You will be required, by the Argentine Immigrations Authority, to have a valid passport for the entire duration of your studies in Argentina. Your country of birth will determine which of two ways you should proceed in preparing to enter Argentina. If you don’t have a passport, apply for one immediately. Normal processing takes six weeks and may take longer during peak travel times.

US, Australian and Canadian Citizens are now exempt from paying the reciprocity fee by Presidencial Decree No. 959/2016. :)

Explore our Program Discounts & Promotions for 2025. Contact us for more information!

Yes! We recognize that for many students, scholarships are an important aspect and even a necessity in order to study abroad. Keeping this in mind, year after year, Mente Argentina has offered various scholarships for our programs in Buenos Aires. The Mente Argentina Scholarship Program is designed for motivated students who plan to study abroad, however, feel that they need assistance to cover the costs of travel and the program fees.

Please read the eligibility criteria and the application procedures for each Mente Argentina scholarship carefully. Competition for the Mente scholarships and grants is strong and the quality of the materials submitted is very important. The scholarship application procedure is entirely independent from the Mente program application.

General Criteria for all Mente Argentina Scholarships

Want to win a Mente Argentina Scholarship?

Mente Argentina Scholarships are competitive, but don't let that intimidate you. Here's how to give your application the best shot:

Step 1: Apply to a Mente Argentina Program

Fill out and submit your completed application for a Mente Argentina Program of your choice. This is where your journey begins!

Step 2: Check Scholarship Requirements

Make sure you meet all the criteria for the scholarship you're applying for. If you're lacking in some areas, don't worry - we review each application individually, so feel free to go for it anyway!

Step 3: Write an Original Essay

We're eager to hear your unique perspective! Follow the provided guidelines to craft an original essay. Remember, plagiarism won't get you anywhere - be sure to properly cite any sources you use in your essay.

Step 4: Complete Your Scholarship Application

Get your application over the finish line by attaching all the necessary supporting documents. This includes the Mente Argentina Scholarship Application form, and any other documents required for the specific scholarship you're applying for.

All your application materials must be submitted to our office via mail, fax, or e-mail as indicated on the Scholarship Application Form.

Remember, we need to receive your complete application package at least 120 days before your program begins.

Step 5: Wait for Our Response

Once we've got all your forms, we'll review your application and get back to you about your potential financial aid within 3 weeks. We know waiting can be hard but even if you don't win a scholarship, there are still many ways to participate in a Mente Argentina Program. We offer a variety of financial aid options, and we'd be happy to discuss other options with you if you are unable to secure funding through our scholarship program.

Selection Process

Candidates who meet the scholarship criteria and program requirements will have their scholarship application and supporting documents judged by an independent selection committee. Students may apply for more than one scholarship per term; however, only one scholarship per student will be awarded per term. Winners will be notified by phone, e-mail, or mail before the start of their term.

Discover Your Scholarship Opportunities

At Mente Argentina, we believe in empowering bright minds with big dreams. That's why we're offering three unique scholarships tailored to diverse needs and ambitions. Explore them below and find the one that best suits your academic journey.

Academic Merit Scholarship

Are you a top achiever with a passion for learning? Our Academic Merit Scholarship could be the perfect match. Designed for academic programs running between 1 semester and 1 academic year, we grant scholarships from $500 to $2500, depending on the excellence and volume of applications.

Application criteria:

• A GPA of 3.7 or above
• A unique 400-500 word essay discussing the advantages of studying abroad in Argentina
• A completed Mente Argentina Academic Merit Scholarship Application form

Your application will be judged on your academic achievements, a solid academic letter of recommendation, and the quality, structure, and creativity of your essay.

Financial Need Scholarship

If financial constraints are hindering your academic aspirations, our Financial Need Scholarship can help lighten the load. Like the Academic Merit Scholarship, this applies to academic programs lasting between 1 semester and 1 academic year, with scholarships ranging from $750 to $2500.

