An opportunity that transforms
The contest is open to students who are under 20 years of age at the time of registration and who, in 2026, will be enrolled in the 3rd year of upper secondary education (EMS) in any track.
Students from public or private institutions in the Eastern Republic of Uruguay, or from their equivalent at the Directorate of Technical and Vocational Education (DGETP - UTU), are eligible to apply.
Applicants who, by 2025, have completed the 5th year of high school (currently the 2nd year of EMS) with a grade point average of 9 or higher, or its equivalent in UTU, are also eligible to apply.
The scholarship requires applicants to take an in-person test with questions based on a book they have read and to submit documentation verifying the accuracy of each applicant's information.
The university will provide free access to the book through its library or the Ceibal National Library.
Jury
The jury is composed of prominent figures from Uruguay's academic, cultural, and technological communities.
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Miguel Brechner, Engineer
Founder of the Ceibal Plan
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Ruperto Long
Author of the book *The Girl Who Watched the Trains Leave*
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Dr. María Julia Muñoz
Minister of Education and Culture (2015–2020) and Minister of Public Health (2005–2010)
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Dr. Denise Vaillant
Dean of the Institute of Education at Universidad ORT Uruguay
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Attn: Myriam Broder
Representative of Friends of ORT
Stages of the selection process
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Online registration
From July 9, 2026, through October 29, 2026, complete the scholarship application form to reserve your spot for the test and receive instructions on how to access the book you are required to read before the test.
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Reading the book
You have several weeks to read the assigned book, with free access to either the online version or a printed copy.
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In-person exam
On November 6, 2026, at 3:00 p.m., I took an in-person test on the book's content. The test will assess your reading comprehension, analysis, and reflection on the story.
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Selection of finalists
The top scorers on the test will advance to the next phase. In this phase, you will be asked to submit additional documentation to complete your scholarship application. Check the terms and conditions for the required information.
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Personal interviews
OnNovember 20, 2026, a selection committee will choose three finalists, who will each undergo an individual interview. The purpose of this stage is to get to know each candidate and gain a deeper understanding of their interests, motivations, and goals for their professional future.
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Selection of the winner
The jury will decide in December 2026 who will receive the scholarship.
In March 2027, the selected student will begin his or her studies at ORT with all benefits in effect.