Scholarship

Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme

Offered by Aga Khan Foundation

  • Many countries
  • Master's ยท PhD / Doctorate
  • Grant

Closed Applications closed. Next cycle: Early 2027

Visit Official Scholarship Website

Last verified: September 26, 2026

Quick facts

Provider
Aga Khan Foundation
Study destination
Many countries
Level
Master's, PhD / Doctorate
Funding
Grant, Loan / Financial Aid
Eligible students
Students from selected countries (for example those listed); applications are handled by local contacts
Deadline
Applications closed. Next cycle: Early 2027

Overview

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) helps outstanding students from selected countries who have no other means of financing their studies to pursue postgraduate education. It was established in 1969 and has supported more than 1,500 students.

Awards are half grant and half loan, and priority is given to master’s programmes.

Who Can Apply

Students with excellent academic records, a bachelor's degree, genuine financial need, a multi-source funding plan and admission to a reputable postgraduate programme (first year).

Am I eligible? A quick check

  • Students from selected countries (for example those listed); applications are handled by local contacts
  • Study in Many countries
  • Level: Master's, PhD / Doctorate

This is a summary. The official eligibility rules decide who can apply.

Study Destination

The scholarship can be used in many countries (see the official rules for eligible institutions).

A reputable postgraduate institution (priority to master's programmes).

Education Level

Eligible Nationalities

Students from selected countries (for example those listed); applications are handled by local contacts

Show all 15 eligible countries
  • Afghanistan
  • Australia
  • Bangladesh
  • Egypt
  • India
  • Kenya
  • Kyrgyzstan
  • Madagascar
  • Mozambique
  • New Zealand
  • Pakistan
  • Syria
  • Tajikistan
  • Tanzania
  • Uganda

Eligibility can change between cycles. Confirm your country on the official website.

What Does This Scholarship Cover?

Travel

  • Airfare (not covered)

Other

  • Support for family / dependants (not covered)

Funding Details

Awards are half grant and half loan (50 percent is repaid, with a service charge, starting six months after graduation). They cover tuition expenses and student living expenses according to need, but not international travel, clothing, furniture or living expenses for family members. Master's awards cover the whole degree; PhD awards cover the first two years.

Eligibility Requirements

Age

Preference is given to young professionals under 30.

Financial need

Genuine financial need; the award is a resource of last resort.

Application Deadline

Status
Closed Applications closed. Next cycle: Early 2027
Previous cycle
The 2026-2027 application cycle is closed.
Next cycle
Early 2027

Deadlines change every cycle. Always confirm the current dates on the official website.

Important Conditions

  • 50 percent of the award is a loan that must be repaid, and a guarantor must co-sign the award agreement.
  • Awards continue only with good academic standing and ongoing financial need.

Free counselling

Need help with your scholarship application?

Talk to a study-abroad counsellor about your eligibility, your documents and your university options.

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