Scholarship
About the Opportunity The University of Central Asia (UCA) is a not-for-profit university with a regional mission to contribute to the social and economic development of Central Asia through education, research, and community engagement. UCA is now offering its MSc in Economics and Data Science, a graduate programme that brings together economics with modern data-driven approaches to analysis and decision-making. The programme is designed for students and professionals who want to develop stronger capabilities at the intersection of economics, data, technology, and policy, while working on issues relevant to the region and beyond. For its 2026 inaugural cohort, UCA is offering a limited number of merit-based scholarships to eligible applicants. Below is a concise overview of the programme, scholarship opportunity, eligibility requirements, application documents, and important deadlines.
The University of Central Asia (UCA) is accepting applications for its MSc in Economics and Data Science, a two-year, 120-ECTS graduate programme combining economics, data science, quantitative methods, and applied policy analysis.
A limited number of merit-based scholarships are available for the programme. Applicants seeking scholarship consideration should apply by 20 September 2026.
Programme at a Glance
University: University of Central Asia (UCA)
Programme: MSc in Economics and Data Science
Duration: 2 years
Location: Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic
Language: English
Format: In-person
Credits: 120 ECTS
Classes begin: 19 October 2026
What Does the Programme Focus On?
The programme brings together economics, statistics, programming, econometrics, data analysis, machine learning, and policy evaluation.
Students will develop practical skills in areas such as:
Python and data analysis
Statistics and econometrics
Data systems, SQL and APIs
Machine learning for policy analysis
Economic and public-policy analysis
Programme evaluation
Data ethics and AI governance
Economic forecasting and development finance
Students also complete an independent, policy-relevant master's thesis. The programe is particularly relevant for those interested in economic analysis, public policy, development, research, consulting, government, international organisations, and data-driven roles in the private sector.
Who Can Apply?
The programe welcomes recent graduates and working professionals interested in economics, data, policy, and sustainable development.
Applicants must have:
A bachelor's degree from a recognised university
A minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0, or equivalent
University-level mathematics, including calculus and linear algebra
English proficiency
Relevant backgrounds include economics, mathematics, statistics, engineering, public policy, political science, and other quantitative fields. Programming experience is recommended but not required. Relevant professional experience is also an advantage but not mandatory.
English Requirement
Applicants must demonstrate one of the following:
IELTS Academic: 6.5+
TOEFL iBT: 90+
A university degree taught entirely in English
Successful completion of the UCA English Proficiency Test
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare:
Bachelor's degree certificate
Official academic transcript
CV
Statement of Purpose (500–750 words)
Contact details of two academic or professional referees
Proof of English proficiency, if required
Passport or national ID
Completed online application
UCA may invite shortlisted applicants for an interview.
Note on the Statement of Purpose: UCA requires the statement to reflect the applicant's own ideas and writing. If generative AI is used for limited assistance such as proofreading or improving clarity, this must be disclosed.
Scholarship & Tuition
UCA offers a limited number of merit-based scholarships.
Scholarship consideration deadline: 20 September 2026
Annual tuition is:
USD 6,000 for students from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Tajikistan
USD 12,000 for international students
The university does not currently specify on the programme page the scholarship amount or guarantee full funding, so applicants should not assume that the scholarship covers all study and living expenses.
Important Deadlines
Scholarship deadline: 20 September 2026
Priority offers & scholarship decisions: 1 October 2026
Final application deadline: 4 October 2026
Classes begin: 19 October 2026
For International Applicants
International applicants, except citizens of Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Russia and Belarus, must also register through the Kyrgyz Republic's Edugate platform before UCA can consider their application. An Edugate registration fee applies.
How to Apply
Applicants should complete the online application and upload the required documents before the relevant deadline.
If you are interested in the scholarship, do not wait for the final 4 October deadline — apply by 20 September 2026.
Official programme and application information:
University of Central Asia — MSc in Economics and Data Science