Comillas Foundation - Scholarships for Bachelor Studies

What you get

During your Bachelor’s degree in Hispanic Studies (Grado en Estudios Hispánicos) at CIESE-Fundación Comillas in Comillas, Spain, you will receive your tuition fees waived for one academic year. This institution is affiliated with the University of Cantabria. Depending on your grades and your family’s income, the scholarship will cover either the full or half of your tuition fees. In the best-case scenarios, the university’s tuition fees will also be reimbursed and a housing allowance granted. The highest tier (A1 Extra) is aimed at students with very good grades from low-income families and includes assistance with finding accommodation.

This is a fee waiver rather than a monthly cash payment, so no money will be paid directly to you. You must reapply each year. In return, you must maintain an attendance rate of at least 85%, pass at least 90% of your credit points and carry out up to 60 hours of voluntary work during the year.

Who can apply

• Course: You are studying for a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish Studies at CIESE-Fundación Comillas, or are about to start your studies. This is the only degree programme eligible for funding.
• Grades: Your school or university grade point average determines your placement. If your grade point average is 6 or higher, you may be eligible for a 50% exemption; if it is 8 or higher, you may be eligible for a full exemption. To be eligible for the award for outstanding achievement, you must have a grade point average of at least 8.75 and provide evidence of additional activities such as art, sport or work experience.
• Financial need: Your family income is the second factor. If your income is lower, you are entitled to the higher income bands and the housing allowance.
• Nationality: Open to all nationalities. If you are not a Spanish national, you will need a Spanish residence permit.
• Other funding: This scholarship cannot be combined with any other public or private scholarship.

How to apply

First, apply for the Bachelor’s degree programme or register in advance. Then send the application form and the required documents by email to the Foundation’s secretariat. Current students should apply between 15 June and 5. July; first-year students between 14 July and 20 July. A scholarship committee will carry out a preliminary selection and, where appropriate, invite shortlisted candidates to an interview.

How realistic are your chances?

This funding is highly targeted. It applies exclusively to a Bachelor’s degree programme at a small campus, so the pool of applicants is limited. Each year, 3 places are available for first-year students and 6 for students in higher semesters. Grades are the main criterion, so your prospects are good if you enrol on the programme, meet the grade requirements and apply within the short application window.