Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme

Unlock Your Potential with the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme

Are you a passionate learner who dreams of furthering your education but are unsure of how to finance your journey? The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) might just have the solution for you! The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme is designed to empower outstanding students from developing countries by offering valuable support for postgraduate studies. With the scholarship now open for the 2026-2027 academic year, this is your chance to turn aspirations into reality. Read on to discover everything you need to know about this fantastic opportunity!

About the Scholarship

The Aga Khan Foundation annually provides scholarships to students from developing nations who demonstrate exceptional academic ability and lack the financial resources needed to pursue their studies. This unique programme offers funding on a 50% grant and 50% loan basis, allowing students to not only access education but also to cultivate their leadership skills while they study.

Eligibility

To ensure the scholarship reaches those most in need, the AKF has established certain eligibility criteria. To be considered, you must:

  • Have an excellent academic record.
  • Hold a Bachelor’s degree or possess equivalent training or professional experience.
  • Demonstrate genuine financial need.
  • Construct a thoughtful, reliable, multi-source funding plan.
  • Have been admitted to a reputable postgraduate institution.
  • Possess strong leadership potential, relevant professional experience, extracurricular involvement, entrepreneurial achievements, and volunteer contributions.

It’s also important to note that preference is given to young professionals under the age of 30. Eligible nationals from countries like Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Kenya, and many others are invited to apply.

Benefits

The Aga Khan Foundation scholarship is a fantastic opportunity that provides significant financial assistance. The key benefits of the programme include:

  • Financial Support: The scholarship covers tuition fees and living expenses, making higher education more accessible.
  • Loan Component: While half of the scholarship amount is considered a loan that must be paid back, the annual service charge is only 5%, making this an affordable financing option.
  • Duration of Support: The scholarship is available for the entire duration of Master’s programmes. For PhD students, funding is provided for the first two years, with the expectation of finding alternative assistance afterward.
  • Global Networking: Being part of the AKF community connects you with other bright minds and encourages collaboration and innovation within your field.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to take the next step and apply for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme, follow these simple steps:

  1. Research: Visit the Aga Khan Foundation website and familiarize yourself with the scholarship details and requirements.
  2. Prepare Documentation: Gather your academic records, proof of admission to a postgraduate institution, and documents detailing your financial situation and funding plan.
  3. Contact Local Office: Reach out to your nearest AKF local office to learn about internal deadlines and any specific requirements that may apply to your region.
  4. Complete Application: Fill out the scholarship application form thoroughly and honestly. Make sure to highlight your leadership qualities, professional experiences, and volunteer work.
  5. Submit: Ensure that all required documents are submitted before the deadline!

Important Date

The deadline for submitting applications for the scholarship is March 31, 2026. Remember, applications are accepted on an annual basis, so mark your calendars and prepare ahead of time to give yourself the best chance of success!

Final Thoughts

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme offers a unique opportunity for deserving candidates to gain quality education and transform their lives. If you’re driven to make a difference in your community and have the potential to become a leader, this scholarship could be your stepping stone to success. Don’t miss out on this exceptional opportunity to advance your studies—start your application today!