The Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST) is a significant component of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in the Philippines.What is the Meaning of UNIFAST – Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education Its primary objective is to offer various scholarship grants to tertiary students. UniFAST operates as one of the programs governed by Republic Act 10931, commonly referred to as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act.
UniFAST was established to address the issue of many students in the Philippines being unable to complete their college education due to financial constraints. It serves as a government agency dedicated to providing scholarships and financial assistance to students who aspire to pursue higher education but lack the financial means to do so.
Among the programs and services offered by UniFAST are the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) program and the Free Higher Education program. The TES program aims to provide financial assistance to eligible students enrolled in undergraduate programs in both public and private higher education institutions. This assistance covers various educational expenses, including tuition fees, books, transportation, and other miscellaneous fees.
The Free Higher Education program is another initiative under UniFAST that offers tuition-free education to eligible students in state universities and colleges (SUCs), local universities and colleges (LUCs), and technical-vocational institutions.
Both the TES program and the Free Higher Education program play a vital role in ensuring that deserving students have access to quality tertiary education regardless of their financial background. These initiatives strive to alleviate the burden of educational expenses and create opportunities for students to complete their college education and achieve their academic goals.
Overview
“The government provides an allowance budget to UniFAST, which is allocated for various programs aimed at supporting students. One of these programs is the provision of free tuition and miscellaneous fees for student grantees. What makes these programs commendable is that they extend their support to both public and private school students, as well as universities, colleges, and institutions accredited by CHED (Commission on Higher Education).
The UniFAST Central Office has effectively utilized 99.97 percent of its PHP3 billion allotment for Free Higher Education in State Universities and Colleges, as well as CHED-recognized local universities and colleges. Additionally, UniFAST offers the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) to new grantees. Meanwhile, the CHED Regional Offices have utilized 99.39 percent of their respective allotments for these programs.”
What is the meaning of UNIFAST?
UNIFAST is an acronym for Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education.
What is UNIFAST?
UniFAST, or the Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education, is indeed connected to CHED (Commission on Higher Education) and is known as the major implementer of the Republic Act 10931, also known as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Law’s Free Higher Education (FHE) and Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) programs.
The UniFAST Act, or Republic Act No. 10687, was enacted in 2015. It established the UniFAST Board, which is responsible for the development of scholarships, grants-in-aid, student loans, and other specialized types of Student Financial Assistance Programs (StuFAPs). The UniFAST Board works closely with CHED in implementing these programs to ensure that eligible students have access to quality tertiary education through financial assistance.
Purpose of UNIFAST
The UniFAST initiative aims to bind, develop, strengthen, and expand all government-funded modalities of Student Financial Help Programs for tertiary education, which includes providing special purpose education assistance to both public and private institutions.
UniFAST focuses on consolidating and enhancing the existing programs that provide financial aid to students pursuing higher education. These programs are designed to alleviate the financial burden on students and enable them to access quality education.
Through UniFAST, the government aims to streamline and improve the efficiency of student financial assistance programs. This involves coordinating with various government agencies, educational institutions, and other stakeholders to ensure a more cohesive and effective system.
Additionally, UniFAST seeks to expand the reach of financial aid programs to include both public and private institutions. This means that students enrolled in any accredited tertiary education institution, regardless of whether it is publicly or privately funded, can benefit from the financial assistance provided under UniFAST.
Overall, the goal of UniFAST is to create a more inclusive and accessible higher education system by strengthening and expanding the government-funded modalities of Student Financial Help Programs, ultimately enabling more students to pursue their rtiary education goals.
Assistance for Special Education
UniFAST’s “Special Purpose Education Assistance” program provides funding for research and scientific projects sponsored by StuFAPs (Student Financial Assistance Programs) at the college, master’s, and doctoral levels. The program is particularly focused on supporting the following areas:
- Research and Study Production, Videography, and Documentation: UniFAST provides financial assistance for research projects that involve the use of digital technology, including the production of videos and documentation. This support helps students carry out their research effectively and present their findings in a comprehensive manner.
