The Colombian Government Scholarship 2025, administered by ICETEX, offers fully funded opportunities for international students to pursue Master’s programs in Colombia. This scholarship allows foreign citizens to enhance their academic and cultural development through master’s degree studies in Colombia. The Colombian Government Scholarship 2025 aims to strengthen ties between international students, local communities, universities, and partners. Applicants can choose programs listed in the official Academic Offer Catalogue 2025-2, available at both public and private Colombian institutions.
The Colombian Government Scholarship covers tuition fees, health insurance, visa costs, living expenses, and more. The scholarship covers a maximum of 24 months (4 academic semesters), while programs lasting 3 semesters are covered for up to 18 months, as outlined in the academic offer. The application deadline is 13th June 2025.
Universities/Institutions
- Funded by: ICETEX
- Host Country: Colombia
- Host Universities: Available at both public and private Colombian institutions.
- Degree Level: Master’s
- Duration: Maximum of 24 months (4 academic semesters), while programs lasting 3 semesters are covered for up to 18 months
Study Areas
The Colombian Government Scholarship encompasses a wide range of fields, including but not limited to:
- Engineering
- Social Sciences
- Health Sciences
- Arts and Humanities
- Natural Sciences
- Agricultural Sciences
For a detailed list of programs and universities, refer to the official Academic Offer Catalog.
Colombian Government Scholarship Benefits
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage by the host Colombian university
- Health Insurance: Covers medical and hospital assistance in Colombia (not including medications and consultation fees)
- Courtesy Visa: Visa support for the scholarship period (recipient only)
- Monthly Stipend: Equivalent to three minimum Colombian legal monthly wages (updated annually)
- Foreigner ID Card: One-time payment of COP 250,000 for ID card processing
Scholarship Renewal Requirements (Every Semester)
- Renewal request letter
- Updated academic transcript with a GPA of at least 4.0/5.0
- Experience report signed by academic tutor or director
- Enrollment certificate from the institution
Benefits Not Included
- Costs of inter-semester courses
- Required language courses
- International internships
Eligibilities for Colombian Government Scholarship
- Foreign citizens under 50 years of age
- Must not hold Colombian nationality (including dual nationality)
- Must not reside in Colombia or have done so in the last 6 months
- Must not have previously received a Beca Colombia scholarship
- Must not be married to or in a domestic partnership with a Colombian citizen
- Must hold a professional, undergraduate, or graduate degree
- Must have a GPA of at least 4.0/5.0 (or equivalent to Colombian scale)
- Must have admission to 1–3 graduate programs listed in the 2025-2 Academic Offer Catalog
- Must be in good physical and mental health, certified by a physician
Selection Criteria (Total 100 Points)
- Academic Excellence (30%)
- GPA 4.8 – 5.0: 30 points
- GPA 4.5 – 4.8: 20 points
- GPA 4.2 – 4.5: 10 points
- GPA 4.0 – 4.2: 5 points
- Professional Experience (30%)
- More than 5 years: 30 points
- 3–5 years: 20 points
- 1–3 years: 10 points
- 1 year: 5 points
- Location of Colombian Educational Institution (20%)
- Small cities (e.g., Bello, Valledupar): 20 points
- Intermediate cities (e.g., Cartagena, Pereira): 10 points
- Large cities (e.g., Bogotá, Cali): 5 points
- Reciprocity from Country of Origin (10%)
- Country offers scholarships to Colombians through ICETEX: 10 points
- No scholarships offered to Colombians: 0 points
Required Documents
- Definitive Admission Letter
- Must be from a Colombian higher education institution.
- Should specify start and end dates (program must begin in the second semester of 2025).
- 1 to 3 letters allowed.
- Copy of University Diploma or Degree
- Certified or notarized copy from the issuing institution.
- Must be a formal university degree (not short courses or workshops).
- Undergraduate/Bachelor’s Degree Transcript
- Must show GPA of at least 4.0/5.0 or equivalent.
- Must include grading scale and weighted average.
- Accepted in Spanish, English, French, or Portuguese. Other languages require official translation.
- Letter of Motivation and Prioritization
- Should explain why you want to study in Colombia and how it benefits your personal and professional development.
- Rank program choices if applying to multiple programs.
- Copy of Valid Passport
- Must be valid for at least one year.
- Include the page showing your personal information and photo.
- Health Certificate
- Issued within 30 days prior to application.
- Must include physical and mental health status, with doctor’s signature and stamp.
- Professional Experience Certificate
- Must demonstrate at least one year of experience post-degree.
- Should include job title, duration, duties, and contract details.
Important Note:
All documents must be uploaded in PDF format on the ICETEX platform. No documents submitted by other means or after the deadline will be accepted.
Colombian Government Scholarship Application Process
- Review the Academic Offer Catalog 2025-2 to select up to three programs.
- Secure admission to the chosen programs.
- Gather all required documents.
- Complete the online application form on the official ICETEX website.
- Applications must be submitted online via:
- Submit the application before 13th June 2025.
- By applying, you confirm that all information and documents are accurate and legitimate.
Tips for Successful Application
- Start the application process early to ensure timely submission.
- Ensure all documents are properly certified and translated if necessary.
- Highlight your academic achievements and professional experiences in your CV and essays.
- Seek strong letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
- Demonstrate a clear motivation for studying in Colombia and how it aligns with your career goals.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Colombia
- Rent (shared apartment): $150 – $300 USD
- Food and groceries: $100 – $200 USD
- Transportation: $20 – $40 USD
- Utilities and internet: $30 – $60 USD
- Personal expenses: $50 – $100 USD
Estimated total per month: $350 – $700 USD depending on the city and lifestyle.
Why Choose This Opportunity?
Opting for the Colombian Government Scholarship 2025 allows you to pursue advanced studies in a diverse and culturally rich environment. With comprehensive financial support, you can focus on your academic and professional development without the burden of financial constraints. Additionally, studying in Colombia offers the chance to immerse yourself in Spanish language and Latin American culture, broadening your global perspective.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is proficiency in Spanish required?
A1: While not mandatory, proficiency in Spanish is beneficial. Some programs may offer Spanish language courses for non-Spanish speakers.
Q2: Can I apply for more than one program?
A2: Yes, applicants can apply for up to three programs listed in the Academic Offer Catalog 2025-2.
Q3: Are there age restrictions?
A3: Yes, applicants must be under 50 years of age at the time of application.
Q4: Do I need to be admitted to a university before applying?
A4: Yes, a final admission letter from a Colombian institution is required for the scholarship application
Q5: What is the duration of the scholarship?
A5: The scholarship covers up to 24 months for Master’s programs, depending on the specific program’s duration.
Official Link for More Details and Application
For comprehensive information and to apply, visit the official ICETEX website:
🔗 Colombian Government Scholarship 2025Study Green+5
