If you're an outstanding scholar from a developing country seeking to pursue postgraduate education but lack the financial means, the Aga Khan Foundation's International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) for the 2025-2026 academic year is now accepting applications. Established in 1969 by His Highness the Aga Khan, this programme has supported over 1,000 students to date, aiming to develop effective scholars and leaders and prepare them for employment, primarily within the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).
AKF ISP.Scholarship Summary
Location: Various countries (see eligibility criteria)
Host Institution: Any reputable university or postgraduate institution of higher learning
Study Level: Master's and PhD degrees
Target Group: Nationals of select developing countries
Fields of Study: All disciplines offered by the chosen universities
Award Value and Coverage: 50% grant and 50% loan, covering tuition fees and living expenses
Award Duration: Duration of the degree program (up to two years for PhD students)
Application Deadline: March 31, 2025
Eligible To: Nationals residing in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Kenya, Kyrgyz Republic, Madagascar, Mozambique, Pakistan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Uganda, and those originally from these countries residing in Canada, France, Portugal, and the USA.
Scholarship Overview
The AKF ISP is designed for outstanding students from select developing countries who have no other means of financing their studies. The programme prioritizes Master's level courses but is also open to PhD applicants in cases of exceptional merit. Scholarships are awarded on a 50% grant and 50% loan basis through a competitive application process conducted annually.
Scholarship Benefits Details
Financial Support: Covers tuition fees and living expenses; travel costs are not included.
Loan Conditions: Half of the scholarship amount is considered a loan, which must be reimbursed with an annual service charge of 5%. A guarantor is required to co-sign the loan agreement. The payback period is five years, starting six months after the study period funded by the Aga Khan Foundation.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for the scholarship:
Academic Excellence: Consistently outstanding academic records.
Educational Background: Hold a Bachelor's degree or equivalent training/professional experience.
Financial Need: Demonstrate genuine financial need and present a reliable, multi-source funding plan covering all years of study.
Admission: Have an offer of admission from a reputable postgraduate institution.
Program Status: Be starting the first year of the postgraduate program; students already enrolled are not eligible.
Age Preference: Preference is given to students under 30 years of age.
Application Procedure
Eligibility Check: Check your eligibility using this eligibility tool
Obtain Application Forms: From the Aga Khan Foundation, Aga Khan Education Services, or Aga Khan Education Board offices in your country of current residence, starting January 1, 2025.
Complete the Application: Provide all required information and supporting documents.
Submit the Application: Return the completed application to the agency from which it was obtained by March 31, 2025. Note that internal deadlines may vary by country; contact the local offices for specific dates.
Documents Required
Academic Records: Certified copies of transcripts and diplomas.
Admission Letter: Official offer of admission from the chosen postgraduate institution.
Financial Information: Detailed financial circumstances and funding plan.
Personal Statement: Outline of academic and career objectives.
References: Letters of recommendation from academic or professional contacts.
ℹ️ For more detailed information and to access the eligibility tool, visit the Aga Khan Foundation's International Scholarship Programme page.
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