- Writing and Publishing of Books, Manuscripts, Theses, Dissertations, Scientific, and Technical Journals: UniFAST supports students in writing and publishing their academic works. This includes financial assistance for the production of books, manuscripts, theses, dissertations, and scientific and technical journals. The program recognizes the importance of disseminating research findings and academic knowledge through written publications.
- Creation of Educational and Academic Materials, Science Models: UniFAST provides funding for the development and creation of educational and academic materials. This support enables students to create instructional resources, such as textbooks, study guides, and other materials that enhance the learning experience. Additionally, the program assists in the production of science models, which are visual representations or physical prototypes used to explain scientific concepts.
By providing financial assistance in these areas, UniFAST aims to encourage research, academic writing, and the development of educational resources among students pursuing higher education. The program recognizes the value of these activities in advancing knowledge and promoting academic excellence.
List of UNIFAST Programs
Check out this list of programs under UNIFAST:
1. R.A. 10931 or Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act
The statement you provided is referring to the Republic Act No. 10931, also known as the “Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act.” This act was indeed signed into law by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on August 3, 2017.
The purpose of this act is to promote universal access to quality tertiary education in the Philippines by providing free tuition and other school fees in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs), and State-Run Technical-Vocational Institutions (TVIs). It aims to ensure that qualified students have the opportunity to pursue higher education without being hindered by financial constraints.
In addition to free tuition and other school fees, the law also provides for the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) and the Student Loan Program (SLP). The TES is a financial assistance program that provides a stipend for eligible students to cover costs such as books, transportation, and living expenses. The SLP, on the other hand, offers loan opportunities for students who may need additional financial support to pursue their tertiary education.
The Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act is a significant milestone in the Philippines’ education system, aiming to make higher education more accessible and affordable for Filipino students.
2. Free Higher Education
The Peraphase you provided appears to be a summary or paraphrase of a policy or program related to free tuition and financial support for Filipino undergraduates enrolled in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and Commission on Higher Education (CHED)-recognized Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs). Here’s a further breakdown of the paraphrased statement:
- Eligibility: The policy applies to all Filipino undergraduate students who are enrolled in SUCs and CHED-recognized LUCs.
- Free Tuition: Eligible students will receive free tuition fees for their education, meaning they will not have to pay for their tuition costs.
- Financial Support: In addition to free tuition, the program may also provide other forms of financial assistance to support students in their schooling. These additional support mechanisms could include scholarships, grants, or allowances.
- Admission and Retention Rules: Students must pass or meet the admission and retention rules set by the institution they are enrolled in. These rules may include academic performance criteria, specific course requirements, or other guidelines.
- No Age or Financial Requirements: The policy does not have any age restrictions or financial requirements for eligibility. This means that both younger and older students, regardless of their financial situation, can avail themselves of the benefits.
- No Previous Undergraduate Degree: Students who have already obtained a previous undergraduate degree are not eligible for the program. This program is specifically targeted towards individuals pursuing their first undergraduate degree.
- Maximum Residency Rule: There may be a stipulation that students must not exceed a certain duration of study or residency at the institution. This rule aims to encourage timely completion of undergraduate programs.
- Grace Period: The policy may allow for an additional one-year grace period, as provided by law, to accommodate unforeseen circumstances or exceptional situations that may affect a student’s completion of their degree within the maximum residency rule.
Please note that the provided information is based on the given paraphrase and should be considered as a general understanding. The actual details and specific requirements of such a policy may vary depending on the country, government regulations, or specific institution implementing the program.
3. Tertiary Education Subsidy
TES is a grant-in-aid program of the government that offers a percentage coverage for a student who is in college.
4. Student Loan Program
UniFAS offers two types of student loans: short-term SLP and long-term SLP. However, there are certain limitations for the Academic Year 2018-2019. During this period, students are only eligible to apply for a short-term SLP for undergraduate courses. Additionally, the loan can be used to cover expenses related to licensure examinations and graduate education, such as medicine and law.
5. Free Tech-Voc Education and Training
TESDA will also provide special programs and projects to support specific sectors and groups. These programs may include:
- Special Training for Employment Program (STEP): This program aims to provide skills training and employment opportunities for specific target beneficiaries, such as out-of-school youth, women, indigenous peoples, and persons with disabilities.
