SEARCA Scholarship for SY 2026-2027 | Now Open

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has officially announced the opening of applications for the SEARCA Scholarship for School Year 2026–2027.

This opportunity is perfect for professionals who dream of pursuing a Master’s or Doctoral degree in Agriculture and related fields, supported by the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA).

About the SEARCA Scholarship

The SEARCA Scholarship Program aims to strengthen leadership and expertise in agriculture across Southeast Asia by providing full graduate study support to deserving scholars.

Through its partnership with CHED, SEARCA offers Filipinos the chance to pursue higher studies in top universities across the region, focusing on programs that drive agricultural transformation, climate resilience, and food security.

Qualifications

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

• Must be 40 years old and below, provided the return service obligation is within the nominee’s serviceable years
• Must be a Philippine government employee with a permanent appointment
• Must have rendered at least two (2) years of service
• Must hold a college degree related to the field of study, or have proven ability and experience in that field
• Must not have any pending scholarship applications under another program
• Must have already completed service obligations from any previous scholarship (as per Executive Order 367)

If you’re a public servant ready to elevate your expertise in agriculture and sustainability — this one’s for you!

Scholarship Benefits

The SEARCA Scholarship is fully funded, covering major expenses throughout your graduate studies, including:

• Full tuition and academic fees
• Research support for thesis/dissertation
• Travel allowance
• Living allowance/stipend
• Health insurance coverage

Your nominating agency will continue to provide your salary for the duration of your scholarship — so you can study without financial worries.

More info at www.searca.org/scholarships

Documentary Requirements

Applicants must prepare the following documents before submission:

1. Letter of Nomination addressed to the CHED Chairperson, signed by the head of your agency or university
2. Certified Copy of Service Record
3. Certified Copy of Statement of Actual Duties and Responsibilities
4. Photocopy of Transcript of Academic Records (Baccalaureate and Graduate, if applicable)
5. Photocopy of Diploma
6. Certification that the nominee has no pending administrative and criminal case
7. Certification that the nominee has no pending scholarship nomination to other program(s)
8. Updated biodata/resume with list of in-service training and seminars attended (spell out acronyms of organizers and topics or subjects of the training programs); certificates of training NEED NOT be submitted)
9. A letter of application addressed to:
   • ATTY. LILY FREIDA M. MILLA, CESO III
     OIC, Office of the Deputy Executive Director
     Director, International Affairs Service
     Commission on Higher Education

Important: All documents must be in English and certified true copies.

More info at https://docs.google.com/requirements/

Application Deadline

Deadline of submission: October 17, 2025 (Friday)

All applications and documents must be submitted to:

• CHED International Affairs Service (IAS)
• Email: ias@ched.gov.ph

Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to apply:

Step 1: Visit the SEARCA online portal

Step 2: Fill out the SEARCA Scholarship Application Form.

Step 3: Upload scanned copies of all required documents.

Step 4: Send a copy of your complete nomination papers to ias@ched.gov.ph

Step 5: Wait for confirmation and updates on your application status.

Final Thought

In a world where innovation meets sustainability, opportunities like the SEARCA Scholarship remind us that education isn’t just about earning a degree — it’s about shaping the future of how we feed, nurture, and protect our planet.

If you’re someone who believes agriculture isn’t “just farming,” but a foundation for community growth, resilience, and progress — then this scholarship is your stage to make an impact.

References

1. CHED International Affairs Service. (2022). Facebook.com. https://www.facebook.com/100064160973690/posts/

Note: We’re not your school’s official scholarship coordinator (except for our partners). Our guides are meant to support your application process, but always follow your institution’s specific requirements and instructions. Read full disclaimer below.

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