Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility questions

We assess each young adult individually, considering their circumstances, educational goals, needs and willingness to study, grow and take responsibility. These answers explain the current criteria and how support is considered.

Who can apply for support?

Young people who wish to continue their education, develop their abilities, and build a dignified and independent future may apply for support.

At present, our programs are primarily intended for young people who live in Santa Cruz de la Sierra or who can regularly participate in St. James activities in the city.

What ages can participate?

Our programs are primarily intended for young people between the ages of 18 and 25.

Seventeen-year-old students who are completing their final year of secondary school may also participate in vocational guidance, academic preparation, and transition activities for higher education.

The student residence is available only to individuals who are 18 years of age or older.

Do I need to have completed secondary school?

To begin technical or university studies, a young person must have completed secondary school and obtained the appropriate high school diploma or graduation certificate.

Students who are close to completing secondary school may also contact us to begin vocational guidance, academic preparation, and planning for their transition into higher education.

What academic commitment is expected?

Motivation and commitment to education are among our most important criteria.

We do not look only for students with outstanding grades. We look for young people who are willing to work hard, develop strong study habits, fulfill their responsibilities, and persevere when facing difficulties.

Who receives priority?

Any eligible young person may have access to guidance, formation, and mentoring services, depending on the capacity of our programs.

Scholarships, student housing, and other forms of financial assistance are assigned after evaluating each applicant’s needs and circumstances.

At present, we give special priority to young people who:

• Have transitioned out of residential care homes.
• Have grown up without a stable family support system.
• Have limited financial resources.
• Face personal, family, or social circumstances that make it difficult to continue their education.

What types of support may be available?

Depending on their needs and the resources available, each student may receive one or more of the following services:

• Vocational guidance and life planning.
• Scholarships for technical or university studies.
• Student residence.
• Academic preparation and support.
• Career guidance and professional preparation.
• Mentoring and personal accompaniment.
• Well-being promotion and access to healthcare services.

The type of support offered is determined individually after the student’s evaluation.

Can every applicant live at Casa St. James?

No. Residential support is considered for young adults age 18 or older who need a suitable place to live while studying, particularly those leaving residential care or without a stable family support network.

Admission to the residence depends on the individual evaluation, the availability of space, and the ability of St. James to respond appropriately to the applicant’s needs.

What is expected of participants?

We expect each student to take responsibility for their formation and remain committed to their education, personal growth, and community life.

We also encourage young people to gain experience through employment, internships, professional placements, or volunteer activities that are compatible with their studies.

At St. James, we understand work and service as ways to develop character, responsibility, discipline, solidarity, and the ability to contribute positively to society.

Is there a cost to apply or receive support?

Initial guidance and the submission of an application are free of charge.

Depending on the program and each student’s financial capacity, St. James may establish shared-responsibility agreements adapted to their circumstances. No young person will be excluded solely because they lack financial resources.

Students are also encouraged to contribute voluntarily to community life according to their abilities, through caring for the house, serving others, supporting fellow students, or making voluntary contributions. This helps foster a culture of reciprocity, responsibility, and solidarity.

What documents are required?

The main documents that should accompany the application are:

• A valid identity card.
• A high school diploma or graduation certificate, when applicable.
• School report cards, academic records, or transcripts.
• Letters of recommendation.
• Additional documents related to the applicant’s family, financial, or educational circumstances, when necessary.

Our team will explain which documents are needed and how to provide them. Please do not send identity documents, medical records or other sensitive records through the general contact form.

How are applications evaluated?

Applications are evaluated holistically. Decisions are not based solely on academic grades.

During the evaluation process, we may consider:

• The young person’s motivation and commitment.
• Their academic performance and educational history.
• Their educational and professional goals.
• Their family and financial circumstances.
• Letters of recommendation.
• The personal interview.
• Their willingness to participate responsibly in the St. James community.

We look for motivated and responsible young people who are prepared to make good use of the opportunities they receive.

How do I submit an application?

The application form may be completed online or submitted in person to St. James.

Complete the requested personal, academic and family information, and explain your educational goals and why you would like to participate. Follow the application instructions; our team will explain how any required supporting documents should be provided.

‍

Start an Application

What happens after an application is submitted?

After receiving the application, the St. James team will review the information and documents provided.

Applicants who meet the initial criteria will be invited to an interview. Depending on the type of support requested, additional interviews, information verification, or meetings with references may also be required.

After the evaluation has been completed, the applicant will be informed of the decision.

Accepted students will receive a support proposal outlining the services offered, the initial duration of the support, and the responsibilities assumed by both the student and St. James.

Does meeting the criteria guarantee admission?

No. Meeting the general eligibility criteria allows an application to be considered, but it does not guarantee admission or the assignment of all requested benefits.

Each decision depends on the individual evaluation, the young person’s needs, their compatibility with our programs, the availability of space, and the resources available to St. James at that time.

All applications will be treated with respect, responsibility, and confidentiality.

Need more guidance? Explore the application process, browse the full FAQ or contact our team.

‍

Ask Us on WhatsApp

Start an Application

Browse all frequently asked questions