Ecuador launches ‘Talento Joven’ scholarship program for 3,200 students

The Ecuadorian government, through the Ministry of Education, Sport and Culture (MINEDEC), has launched the ‘Talento Joven’ national scholarship program for undergraduate studies. The initiative aims to support 3,200 students enrolled in public universities and polytechnic schools across the country to ensure they can complete their higher education.

With an investment exceeding USD 1.8 million, each beneficiary will receive a one-time payment of USD 569.23 for the 2026 academic period. These funds are intended to cover living expenses, including food, housing, basic services, and internal transportation.

The program includes affirmative action mechanisms to prioritize vulnerable groups, such as women victims of gender-based violence, persons with permanent disabilities, high-performance athletes, individuals in situations of extreme poverty, returned Ecuadorian citizens in vulnerable conditions, and members of indigenous peoples and nationalities. Applications are open from September 3 to September 13, 2026, via the official Ministry of Education website.