Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship Programme 2026/2027 (Fully Funded)

The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship Programme 2026/2027 is one of the most comprehensive fully funded international scholarship initiatives aimed at developing human capital across IsDB Member Countries and Muslim communities worldwide.

Established as part of the Bank’s long-standing commitment to education and capacity building, this scholarship program has been designed to nurture skilled professionals who can contribute meaningfully to social progress, economic growth, and sustainable development in their home countries.

Through this program, academically qualified but financially disadvantaged students are given access to quality education at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels. At the same time, scholars are prepared to become agents of positive change by applying their acquired knowledge to address development challenges within their societies.

Consequently, the scholarship is not merely a financial support mechanism but a strategic investment in global human capital development.

Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship Programme

Background and Evolution of the IsDB Scholarship Programme

From its inception, the Islamic Development Bank has recognized that sustainable development cannot be achieved without well-trained human resources. Therefore, alongside its core development financing activities, strong emphasis has consistently been placed on education and capacity development.

In 1983, the Scholarship Program for Muslim Communities (SPMC) was introduced to support Muslim students living in non-member countries. This initiative was created to address educational disparities faced by minority communities and to promote inclusive development. Over time, the program proved successful in empowering beneficiaries to improve their socio-economic conditions.

Building on this experience, the Merit Scholarship Program (MSP) for PhD studies and postdoctoral research was launched in 1992. This program was specifically designed to strengthen research capacity in applied sciences and high technology within IsDB member countries.

Later, in 1998, the Master of Science (M.Sc.) Scholarship Program was introduced to support Least Developed Member Countries (LDMCs) that were unable to fully benefit from the MSP. Through these successive initiatives, the IsDB scholarship framework has evolved into a multi-tiered system addressing education needs at various academic levels.

Alignment with IsDB’s Realigned Strategy

In the IsDB Realigned Strategy 2023–2025, human capital development was elevated as a central pillar of the Bank’s development agenda. Under this strategy, comprehensive and inclusive capacity-building initiatives were prioritized to help member countries overcome persistent development challenges.

As part of this strategic direction, the IsDB Scholarship Programme has been positioned as a key tool for promoting economic resilience, shared prosperity, and long-term institutional strengthening. By investing in education, the Bank ensures that beneficiaries are equipped with relevant skills to support innovation, governance, and sustainable development in their countries.

Available Scholarship Programs Under IsDB

IsDB–ISFD Scholarship Program for Bachelor’s and Technical Diploma (LDMCs)

This program targets young people from Least Developed Member Countries who demonstrate academic excellence but face financial hardship. Through bachelor’s degrees and technical diploma (TVET) training, recipients are prepared for employment and entrepreneurship in development-relevant sectors.

The program’s objective is to improve beneficiaries’ socio-economic standing while enabling them to contribute productively to national development initiatives.

Master of Science (M.Sc.) Scholarship Program

The M.Sc. Scholarship Program was designed to strengthen scientific and technological capacity in LDMCs. By supporting postgraduate education in science and technology, the program ensures that member countries develop a skilled workforce capable of driving industrial growth and innovation.

Merit Scholarship Program for High Technology (MSP)

This prestigious program supports PhD and postdoctoral research in applied sciences and advanced technologies. It is primarily intended to enhance research institutions in IsDB member countries by producing highly specialized professionals and researchers.

Scholarship Program for Muslim Communities in Non-Member Countries

This program focuses on Muslims living in non-member countries. Through access to higher education, beneficiaries are empowered to improve their communities while fostering global inclusion and social cohesion.

Financial Coverage and Scholarship Benefits

One of the most attractive aspects of the IsDB Scholarship Programme 2026/2027 is its comprehensive financial support, which allows scholars to focus fully on their studies.

Tuition and Academic Fees

All tuition-related costs are fully covered throughout the duration of the program. This includes registration and academic fees at approved institutions.

Monthly Living Allowance

A monthly stipend is provided to cover basic living expenses, including food, transportation, and study materials. The stipend amount varies by study level and host country.

Accommodation and Health Insurance

Scholars receive accommodation support as well as health insurance coverage, ensuring access to medical care throughout their studies.

Travel Expenses

International travel costs to and from the country of study are covered, subject to the scholarship’s terms and conditions.

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure that the program achieves its intended impact, eligibility requirements have been carefully defined.

Applicants must be citizens of IsDB member countries or members of Muslim communities in non-member countries. Strong academic performance is required, and candidates must meet the admission criteria of their chosen institutions.

Additionally, applicants are expected to demonstrate commitment to community development and willingness to return to their home countries after completion of studies. English or other relevant language proficiency may be required depending on the program and host institution.

Application Deadline

The application deadline for the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship Programme 2026/2027 is 31 January 2026. Late or incomplete applications are generally not considered.

Applicants are strongly advised to begin preparations early and ensure that all required documents are submitted before the deadline.

Application and Selection Process

Applications are submitted through the official IsDB scholarship portal. Once submitted, applications undergo a rigorous evaluation process that considers academic merit, development relevance, and leadership potential.

Shortlisted candidates may be required to provide additional documentation or attend interviews. Final selections are approved by the Islamic Development Bank based on institutional priorities and available funding.

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