The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) is a prestigious, need-based scholarship established in 1969 by His Late Highness Aga Khan IV to support outstanding students from selected countries pursuing postgraduate studies abroad.
The program primarily supports master's programs and selected PhD studies and has funded more than 1,500 scholars worldwide. Awards are offered through a competitive annual process and are structured as a 50% grant and 50% loan, covering tuition fees and living expenses.
Applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance, financial need, leadership potential, and admission to a reputable postgraduate institution.
Who is Eligible for Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship?
If you’re planning to apply, understanding the eligibility criteria is essential. The scholarship is intended for students with strong academic records and limited financial resources.
A. Academic Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
You must hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent professional training from a recognized institution.
You should have an excellent academic record in your previous studies.
You must have secured admission to a reputable postgraduate institution for a master's or PhD program.
You should be applying for the first year of your postgraduate program, as students who have already commenced their studies are generally not eligible.
Your chosen course should align with your academic background and career goals.
B. Financial Need Criteria
To ensure the scholarship supports students who genuinely need financial assistance:
Applicants must demonstrate genuine financial need and limited financial resources.
You may need to provide proof of income, financial background, and supporting documents.
Applicants should present a realistic, multi-source funding plan that covers the entire duration of their studies.
The scholarship is considered a funding source of last resort, and applicants are encouraged to explore additional scholarships and financial aid opportunities.
Funding is awarded on a need-cum-merit basis, which is a key principle of the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme.
C. Personal and Career Criteria
Applicants are expected to:
Demonstrate strong leadership potential, professional achievements, extracurricular involvement, or volunteer experience.
Show clear academic motivation and well-defined career goals.
Possess relevant professional experience where applicable.
Preference is generally given to young professionals under the age of 30.
Demonstrate the potential to make meaningful contributions to their communities and professional fields after completing their studies.
Who may not be eligible for the scholarship?
You may not qualify if:
You do not demonstrate financial need
Your academic performance is below expectations
You do not meet admission requirements for your chosen program
The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship provides financial assistance to help students manage the cost of studying abroad. However, it follows a unique structure compared to fully funded scholarships.
Here is a structured overview of the benefits:
Category
What is Covered
Funding Structure
50% grant and 50% loan (50% of the award amount is repayable).
Tuition Fees
Covers tuition and other approved educational expenses.
Living Expenses
Covers the student's basic living expenses during the study period.
Master's Funding Duration
Funding is provided for the entire duration of the master's program.
PhD Funding Duration
Funding is provided for the first two years only; students must arrange additional funding thereafter.
Scholarship Renewal
Continued funding depends on satisfactory academic performance and ongoing financial need.
Repayment Terms
Loan repayment begins six months after graduation, termination of studies, or withdrawal of support.
Not Covered
International travel, clothing, furniture, and living expenses for dependents/family members.
Unlike many scholarships, this program often follows a 50% grant and 50% loan model, making it important for applicants to plan repayment after graduation.
Additional Benefits
Opportunity to study at top universities globally
Development of leadership and professional skills
Belonging to an international scholar network
Long-term career growth opportunities
The aga khan foundation international scholarship supports not just education, but also global development goals by preparing skilled professionals.
The application process for the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship is conducted through local offices or affiliated institutions rather than a single global portal.
Here is the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Check Eligibility Criteria
Ensure you meet academic and financial requirements under the Aga Khan foundation international scholarship programme before applying.
Step 2: Contact Local Office
Applications are usually handled through regional Aga Khan Foundation offices or partner agencies.
Step 3: Prepare Application Documents
Collect all necessary documents including academic records, financial proof, and personal statements.
Step 4: Submit Application Form
Complete and submit your application as per the instructions provided by your local office.
Step 5: Attend Interview (if shortlisted)
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews before final selection.
Documents Required for Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship
Applicants need to submit the following documents:
The application process for the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship does not follow a single global deadline. Instead, timelines depend on the applicant’s country, local office, and program intake cycle.
Below is how the application timeline generally works:
Application Cycle: Applications are generally conducted once a year through regional Aga Khan Foundation offices.
Application Opening: The application process for the next academic cycle will reopen in early January 2027.
Application Deadline: The standard deadline for the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) International Scholarship Programme is March 31 each year.
Current Status: The application cycle for the 2026–2027 academic year has closed, and the foundation is not accepting new applications at this time.
Regional Variations: Some countries and application centres may follow slightly different timelines and requirements based on local procedures.
Because of this structure, applicants do not share a common deadline. The application window and process may differ depending on where you apply, so it is important to check with your local Aga Khan Foundation office in advance.
