The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program

Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program

What is the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program?
Key Benefits of the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship
Eligibility Criteria for the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship
Eligible Countries for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship
Fields of Study Supported by the Scholarship
Selection Criteria and Evaluation Process

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program is a significant initiative designed to provide financial support to outstanding students from developing countries. Established by the Aga Khan Foundation, a non-profit organization founded by His Highness the Aga Khan, the program aims to foster human resource development through higher education.

The scholarship program primarily targets students seeking to pursue Master’s or Ph.D. programs in various fields at reputable institutions around the world. The foundation believes that education is a crucial element in enabling individuals to contribute effectively to their communities and countries. Therefore, the program not only focuses on academic excellence but also emphasizes leadership potential and a commitment to serving one's community.

One of the unique features of the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship is its financial structure. The program typically offers a combination of grants and loans, where approximately 50% of the funding is provided as a grant, and the other 50% is a loan that recipients are required to repay after completing their studies. This model ensures that the foundation can continue supporting future students while empowering recipients to invest in their education.

Benefits of the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship

Financial Support: The program provides substantial financial aid that covers not only tuition fees but also living expenses, including accommodation, food, and travel costs.
Generous Allowances: In addition to tuition coverage, recipients receive allowances for research or dissertation costs, which is particularly beneficial for those engaged in rigorous academic work.
Access to Prestigious Institutions: The scholarship enables students to attend some of the world's most prestigious universities, which can significantly enhance their academic and professional prospects. Scholars can choose institutions that align with their academic interests, providing them with valuable networking opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria. Understanding these requirements is crucial for potential candidates. Here are the key eligibility criteria:

Nationality: The scholarship is primarily aimed at students from developing countries in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Eligible countries include India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and others.
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have an excellent academic record, typically demonstrated by a high GPA or equivalent in their previous studies. Preference is given to candidates who are currently enrolled or have received admission into a reputable institution for a Master’s or Ph.D. program.
Age Limit: Generally, candidates must be under 30 years of age at the time of applying. This age limit ensures that the scholarship targets young individuals who can benefit significantly from higher education.
Financial Need: The scholarship is intended for students who demonstrate genuine financial need and would not be able to pursue their studies without this support. Applicants are required to provide detailed financial information to assess their eligibility.
Leadership Potential: The foundation seeks candidates who exhibit strong leadership qualities and a commitment to contributing positively to their communities. This can be demonstrated through past experiences, involvement in community service, or leadership roles in various organizations.
Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the language of instruction at the chosen institution is essential. For most programs, English proficiency is required, and applicants may need to submit test scores such as IELTS or TOEFL, depending on the university's requirements.

Fields of Study Supported by the Scholarship

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program is open to students pursuing a wide range of fields, particularly those that align with the foundation's objectives of fostering development and leadership. The supported fields of study typically include:

Health Sciences: Programs in public health, medicine, and nursing, focusing on improving healthcare access and quality in developing countries.
Education: Degrees in education, educational leadership, and policy, aimed at enhancing educational systems and opportunities for marginalized communities.
Social Sciences: Programs such as sociology, economics, and political science that investigate societal issues and foster effective governance.
Environmental Studies: Disciplines focusing on sustainable development, climate change, and natural resource management, which are critical for the future of developing regions.
Development Studies: Interdisciplinary programs that explore the processes and challenges of economic and social development in various contexts.
Architecture and Urban Planning: Fields that address urbanization, housing, and infrastructure development in rapidly growing cities.
Agriculture and Food Security: Studies focused on improving agricultural practices and ensuring food security in developing regions.

Selection Criteria and Evaluation Process

Academic Performance: Candidates must demonstrate a strong academic record, typically reflected in their grades and achievements.
Leadership Potential: The foundation seeks individuals who have shown leadership skills and a commitment to service.
Financial Need: The Aga Khan Foundation prioritizes applicants who demonstrate genuine financial need and would be unable to pursue their studies without support.
Personal Statement and Interviews: The personal statement and interviews play a significant role in evaluating a candidate’s motivations, aspirations, and suitability for the scholarship. The foundation assesses how well candidates articulate their goals and their potential to contribute to their communities after completing their education.
Recommendations: Letters of recommendation provide insight into the applicant's character, work ethic, and potential. The selection committee considers the strength and credibility of these references as part of their evaluation.
Diversity and Representation: The foundation aims to support a diverse group of scholars from various regions and backgrounds. Therefore, the selection process considers factors such as gender, geographic representation, and areas of study.

Application Important dates:

Deadline: March 31 each year

How to Apply