Application criteria:

• A GPA of 3.0 or higher
• A 200-300 word personal statement describing any financial circumstances that may be relevant to receiving a scholarship
• An authentic 400-500 word essay on "How Studying Abroad in Argentina Contributes to My Long-Term Educational Goals"
• A filled-out Mente Argentina Financial Need Scholarship Application form

We'll assess your application based on your demonstrated financial need (from your personal statement) and your letter of recommendation.

Short & ELAP Programs Scholarships

Seeking a shorter study experience in Argentina? Consider our Short & ELAP Programs Scholarships. These are for programs lasting between 4 and 18 weeks, with scholarships awarded from $250 to $1000.

Application criteria:

• A thoughtful 400-500 word essay exploring Buenos Aires as a cultural capital of South America
• A GPA of 3.7 or higher
• A submitted Mente Argentina Short & ELAP Scholarship Application form

Your application will be reviewed based on your academic achievements, an academic letter of recommendation, and the creativity, quality, and structure of your essay.

Explore these alternative funding resources to assist with making your dream to study in Argentina a reality!

Financial Aid Websites

• Department of Education
• Financial Aid for Study Abroad
• FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

Scholarships Search Engines

• Adventures In Education
• Broke Scholar
• College Board Scholarship Search
• Disaboom Scholarship Network
• DiversityAbroad
• Find Aid
• GoAbroad.com
• International Education Financial Aid
• International Scholarships
• International Student
• Late-Deadline Scholarships
• Next Student
• Peterson's College Search
• Sallie Mae
• Scholarship Portal
• Study Abroad.com

Other Recommended Websites

• https://www.borenawards.org - Boren Awards for International Study provides scholarships and fellowships for undergraduate students to study in world regions critical to US interests
• https://www.woodrow.org/fellowships/foreign_affairs/pickering_undergrad/index.php - The Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Scholarship is administered by the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation and is awarded to students pursuing a career in Foreign Service.
• www.iie.org/gilman - Benjamin Gilman Scholarship (requires Pell Grant).
• https://www.clascholars.org/ - The College Language Association sponsors this scholarship program for students at CLA member institutions who wish to study abroad.
• https://www.olmstedfoundation.org/olmsted/web/index.cfm?view=undergraduateProgram/vwMain - Each year, the Olmsted Scholar Program offers educational grants for two years of graduate study in a foreign language and other educational experiences in a foreign country to competitively selected career line officers from the four branches of the U.S. military.
• www.jkcf.org - The Jack Kent Cooke Scholarships are applicable for Study Abroad in any country.
• www.cjsfoundation.org - The Corinne Jeannine Schillings Foundation awards scholarships to those who have attained the Girl Scout Silver Award and plan to study abroad.
• www.gmsp.org - The Gates Millennium Scholars (GMS) program was founded by a grant from Bill and Melinda Gates. It was established to provide an opportunity for African Americans, Native Americans, Asian Pacific Islander Americans and Hispanic Americans to complete an undergraduate College education.
• www.coca-colascholars.org - The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation has awarded nearly $23 million to more than 2,750 deserving high school seniors. Each year, the Foundation awards $20,000 to 50 National Scholars and $4,000 to 200 Regional Scholars from across the country.
• https://jooble.org/ - Jooble is an international job search website and is used daily by millions of people in 67 countries.

Great news for international travelers! Argentina has been fully open for international travel since January 2022, with no travel restrictions in place. You can now travel to Argentina for any purpose, be it tourism, business, or studies.

We are thrilled to be accepting applications for all our On-Site and Online Programs in Buenos Aires, Argentina. With 100% flexibility in our program structure, we're here to facilitate your educational journey in Argentina. Don't hesitate to inquire for more details.

• Revisit the Journey: Argentina's Flight Status Updates - Reflecting on the Path to 2025

There are two airports in the city of Buenos Aires:

• International flights: Ministro Pistarini Ezeiza (EZE)
• Domestic flights: Aeroparque Jorge Newbery

When flying internationally, you will fly into Ministro Pistarini Ezeiza (EZE)

After you've booked your flights for your Mente Argentina program, we kindly ask that you share your flight itinerary with us. This allows us to schedule your airport transfers, ensuring your arrival and departure are smooth and hassle-free.

