Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme 2026

About This Scholarship

The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) International Scholarship Programme provides prestigious, highly competitive funding for postgraduate studies (primarily Master’s, and exceptionally PhDs) to outstanding students from developing countries. Unlike traditional grants, the AKF award is structured as a 50% grant and 50% loan. It is designed as a 'lender of last resort' for students who have exhausted all other funding options but possess a confirmed admission to a highly reputable global university. It heavily favors applicants committed to improving the developing world.

Scholarship Benefits & Coverage

• 50% direct non-repayable grant covering university tuition fees and essential student living expenses
• 50% low-interest loan with a 5% annual service charge, repayable over 5 years starting 6 months post-graduation
• Comprehensive coverage supporting the full duration of 1 to 2 year Master's degree programs
• Targeted funding covering the first two critical years of doctoral (PhD) studies
• Access to the global AKDN professional development network and post-graduation career opportunities

Eligibility Criteria

• 1
  Nationality: Nationals of Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Syria, Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Madagascar, and Mozambique.
• 2
  Residency: Must be resident in one of the countries where there are local AKF/AKES/AKEB offices.
• 3
  Age Limit: Preference given to students under 30 years of age.
• 4
  Financial Need: Must demonstrate 'genuine financial need' (families must contribute as much as they can).
• 5
  Admission: Must have admission to a highly reputable postgraduate institution (application is not valid without admission offer).
• 6
  Academic Merit: Consistently excellent academic records.
• 7
  Exclusion: Short-term courses, part-time programs, and students who have *already started* their course are ineligible.

How to Apply – Step by Step

1. 1

   Step 1: Locate your local Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) or Education Service (AKES) office (e.g., in Karachi, Lahore, Mumbai).

2. 2

   Step 2: Visit the office in person to request the application form (Forms are often NOT available online to discourage ineligible applicants).

3. 3

   Step 3: Consult with local staff about your eligibility.

4. 4

   Step 4: Complete the detailed application form including Financial Plan and Admission Proof.

5. 5

   Step 5: Submit the hard copy to the local office by March 31.

6. 6

   Step 6: Shortlisted candidates are interviewed by local scholarship committees in June/July.

Required Documents

• Completed Application Form (from local office)
• Official Admission Letter from University
• Attested Copies of Degrees and Transcripts
• Detailed Financial Plan (Income vs. Expenses)
• Two Professional/Academic References
• Proof of Income (Parents/Guardians)

Frequently Asked Questions