CHED SMART Scholarship Grant: Student Monetary Assistance for Recovery and Transition (SMART)

Scholarships provide a valuable pathway for students to access education that might otherwise be out of reach.

Among these opportunities is the CHED SMART Scholarship, officially known as the Student Monetary Assistance for Recovery and Transition (SMART) Program.

This is designed to support students in their educational pursuits, particularly in the wake of challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

CHED SMART grantees
Credits: SIRAK Kabataan / Facebook

What is the CHED SMART Scholarship Financial Assistance?

The CHED SMART Scholarship is a financial aid program established under Republic Act No. 7722, also known as the “Higher Education Act of 1994,” and further supported by CHED Resolution No. 547-2023.

This program provides a one-time financial grant of PHP 25,000 to eligible undergraduate students across various Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the Philippines.

The SMART Program is part of the National Employment Recovery Strategy, aimed at helping students successfully graduate despite the ongoing impact of the pandemic.

How Much Can You Receive?

The SMART Scholarship offers a fixed grant of PHP 25,000 to qualified students.

This financial aid is intended to cover educational expenses such as tuition fees and living allowances, helping students overcome financial barriers to continue their studies during the Academic Year (AY) 2023-2024.

Program Implementation

The CHED Student Monetary Assistance for Recovery and Transition (SMART) program is structured in a top-down manner, beginning with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) at the national level and filtering down through regional offices to reach beneficiary institutions. This organized approach helps the program to be implemented efficiently and consistently across the country.

Policy Formulation and Approval

The implementation process starts with CHED, the national body responsible for higher education in the Philippines. CHED develops the policies and guidelines for the SMART program, including setting eligibility criteria, determining the financial assistance amount, and outlining the application and disbursement procedures. Once these policies are formulated, they are approved by the CHED Board, setting the framework for the program’s execution.

Allocation of Funds

Following policy approval, CHED allocates the necessary funds from its budget, which is provided by the national government. This step is essential in making sure that adequate resources are available to support the program’s implementation across various regions.

Delegation to Regional Offices

CHED then delegates the responsibility of implementing the SMART program to its regional offices, known as CHED Regional Offices (CHEDROs). These offices are tasked with managing the application process, verifying the information provided by applicants, and disbursing funds to eligible students within their respective regions.

Application and Screening

Students interested in applying for the SMART program submit their applications to the CHEDRO in their area. The regional offices screen these applications based on the eligibility criteria set by CHED, making sure that only qualified students are considered for the grant.

Verification and Validation

Once applications are received, CHEDROs conduct thorough verification and validation processes. This step involves checking the authenticity of the documents submitted and confirming the eligibility of each applicant.

Grant Approval and Disbursement

After the verification process, the SMART grant is approved and funds are disbursed to the beneficiaries. The disbursement can occur through various channels, such as direct bank transfers or through partner organizations, depending on what is most effective for the region.

Monitoring and Evaluation

To maintain the program’s effectiveness, CHEDROs continuously monitor the implementation of the SMART program. This includes tracking the progress of beneficiaries, gathering feedback, and conducting periodic evaluations to identify and address any issues that arise during the program’s operation.

Key Roles in the Top-Down Implementation

  • CHED: Sets the policies, allocates funds, and provides overall guidance for the SMART program.
  • CHEDROs: Implement the program at the regional level, managing applications, conducting verifications, and overseeing fund disbursements.
  • Beneficiary Institutions: Receive and manage the funds for their students who qualify for the SMART grant.

Qualifications for the CHED SMART Scholarship

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

  • Filipino Citizenship: Applicants must be Filipino citizens.
  • Income Limit: The combined gross annual income of the applicant’s household (parents or guardians) should not exceed PHP 400,000.
  • Enrollment Status: Applicants must be enrolled in any curricular year of their first undergraduate degree in a CHED-recognized program offered by Private Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs) or State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs) with a Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) for the First Semester, AY 2023-2024.
  • Non-Recipient Status: Applicants must not be receiving any other national government-funded scholarships or educational grants for AY 2023-2024, except for the Free Higher Education (FHE) program under Section 4 of R.A. No. 10931.

