Where do learners apply for the ESC?

All eligible learners apply directly in the ESC Participating JHS. All documentary requirements are submitted by the learner to the ESC Participating JHS. Please check this link for the list of eligible learners and the documentary requirements they must prepare for submission to the ESC Participating JHS.

Can learners in upper grade levels (Grade 8 to Grade 10) participate in the ESC as a new grantee?

For SY 2026-2027, learners in the upper grade levels cannot be accepted in the ESC. Accepting new ESC grantees in the upper grade levels require the issuance of a DepEd Order and shall be based on availability of program funds. In SY 2026-2027, DepEd has not released a department order allowing new grantees in the upper grade levels.

Can learners who did not complete or did not enroll in Grade 7 in the previous school year apply in the ESC?

Yes, all incoming Grade 7 learners may apply in the ESC provided that they meet the eligibility criteria set by DepEd.

Can learners residing in other countries apply and participate in the ESC?

No, Filipino learners residing in other countries are not allowed to participate in the ESC. Only Filipino learners residing in the Philippines and enrolled in face-to-face or blended learning modality may apply and participate in the ESC. 

Are public elementary graduates from non-congested public elementary schools or non-congested DepEd Divisions allowed to apply and participate in the ESC under Category B?

Yes, public elementary graduates from non-congested public elementary schools or non-congested DepEd Divisions may apply and eventually participate in the ESC under Category B. Please take note that DepEd has not released the congestion data to the public. Until then, the application of the provision on congestion under Category B applicants shall not apply in SY 2026-2027.

Are ESC grantees currently participating in the program (Grade 8 to Grade 10) required to submit application and supporting documents?

No, all ESC grantees (Grade 8 to Grade 10 grantees) who are currently participating in the program are not required to submit an application or the supporting documents.

Are minors allowed to sign as affiant in the notarized affidavit of family's financial capacity (Annex F)?

The declared parent or guardian in the affidavit of family's financial capacity may sign on behalf of the minor applicant.