One of our dedicated drivers will be there to greet you at the airport. They'll drive you directly to your accommodation, where your personalized program coordinator will be waiting to give you a warm welcome. They'll provide you with key details about your program and tips for living in Buenos Aires.

Want to learn more about the unique perks of joining Mente Argentina? Visit our benefits page to uncover the wide array of services included in our programs.

We understand that every student values the flexibility to plan their travel independently, and take advantage of various travel benefits like frequent flyer miles. Therefore, Mente Argentina does not arrange airfare for students.

However, we're more than happy to guide students towards reliable airlines, travel agencies, and other valuable resources that have proven helpful when planning a trip to Buenos Aires, Argentina. To secure a reasonably priced airline ticket, we suggest starting your research early, ideally at least two months in advance. Here are three types of resources we recommend checking before purchasing your ticket:

• Student travel agencies: These agencies often offer discounted rates and tend to charge nominal fees for flight changes or cancellations, making them a cost-effective choice compared to most airlines and travel agencies.
• Discount internet search engines: These provide a convenient way to compare multiple airlines at a glance. Look out for special "web fares" which are occasionally offered.
• Specific airlines: It's always beneficial to contact the airline directly. This gives you accurate information, lets you ask about special deals, and lets you check whether you can apply your frequent flyer miles to the ticket.

Below is a list of student travel agencies, internet search engines, and airlines that operate flights to Argentine airports:

Student Travel Agencies

• Student Universe
• Exito Travel

Internet Search Engines

• Orbitz
• Travelocity
• Expedia
• Kayak

Studying and living in a foreign country can be an exciting and intimidating experience. Remember that when traveling, many things are liable to change, and flexibility is a skill that is naturally developed while traveling. The follow tips help international students who are looking to study in Argentina adjust to cultural and personal differences that one may encounter during their stay in Buenos Aires.

GENERAL TRAVEL TIPS

• Sign passport, and fill in the emergency information: Make sure you have a signed, valid passport, and a visa, if required, and fill in the emergency information page of your passport.
• Leave copies of your itinerary and passport data page: Leave copies of your itinerary, passport data page and visas with family or friends, so you can be contacted in case of an emergency.
• Check your overseas medical insurance coverage: Ask your medical insurance company if your policy applies overseas, and if it covers emergency expenses such as medical evacuation. If it does not, consider supplemental insurance.
• Familiarize yourself with local conditions and laws: While in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws, so read up on Argentine and Buenos Aires politics and legal policies
• Read the State Department travel advisories: These advisories, cautions and warnings are available for all countries so be sure to read them before traveling to any country
• Keep in touch with current events: Knowing political events going on worldwide will help you stay updated on the safety and conditions of the country you plan to travel to.
• Make sure to check our Useful Links as they provide valuable information about Buenos Aires!

ABOUT BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA CULTURE

• Be aware that culture and daily customs change for every country. Remember that you are traveling to a different country to experience their culture and in a certain sense, you are a guest in Argentina which may require certain flexibility in your personal customs. Make an effort to follow the local routine.
• Argentines tend to stay up late, particularly in Buenos Aires, a city that has entertainment at all hours of the day. Meal times differ depending on family and group, but generally dinner is between 8:30 pm - 10:00 pm.
• Night life in Buenos Aires, Argentina starts late and ends late! Bars start to get full around midnight or 1am, and clubs don’t get started until 2am at the earliest and close around 6 or 7 am, so feel free to sneak a nap in after dinner!
• It is customary to tip about 10% in restaurants and cafes, and to leave tips at bars as well. In taxis a tip is not expected but instead the fare is often rounded up to the nearest full peso.
• Be prepared for questions about your home country. Buenos Aires is an international city with people from all over the world, and Argentines are often genuinely interested in where you are from. If you feel uncomfortable answering questions or dispelling stereotypes, explain yourself but also be prepared to answer these type of inquiries.
• Try to learn basic Spanish phrases to facilitate your daily interactions. Remember that every country, city, and group tends to have their own slang. Porteño slang, called lunfardo is very different from academic Spanish, so be prepared to include these cultural differences into your conversations! Brush up on terms by looking at our Mente Argentina lunfardo and argentine slang guide: https://www.menteargentina.com/blog/2011/05/habla-argentino-guide-to-spanish-slang-in-buenos-aires/
• Check the Mente Argentina Blog. Make sure to check our blog as we have several articles related to Buenos Aires's culture, life, etc.

