The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) offers financial support to students from developing countries who demonstrate exceptional academic potential but lack the means to fund their education.
This scholarship is designed for postgraduate studies at leading universities worldwide.
It follows a unique funding model, which is: 50% Grant + 50% Loan. This means the scholarship covers half the cost as a grant and the other half as an interest-free loan, payable after graduation.
List of Eligible Countries
The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship Programme is available only in specific countries where the Aga Khan Development Network operates.
Currently Eligible Countries:
Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Kenya, Kyrgyz Republic, Madagascar, Mozambique, Pakistan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Special Conditions:
In Canada, France, Portugal, and the USA, applications are accepted only from candidates originally from one of the countries listed above.
Important Restriction:
The AKF ISP is not available to students who wish to study in the United Kingdom.
Benefits
The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship Programme provides financial assistance to cover essential academic and living costs for postgraduate students.
The support is need-based and provides the following benefits:
Tuition Fees: Full or partial coverage depending on university and program costs.
Living Expenses: Monthly allowance for housing, food, and personal needs.
Travel Costs: Economy airfare for the start and end of the academic program.
Health Insurance: Basic medical coverage during the study period.
Note: For PhD programs, support is limited to the first two years.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship Programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Have excellent academic records throughout previous studies.
Hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional training/experience.
Demonstrate genuine financial need and provide a multi-source funding plan covering all years of study.
Be admitted to a reputable postgraduate institution (priority for Master’s; PhD considered).
Be starting the first year of the program – students already enrolled are not eligible.
Show strong leadership potential, professional experience, extracurricular achievements, and volunteer contributions.
Age Preference:
Master’s: Under 30 years
PhD: Under 35 years
Please Note:
AKF ISP is a resource of last resort; applicants should secure other funding sources.
Local/regional universities and distance learning programs are acceptable only if quality standards are maintained.
Part-time programs and short-term courses are not eligible.
Application Process
Applying for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) involves a structured process managed through regional offices.
Here’s how it works:
Check Eligibility: Confirm you meet all academic, financial, and admission requirements.
Obtain Application Form: Forms are available only through AKF offices or local agencies in eligible countries.
Complete the Application: Fill in personal details, academic history, financial information, and your multi-source funding plan.
Prepare Required Documents:
Academic transcripts and certificates
Admission letter from the university
Proof of financial need (income statements)
Multi-source funding plan
CV/Resume
Letters of recommendation
Statement of purpose (SOP)
Proof of nationality (passport/ID)
Submit to Local Office: Applications must be submitted to the local AKF office by the deadline.
Interview & Review: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview before final selection.
Important: Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Online submissions are not accepted.
Dates and Deadlines
The 2025–2026 award cycle has closed (as of 31 March 2025). If you missed this deadline, don’t worry; the next cycle will open in January 2026.
Here’s the expected timeline for the upcoming cycle:
Stage
Expected Date
Application Opens
January 2026
Application Deadline
March 31, 2026
Interviews & Review
April – June 2026
Final Selection & Results
July 2026
Important: Applications are offline only and must be submitted to the local office.
Courses Covered
While there is no restriction on fields of study, priority is given to programs that align with AKDN’s development goals, such as health, education, architecture, and rural development.
Here are the preferred fields with their example courses:
Field of Study
Courses
Health & Medicine
Public Health, Nursing, Medical Sciences
Education
Education Policy, Curriculum Development
Engineering & Technology
Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering
Social Sciences
Economics, Development Studies, Sociology
Architecture & Design
Urban Planning, Sustainable Architecture
Agriculture & Rural Development
Agricultural Sciences, Food Security
Selection Process
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) follows a structured selection process to identify candidates who demonstrate the best academic excellence, financial need, and leadership potential.
Here’s how it works:
Application Review: Local AKF offices screen applications for completeness and eligibility.
Financial Assessment: Detailed evaluation of the applicant’s financial need and funding plan.
Academic Evaluation: Review of academic records, admission letters, and program relevance.
Interview Stage: Shortlisted candidates are invited for an in-person or virtual interview to assess leadership qualities, career goals, and commitment to community development.
Final Decision: Regional and central committees make the final selection based on merit, need, and alignment with AKF’s development objectives.
Tips for Selection
The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of less than 5% in most cycles.
Here are the practical tips to boost your chances:
Start Early: Begin preparing your application and documents well before the deadline.
Craft a Strong SOP: Clearly explain your academic goals, career vision, and commitment to community development.
Show Leadership: Highlight professional experience, extracurricular achievements, and volunteer work.
