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Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship Programme: A Prestigious Opportunity for Postgraduate Students

Table of Contents

  1. Overview of the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship
  2. Key Benefits of the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship
  3. Eligible Countries 
  4. Eligibility Criteria and Required Documents
  5. Scholarship Conditions
  6. Application Process and Application Deadline

The Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) for 2025-2026 is a prestigious initiative aimed at supporting academically outstanding students from specific countries who lack financial resources to pursue higher education. Established in 1969 by His Highness the Aga Khan, this scholarship has benefited over 1,000 students worldwide. It is a highly competitive program, awarded through a rigorous selection process, making it one of the most esteemed funding opportunities available.

Overview of the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 

  • Host Institutions: Leading universities worldwide, excluding the United Kingdom

  • Study Level: Master’s and PhD programs

  • Funded By: Aga Khan Foundation (AKF)

  • Eligibility: Students from selected countries

Key Benefits of the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship

  • Full tuition fee coverage

  • Support for living expenses

  • Housing assistance

  • Comprehensive health coverage

  • Structured as a 50% grant and 50% loan (repayment required)

  • Priority given to young professionals under 30 years old

  • Scholarship valid for the full duration of Master’s programs and the first two years of PhD studies

Eligible Countries

Applicants must be from one of the following countries:

  • Asia & Middle East: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Syria

  • Africa: Egypt, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda

  • Central Asia: Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan

In Canada, France, Portugal, and the USA, applications are only accepted from students who originally belong to the above-listed countries. The scholarship is not available for students intending to study in the United Kingdom.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the AKF ISP, candidates must meet the following requirements:

  • Outstanding academic record

  • A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience

  • Demonstrate financial need and present a detailed multi-source funding plan

  • Admission to a reputable postgraduate institution

  • Starting the first year of a Master’s or PhD program

  • Strong leadership potential, professional experience, and extracurricular achievements

  • Secure multiple sources of funding, as AKF ISP is considered a resource of last resort

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents:

  • Completed application form

  • Passport copy

  • Bachelor’s degree certificate

  • Academic transcripts

  • Admission proof from a postgraduate institution

  • Statement of financial need

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)

  • At least two recommendation letters

  • Proof of residence

Scholarship Conditions

  • The 50% loan component requires repayment with a minimal service charge.

  • A guarantor is required to co-sign the agreement.

  • Loan repayment begins six months after graduation, termination, or withdrawal from the program.

  • Scholars must maintain academic excellence and financial need to continue receiving funding.

Application Process

Follow these steps to apply for the scholarship:

  1. Visit the Official Website: Check the Aga Khan Foundation’s website for detailed guidelines and the eligibility tool.

  2. Complete the Eligibility Tool: Eligible candidates will receive further instructions on the application process.

  3. Prepare Required Documents: Ensure all necessary documents are compiled in the specified format.

  4. Submit the Application: Send your completed application to the designated AKF local office before 31 March 2025.

  5. Wait for Selection Results: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews, and final results will be announced in mid-2025.

This scholarship is an excellent opportunity for deserving students to pursue postgraduate studies without financial constraints, helping them make a meaningful impact in their fields and communities.

Application Deadline

The last date to apply for the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 2025-2026 is 31 March 2025.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified? Go to Scholarship at Uniplus Global to apply

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