Scholarships and Free Online Courses: How to Find and Apply

Studying does not always mean paying. There are scholarships and free courses for young people across Latin America; this guide helps you find them and apply well.

Types of scholarships and free courses

  • University and graduate scholarships, full or partial.
  • Language, exchange and mobility scholarships.
  • Free online courses from platforms and universities, with a free or paid certificate depending on the case.
  • Technical training and digital skills programs.

How to apply for a scholarship

  • Read the full terms: requirements, deadlines and documents.
  • Gather transcripts, recommendation letters and, if required, an essay well in advance.
  • Apply a few days before the deadline, not on the last day.
  • Keep proof that you submitted your application.

How to pick free courses worth your time

Check who teaches it, the syllabus, the length and whether the certificate is free or paid. A free course from a recognized institution adds to your resume and your scholarship applications.

Watch out for scams

Be wary of anyone who charges you to "guarantee" a scholarship or asks for bank details to apply. Legitimate calls are published on the institution's official website.