GRANVILLE (WCMH) – A new partnership between Denison University in Granville, Ohio, and I Know I can, a nonprofit organization that works with Columbus City Schools, will create 20 full-tuition scholarships for qualified students.

Qualified students at Columbus City Schools will be selected for the Denison-Columbus Alliance Scholars program in the fall of their senior year. Six months before students arrive on campus at Denison, they will take part in a college preparation program consisting of bi-weekly meetings and campus visits. Once on campus, the students will continue regular meetings and participate in a faculty mentorship program.

According to Denison University, the program will help prepare students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in college.

“Taking everything we have learned,  we have built a program that will bring a cohort of students from Columbus city Schools to Denison, providing the mentorship and support they need over a four-year period to gain a world-class education and graduate ready to succeed in their professional pursuits,” said Denison University President Adam Weinberg.

The Denison-Columbus Alliance Scholars program will also give students the opportunity to give back to their community through service projects as well as help with finding internships and externships.

“What’s unique about this program is the level of mentorship and support across their entire career,” Denison Provost Kim Coplin said. “Students will have faculty mentors, alumni career coaches and support form I Know I Can staff. It demonstrates the power of high-touch liberal arts college.”

To apply, students must complete the scholarship application by Oct. 1, 2016, and apply for admission at Denison by Nov. 1, 2016. Students can get applications from their high school guidance counselors or from an I know I can College Advising Manager.