Preselected candidates for Beca 18, call 2026, who did not secure a spot in the first phase of the final stage or did not apply, will have another opportunity to continue in the competition. They may participate in the second phase of the selection stage and compete for one of the available scholarships that allow them to pursue a professional career with state support, according to a March 9 announcement by the National Program of Scholarships and Educational Credit (Pronabec) of the Ministry of Education.
This development is significant as it offers more chances for students with high academic performance but limited resources to access higher education. The selection process is divided into two phases: the first awarded 30 percent of the current 5,184 scholarships—1,555 spots—with applications closing on March 6. The remaining 70 percent, or 3,629 scholarships, will be distributed during the second phase. Applications for this round will be accepted virtually and free of charge from April 6 to April 27 through Pronabec’s website.
Only those previously preselected—who achieved top scores on the national preselection exam and received additional points for prioritized conditions—are eligible for this next stage. To remain in contention, applicants must have been admitted to an eligible higher education institution and completed secondary school with high academic achievement according to their application modality.
Scholarships are awarded strictly based on merit within each category and type of institution. Additional points are given to applicants who can prove disability status, choose public institutions prioritized for quality, select campuses in regions with fewer enrolled students, or opt for careers with high labor demand. If vacancies remain after either phase, they will roll over into subsequent rounds; exceptionally, a third application period may be announced if spots are still available.
Minister of Education Erfurt Castillo said winners “will be able to pursue their studies with sustainable economic support from the State.” He also noted ongoing efforts “to obtain a new budget allocation that allows us to increase the number of vacancies.” Castillo added: “Beca 18 is a reward for academic excellence and an opportunity for thousands of young people to become professionals that the country needs.”
The scholarship covers both academic and non-academic costs such as tuition fees, admission exams (for those entering public institutions), food, accommodation, transportation within Peru, study materials (except for children of teachers), laptops, and interprovincial travel expenses.
