The Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) presents an opportunity for exceptional scholars from specified countries who lack other means of funding their studies to pursue postgraduate education. Established in 1969 by His Highness the Aga Khan, the AKF ISP has supported over 1,000 students to date.
The selection of award recipients occurs through a global, competitive, and annual application process. The AKF ISP provides a limited number of new awards in each cycle. While Master’s programs are given priority, the AKF ISP is open to considering applications for PhD studies. Funding applies to local and regional universities and distance learning programs, provided the course maintains high quality. Applications for part-time programs and short-term courses are not considered, and neither are applications from students already enrolled in or who have initiated their postgraduate studies.
Benefits:
Award Conditions
AKF ISP awards are structured as a combination of a grant and a loan, with the requirement to repay 50 percent of the award amount.*
Scholarships for Master’s studies are granted for the entire duration of the degree course. For PhD students, scholarships cover the first two years, after which students are expected to secure funding from alternative sources.
The award covers tuition fees and living expenses, excluding the cost of international travel, clothing, furniture, or living expenses for family members.
To retain an AKF ISP award, recipients must maintain good academic standing and demonstrate ongoing financial need throughout their postgraduate program.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for an AKF ISP award, you must:
Possess outstanding academic records.
Hold a bachelor’s degree or possess equivalent training or professional experience.
Showcase genuine financial need.
Develop a thoughtful, reliable, multi-source funding plan.
Secure admission to a reputable postgraduate institution.***
Demonstrate strong leadership potential, professional experience, extracurricular and/or entrepreneurial achievements, and volunteer contributions.
Please note that preference is given to young professionals under the age of 30.
Application Procedure:
Click here to access the application.
Applications are processed by local units of the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), Aga Khan Education Services (AKES), or Aga Khan Education Board (AKEB). Connect with the appropriate country-level entity (refer to contact details below) to request an application form. For instance, if you reside in India, you must apply through the local office in India, or if you reside in Kenya, you must apply through the local office in Kenya. Ensure that you submit your completed application to the agency from which the ISP application form was obtained. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
For additional details,
Application Deadline: March 31, 2024
