DUSHANBE, April 6, 2016, Asia-Plus -- On April 5, 2016, Canada’s Seneca College announced plans to award three different scholarships to a total of 12 Central Asian students pursuing undergraduate study at the University of Central Asia (UCA), according to UCA’s website.

The scholarships from UCA’s curriculum development partner reflect a shared dedication to providing access and affordability to promising students, regardless of their economic status.

The Canadian postsecondary institution, which developed the curriculum for UCA’s Preparatory Program, will award three types of scholarships to cover a portion of tuition for study at UCA. UCA has committed to covering up to 90 per cent of the cost of tuition based on student need.

Entrance scholarships will be awarded to four incumbent students.  Four additional Merit Scholarships will be awarded annually following a student’s first year based upon Grade Point Average (GPA) and demonstrated community service; and four Post-Graduate Tuition Scholarships will be awarded to UCA alumni to pursue a one-year post-graduate certificate at Seneca in Canada.

The announcement comes as the University’s admissions campaign has extended its deadline for admission due to overwhelming student inquiries and requests for application support among prospective students in rural communities. To accommodate the broadest possible range of applicants, UCA will accept applications until April 15, 2016.

UCA signed a memorandum of understanding with Seneca to develop the English, mathematics and science curriculum for UCA’s first year Preparatory Program on July 7, 2015.  The Preparatory Program is an enrichment program designed to ensure that UCA students who need additional support meet internationally competitive benchmarks and develop key study and research skills necessary to succeed at university.  The first cohort of students in Naryn will begin their undergraduate degree program with the Preparatory Program this fall.

The partnership between UCA and Seneca was undertaken with the financial support of the Government of Canada, provided through Global Affairs Canada and the Aga Khan Foundation, Canada.