Required Documents

To apply for the CHED SMART Scholarship, applicants must submit the following documents:

  • SMART Application Form: This is the main form that needs to be filled out and submitted.
  • Certificate of Registration/Enrollment (CORS/COEs): A certified true copy of your enrollment document as proof of current enrollment.
  • Proof of Income: This can include any of the following:
    • Certificate of Indigency from your Barangay
    • Certificate of Tax Exemption from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)
    • Case Study Report from the City/Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office
    • 2022 BIR Income Tax Return (ITR) showing a combined household gross annual income not exceeding PHP 400,000

CHED SMART Scholarship Sample Application Form

The CHED SMART Scholarship Application Form is a document used by students applying for the Student Monetary Assistance for Recovery and Transition (SMART) Program. This form collects essential personal, educational, and family background information required to assess a student’s eligibility for the scholarship.

Applicants must provide details such as their name, birthdate, contact information, current school, and degree program. Additionally, the form requires information about the applicant’s family, including their parents’ occupation and income. The form also includes a section for the applicant to declare if they are receiving any other financial assistance and requires a certification of the accuracy of the provided information.

ched smart application form-sample

How to Fill Out the CHED SMART Scholarship Application Form

Filling out the CHED SMART Scholarship Application Form correctly is crucial to ensure your application is processed smoothly. Below is a guide to help you complete each section of the form accurately.

  1. Personal Information
    • Name: Enter your full name, including your first name, middle name, and last name. If you have any extensions such as Jr., III, etc., include them.
    • Date of Birth: Provide your birthdate in the format MM/DD/YY.
    • Place of Birth: Indicate the city or town and country where you were born.
    • Sex: Tick the appropriate box for your gender (Male or Female).
    • Civil Status: Specify your current marital status (e.g., Single, Married, etc.).
    • Citizenship: State your citizenship (e.g., Filipino).
    • Mobile Number: Provide your active mobile phone number.
    • E-mail Address: Enter a valid email address that you regularly check.
    • Permanent Address: Provide your permanent home address.
    • Present Address: If your current address is different from your permanent address, provide it here.
  1. Educational Information
    • Name of School: Write the name of the Higher Education Institution (HEI) where you are currently enrolled.
    • School Address: Provide the full address of your school.
    • Degree Program: Specify the degree program or course you are taking (e.g., Bachelor of Science in Information Technology).
  1. Family Background
    • Father’s and Mother’s Status: Indicate whether your parents are living or deceased by checking the appropriate box.
    • Name of Parents or Legal Guardian: Write the full names of your parents or legal guardian.
    • Address: Provide their current address.
    • Occupation: State their occupation or job title.
    • Name of Employer: If applicable, enter the name of their employer.
    • Employer Address: Provide the full address of their workplace.
    • Total Parents Taxable Income: Indicate the combined taxable income of your parents or legal guardian.
    • DSWD 4Ps Beneficiary: Indicate whether your family is a beneficiary of the DSWD’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) by checking “Yes” or “No.”
    • Number of Siblings: State the number of your siblings.
  1. Educational/Financial Assistance
    • Other Sources of Assistance: If you are receiving other sources of educational or financial assistance, specify them here.
  1. Certification and Data Privacy Consent
    • Certification: Read the certification statement carefully. By signing, you confirm that all the information provided is true and accurate. Any misinformation can lead to disqualification from the scholarship.
    • Data Privacy Consent: This section explains your consent to the collection and processing of your personal data by CHED. You are agreeing to this by signing the form.
    • Signature: Sign your name over the printed name and date when the form was accomplished.
  1. Attachments
    • 2×2 ID Picture: Attach a recent 2×2 ID picture in the space provided.
  1. For CHED Use Only
    • Do Not Fill Out: This section is for CHED evaluators to complete. Do not write anything in this part.

Additional Tips

  • Double-Check Your Information: Before submitting your application, ensure all details are correct and complete.
  • Document Submission: Make sure you attach all required documents as listed in the instructions (e.g., Certificate of Registration, Proof of Income).
  • Submission: Submit your fully accomplished form to the CHED Office of Student Development and Services (OSDS) or the CHED Regional Office (CHEDRO) in your area.

By carefully following these instructions, you can help make sure your application is complete and ready for submission.

How to Apply for the CHED SMART Scholarship

The application process for the CHED SMART Scholarship involves several steps, beginning with the submission of your application to the CHED Office of Student Development and Services (OSDS).

