Are you an outstanding student with strong academic potential but limited financial resources to pursue postgraduate education abroad?
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme 2026-2027 (AKF ISP) offers a life-changing opportunity for talented individuals from selected countries to continue their studies at reputable universities around the world.
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme 2026-2027
The Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) was established in 1969 by His Late Highness Aga Khan IV to help exceptional students from developing countries pursue higher education when they have no other means of financing their studies.
Over the years, the program has supported more than 1,500 students worldwide, helping them gain advanced knowledge and professional skills that enable them to contribute to social and economic development in their home countries.
The scholarship is awarded through a highly competitive global selection process, and only a limited number of scholarships are offered each year. The 2026–2027 award cycle is currently open, providing an excellent opportunity for qualified candidates seeking funding for postgraduate studies.
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Countries | Various countries worldwide |
| Study Destination | Reputable postgraduate institutions globally |
| Scholarship Type | Master’s and PhD Degrees |
| Funded By | Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) |
| Eligible Applicants | Students from selected developing countries |
| Scholarship Value | Partial Funding (50% Grant, 50% Loan) |
| IELTS/TOEFL | May be required depending on the university |
| Application Deadline | Varies by country |
| Number of Awards | Limited each year |
| Study Mode | Full-Time |
| Academic Session | 2026-2027 |
What is the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme?
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) is designed to support talented students who demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership potential, and a commitment to improving their communities.
Unlike many scholarships, AKF ISP is specifically aimed at students who do not have other financial means to pursue postgraduate education. It acts as a last-resort funding option, encouraging applicants to seek additional financial support from other scholarship sources.
The program mainly funds master’s degrees, but it may also consider PhD programs in certain cases. The primary goal is to develop highly skilled professionals who can contribute to sustainable development in their home countries.
The scholarship is available in several countries, including:
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
- Egypt
- India
- Kenya
- Kyrgyz Republic
- Madagascar
- Mozambique
- Pakistan
- Syria
- Tajikistan
- Tanzania
- Uganda
- Australia
- New Zealand
In countries like Canada, Portugal, and the United States, applications are accepted from students originally from the eligible countries listed above.
However, the scholarship is currently not available for students who wish to study in the United Kingdom or Russia.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program 2026–2027, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must have excellent academic records.
- Must hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent training or professional experience.
- Must demonstrate genuine financial need.
- Must present a well-structured financial plan showing additional funding sources for the entire duration of the study program.
- Must be admitted to a reputable postgraduate institution.
- Must be starting the first year of the postgraduate program.
- Must demonstrate leadership potential and professional commitment.
- Must show extracurricular achievements, volunteer activities, or entrepreneurial experience.
Preference is generally given to young professionals under the age of 30 who have demonstrated dedication to improving their communities and professional fields.
Scholarship Benefits
The AKF International Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to cover the major costs associated with postgraduate education.
However, it is important to note that the award is structured as 50% grant and 50% loan.
Recipients can expect the following benefits:
Tuition Fee Coverage
The scholarship helps pay for the tuition costs required by the university.
Living Expenses
The award also provides financial support to cover essential living expenses during the study period.
Flexible Study Locations
Students may pursue postgraduate studies at reputable universities anywhere in the world, as long as the institution maintains high academic standards.
What the Scholarship Does Not Cover
Although the scholarship supports major educational costs, it does not cover certain expenses, including:
- International travel costs
- Clothing or personal items
- Furniture or accommodation setup costs
- Living expenses for family members
Students should therefore prepare a multi-source funding plan to cover these additional costs.
Award Conditions
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme operates under several important conditions.
50% Grant – 50% Loan Structure
Half of the scholarship is provided as a grant, while the remaining 50% is treated as a loan that must be repaid.
Loan Repayment
Repayment begins six months after the earliest of the following events:
- Graduation
- Termination of studies
- Withdrawal from the scholarship due to failure to meet academic requirements
Guarantor Requirement
Applicants must provide a guarantor who will co-sign the scholarship agreement.
Academic Performance
Students must maintain good academic standing and demonstrate continued financial need throughout the duration of their studies.
Duration of the Scholarship
The duration of support depends on the type of program:
- Master’s Programs: Funding is provided for the entire duration of the degree.
- PhD Programs: Funding is typically provided for the first two years, after which students are expected to secure funding from other sources.
Part-time programs, short courses, and distance learning programs are generally not eligible unless the academic quality of the program can be fully maintained.
Required Documents
Applicants usually need to submit the following documents during the application process:
- Completed scholarship application form
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- An admission letter from a recognized university
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Proof of financial need
- Recommendation or reference letters
- Personal statement or motivation letter
Additional documents may be requested depending on the applicant’s country and the local Aga Khan Foundation office.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
Applying for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme 2026-2027 involves several steps.
Check Eligibility
Use the AKF eligibility tool to confirm whether your country participates in the program and to review the specific requirements.
Contact the Local AKF office.
Applications are handled by local Aga Khan Foundation offices in participating countries. Applicants must contact their local office to receive detailed instructions.
Prepare Application Documents
Gather all required documents, including academic records, proof of admission, financial documents, and recommendation letters.
Submit Your Application
Submit the completed application package to the local AKF office before the deadline specified for your country.
Selection Process
Applications go through a competitive evaluation process, and shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews.
Final Award Decision
Successful applicants will be notified after the final review and scholarship approval process.
Why Apply for the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship?
The AKF International Scholarship Programme offers several advantages for students from developing countries:
Global Education Opportunities
Students can study at top universities worldwide, gaining access to high-quality education and research.
Leadership Development
The program focuses on individuals who show strong leadership potential and commitment to social impact.
Financial Support
The scholarship significantly reduces the financial burden of postgraduate education.
Global Network
Scholars become part of an international community of Aga Khan scholars and development professionals.
For more information and to verify your eligibility, visit the official Aga Khan Foundation scholarship page:
https://www.akdn.org/our-agencies/aga-khan-foundation/international-scholarship-programme
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