PACKING TIPS

Pre-Packing: things to keep in mind

• Contact: Mente Argentina gives you a pay-as-you-go telephone for local calls, but this phone cannot be used to make international calls directly. It’s important to decide how you would like to communicate with people from home while in Buenos Aires. Email? International calling card? Skype?. If you are not sure what would be better for you please contact a Mente Argentina Program Advisor.
• Electronics: If you are arriving on a weekend (and in particular, on Sundays), many of the stores are closed, so be sure to bring your own electrical adapter or to buy one at the airport when you arrive. Otherwise adapters are normally readily available. Argentine electricity is 220 V, 50 Hz which is different than the 110V in many countries. When using a computer, generally there is a voltage converter on the plug that protects your computer by converting the energy that flows through, but with bigger electronics from another country (alarm clocks, hairdryers, hair straighteners, etc.) you will need to buy a 220 to 110 volt transformer, otherwise irreparable damage can occur even resulting in fire. Buildings use a mix of European style and Australian plugs: either a plug with two circular prongs or one with two flat blades in a V shape with or without a third blade below.
• Weather: Check the weather and temperature before coming to Buenos Aires (you can find more information on our Useful Links). Remember that Argentina is in the southern hemisphere, so their seasons are reversed from Northern hemispheric countries (aka December is summer, July is winter). The average temperatures range from 94F (35C) in January to 50F (10C) in July.
• Valuables: Consider getting travel or personal property insurance if you are bringing something expensive or important.

Tips for Packing

Every day on our program promises new adventures and experiences. To make the most of each outing and stay comfortable, it’s important to come prepared. The following checklist outlines the essential items you should pack in your day pack before you set off. From protection against the sun to staying hydrated, these selected items will help ensure your day is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Keep this list handy, and get ready to explore Argentina with confidence!


• Pack light: Don’t bring more stuff than you can carry at one time, it will make traveling easier. Remember, airlines charge for additional weight.
• Argentine mail is a hassle. We do not recommend sending things through the mail because the postal service takes a long time, is very expensive, and certain items cannot be sent legally through the mail here so packages may not be received. Contact a Mente Argentina Program Advisor for recommended alternatives.
• Make sure to identify all your luggage, including your carry-on bag. Remember not to lock your luggage because the airline with cut off the lock. However, locking your bag can be useful when traveling later so you may want to bring a lock with you.
• Pack all your valuables and important documents in your carry-on or keep them on you at all times when traveling, preferably in a money belt or bag worn across your chest to keep them secure. Don’t pack important information in your checked luggage such as tickets, travel documents, phone cards, medications, or valuables. Also leave a copy of all travel and personal information with someone back home in case anything is lost during your travels. Remember to print your Mente Argentina important information!
• Keep your passport with you at all times when traveling, and make sure to keep copies of your passport safely stored in different locations in case it gets lost or stolen. Your nation’s embassy can help you get an emergency or replacement passport much easier if you have a copy with you
• Don’t bring anything you simply couldn’t live without if it got damaged, lost, or stolen. If you have something that is of extreme personal value to you, leave it at home.
• Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on just in case your checked luggage gets lost or delayed. It happens sometimes and you may not want to live in your airplane clothes!
• You can buy anything in Buenos Aires, so if you don’t know whether or not to bring something, leave it at home. If you decide you need it later you can purchase it here.
• Re-sealable bags are useful for packing toiletries and wet clothes. Make sure to put anything that can leak into a plastic bag, and pack what you first need on top of your luggage
• Make sure to check the Mente Argentina Blog for packing related articles!