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Submission of Application

Submit your completed SMART Application Form along with the required documents to the CHED-OSDS.

Step 2: Application Review

CHED-OSDS will review your application documents, prepare a consolidated list of student-applicants, and create a master list of grantees with corresponding award numbers.

Step 3: Notification

The concerned CHED Regional Offices (CHEDROs) will be notified of the qualified grantees, who will then receive a Notice of Award (NOA).

Procedures for Payout

Once you are selected as a grantee, the financial assistance will be processed as follows:

  • Transfer of Funds from CHED Central Office to CHEDROs: Funds are released to CHEDROs based on the list of grantees endorsed by OSDS.
  • Transfer of Funds to Grantees: CHEDROs will process the financial assistance and issue a cheque to each grantee. Grantees must present a valid school ID or government-issued ID to claim their cheque.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Who is eligible to apply for the CHED SMART Scholarship?
    Eligibility includes Filipino citizenship, enrollment in a CHED-recognized undergraduate program for AY 2023-2024, a household income not exceeding PHP 400,000, and non-receipt of other national government scholarships except for the Free Higher Education program.
  2. What amount does the CHED SMART Scholarship provide?
    The program offers a one-time grant of PHP 25,000 to qualified undergraduate students.
  3. What documents are required to apply for the CHED SMART Scholarship?
    Applicants must submit a SMART Application Form, proof of enrollment, proof of income, and other specified documents.
  4. How are applicants notified of their selection?
    CHED’s Office of Student Development and Services reviews applications, prepares a list of grantees, and issues Notices of Award to successful applicants.
  5. What can the CHED SMART grant be used for?
    The grant may be used to cover educational expenses and living allowances, aiding students in their pursuit of academic success during challenging times.

Recent Updates

120 students in the Second Congressional District of Samar have been awarded CHED SMART Grants to aid their academic pursuits. Congressman Reynolds Michael Tan played a pivotal role in securing these slots for Samarnon college students, ensuring their educational advancement. The distribution, organized by CHED officials, took place in two batches, recognizing students from various local higher education institutions. This significant initiative, part of the National Employment Recovery Strategy, aims to eliminate financial barriers and support students in achieving their academic aspirations during challenging times. Congratulations to all the CHED SMART grant recipients in Samar’s 2nd District!

 

Educational Support for Masbate Students

Cong. Atty. Ricardo “Richard” T. Kho, alongside CHED Region V officials, led the awarding of SMART grants to 66 college students in Masbate. A one-time grant of Php 25,000 was provided to each undergraduate student in the first batch. The ceremony, held at the Provincial Capitol Grounds, emphasized the importance of education and students’ commitment to academic improvement. Cong. Richard Kho and his team, along with CHED Region V and the Provincial Government of Masbate, played a vital role in making this educational support possible.

 

Video: Financial Assistance Program Acknowledgment

According to 1st district Representative of Ilocos Norte Sandro Marcos, 590 recipients were awarded a one-time grant of 25,000 pesos as scholarships. The representative also lauded Mr. Popoy de Vera for leading CHED, and other contributors wo supported the successful allocation of funds to Ilocos Norte. The program’s impact remains substantial, signaling the potential for further funding and expansion.

 

@trixie_torikushii Mapapasanaol ka na lang talaga! Through the initiative of Congressman Sandro Marcos, 596 qualified students were each awarded P25,000 worth of stipend from the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) Student Monetary Assistance for Recovery and Transition (SMART) Grant. Thank you beshy @nala.jpg 🥰🥰🥰#sandromarcos #sandromarcos7 #ferdinandalexandermarcos #congressmansandromarcos #SMARTGRANT #IlocosNorte #fyp #fypシ #tiktok #tiktokph #copylink #BumangonTayoKenSandro  #DistritoUno  #SandroMarcos ♬ original sound  – Trixie Torikushii

Conclusion

The CHED SMART Scholarship is an essential program that provides much-needed financial support to students facing economic challenges, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

By offering a one-time grant, the program helps reduce financial burdens, supports students’ academic recovery, and promotes equitable access to higher education.

For students meeting the eligibility criteria, the CHED SMART Scholarship can be a key resource in achieving educational goals and securing a brighter future.

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