Aga Khan Foundation Higher Education Scholarships

The Aga Khan Foundation Higher Education Scholarships Program (AKF ISP) offers a vital lifeline for bright and driven students from developing countries who lack the financial means to pursue higher education. By opening doors to academic opportunities, this prestigious scholarship empowers future leaders to contribute meaningfully to their communities and countries. In this blog, we will explore the key aspects of the AKF ISP, including its funding model, eligibility criteria, application process, and the transformative impact it has on the lives of its recipients.

Host Country	Various
Host Institute	Various Higher Educational Institutes
Level	Masters, PhD
Eligible Nationality	Developing countries
Fellowship Type	Funded
Benefits	50% scholarship, 50% loan
Duration	2 year
Opening Date	January 2026
Closing Date	31 March 2026

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The Aga Khan Foundation – Building a Better Future

The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), established in 1967 by His Highness the Aga Khan, is a private, non-denominational development organization dedicated to improving quality of life in developing countries, particularly across Asia and Africa. The Foundation operates across a broad range of sectors, including education, health, economic development, rural development, and civil society. By working collaboratively with local governments, businesses, and community organizations, AKF addresses the root causes of poverty and promotes sustainable social and economic progress. Guided by an inclusive and holistic approach, the Foundation is committed to empowering individuals and communities to build brighter, more resilient futures.

Aga Khan Foundation Global Scholarship Program

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program (AKF ISP) supports talented students from developing countries who lack the financial means to pursue higher education. Designed for individuals under the age of 30, the program provides scholarships for Master’s and PhD studies. The funding is offered through a combination of grants and interest-free loans, which recipients are required to repay over time. For Master’s degrees, the scholarship covers the full duration of the program, while PhD support is provided for the initial two years, after which students are expected to secure alternative funding. With a strong focus on academic excellence, financial need, and a commitment to community service, the AKF ISP empowers emerging leaders to drive sustainable development in their communities and countries.

Who Can Apply

To be eligible for the AKF International Scholarship Program, applicants must:

Demonstrate an excellent academic record
Hold a bachelor’s degree or possess equivalent professional experience
Show genuine financial need
Provide a well-structured and reliable financial plan covering all years of study
Be admitted to a reputable postgraduate institution
Be entering the first year of their postgraduate program
Exhibit strong leadership potential, along with relevant work experience, and achievements in extracurricular activities, entrepreneurship, or community service

What the AKF Scholarship Offers

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program (AKF ISP) features a distinctive funding model, with support divided equally between grants and interest-free loans. This means that 50% of the award is provided as a non-repayable grant, while the remaining 50% is offered as an interest-free loan. This innovative approach not only ensures students receive the financial support they need but also fosters a sense of responsibility and accountability.

The loan repayment terms are designed to be flexible and considerate of each recipient’s financial situation. Repayment typically begins six months after the completion of the degree program, with a maximum repayment period of five years. This structure allows the scholarship fund to remain sustainable, enabling future students to benefit from the program. It reflects the Foundation’s commitment to long-term impact, mutual support, and shared responsibility.

Duration and Responsibilities for PhD Scholar

Scholarships for Master’s students are granted for the full duration of their degree program, ensuring continuous support until graduation. This allows recipients to concentrate fully on their academic and professional growth without the constant stress of securing additional funding.

PhD students receive scholarship support for the first two years of their studies. After this initial period, they are encouraged to seek alternative funding to complete their program. This approach not only helps students develop essential skills in securing grants and scholarships—crucial for future academic and research careers—but also ensures the Foundation can extend its support to a greater number of students, thereby maximizing the overall impact of the scholarship program.

Documents Needed for Application

Prospective applicants are required to submit several key documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and proof of financial need. These materials play a vital role in demonstrating a candidate’s qualifications and potential to benefit from the scholarship. The selection process involves multiple stages, including an initial screening, interviews, and a final review by a panel of experts. Successful applicants are notified well in advance, allowing them sufficient time to plan and prepare for their studies abroad.

Steps to Apply for the 2026–2027 Cycle

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program opens for applications annually. The upcoming cycle for the 2026–2027 academic year will launch in early January 2026, providing applicants ample time to prepare and submit all required documents. This early start is crucial, as the application process is both rigorous and highly competitive. The program seeks to identify the most promising candidates who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and a strong commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.

Official Website.

How AKF ISP Transforms Students’ Lives

Recipients of the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program undergo transformative changes in both their academic and personal lives. By providing access to quality higher education, the program equips students with the tools to achieve their academic and career aspirations, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to their communities and home countries. The financial support, which covers tuition and living expenses, allows scholars to focus fully on their studies and personal development without the burden of financial stress.

Beyond academics, the program fosters intercultural awareness and a strong sense of global citizenship. Studying abroad exposes students to diverse cultures and perspectives, enriching their learning experience and broadening their worldview. In today’s interconnected world, this kind of cultural exchange is invaluable—it promotes mutual understanding, respect, and international collaboration.

Conclusion

The Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Program plays a vital role in supporting talented students from developing countries in their pursuit of higher education. With its rigorous selection process, clear eligibility criteria, unique cost-sharing model, and transformative impact on recipients, the AKF ISP stands out as a leading example of a sustainable and meaningful scholarship initiative. As the application cycle for the 2026–2027 academic year approaches, prospective applicants are encouraged to begin preparations early and take advantage of this life-changing opportunity.