Below you will find updated money-related recommendations for all international students planning to study in Argentina for a limited time (1 Year or less).

• Notify your bank before your trip to enable international transactions and inquire about partnerships with local banks in Buenos Aires to save on ATM withdrawal fees.
• ATM withdrawals can incur fees from both the local and your home bank. Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to minimize these fees, and check your bank’s international policies.
• While limited locations accept US dollars, carrying Argentine pesos for daily expenses is recommended. Keep some US dollars in a safe place for emergencies.
• Travelers’ checks are not recommended due to their limited acceptance and inconvenience. Prefer debit cards for cash withdrawals and credit cards for larger transactions and online purchases. Verify international fees with your bank in advance.
• Credit and debit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express, are broadly accepted. Confirm with your bank regarding any international transaction fees or restrictions.
• Plan your budget realistically. Argentina can be cost-effective, but unexpected expenses can accumulate. For budgeting assistance, contact a Mente Argentina Program Advisor.
• For accessible cash without direct ATM use, set up accounts with Xoom and Western Union before arrival. This enables you to transfer money from your home bank account to various pickup locations in Buenos Aires.
• Consider using a budget tracking app to monitor your spending and manage your finances more effectively. This can help you stay within your budget and save money for experiences you truly value.
• Establish an emergency fund. It’s wise to have a reserve of funds accessible in case of unforeseen circumstances or emergencies. This fund should be separate from your daily budget and savings.

Here are some websites that will help you prepare for your studies in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

• Mente Argentina Blog - Get insights and tips on living and studying in Buenos Aires.
• Public Transportation Guide - Basic information on navigating the city.
• Time Out Buenos Aires - Discover events, shows, and cool places to explore.
• MercadoLibre - The "Amazon" of Buenos Aires for all your needs.
• Tourism Buenos Aires - Official tourism site with all you need to know about the city.
• Festivals and Events - Free cultural festivals and events in the city.
• Bus and Subway Guide - Official government site for bus and subway information.
• Clarín - A major Buenos Aires newspaper (in Spanish).
• La Nación - Another leading Buenos Aires newspaper (in Spanish).
• Página/12 - Buenos Aires newspaper with a focus on culture and politics (in Spanish).
• Buenos Aires Herald - Buenos Aires English language newspaper for expats and English speakers.
• Buenos Aires 123 - A comprehensive guide to services, entertainment, and living in Buenos Aires.
• Eventbrite Buenos Aires - Find local events ranging from professional meetups to cultural activities.

Mente Argentina has designed a comprehensive Study in Argentina guide for all international students looking to study abroad in Argentina. If you wuold like to check it out, please visit: Study in Argentina Guide.

We also have several interesting articles related to study in Argentina and to living in Buenos Aires in our blog. Make sure to check our most popular articles prior to your arrival!

Wondering about living expenses in Buenos Aires? Here's an updated list of the price of popular items and services in the Argentine capital (all prices listed in US Dollars):

• Subway Fare: $0.80
• Bus Fare: $0.80
• Dance Club Entry: $6-$15
• A Drink at a Bar: $5-$10
• Steak Dinner at a Restaurant: $12-$30
• Taxi Ride (within city): $4-$15
• Movie Ticket: $8-$10
• Load of Laundry (self-service): $5
• A Good Bottle of Wine: $7-$14
• Coffee at a Café: $2-$6
• Fast Food Combo Meal: $5-$12
• Basic Lunchtime Menu (including a drink) in the Business District: $7-$14
• 1 kg of Apples: $1-$3
• 1 liter of Milk: $1-$2
• Loaf of Fresh White Bread: $1-$2

Explore the complete list of Living Expenses in Buenos Aires 2025 for a more detailed breakdown.

