 announcement for the existing BPMSP.
They should not automatically be treated as the final benefit amounts under the proposed Presidential Merit Scholarship Programs Act.
Actual benefits for individual scholars remain subject to their approved scholarship classification and official implementing guidelines.
What Courses Are Covered by the Presidential Merit Scholarship?
The proposed program prioritizes courses aligned with industries and occupations considered important to national development.
This means the scholarship is not necessarily available for every college course.
Based on the October 2026 congressional announcement, priority fields include:
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
STEM-related degree programs are among the identified priority fields.
These fields help develop professionals for research, engineering, industrial development, and technical occupations.
Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence
The proposed scholarship also prioritizes computing, information technology, artificial intelligence, and data science.
These fields are particularly relevant as the Philippines expands its digital economy and technology workforce.
Healthcare and Allied Health Sciences
Healthcare programs are included among the priority sectors.
These may involve disciplines that help address the country’s demand for qualified healthcare professionals.
Students should still check the official priority list before assuming that a particular healthcare course is covered.
Agriculture, Fisheries and Environmental Science
The measure also prioritizes agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and environmental sciences.
These disciplines support food production, resource management, environmental protection, and related industries.
Teacher Education
Teacher education is another priority area.
The proposed measure specifically identifies programs associated with early childhood education and special needs education.
Advanced Manufacturing, Research and Innovation
The program would also support studies associated with advanced manufacturing, scientific research, and innovation.
These fields are connected to efforts to strengthen domestic industries and develop specialized technical expertise.
Other Critical Sectors
Additional programs may be identified by CHED and TESDA based on labor-market needs and national development priorities.
Students should review the official priority course lists before applying.
How to Apply for the Presidential Merit Scholarship
As of October 11, 2026, a separate application portal and opening date for the proposed permanent Presidential Merit Scholarship Programs have not been verified.
However, the existing Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program has an official application portal administered through CHED.
For Academic Year 2026–2027, applications opened on April 30, 2026, with a stated deadline of June 30, 2026, or until available slots were filled.
That application period has already passed.
Students interested in future scholarship opportunities can prepare by understanding the application process used for the existing program.
Step 1: Check the Official CHED Scholarship Announcements
Visit the official CHED website or scholarship portal.
The BPMSP portal is available at:
Students should check whether the next application period has officially opened.
Avoid submitting personal information through websites that are not recognized by CHED or TESDA.
Step 2: Check Your Academic Qualifications
Review your academic records to determine whether you meet the scholarship’s grade requirements.
For the proposed Presidential Merit College Scholarship, the congressional measure specifies a top 1% Grade 11 ranking and a minimum GWA of 95%.
However, the existing 2026–2027 BPMSP used different qualifications.
Applicants for the BPMSP higher education track could qualify by ranking among the top five in their class or obtaining a GWA of at least 95%, subject to the other requirements.
Students should pay attention to which scholarship program and application year they are applying for.
Step 3: Choose an Eligible Course and School
Check whether your intended degree program and college or university are included in the official priority lists.
For the existing BPMSP, CHED provides a directory of priority programs and eligible higher education institutions through its scholarship portal.
Students who wish to change their declared school or course should coordinate with the relevant CHED Regional Office.
Step 4: Prepare the Required Documents
The exact requirements for the proposed Presidential Merit Scholarship will be established through the final implementing guidelines.
However, students preparing for future applications may want to keep the following documents readily available:
- School records and report cards
- Proof of academic ranking or honors
- Valid identification or proof of identity
- Proof of Filipino citizenship, when required
- Parent or guardian income documents
- Certificate of admission or enrollment, if required
- Other scholarship-specific documents requested by CHED or TESDA
This is a preparation checklist, not an officially finalized list of PMSP application requirements.
Step 5: Complete the Official Application
Once an official application window opens, follow the instructions issued by CHED or TESDA.
For the existing BPMSP higher education track, the process involved online registration and submission of required documents.
Applicants should make sure that all personal, school, course, and income information is accurate.
Step 6: Wait for Evaluation and Validation
Submitting an application does not automatically mean a student has been awarded a scholarship.
Applications must undergo eligibility review, documentation checks, and selection procedures.
For the 2026–2027 BPMSP, CHED Regional Offices were tasked with evaluating and validating applications.
Students should monitor official communication channels and respond promptly if additional information is requested.
Step 7: Follow Scholarship Award and Enrollment Instructions
Successful applicants should carefully review the terms of their scholarship award.
