In 2023, the Universidade Católica Portuguesa and the Rodrigo Guimarães Institute launched the Rodrigo Guimarães Scholarship Program to support young students from low-income backgrounds in advancing their education. This year, applications are again open for the 2024/2025 academic year, with one scholarship available for an undergraduate student and up to two scholarships for master’s students at CATÓLICA-LISBON. Applications, which can be submitted through this form, are open until November 30.
Joana (a pseudonym), an undergraduate in Business Administration at CATÓLICA-LISBON, is a current scholarship recipient. “The Rodrigo Guimarães Scholarship has been vital for my academic journey, allowing me to focus entirely on my studies and CATÓLICA-LISBON activities. I can actively participate in events, engage in extracurricular activities that complement and enrich my studies, and fully experience academic life,” she shares.
The application and approval process took approximately two months. In addition to the financial support, Joana values the enriching experiences and opportunities the scholarship provides. As an active participant in the “Step Up to Start Up” project, she explains, “Scholars have the privilege of applying the knowledge gained throughout the undergraduate program to practical scenarios, assisting program candidates and bringing us closer to the demands of the job market.”
For Joana, being part of this program serves as extra motivation to make a positive impact. “It’s inspiring to know there is real support for committed students eager to make a difference. This strengthens my determination and reinforces my purpose to contribute to a brighter future, both personally and professionally,” she concludes.
To qualify for the Rodrigo Guimarães Scholarship, students must meet the following requirements:
- Be enrolled for the first time at CATÓLICA-LISBON in an undergraduate or master’s program in Economics or Management;
- Not hold a master’s degree or higher;
- Be enrolled in a minimum of 30 ECTS per semester, except in cases where enrollment in 30 ECTS is not possible;
- Have a per capita family income equal to or less than 18 times the social support index in effect at the start of the academic year, plus the maximum annual tuition fee for the first cycle of higher education in the public sector by current legislation;
- Be a permanent resident in Portugal.
Through this program, the Rodrigo Guimarães Institute aims to inspire young people to continue their studies while promoting the spirit of solidarity that defines the institution’s mission.
View the regulations for undergraduate and master’s degrees here.