Upon landing, one of our private drivers will meet you at the airport holding a sign with your name. After clearing customs, you'll find our driver easily as the Ezeiza Airport has only one exit hallway for international flights. The driver will take you to your accommodation, where a Program Coordinator will meet you with your welcome kit, maps, cell phone, and other essentials. They will also guide you on navigating the city and reaching your classes and answer any other questions you may have.

If you're coming from abroad, you will certainly need a plug adapter for your electronics. Argentine buildings use either a plug with two circular prongs (European style) or one with two flat blades in a V shape, with or without a third blade below (Australian style). Argentine electricity is 220 V, 50 Hz, which differs from the 110V used in many countries. Laptops usually have a voltage converter on the plug, but for larger electronics, you'll need a 220 to 110 volt transformer. You can either buy an adapter in your home country or purchase a relatively inexpensive one upon arrival in Argentina. For more information on which adapter you need, please check this link.

Buenos Aires is a safe and modern city with well-developed medical, transportation, and legal systems. Like in any major urban area, we advise participants to be mindful of their safety and belongings. That said, violent crime rates in Buenos Aires are relatively low compared to other major world cities. All our program venues and host families are safe and security-aware. In addition, each participant receives a safety orientation upon arrival and additional safety information throughout their program. For more on safety in Buenos Aires, check out our health and safety information.

Buenos Aires offers a wide range of transportation options, complemented by pedestrian-friendly streets. Whether you're using public transport or exploring on foot, the city is accessible and welcoming.

• Subte (Subway): Connects major areas across Buenos Aires, with six lines running from early morning to late evening.
• Colectivos (Buses): An extensive network of over 150 bus lines that operate 24/7, covering the entire city and suburbs.
• Trenes (Trains): Facilitate commuter movement to and from suburban areas with key stations serving as hubs.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are abundant, and services like Uber and Cabify offer convenient alternatives.
• Bicicletas (Bikes): Dedicated bike lanes and the EcoBici public bike-sharing program encourage cycling as a transport option.
• Ferries: Connect Buenos Aires to Uruguay, ideal for exploring beyond the city.
• Walking: Many program activities and places of interest are within walking distance, and the city's layout encourages walking as a pleasant way to explore.

Our accommodations are strategically located near subway stations and multiple bus lines, ensuring easy access to your program sites. From your very first day, your Mente Argentina Program Coordinator will provide you with guidance on the best transportation options to reach your destination. For more detailed information on transportation in Buenos Aires, you can refer to our blog post about navigating the city at Transportation in Buenos Aires.

Located in the Palermo neighborhood, our Health Club is a top-quality gym with new fitness equipment and a variety of classes to choose from. Your Mente Argentina Program Fee includes a gym membership for the duration of your program. It's a fantastic way to stay fit and interact with locals!

Buenos Aires experiences a temperate climate, with distinct seasons that offer a unique charm to the city at any time of the year. Located in the southern hemisphere, seasons are inverted compared to those in the northern hemisphere.

Summer (December to February): The city comes alive with warm and often hot weather, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F). This is a perfect time for outdoor festivals, beach outings, and enjoying the vibrant street life. Light clothing and sun protection are essentials.

Autumn (March to May): With mild temperatures averaging between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F), autumn brings cooler evenings and crisp mornings. It's an ideal season for exploring parks and outdoor markets. Layered clothing is recommended as temperatures can fluctuate.

Winter (June to August): Cooler weather prevails, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Snow is rare in the city but can be found in nearby mountainous areas. Winters are generally mild, making it comfortable to enjoy cultural events and indoor attractions. Warm clothing and rain gear are advisable.

Spring (September to November): The city blooms in spring, with temperatures similar to autumn, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This season is marked by sunny days and occasional rain showers, perfect for visiting parks and enjoying the outdoors. Light jackets and comfortable shoes are recommended.

Given Buenos Aires' variable weather, packing layers is always a smart choice to accommodate the fluctuating temperatures. From hot summers to mild winters, the city's climate is generally agreeable, allowing for a variety of activities year-round. For detailed packing tips and seasonal advice, check out our blog on preparing for your visit to Buenos Aires.