CHED Updates TES Guidelines: TES Benefits to Be Released Within 15 Working Days in 2026
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has released the 2026 Revised Guidelines for the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES), introducing a shorter timeline for the release of TES benefits to qualified and validated grantees.
Under the revised guidelines, CHED Regional Offices (CHEDROs) and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are now required to release TES benefits to students within 15 working days after receiving the funds.
The update aims to improve the timely distribution of TES allowances and strengthen accountability in the disbursement process.
What is the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES)?
The Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) is a government financial assistance program that provides educational support to qualified students enrolled in public and selected private higher education institutions.
The subsidy helps students with their education-related expenses, including tuition and other school costs, subject to the program’s guidelines.
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What Changed in the 2026 TES Guidelines?
According to the revised guidelines, the release period for TES benefits has been shortened.
Previously, under the 2024 TES Guidelines, Higher Education Institutions were given 30 calendar days to release the funds after receiving them.
Under the 2026 Revised Guidelines, CHED Regional Offices or Higher Education Institutions must now release the TES benefits within 15 working days upon receipt of the funds.
When Will the 15-Working-Day Period Start?
Students should note that the 15-working-day period does not begin from:
- Submission of application
- Approval of application
- Posting of qualified TES grantees
Instead, the countdown starts only after the concerned CHED Regional Office or Higher Education Institution has officially received the TES funds.
How Will TES Benefits Be Released?
The revised guidelines provide the order of disbursement of TES benefits:
- Direct credit to the grantee’s bank account through LDDAP-ADA
- Check payment, if applicable
- Payment through the Higher Education Institution (HEI), if necessary
CHED also requires CHED Regional Offices or Higher Education Institutions to submit a Certification of Completed Disbursement within seven working days after the release of the TES benefits.
Reminder for TES Grantees
Students who are waiting for their TES allowance are encouraged to coordinate with their school’s Scholarship or Financial Assistance Office for updates regarding:
- TES validation
- Receipt of TES funds
- Release schedule of allowances
The revised guidelines provide a clearer timeline for the release of TES benefits once the funds have already been received by the concerned CHEDRO or HEI.
