Ecuador’s Talento Joven program to provide $569 scholarships to 3,200 students

Ecuador has opened applications for a new scholarship program offering 3,200 public-university students a one-time payment of $569.23. Talento Joven is aimed at easing the daily costs that can make it difficult for students to remain in higher education.

Applications opened on Sept. 3 and will remain available until Sept. 13. The program covers students enrolled in undergraduate degree courses at public universities or public polytechnic schools who do not already hold an equivalent academic qualification.

The money applies to the 2026 academic period and can be used for food, housing, basic services and internal transportation. It is not a monthly payment or full funding for a degree. For students who rent a home, commute every day or live away from their hometowns, the grant will cover only part of the cost of studying.

“

The initiative seeks to prevent economic difficulties from forcing young people to abandon their careers.

The government plans to invest more than $1.8 million in the initiative. The Education, Sport and Culture Ministry will prioritize applicants facing vulnerability, including women who have experienced gender-based violence, people with permanent disabilities, high-performance athletes, low-income Ecuadorians, vulnerable Ecuadorian returnees, and members of Indigenous peoples and nationalities.

Education Minister Gilda Alcívar said the program seeks to prevent financial difficulties from forcing young people to abandon their studies. The goal, she said, is to help recipients stay in the classroom and complete their professional training.

“

The objective is for beneficiaries to remain in the classroom and complete their professional training.