- Barangay Kasanayan para sa Kabuhayan at Kapayapaan (BKKK): This program focuses on providing skills training to individuals in barangays (local communities) to enhance their livelihood opportunities and promote peace and development at the grassroots level.
- Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP): The TWSP provides scholarships to eligible individuals for various technical-vocational courses identified as in-demand occupations. This program aims to address the skills gaps in priority industries and increase the employability of the workforce.
- Special Skills Training Program for OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers): TESDA offers specialized skills training programs for returning overseas Filipino workers to enhance their skills and improve their employment prospects in the local job market.
- Dual Training System (DTS): The DTS is a work-based training program that combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training. It aims to provide learners with practical skills and industry exposure, leading to better employment opportunities.
These special programs and projects are designed to cater to the specific needs of different sectors and contribute to the overall development of the Filipino workforce.
6. Land Bank of the Philippines
Recently, the Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) launched the LANDBANK Mastercard Prepaid Card (LMPC) in collaboration with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST). This initiative aims to support the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) Program by providing TES beneficiaries with a reloadable general-purpose card that functions as an electronic wallet, debit card, and ATM card.
The LMPC offers several benefits to TES recipients, including accessibility, convenience, and enhanced security. It enables cashless payments, electronic fund transfers, and online account management, catering to the growing need for safer and digital financial solutions. By providing these services, the government aims to address the demand for secure financial options for student grantees.
Moreover, the LMPC incorporates features such as 3D Security for secure online transactions and contactless “tap” payments. These features enhance the security of online transactions and provide a convenient and efficient payment method. Additionally, TES recipients can reload funds onto their LMPC at any LANDBANK branch or Agent Banking Partner across the country.
The introduction of the LMPC aligns with the government’s efforts to combat corruption and ensure that students receive the exact amount of support intended from the government. By utilizing the prepaid card system, the government can provide a transparent and accountable mechanism for delivering financial assistance to TES beneficiaries.
Overall, the LANDBANK Mastercard Prepaid Card for the Tertiary Education Subsidy Program offers TES recipients a secure and convenient financial solution, promoting financial inclusion and supporting the government’s anti-corruption efforts.
7. Tabang OFW
The Tabang OFW program is a Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) specifically designed for dependents of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who are currently enrolled in college. Each eligible beneficiary of an OFW will receive a one-time financial assistance of PHP 30,000. This amount can be used by the beneficiary to cover their educational expenses and other related costs.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST) entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on September 25, 2020, to establish the Tabang OFW program. They also jointly issued the Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2020-03, which paved the way for the immediate implementation of the program.
It is important to note that the Tabang OFW program is specifically intended for college-level dependents of OFWs. It aims to provide support to Filipino citizens who were working abroad but have been affected by circumstances such as job loss, repatriation, or death due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Each qualified OFW can be considered for one college-level dependent to benefit from the program.
8. Film Development Council of the Philippines
The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) is the national institution responsible for the development, implementation, and oversight of policies and programs aimed at fostering the economic, cultural, and educational advancement of the Philippine film industry.
The FDCP plays a vital role in supporting and promoting the growth of the Philippine film industry both domestically and internationally. It collaborates with various stakeholders, including filmmakers, producers, distributors, exhibitors, and other industry professionals, to create an environment conducive to the industry’s progress.
The council focuses on several key areas to achieve its objectives. Economic development is a significant aspect, as the FDCP aims to enhance the commercial viability of Philippine films and facilitate their distribution and exhibition. This involves providing financial assistance, incentives, and grants to filmmakers and producers, as well as encouraging partnerships and collaborations with local and international entities.
Cultural development is another crucial aspect, where the FDCP seeks to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines through film. It supports the creation of films that reflect the country’s diverse traditions, history, and cultural identity. The council also organizes and promotes various film festivals, screenings, and events to showcase Philippine cinema to a wider audience.
Education and talent development are integral components of the FDCP’s mandate. The council works to enhance the skills and capabilities of filmmakers and other industry professionals through training programs, workshops, and educational initiatives. It also encourages the study and research of Philippine cinema to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the art form.