This includes applicable academic requirements, covered expenses, reporting obligations, and other conditions.
Students should not assume that benefits will be released immediately upon submitting an application.
The actual release process will depend on official scholarship procedures.
Presidential Merit Scholarship vs. Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship: What’s the Difference?
The two programs are closely related, but they should not be treated as completely identical.
The Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program is the existing scholarship initiative launched in 2026.
The Presidential Merit Scholarship Programs Act, meanwhile, is proposed legislation intended to institutionalize scholarship support within a permanent national framework.
Here’s a comparison.
| Feature | Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship | Proposed Presidential Merit Scholarship |
|---|---|---|
| Status as of Oct. 11, 2026 | Existing program | Congress-ratified bill awaiting confirmed presidential action |
| College Track Administrator | CHED | CHED |
| Technical Track Administrator | TESDA | TESDA |
| Academic Qualification for College | Top five in class or at least 95% GWA | Top 1% of Grade 11 students and at least 95% GWA |
| Family Income Ceiling | ₱2 million annually | ₱2 million annually, subject to review |
| Covered Programs | Approved priority programs | Priority college and technical programs |
| Financial Benefits | Established under BPMSP guidelines | To be finalized under the law and implementing rules |
| 2026–2027 Applications | Closed under the announced June 30 deadline | No separate confirmed application window |
The proposed legislation also contains transitional provisions intended to protect existing BPMSP scholars.
According to the October 8 announcement from EDCOM 2, current BPMSP scholars would continue receiving benefits under their previously granted terms, while pending applications would be processed under the new law and implementing rules once applicable.
How Many Presidential Merit Scholarship Slots Are Available?
For Academic Year 2026–2027, CHED announced 20,000 available scholarship slots under the existing Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program.
Demand for the program was substantial.
According to EDCOM 2’s October 8, 2026 report, CHED received 31,390 BPMSP applications.
Of those, 30,101 applicants met the academic eligibility requirements.
However, only 20,000 slots were available.
That left 10,101 academically eligible applicants who could not be accommodated within the announced number of slots.
These figures show that strong academic performance alone does not guarantee a scholarship award when the number of qualified applicants exceeds available funding.
For future Presidential Merit Scholarship implementation, the final number of annual slots will depend on applicable appropriations and program rules.
Students should not assume that the 20,000-slot allocation for the 2026–2027 BPMSP will automatically apply to every future scholarship cycle.
Will Presidential Merit Scholars Be Required to Work in the Philippines?
Under the proposed legislation, yes.
The congressional measure includes a service component called “Galing Para Sa Bayan.”
This would require scholars to render service in the Philippines for a period equivalent to the number of years of scholarship assistance they received.
The service period would begin within one year of graduation, subject to the applicable rules.
For example, a student who receives four years of scholarship assistance could be required to complete four years of qualifying service in the Philippines.
However, this does not necessarily mean every graduate must work for a government office.
The proposed service component recognizes several forms of professional activity, including:
- Government employment
- Private-sector employment aligned with national development priorities
- Teaching and education
- Healthcare services
- Agriculture and related industries
- Science, technology, and innovation
- Research and development
- Environmental sustainability
- Community development
The exact qualifications for acceptable service would be determined through implementation guidelines.
This provision is intended to connect government scholarship investments with the country’s long-term development needs.
Students considering the program should review the service requirements carefully before accepting an award once the rules are finalized.
Will Existing Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholars Lose Their Benefits?
According to the congressional measure ratified in October 2026, existing BPMSP scholars are intended to remain protected during the transition.
EDCOM 2 explained that current scholars would continue receiving their previously granted benefits.
This is an important provision because students who have already qualified under the 2026–2027 scholarship program should not have to assume that a new scholarship law automatically cancels their awards.
However, the detailed transition process will depend on the enacted legislation and implementing rules.
Current scholars should continue complying with their existing scholarship agreements and official CHED instructions.
Those with pending applications should coordinate with their CHED Regional Office regarding their status.
How to Check Your Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Application Status
If you already submitted an application for Academic Year 2026–2027, you may be wondering whether your documents have been approved.
CHED’s July 16 advisory confirmed that applications were being evaluated and validated by its regional offices.
The commission instructed applicants to coordinate with the CHED Regional Office responsible for the permanent address indicated in their application.
Here are the practical steps you can take:
- Visit the official BPMSP scholarship portal.
- Review any announcements about application evaluation and validation.
