Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 2027/28 – Partial Funding
Between Cycles
About the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (ISP)
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (ISP) is a partial - 50% grant, 50% interest-free loan. repayment "includes a service charge." a guarantor is required, and repayment starts six months after graduation, termination or withdrawal scholarship offered by Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), part of the Aga Khan Development Network for study in Any country, funds study at any reputable university worldwide. The scholarship supports students pursuing Masters and PhD studies in Any discipline, but priority given to Master's programmes. Recipients receive Determined case-by-case on demonstrated need and programme cost for a duration of Full Master's duration, first 2 years of PhD.
Eligible applicants: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Kenya, Kyrgyz Republic, Madagascar, Mozambique, Pakistan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Uganda plus Australia and New Zealand. (Diaspora: Canada, Portugal, USA) Not available to students who wish to study in the UK or Russia.. Academic standing: Excellent academic record (no fixed minimum published).
If you meet the eligibility requirements and align with the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (ISP) selection criteria, this represents a valuable opportunity to advance your education with financial assistance. Read the sections below carefully to understand the benefits, eligibility, application process, and deadline before applying.
Scholarship Benefits & What's Covered
Selected recipients of the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (ISP) receive a comprehensive funding package. Here's what the scholarship covers:
- Stipend and allowances: Determined case-by-case on demonstrated need and programme cost
- Tuition fees: Partially, via the grant-loan structure
- Accommodation: Included in overall cost calculation
- Airfare / travel: Not covered
- Health insurance: Not confirmed
- Family / dependants: No
- Program duration: Full Master's duration, first 2 years of PhD
- Number of awards per year: 100–150 per year globally (very limited)
The scholarship is classified as Partial - 50% grant, 50% interest-free loan. Repayment "includes a service charge." A guarantor is required, and repayment starts six months after graduation, termination or withdrawal. Recipients receive substantial financial support, but should plan to supplement with personal or family contributions for uncovered expenses.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (ISP), applicants must meet the following requirements. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected, so review these carefully before applying.
Academic requirements
- Minimum degree level: Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience
- Academic standing: Excellent academic record (no fixed minimum published)
- Academic background: Bachelor's degree required, must not have already started the programme applied for
- Fields of study: Any discipline, but priority given to Master's programmes
Nationality & residency
- Eligible countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Kenya, Kyrgyz Republic, Madagascar, Mozambique, Pakistan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Uganda plus Australia and New Zealand. (Diaspora: Canada, Portugal, USA) Not available to students who wish to study in the UK or Russia.
- Residency: Apply through the AKF/AKES/AKEB office in your country of current residence
Language requirements
- Language of instruction: Set by host university
- Language test: Set by host university
- Minimum score: Not applicable
Other requirements
- Age: Priority given to applicants under 30
- Gender: None
How to Apply for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (ISP)
Applications for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (ISP) are submitted through the official channels of Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), part of the Aga Khan Development Network. Follow these steps to submit a strong application:
Step 1: Verify eligibility. Confirm you meet every requirement listed above, particularly nationality, academic level, and language proficiency. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected without review.
Step 2: Prepare required documents. You will need to submit: Application form (from local AKF office), financial-need documentation, transcripts, proof of postgraduate admission, personal statement. Prepare each document carefully, reviewers typically shortlist based on document quality and completeness.
Step 3: Secure reference letters. verify with local AKF office. Contact your referees early. References take time to prepare.
Step 4: Submit the application. Complete the application on the official portal before the deadline. The application deadline for this scholarship is Closed; next cycle early 2027. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.
Step 5: Await response. Shortlisting typically takes 4–8 weeks after the deadline. Successful candidates are invited to interview or additional assessment. Final decisions are announced 3–6 months after the application deadline.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (ISP) is Closed; next cycle early 2027. Application window: January 1, 2027.
We strongly recommend starting your application at least 6–8 weeks before the deadline to allow sufficient time for document preparation, reference letter requests, and revisions to your personal statement. Rushed applications are visibly weaker and reduce your chance of shortlisting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (ISP) fully funded?
The scholarship is classified as Partial - 50% grant, 50% interest-free loan. Repayment "includes a service charge." A guarantor is required, and repayment starts six months after graduation, termination or withdrawal. See the Benefits section above for a detailed breakdown of what's covered and what recipients must pay for themselves.
Who can apply for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (ISP)?
Applicants must be from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Kenya, Kyrgyz Republic, Madagascar, Mozambique, Pakistan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Uganda plus Australia and New Zealand. (Diaspora: Canada, Portugal, USA) Not available to students who wish to study in the UK or Russia.. Additionally, applicants must hold Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience. Full eligibility criteria including language, age, and academic requirements are detailed in the Eligibility section above.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (ISP) is Closed; next cycle early 2027. Late applications are not accepted, so aim to submit at least 2 weeks in advance.
Is there a bond or return obligation?
No formal bond, the 50% loan portion is repayable.
Where do I apply?
Apply directly on the official portal: Application Link. ScholarshipSpace does not process applications on their behalf.