The National Scholarship Programme “Carlos Antonio López” (BECAL) has opened its third call for applications for self-managed specialisations abroad. This initiative, promoted by Paraguay’s Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF), makes 130 BECAL scholarships available to Paraguayan professionals seeking to advance their academic training.
The deadline for applications is firmly set for 15:00 on 5 May 2026. This programme represents a significant opportunity for professionals to gain high-level qualifications from leading international institutions without leaving their current roles, as the eligible courses are delivered virtually.
Driving innovation and progress
These scholarships are specifically designed for short-duration programmes, with a maximum length of 12 months. Furthermore, the initiative aims to directly address the evolving demands of the national labour market. Consequently, the focus is on fields of study considered priority areas for the country’s ongoing development. By targeting these strategic sectors, the programme intends to cultivate a highly skilled workforce capable of driving innovation and progress across the Paraguayan economy.
Eligibility criteria for applicants
To be considered for the 130 BECAL scholarships, candidates must be professionals with a minimum of two years of relevant work experience. The programme is open to individuals from both the public and private sectors, though distinct criteria apply to each. For public sector applicants, they must be appointed civil servants, excluding those in positions of trust. Additionally, they must demonstrate that their chosen programme of study is directly aligned with their current professional responsibilities and functions within the government.
Conversely, eligibility for private sector applicants is broader. This category includes formally employed workers, self-employed individuals, and also public employees who are not classified as permanent civil servants. This approach, according to BECAL, ensures that a wide range of professionals can benefit from the opportunity to enhance their skills.
The core requirement for all applicants remains the two-year minimum of work experience, which guarantees that beneficiaries have a solid professional foundation upon which to build their new qualifications.
Funding and financial support
The financial support offered through the BECAL programme varies depending on the applicant’s employment sector. Professionals from the public sector are eligible to receive funding of up to US$8,000. In contrast, those applying from the private sector can receive a maximum of US$5,600. This funding is contingent upon the successful candidate fulfilling all academic and administrative conditions as stipulated in the scholarship contract. These funds are intended to cover the costs associated with the specialised courses, making advanced international education more accessible.
Eligible academic programmes must be delivered virtually by institutions that hold a high position in recognised international rankings. Specifically, the universities must be listed in the such as QS World University Rankings ,
Times Higher Education, or Academic Ranking of World Universities. In addition, all courses must have a minimum duration of 100 hours of instruction.
Strategic areas of study
The 130 BECAL scholarships are targeted towards programmes in strategic areas crucial for national development. These fields include a wide range of disciplines, such as the natural sciences, engineering, and health. Furthermore, courses in agricultural sciences, social sciences, and the humanities are also eligible for funding.
The programme places a particular emphasis on creative and technical disciplines like design and architecture, signalling their importance for Paraguay’s future growth and innovation. This focus helps align advanced training with the country’s long-term strategic goals.
Application requirements and key dates
Among the general application requirements, candidates must hold a university degree. They are also required to submit a detailed programme of studies for their chosen course. All applicants must complete the necessary forms available on the programme’s online portal.
BECAL also clarified that courses offered on massive open online course (MOOC) platforms do not qualify for this scholarship programme. All selected academic programmes must begin between the second semester of 2026 and the first semester of 2027. This provides a clear window for candidates to plan their studies and professional commitments accordingly, ensuring a smooth start to their advanced training.
Applications for over 240 international scholarships under the BECAL programme are also still open, closing at 15:00 on 5 May 2026.
