The Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Programme (ISP), established by His Highness the Aga Khan, aims to support exceptionally talented students from developing countries who lack the financial means to pursue full-time postgraduate studies at renowned higher education institutions.
Each year, a limited number of scholarships are offered for postgraduate studies, with the goal of nurturing capable scholars and leaders primarily for employment within the AKDN (Aga Khan Development Network). Scholarships are granted on a 50% grant : 50% loan basis and are awarded through a competitive application process held annually in June or July.
While Master’s level courses are given priority, outstanding candidates highly recommended by their professors and requiring a Ph.D. to achieve their career aspirations in academia or research-oriented fields may also be considered.
It’s important to note that applications for short-term courses and from students already enrolled in their current course of study are not considered.
Degree Level:
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarships for the year 2024 are available for Master’s and Ph.D. level programs.
Available Subjects:
Applicants can pursue studies in any subject under this scholarship program.
Scholarship Benefits:
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarships provide support for tuition fees and living expenses exclusively. Funding for Ph.D. programs is limited to the initial two years of study, and beyond this period, students are expected to secure additional financial aid. The financial assistance is tailored to meet the individual needs of students, and applicants are encouraged to seek additional funding from alternate sources to minimize reliance on the Foundation’s support. Preference is given to applicants who have secured partial funding from other sources.
Loan Conditions:
Fifty percent of the scholarship amount is considered a loan, repayable with a 5% annual service charge. A co-signed loan agreement with a guarantor is required, and repayment spans a five-year period, commencing six months after the study period supported by the Aga Khan Foundation.
Eligible Nationalities:
The scholarships are available in countries such as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Canada, Egypt, France, India, Kenya, Kyrgyz Republic, Madagascar, Mozambique, Pakistan, Portugal, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Uganda, and the USA. [Note: Canada, France, Portugal, USA accept applications from individuals originally from specified developing countries, interested in development-related studies, lacking other funding options.] Eligible applicants must be nationals residing in these countries and apply through local Aga Khan Foundation, Aga Khan Education Services, or Aga Khan Education Board offices.
Eligibility Criteria:
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program (ISP) conducts annual competitive applications. Preference is given to applicants who have explored alternative funding sources before seeking assistance from ISP. There is an emphasis on candidates under 30 years old, and no consideration is given for short-term courses or students already in postgraduate studies or part-time programs.
Application Procedure:
To apply for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarships, follow these steps:
- Obtain acceptance to study at your preferred university.
- Acquire the application form from AKF offices or Aga Khan Education Services/Boards in your current country of residence.
- Submit the completed application to the agency from which you obtained it; avoid sending applications to Geneva.
- For more information and details, visit the official website.
The application cycle for 2024-2025 will open in January 2024.
