Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) 2026– Fully Funded Postgraduate Scholarship
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) is a prestigious postgraduate scholarship designed to support outstanding students from developing countries who have strong academic records but limited financial resources. Established in 1969 by His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, the programme aims to develop future leaders who are committed to improving the quality of life in their home countries.
The scholarship follows a competitive, merit- and need-based selection process and supports students pursuing higher education at reputable institutions worldwide (with some country restrictions).
Degree Level
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme supports the following degree levels:
- Master’s Degree (Priority)
- PhD Degree (Funding usually provided for the first two years)
Part-time programmes, short-term courses, and applicants who have already started their postgraduate studies are not eligible.
Available Subjects
The scholarship is open to all academic disciplines, provided the programme is offered by a recognized and reputable university.
Popular fields include (but are not limited to):
- Development Studies
- Education
- Public Policy
- Health Sciences
- Engineering & Technology
- Social Sciences
- Environmental Studies
- Economics & Finance
Benefits
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship offers substantial financial support:
- Tuition fee coverage
- Living expenses during the study period
- Long-term financial assistance for the entire Master’s programme
- Support structured as:
- 50% grant
- 50% loan (repayable with a service charge)
Important Notes:
- International travel, clothing, furniture, and family expenses are not covered.
- A guarantor is required to co-sign the loan agreement.
- Loan repayment begins six months after graduation or completion of studies.
Eligible Nationalities
The AKF ISP is available to students from selected countries, including:
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
- Egypt
- India
- Kenya
- Kyrgyz Republic
- Madagascar
- Mozambique
- Pakistan
- Syria
- Tajikistan
- Tanzania
- Uganda
Applicants living in countries such as Canada, Portugal, or the USA may apply only if they originally belong to one of the eligible countries.
The scholarship is not available for students wishing to study in the United Kingdom or Russia.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the AKF ISP scholarship, applicants must:
- Have an excellent academic record
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience
- Demonstrate genuine financial need
- Provide a strong multi-source funding plan
- Secure admission to a recognized postgraduate institution
- Be entering the first year of a postgraduate programme
- Show leadership qualities, professional experience, and community or volunteer involvement
Note: Preference is given to young professionals under the age of 30.
Application Procedure
The application process for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme is managed locally.
Step-by-step process:
Check Eligibility
- Use the official eligibility tool to confirm whether you qualify.
Contact Local AKF Office
- Applications are handled by local Aga Khan Foundation offices in eligible countries.
Prepare Required Documents
- These typically include academic transcripts, admission proof, financial information, and references.
Submit Application
- Submit your completed application through the designated local contact.
Selection & Interview
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews before final selection.
Why Choose the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship?
- Focuses on developing human capacity
- Supports students who aim to give back to their communities
- Encourages ethical leadership and social impact
- Long-standing global reputation with 1,500+ scholars supported
