The Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú (PUCP) welcomed 145 new scholarship recipients for the start of the 2026-1 semester, according to a March 27 announcement. The students come from various regions and will pursue different fields of study, but share a commitment to personal growth and contributing to their communities and the country.
Scholarship programs at PUCP aim to broaden educational opportunities and promote academic talent. Ivette Ruiz, head of the Office of Scholarships at the Directorate of Student Affairs (DAES), said: “Las becas que ofrece la PUCP conforman un sistema diverso de apoyo orientado a ampliar oportunidades educativas y promover el talento académico.” These programs include scholarships funded directly by PUCP as well as those co-financed with public and private institutions.
During a ceremony on March 19 in the Social Sciences building, university president Dr. Julio del Valle addressed the new scholars: “La PUCP no solamente se enfoca en formar a los estudiantes como profesionales sino también como buenas personas y ciudadanos. El Perú necesita que se comprometan a contribuir con su crecimiento. La esperanza del país reside en gente como ustedes.” Currently, there are 3,793 scholarship recipients at PUCP.
The Lucet program is one example that recognizes outstanding high school graduates. Karen Goicochea, responsible for Lucet Scholarships, said: “El objetivo del programa Lucet es reconocer y potenciar la capacidad de los jóvenes. La Universidad les brinda los recursos a fin de que se desarrollen de manera integral, y estén preparados para lograr sus objetivos y contribuir con su comunidad, el país y el mundo.” Other scholarships reward academic performance during university studies or address socioeconomic need.
Recipients shared their ambitions for making an impact in Peru. Astrid del Águila wants to help students from provinces adapt to life in Lima and eventually create jobs through her own business: “Quisiera ayudar a que los alumnos de provincia se adapten de mejor manera a la vida en Lima… mi propósito es crear una empresa de alimentos y así generar empleo.” Arelis Lossio hopes her law studies will help build effective anti-corruption laws: “La beca que me ha brindado la PUCP es una gran oportunidad… Buscaré promover nuevas leyes que sean efectivas en la lucha contra la corrupción…”
Beyond financial support, PUCP offers programs like “Creciendo Juntos” that provide personalized guidance and workshops on time management and well-being. The Lucet program also includes mentoring between advanced students and newcomers as well as activities promoting social skills and wellness.
The broader impact of these initiatives is reflected in students’ aspirations—from developing urban projects in underserved areas to advancing automation technologies or supporting women with neurodevelopmental disorders—demonstrating how scholarships can foster both professional achievement and civic engagement.