The selection process is designed to identify candidates who demonstrate both strong academic performance and genuine financial need, along with a clear vision for their future.
Below is the detailed process involved in selection:
Initial Application Review: All applications are reviewed to ensure candidates meet basic academic qualifications and financial need criteria.
Candidate Shortlisting: Applicants are shortlisted based on academic performance, personal motivation, and demonstrated need for financial support.
Detailed Document Assessment: Academic records, financial documents, and personal statements are carefully examined to evaluate the candidate’s overall profile.
Interview Stage: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews to assess their communication skills, career goals, and commitment to contributing to society.
Final Selection: Candidates are selected based on their overall performance across all stages, balancing merit and financial need.
How to Check Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship Status?
To check the status of your application, candidates must stay in touch with the local or regional office through which they applied. Updates are usually communicated directly rather than through a centralized portal.
Here are the steps you can follow:
Step 1: Contact Application Office
Reach out to the regional Aga Khan Foundation office or partner organization where you submitted your application.
Step 2: Provide Application Details
Share basic details such as your name, application reference, or contact information to help locate your application.
Step 3: Check Application Updates
Request updates regarding shortlisting, document review, or interview schedules.
Step 4: Receive Final Result
Final selection outcomes are typically communicated directly via email, phone, or official notice from the regional office.
Common Reasons for Rejection of Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship
Applications for the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship may not be successful if candidates fail to meet key expectations or provide incomplete information.
Some common reasons for rejection include:
Insufficient demonstration of financial need: Applicants unable to justify financial support requirements
Average academic performance: Lack of strong academic background or consistency in results
Incomplete application: Missing information or improperly filled application forms
Weak personal statement: Unclear goals or lack of a well-defined study and career plan
Document-related issues: Missing or inconsistent academic or financial documents
Limited long-term commitment: Lack of clarity about contributing to the home country after studies
Conclusion
The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship is a valuable opportunity for students who wish to pursue higher education but face financial constraints. It supports individuals who combine academic ability with a strong sense of purpose and social responsibility.
By understanding the application timeline, preparing a clear and complete application, and meeting all eligibility requirements, students can improve their chances of success. With the right preparation, this scholarship can help open doors to global education and meaningful career opportunities.
How does the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship support long-term development goals?
Yes, you can start your application without confirmed admission, but you must secure admission before final selection. It is helpful to show that you have already applied to universities, as it strengthens your application and shows seriousness about your study plan.
Are applicants required to repay the loan portion of the scholarship? If yes, what are the terms?
The scholarship supports study at many international universities, including in countries like the UK, USA, Canada, and Europe. You can choose a suitable destination, but the course and university must match your academic background and long-term goals.
3. Can I choose any course under this scholarship?
You can apply for many postgraduate courses, but your chosen program must fit your previous education and career plans. The foundation prefers courses that help in development sectors and allow you to contribute to your home country after completing studies.
4. Is the scholarship renewable every year?
Yes, the scholarship is usually renewed each year. However, continuation depends on your academic performance and financial situation. You must maintain good grades and show progress in your studies to keep receiving financial support throughout the course duration.
5. Are there any restrictions on working during the scholarship period?
Students may be allowed to work part-time, depending on visa rules and university policies. However, your main focus should remain on studies. Managing studies and part-time work carefully is important to maintain academic performance and scholarship eligibility.
6. Can I apply for other scholarships along with this one?
Yes, you can apply for other scholarships at the same time. In fact, it is encouraged because this program may not cover all expenses. Additional funding can reduce your financial burden and help you manage your education costs more comfortably.
7. What happens if I withdraw from the program?
If you leave your course before completion, the scholarship support will stop. You may also need to repay the loan portion as per the agreement. It is important to carefully plan your studies before accepting the scholarship to avoid such situations.
8. Does the scholarship support distance or online learning programs?
No, the scholarship is mainly meant for full-time, on-campus postgraduate courses. Distance or online learning programs are generally not eligible, as the scholarship focuses on providing in-person academic experience and global exposure through university education.
9. Is there any obligation after completing the program?
Yes, students are expected to return to their home country after completing their studies. The aim is to use the education gained to contribute to local development, professional growth, and community improvement in their home country.
10. Can I apply if I already have a postgraduate degree?
In most cases, preference is given to students applying for their first postgraduate degree. However, applicants with a previous degree may still apply if they clearly explain their study goals and demonstrate strong financial need and career justification.
11. How important is the interview stage in the selection process?
The interview stage is very important as it helps assess your personality, communication skills, and future goals. A strong performance can improve your chances of selection, as it allows the panel to understand your motivation and commitment clearly.
