UNIFAST Program: Free Tuition and School Fees Under RA 10931 (2025)

The Free Higher Education Program in the Philippines under UNIFAST and Republic Act 10931 provides qualified Filipino students with free tuition and exemption from other school fees in State and Local Universities and Colleges. See eligibility, benefits, covered fees, and how to apply.

What Is UNIFAST and Republic Act 10931?

UNIFAST, which stands for the Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education, is the government agency in charge of implementing Republic Act No. 10931, also known as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act.

Signed into law in 2017, RA 10931 gives financially disadvantaged Filipino students the opportunity to complete their college education without paying tuition and selected school fees — but only in recognized State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and CHED-recognized Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs).

Who Can Benefit from This Program?

The program is available to eligible undergraduate students currently enrolled or planning to enroll in SUCs or LUCs. Whether you are a freshman or continuing student, you can benefit from this initiative as long as you meet the conditions.

Eligibility Requirements for UNIFAST’s Free Education Program

To be eligible under the UNIFAST Free Higher Education Program, a student must:

1. Be a Filipino citizen

2. Be enrolled in a CHED-recognized SUC or LUC

3. Have no previous undergraduate degree

4. Meet the school’s admission and retention policies

5. Not be overstaying in the program (for example, exceeding the standard program duration by more than one year)

This means that if you are taking a 4-year course, you can stay within the program for up to 5 years — any longer may disqualify you.

What Fees Are Covered Under RA 10931?

Eligible students are completely exempt from paying tuition and a wide range of school fees. Below are the covered fees under this program:

Tuition and 13 Other School Fees (TOSF):

• Tuition fees

• Admission fees

• Entrance fees

• Registration fees

• Library fees

• Laboratory fees

• Computer fees

• Athletic fees

• Medical and Dental fees

• Cultural fees

• Development fees

• School ID fees

• Guidance and counseling fees

• Handbook fees

These are fees that most students usually pay every semester — but under UNIFAST and RA 10931, qualified students pay ₱0.

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Which Schools Are Covered by UNIFAST’s Free Education Program?

The program applies to:

1. State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) – public institutions funded by the national government

2. Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs) – institutions run by LGUs but recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED)

Note: The school must be officially recognized by CHED for the student to be eligible for this benefit.

How to Avail of the Free Tuition Benefit

There’s no need to apply separately if you're qualified. Here’s how it usually works:

1. Enroll in a recognized SUC or LUC.

2. Comply with admission requirements and pass any entrance exams.

3. Submit all required documents (Form 138, PSA birth certificate, etc.).

4. Once enrolled, the school will coordinate directly with UNIFAST to process your free tuition benefit.

5. If eligible, the school will not charge you tuition or the listed school fees.

Some institutions may ask you to fill out a UNIFAST information form — so always check with your school’s scholarship or registrar office.

Benefits of the UNIFAST Free Education Program

• Full exemption from tuition and other school fees

• Encourages academic completion by removing financial barriers

• Helps low-income families send their children to college

• Lowers the risk of dropouts due to financial constraints

• Promotes equal access to education across regions

This law, through UNIFAST, is one of the strongest commitments the Philippine government has made to making education accessible to all.

Important Reminders

• This benefit only applies to the first undergraduate degree

• Students must not be receiving similar tuition assistance from other government programs unless allowed

• Students must maintain academic performance to remain eligible

• If you're unsure whether your school qualifies, contact your school’s UNIFAST coordinator or registrar office

Apply Now via UNIFAST Official Portal

Conclusion

The UNIFAST Free Higher Education Program under RA 10931 is a game-changing initiative that helps thousands of Filipino students every year. By eliminating the cost of tuition and school fees, it opens the door to academic success and a brighter future — especially for students from underprivileged backgrounds.

If you or someone you know is planning to enroll in college, consider applying to a CHED-recognized SUC or LUC and take full advantage of this powerful opportunity.

Disclaimer:
This article is for informational and educational purposes only. We are not affiliated with UNIFAST, CHED, or any university. For official announcements, please refer to your school or the official UNIFAST or CHED websites.