Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme

Overview

To be eligible for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme, applicants must be citizens of specific developing countries and demonstrate clear financial need. There are no strict academic performance thresholds, but preference is often given to candidates under 30 years of age. Potential applicants should have a strong academic record and commitment to their community's development. Students pursuing postgraduate degrees in a wide range of disciplines are encouraged to apply. The scholarship is geared towards those with limited options for funding their education.

About the Scholarship

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme aims to assist exceptional students from developing countries who are pursuing postgraduate studies at recognized institutions worldwide. The programme prioritizes candidates who demonstrate financial need and academic merit. Scholarships are awarded through a competitive selection process, ensuring that funds are allocated to the most deserving students. The foundation emphasizes the importance of returning to their home countries after completing their studies, thereby encouraging contributions to their communities' development. Annually, a limited number of scholarships are available, underlining the foundation's commitment to nurturing talented individuals who can lead their communities towards progress.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme, applicants must be citizens of specific developing countries and demonstrate clear financial need. There are no strict academic performance thresholds, but preference is often given to candidates under 30 years of age. Potential applicants should have a strong academic record and commitment to their community's development. Students pursuing postgraduate degrees in a wide range of disciplines are encouraged to apply. The scholarship is geared towards those with limited options for funding their education.

Benefits and Financial Coverage

The Aga Khan Foundation provides various financial benefits to support students in their postgraduate studies. This includes coverage for tuition fees and living expenses, ensuring that students can focus on their academic pursuits without the burden of financial stress. In essence, the scholarship strives to create a balanced funding model, where half is offered as a grant and the other half as a loan, reinforcing the importance of financial sustainability for future beneficiaries.

How to Apply

Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria before applying. Prepare necessary documents, including academic transcripts and proof of financial need. Visit the official Aga Khan Foundation website for application forms. Submit the completed application form before the deadline.

Application Timeline and Deadlines

The application cycle for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme typically begins in January, with a deadline set for 30 March 2026. Successful applicants are usually notified by May of the same year.

Selection Process

The selection process for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme is highly competitive and involves a thorough evaluation of applications based on academic merit and financial need. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview, which plays a crucial role in determining the final awardees. The foundation strives to select individuals who not only excel academically but also have a strong commitment to contributing to their communities.

FAQs

Students from select developing countries who meet the eligibility criteria can apply.
The scholarship covers tuition fees and living expenses, divided into grant and loan.
The application deadline is 30 March 2026.
Preference is given to candidates under the age of 30.
Students pursuing postgraduate degrees in any field can apply.
There is typically no application fee for submitting an application.
Yes, the scholarship is awarded on a 50% grant and 50% loan basis.
Recipients are selected based on academic merit and financial need through a competitive process.