Furthermore, the FDCP engages in international collaborations and partnerships to expand the reach of Philippine films globally. It represents the Philippines in international film organizations and events, facilitates co-productions with other countries, and promotes the distribution of Philippine films in international markets.
Overall, the Film Development Council of the Philippines serves as a central authority for the development and advancement of the Philippine film industry. Through its comprehensive approach encompassing economic, cultural, and educational aspects, the FDCP strives to nurture a thriving and globally competitive film industry in the Philippines.
9. Pamantasang Pangmalakasan
“As part of the government’s efforts to promote secure and convenient transactions, the establishment of the Pamantasang Pangmalakasan was initiated. This online feature series aims to highlight the implementation of key provisions from Republic Act No. 10931, commonly referred to as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA), Free Higher Education, and Tertiary Education Subsidy programs, in both public and private higher education institutions.”
How to Apply for UniFAST TES
Here’s a helpful guide for Filipino students who want to get financial assistance for college/university via UniFAST TES:
Frequently Asked Questions
Please check out these common questions and answers about the UNIFAST agency:
1. Can I still apply for other government scholarships, such as DOST or City Scholarships, if I already have a TES grant?
The TES guidelines do not contain any limitations. In fact, you can receive other scholarships while receiving a TES grant. However, most of these other government scholarships have rules that prohibit you from applying for other government scholarships or financial help programs like TES. So you need to check the guidelines of your preferred scholarship program to see if they have rules regarding this.
2. How can I benefit from UniFAST?
UniFAST simply brings all the government-funded programs and support for students. It assists both public and private school students by giving them special education assistance. Scholarships are under one umbrella for you as a student.
3. What exactly is Special Education Assistance?
The term “Special Purpose Education Assistance” refers to research and scientific assistance StuFAPs fund college and master’s/doctoral level studies. It involves financial support for the following:
- Creating and publishing books, manuscripts, thesis, and dissertations
- journals of science and technology
- Development of educational and academic materials, as well as scientific research models
- Filming, production, and documentation (through digital technology)
of investigation and research
4. What are the rules to keep your scholarship?
Students must maintain excellent academic standing and complete the return service obligations imposed by SUCs and CHED-accredited LUCs. The return service requirements must be completed within the time frame specified after completing the degree program. Students who willingly opt-out will be excluded from the IRR’s return service requirement. Students who contribute freely to the institution are nonetheless subject to the return service requirement.
5. Who is not qualified for the scholarship given by UniFAST?
Filipinos with a bachelor’s degree and undergraduates who are overstaying their courses and institutions. Students who are not eligible will be charged tuition and other school costs as determined by the SUC and LUC Governing Boards.
6. Is the TES application available for all year levels? Can I apply even if I am in my sophomore year?
TES applications cater to all year levels. If you are qualified and eligible, you can apply for TES even if you are already in your third year. And if you fall into one of the TES Priority Categories and were included in the budgeted ranking you will be considered a TES grantee.
Summary
UniFAST, or the Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education, is a program in the Philippines that aims to provide financial assistance to college students in need. It offers various forms of assistance to help students complete their studies, including grants and scholarships.
One of the key features of UniFAST is the implementation of the Land Bank Mastercard. This allows students to receive their financial aid in the form of cash, which can be accessed through the Mastercard.What is the Meaning of UNIFAST – Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education This system provides convenience and accessibility for students, as they can easily use the funds for their educational expenses.
For Filipino students who are facing financial constraints and struggling to complete their college education, UniFAST can indeed be a valuable resource. By providing financial support, it enables students to continue their studies and achieve their academic goals.
However, it’s important to note that the application process for UniFAST may require patience and effort. Students may need to go through certain procedures and provide necessary documents to prove their eligibility. It’s crucial for students to carefully follow the application guidelines and submit the required paperwork within the specified deadlines.
Ultimately, the effort invested in the application process will be worthwhile, as UniFAST can significantly alleviate financial burdens and provide students with the means to complete their college education. It is a promising initiative that aims to make higher education more accessible and affordable for Filipino students.
