Inclusion and Support for Low-Income Students Policy
Effective Date: 21/1/2023
Approved by: University of Warith Al-Anbiyaa
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that the University of Warith Al-Anbiyaa remains accessible to students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, with a focus on supporting students from low-income households in Iraq. This policy aims to foster educational equity, enhance opportunities for social mobility, and promote an inclusive academic environment.
2. Scope and Applicability
This policy applies to all programs offered by the University of Warith Al-Anbiyaa. It is designed to benefit students who face financial barriers to accessing higher education, specifically those from low-income households.
3. Definitions
- Low-Income Households: Households with incomes below national statistical benchmarks, making them eligible for financial assistance as per national and university guidelines.
- Financial Aid: Monetary support provided to students in the form of scholarships, fee waivers, and other forms of assistance.
4. Policy Statement
The University of Warith Al-Anbiyaa commits to ensuring that financial challenges do not prevent students from pursuing higher education. The university will:
- Continue and expand its scholarship program, which has already invested over 14 billion Iraqi dinars in supporting low-income students.
- Provide full or partial tuition fee waivers, and accommodation support.
- Allocate a significant portion of the scholarship budget to ensure ongoing financial support for eligible students.
5. Procedures
1. Application and Selection Process:
- Develop a streamlined application process for financial aid, ensuring confidentiality and respect for applicants' privacy.
- Establish a dedicated committee to assess applications based on financial need and academic merit.
- Collaborate with local authorities and community organizations to identify eligible students and provide assistance with the application process.
2. Scholarship and Financial Support:
- Provide clear guidance on available scholarships, including tuition fee waivers, and accommodation support.
- Ensure sustainable funding and equitable distribution of scholarships to eligible students.
6. Roles and Responsibilities
- Admissions and Financial Aid Office: Responsible for overseeing the financial aid application process, assessing eligibility, and awarding scholarships.
- Low-Income Support Committee: A dedicated body tasked with reviewing applications, maintaining confidentiality, and ensuring fair assessment based on need and merit.
7. Compliance and Enforcement
Failure to comply with the procedures and eligibility requirements outlined in this policy may result in the withdrawal of financial support. The university reserves the right to review and revoke financial aid if fraudulent information is discovered during the application process.
8. Related Documents and References
- University Financial Aid Handbook
- National Poverty Statistics and Benchmarks
- Iraqi Higher Education Regulations on Scholarships
9. Review and Revision
This policy will be reviewed every three years to assess its effectiveness in supporting low-income students and will be adjusted based on changing socio-economic conditions, student needs, and feedback from relevant stakeholders.
10. Contact Information
For inquiries and further assistance, please contact:
Admissions and Financial Aid Office
Email: reg@uowa.edu.iq
Phone: +964 773 489 6226
Implementation Strategy
- Awareness Campaign:
Launch a national campaign to inform prospective students and their families about available scholarships and support mechanisms. - Collaboration with Schools:
Work with high schools in low-income areas to identify potential candidates and assist them in navigating the application process. - Staff Training:
Train admissions and financial aid staff to address the unique challenges faced by low-income students with sensitivity and care. - Continuous Improvement:
Establish a feedback mechanism for students to provide suggestions for improving the policy and its implementation.