Secure Quality Recommendations: Request letters from mentors or supervisors who know your capabilities well.
Plan Your Funding: Present a thoughtful, multi-source funding plan to demonstrate financial responsibility.
Prepare Interviews: Be ready to discuss your goals, leadership experiences, and how you plan to contribute after graduation.
Follow Instructions Carefully: Submit all documents through the local AKF office and meet the deadline; late or incomplete applications are not accepted.
Conclusion
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme is one of the most competitive postgraduate funding opportunities, with an acceptance rate of under 5%. Its unique 50% grant + 50% interest-free loan model makes it both supportive and sustainable.
Available in 14 countries and prioritizing fields aligned with development goals, this scholarship empowers talented individuals to study at top global universities and return to drive change in their communities.
How does the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship support long-term development goals?
The scholarship empowers students from developing countries to pursue postgraduate education in fields like health, education, and rural development. By requiring scholars to return and contribute locally, it strengthens institutional capacity and fosters sustainable development aligned with the Aga Khan Development Network’s mission.
Are applicants required to repay the loan portion of the scholarship? If yes, what are the terms?
Yes. The loan is interest-free and must be repaid after graduation within an agreed timeline. Repayment terms are flexible, allowing graduates to start once they secure employment. This system ensures sustainability while reducing financial burden compared to traditional loans.
Can the scholarship be combined with other financial aid or grants?
Yes. Applicants are encouraged to secure additional funding sources to minimize the amount requested from AKF. Combining scholarships or grants is allowed, provided there are no conflicts with AKF’s terms.
Does the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship prioritize any specific fields of study?
While open to all postgraduate disciplines, priority is given to fields that align with development goals such as health, education, architecture, rural development, and environmental studies. These areas directly impact community well-being and sustainable growth, reflecting AKF’s commitment to improving quality of life globally.
How does the Foundation assess leadership potential during selection?
Leadership potential is evaluated through academic achievements, professional experience, extracurricular involvement, and volunteer work. Essays, recommendation letters, and interviews help assess qualities like vision, resilience, and the ability to create positive change within communities.
Are distance learning or online postgraduate programs eligible for funding?
Yes, but only if the program maintains high academic standards and is offered by a reputable institution. AKF prioritizes full-time, on-campus programs; however, quality distance learning options may be considered if they meet the Foundation’s criteria for excellence.
What happens if a scholar fails to maintain academic performance during the program?
Scholars are expected to maintain strong academic standing. Failure to do so may result in probation or withdrawal of benefits. AKF provides guidance for minor setbacks, but consistent underperformance or non-compliance can lead to termination of funding.
Does the scholarship provide additional support for research or conferences?
Yes. Scholars may receive supplementary funding for academic enrichment, including research projects, conferences, and professional workshops. These opportunities help students expand knowledge, network globally, and contribute to their fields, reinforcing AKF’s commitment to holistic development beyond classroom learning.
Are family members or dependents covered under the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship benefits?
No. The scholarship benefits apply only to the selected scholar. Family members or dependents are not covered for allowances, health insurance, or travel. Applicants planning to bring dependents must arrange separate funding and accommodations independently.
How does the repayment process work for the interest-free loan component?
Repayment begins after graduation, following a schedule agreed upon with AKF. The loan is interest-free, making it easier for scholars to manage. Terms are flexible, and graduates are encouraged to start repayment as soon as they secure employment.
Can applicants apply for the scholarship more than once if they are not selected initially?
Yes. Applicants who were not selected can reapply in subsequent cycles, provided they still meet eligibility criteria. Improving academic credentials, strengthening leadership experience, and presenting a robust funding plan can enhance chances in future applications.
Does the Aga Khan Foundation offer mentorship or networking opportunities to scholars?
Yes. Scholars gain access to professional networks, alumni connections, and development-focused events. These opportunities foster collaboration, mentorship, and knowledge sharing, helping graduates build impactful careers while staying connected to AKF’s global mission of community development.
What are the most common mistakes applicants make while applying for this scholarship?
Common mistakes include incomplete applications, weak funding plans, generic essays, and late submissions. Failing to demonstrate leadership potential or community commitment also reduces chances. Applicants should follow instructions carefully, prepare documents early, and craft a compelling statement of purpose.
How does the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship compare to other major international scholarships like Chevening or Rhodes?
Unlike fully funded programs like Chevening or Rhodes, AKF ISP uses a shared funding model (grant + loan) and focuses on students from developing countries. It prioritizes fields linked to development and requires a commitment to return home, making it unique in purpose and impact.
