The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) is a prestigious financial assistance initiative designed to support outstanding students from developing countries who have no other means of financing their higher education. The scholarship primarily focuses on postgraduate studies and is awarded on a competitive basis each year.
Established by the Aga Khan Foundation, the programme aims to develop future leaders and professionals who can contribute meaningfully to the development of their home countries. The scholarship emphasizes academic excellence, financial need, and a strong commitment to community service.
Overview of Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme |
| Offered By | Aga Khan Foundation |
| Level of Study | Postgraduate (Master’s and PhD in special cases) |
| Target Group | Students from eligible developing countries |
| Funding Type | 50% Grant and 50% Loan |
| Application Mode | Through Local Aga Khan Foundation Offices |
Objective of the Scholarship
The primary objective of the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship is to enable talented students from financially constrained backgrounds to pursue quality higher education.
Key objectives include:
- Support postgraduate education for outstanding students
- Develop skilled professionals in developing countries
- Promote leadership and community service
- Encourage contribution to national development
- Provide opportunities to students with limited financial resources
The programme focuses on long-term human resource development by investing in education.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility requirements are specific and competitive.
Applicants must:
- Be a citizen of an eligible developing country
- Demonstrate strong academic performance
- Show genuine financial need
- Have secured admission to a reputable postgraduate institution
- Be under the specified age limit (usually under 30 years)
Preference is given to students who have applied to highly reputable universities and whose field of study is relevant to the development of their home country.
The scholarship generally prioritizes Master’s level studies. PhD applications are considered only in exceptional cases.
Eligible Countries
The Aga Khan Foundation operates in selected countries across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Europe. Applicants must reside in one of the countries where the Foundation has an active presence. Eligibility may vary slightly by region.
Fields of Study
The scholarship supports postgraduate programs in fields that are relevant to development.
Common areas include:
- Education
- Health Sciences
- Engineering
- Architecture
- Environmental Studies
- Rural Development
- Public Policy
- Economics
Short-term courses and undergraduate programs are not covered under this scheme.
Scholarship Benefits
The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship covers the following:
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses
- Partial funding for travel (in some cases)
The funding model is unique because it is structured as:
- 50 percent grant
- 50 percent loan
The loan portion must be repaid under agreed terms after completion of studies. This approach allows the Foundation to support more students over time.
Scholarship Benefits Table
| Benefit Component | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Full or Partial Coverage |
| Living Expenses | Yes |
| Travel Expenses | Limited/Partial |
| Funding Structure | 50% Grant + 50% Loan |
| Duration | Entire Duration of Postgraduate Study |
Selection Process
The selection process is rigorous and merit-based.
It typically includes:
- Submission of application through local Aga Khan Foundation office
- Academic and financial assessment
- Interview process
- Final approval by the Foundation
Selection criteria emphasize academic excellence, leadership potential, financial need, and commitment to community development.
The Foundation receives a large number of applications each year, making the selection highly competitive.
Application Process
Unlike many scholarships, applications are not submitted directly to universities but through local Aga Khan Foundation offices.
Steps to apply:
- Contact the local Aga Khan Foundation office in your country.
- Obtain application forms and guidelines.
- Prepare academic transcripts, admission letters, and financial documents.
- Submit completed application before the deadline.
- Attend interview if shortlisted.
Applicants must apply to universities separately and secure admission before final scholarship approval.
Documents Required
Commonly required documents include:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Admission letter from university
- Financial information and income proof
- Reference letters
- Personal statement
- Identification documents
Applicants must ensure that all documents are authentic and complete.
Repayment Terms
Since the scholarship includes a loan component, selected students must agree to repayment conditions.
Key points:
- 50 percent of funding is interest-free loan
- Repayment begins after completion of studies
- Repayment schedule is agreed upon with the Foundation
- Funds are recycled to support future scholars
This sustainable funding model ensures long-term continuity of the programme.
Importance of the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship
The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship is highly respected globally. It provides life-changing opportunities for students who would otherwise struggle to afford higher education.
Major impacts include:
- Development of skilled professionals in developing nations
- Strengthening of local institutions through trained graduates
- Promotion of leadership and social responsibility
- Contribution to sustainable development
Recipients are expected to return to their home countries and contribute to social and economic progress.
Key Features
- Focus on postgraduate education
- Strong emphasis on financial need
- Competitive and merit-based selection
- Sustainable 50% grant and 50% loan model
- Commitment to national development
These features distinguish the scholarship from many fully grant-based programs.
Conclusion
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme is a prestigious opportunity for talented students from developing countries who lack financial resources to pursue postgraduate studies. By combining academic merit with financial need assessment, the programme ensures that deserving candidates receive essential support.
Although the funding includes a loan component, the scholarship provides comprehensive coverage of tuition and living expenses, enabling scholars to focus on their studies. Students with strong academic backgrounds and a commitment to community development should carefully review eligibility criteria and apply through their local Aga Khan Foundation office.
FAQs
- Who can apply for the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship?
Students from eligible developing countries with strong academic records and financial need can apply for postgraduate studies. - Is the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship fully funded?
The scholarship is funded as 50 percent grant and 50 percent interest-free loan. - Does the scholarship cover undergraduate studies?
No, it primarily supports postgraduate programs such as Master’s and selected PhD courses.
