Banco de Mexico (FIDERH) - FIDERH Scholarship

What the FIDERH scholarship gives you

FIDERH is a low-interest student loan scheme administered by the Bank of Mexico (Banco de México). It is aimed at Mexican nationals undertaking postgraduate studies either in Mexico or abroad. It covers tuition fees, living costs and health insurance for a specialisation, master’s or doctoral programme lasting at least 9 months. Repayment is spread over 10 years in 40 quarterly instalments at a preferential interest rate. Repayment begins 12 months after completion of your studies, meaning you initially benefit from a grace period. Furthermore, if you are offered a place at University College London (UCL) in the UK, UCL will also cover 10% of your tuition fees. This grant is awarded automatically once you become a FIDERH borrower. This is a loan, not a grant, so you are obliged to repay it.

Who can apply

• Nationality: You are Mexican, whether by birth or by naturalisation.
• Age: You are 50 or younger.
• Degree so far: You have obtained a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with a grade point average of at least 8.0.
• Level funded: You would like to undertake a specialisation programme, a Master’s programme or a PhD programme (for postgraduate students only).
• Field of study: Any topic is fine.
• Where you study: Any university in Mexico or abroad, whether public or private. Teaching must take place on campus or in a hybrid format. Online courses and study programmes lasting less than 9 months are not eligible for funding.
• Admission: You hold an unconditional offer of admission from your chosen university. If you are already studying, you can apply as long as there are still more than 6 months remaining until you complete your degree.
• Language proof: You hold a language certificate that is less than 2 years old. You will need an English language certificate (TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge English or similar), even if your degree programme is taught in Spanish.
• Guarantor: You will need a Mexican guarantor aged between 24 and 65 who lives in Mexico and has a verifiable income and assets.

How to apply

Create a FIDERH account online, complete the loan application form and submit your full set of documents in person or by courier. The application period runs from 2 to 17 July 2026 and is staggered according to the first letter of your surname. At the same time, apply directly to your university, such as UCL, for a place on a degree programme. The results will be published on 21 August 2026.

How realistic are your chances?

This is a repayable loan with fixed conditions: a minimum grade point average of 8.0, a confirmed place at university, an English language certificate and a qualified Mexican guarantor. The applicants who make it through to the final stage already form a small, self-selected group. If you meet all these requirements and prepare the documents relating to the guarantor and property well in advance, your chances are good. As obtaining these documents takes time, you should start the process early. Please note that funding is subject to the availability of funds, so a complete application is crucial.