Rita Cetina scholarship in Cancún: how much arrives in August and why September is key
The basic-education scholarship pays a one-time 2,500-peso deposit for primary school this month; middle-school students get their next payment in October, and registration for newcomers opens in September.
Thousands of families in Benito Juárez with children in public schools are watching the Rita Cetina scholarship, the program run by Mexico's National Coordination of Bienestar Benito Juárez Scholarships for basic-education students. Heading into the 2026-2027 school year, it helps to be clear on the dates and amounts to avoid confusion—and scams.
Primary school (new in 2026). Families of enrolled public primary-school children receive a one-time annual deposit of 2,500 pesos in August for uniforms and supplies. The payment is spread over two weeks based on the first letter of the child's paternal surname, so not everyone is paid on the same day.
Middle school. The support is a bimonthly deposit of 1,900 pesos per enrolled student. Note: due to the school calendar, there is no deposit in July or August; the next middle-school payment comes in October 2026.
September is key. Authorities will open a new registration window for parents or guardians who haven't yet applied, as well as for students entering middle school who need to enroll. It is the window to join before the next payment.
Local value and what to do in Cancún:
- Check your status and calendar only through official Government of Mexico channels (gob.mx/becasbenitojuarez and the official Becas para el Bienestar app). Payment lands on the Bienestar card; no middlemen are needed.
- Beware of scams: fake pages and profiles imitate the program and ask for money, bank details or a fee to "reserve" the scholarship. Registration and payment are free; no legitimate process charges you to sign up.
- Pair it with school savings: the 2,500 pesos for primary go further if you compare prices and use the official SEP supply list instead of buying by brand.
- If your August deposit doesn't show up, check your surname's letter on the official calendar before visiting a module.
Related
People from five municipalities had the procedure at no cost, plus glasses and drops; the state offered follow-up for a second eye or cataracts.
The Finance and Planning Secretariat is preparing its third public auction for late September; base prices will be announced after August 25.
INEGI's early indicator points to services and commerce —the heart of Cancun's economy— driving the gain. It's a preliminary estimate, but a promising sign for local jobs.
The Bank of Mexico reported the exchange rate at around 16.96 pesos per dollar on August 20; here is what it means for remittances and tourism in Cancún.