- Check the email address and contact details you provided during registration.
- Contact the CHED Regional Office responsible for your application.
- Prepare your application reference information and other relevant details.
- Follow any additional instructions given by CHED.
Avoid relying on unofficial social media posts claiming to contain complete lists of successful applicants unless the information can be verified through government channels.
Likewise, do not pay individuals promising to secure scholarship approval.
Scholarship awards are subject to official government evaluation and selection procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Presidential Merit Scholarship 2026–2027
1. What is the Presidential Merit Scholarship Program?
It is a proposed national scholarship framework intended to support academically outstanding and technically skilled Filipino students pursuing priority college and technical-vocational programs.
2. Is the Presidential Merit Scholarship already a law?
As of October 11, 2026, Congress has ratified the bicameral conference committee report, but presidential enactment has not been confirmed in the latest verified official announcements.
3. Is the Presidential Merit Scholarship open for applications?
No separate application period for the proposed permanent Presidential Merit Scholarship Programs has been verified.
The related Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship accepted applications for Academic Year 2026–2027, with an announced deadline of June 30, 2026.
4. What grade is required for the Presidential Merit Scholarship?
Under the proposed Presidential Merit College Scholarship, applicants must rank within the top 1% of Grade 11 students in their school and have a GWA of at least 95%.
The proposed technical scholarship track has a minimum GWA requirement of 90%, along with other qualifications.
5. What is the family income limit?
The proposed scholarship includes a combined annual family income ceiling of ₱2 million, subject to periodic review and adjustment.
6. Is the Presidential Merit Scholarship available to private school graduates?
The scholarship initiative is intended to support qualified Filipino students, including eligible graduates of public and private senior high schools.
Applicants must still satisfy the applicable academic and other qualifications.
7. How much is the scholarship allowance?
The proposed Presidential Merit Scholarship may cover tuition, school fees, living expenses, books, connectivity, transportation, and other education-related costs.
Final benefit amounts under the proposed permanent program have not yet been established through confirmed implementing rules.
8. What courses are covered?
Priority fields include STEM, computing, information technology, artificial intelligence, healthcare, agriculture, teacher education, research, innovation, and other critical sectors.
The final course list will depend on the relevant CHED or TESDA guidelines.
9. Can current college students apply?
The original BPMSP higher education track for 2026–2027 targeted incoming first-year college students with no previous college units.
Eligibility for the proposed permanent Presidential Merit Scholarship will depend on the final legislation and implementing rules.
10. How many scholarship slots are available?
CHED announced 20,000 slots under the existing BPMSP for Academic Year 2026–2027.
The number of future Presidential Merit Scholarship slots has not yet been definitively established.
11. Will scholars be required to work in the Philippines?
The proposed legislation includes a service requirement equivalent to the years of scholarship assistance received.
Qualifying service may include public-sector or private-sector work aligned with national development priorities.
12. Will existing BPMSP scholars continue receiving financial support?
The proposed legislation includes transitional protections allowing existing BPMSP scholars to continue receiving the benefits previously awarded to them.
13. Where can students find official announcements?
Students can check the official websites of CHED, TESDA, DepEd, and the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship portal.
For pending applications, the relevant CHED Regional Office is also an important source of information.
Final Thoughts
For many Filipino families, sending a child to college is a major financial commitment.
Even when tuition is affordable or subsidized, students still need money for transportation, food, books, internet access, school projects, and sometimes accommodation.
That’s why developments involving the Presidential Merit Scholarship are worth watching.
The proposed program aims to provide more comprehensive financial assistance to academically outstanding and technically skilled Filipino students, particularly those pursuing fields that support the country’s long-term development.
And with Congress ratifying the scholarship bill in October 2026, the proposed permanent framework has reached an important legislative milestone.
However, students should remember that congressional ratification is not the same as confirmed implementation.
As of October 11, 2026, the existing Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program remains the relevant program for students who applied for Academic Year 2026–2027.
The proposed Presidential Merit Scholarship is intended to build on that initiative once the necessary legal and administrative steps are completed.
For students who already applied, continue checking official CHED announcements and coordinate with your regional office when necessary.
For those preparing for future applications, focus on maintaining strong academic performance, researching priority courses, and keeping your educational documents organized.
And most importantly, make sure you’re following the correct scholarship requirements for the application year.
After all, government scholarships are not simply about receiving financial assistance. They can also help students gain the education, skills, and opportunities needed to build better futures for themselves, their families, and their communities.
