Pura Vida Ministries
Creating a brighter future
for children in Guatemala
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University Sponsorship

Back to Scholarship Resources
University graduates are rare in our program villages. With the increased number in High School graduates coming out of our scholarship program, however, we are seeing much more interest.

Prior or existing Pura Vida students may apply to our university scholarship program each October. If they have been accepted to a university and their original sponsor is able to continue supporting them, they are automatically added to the program.

Student without sponsors may apply for a university scholarship.  We try to find sponsors for the most promising students.  In addition, one new student is sponsored by the HOPE Endowment each year.  Applicants understand that a university scholarship is not guaranteed.

Degree time frames in Guatemala
  • 3 years for "Tecnico" (Associates degree) Not every school offers this degree
    • Qualifies graduate to work as High School teacher, Nurses assistant, Dental Hygienist, Assistant Manager of a business
  • Additional 2 years for "Licenciatura" or "Profesorada" (Bachelors degree)
    • Qualifies graduate to work as Registered Nurse, Social Worker, Lawyer, Engineer, Architect, School Director, University professor, Manager of a business
  • Additional 2 years for "Maestria" (Masters degree)
    • Qualifies graduate to work as Dentist, Medical Doctor, Director of a business

Our Process

Sponsors are asked to initially commit to a 3 year term, which is enough to earn a "Tecnico" degree. If a student displays enough interest and academic ability, sponsors may elect to continue support through advanced degrees. Each term would be a new commitment.

Applicants must take entrance exams in the July - November time frame, depending on the university. Once accepted, enrollment takes place from January 15th through February 15th. The academic year at the university level consists of 2 semesters:
  • Mid-February through mid-June
  • Mid-July through mid-December

​In rural Guatemala university classes are held on weekends. Students use weekdays to both work at a job and study.

Cost
​

Expenses for tuition, books, and supplies are much higher at the university level.  A university student can be sponsored at the rate of $115/month.
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Sebastiana, our first bachelor's degree recipient
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PO Box 843 Salida, CO 81201