aga khan foundation scholarship 2026

aga khan foundation scholarship 2026 (International Scholarship Programme – ISP) is a prestigious global initiative established by His Highness the Aga Khan to support gifted students from developing countries. Unlike traditional full grants, the aga khan foundation scholarship utilizes a unique 50% grant and 50% loan model, designed to foster a sense of responsibility and self-sufficiency in its scholars. For the 2026-2027 academic cycle, the program aims to identify and empower future leaders who demonstrate not only academic excellence but also a deep commitment to the development of their home communities and the wider Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) vision. also check: DAAD Scholarship

The aga khan foundation scholarship is primarily geared toward Master’s level studies, though exceptional PhD candidates are considered if they are recommended for academic or research leadership roles. The program is intentionally decentralized, with applications managed by local offices in select countries across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. By focusing on students who have no other means of financing their education, the Aga Khan Foundation ensures that financial barriers do not prevent the world’s most promising minds from attending reputable international universities (excluding those in the UK). Also check: Fully Funded (Switzerland)

Recipients of the 2026 award are viewed as “ambassadors of development.” Upon completion of their studies, scholars are expected to return to their home countries or a developing region to apply their newly acquired skills. The loan portion of the scholarship features a low 5% annual service charge and a generous five-year repayment period, allowing graduates to transition into their professional careers while contributing back to the fund to support future generations of students.

Scholarship Summary

Scholarship Benefits

aga khan foundation International Scholarship Programme is designed as a “last resort” funding source to bridge the gap between a student’s existing resources and their total educational costs:

• Tuition Fee Coverage
• Living Allowance
• Master’s Duration Support
• PhD Seed Funding
• Low-Interest Loan: The 50% loan component carries a minimal 5% service charge, significantly lower than commercial student loans.
• Global Alumni Network

Eligibility Criteria

The selection process is highly competitive. To be eligible for the 2026 intake, you must meet the following requirements:

• Nationality: Must be a national of one of the following:
  • Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Tajikistan,
  • Kyrgyzstan, Syria, Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda,
  • Madagascar, or Mozambique.
• Residency: You must apply through the local AKF office in your country of current residence.
• Academic Record: A consistent, “excellent” academic standing throughout your Bachelor’s degree.
• Admission Status: You must hold a valid admission offer from a reputable postgraduate institution
• Financial Need: You must demonstrate a genuine lack of financial resources and provide a “multi-source funding plan.”
• Professional Potential: Preference is given to applicants under 30 who have relevant work experience and leadership achievements.
• Also check: University of Minnesota Scholarships 2026

Required Documents

Because the program is need based, the documentation requirements are extensive and must be submitted physically to your local office:

1. Official Application Form
2. Certified Transcripts
3. Proof of Admission
4. Personal Statement
5. Three Letters of Recommendation
6. Financial Documentation
7. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
8. Guarantor Agreement

Deadline

The AKF scholarship follows a strict annual timeline. Deadlines are final, and late applications are not accepted.

Step by Step Application Process

1. Contact Your Local Office: In January 2026, visit your local Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), Education Service (AKES), or Education Board (AKEB) to obtain the physical application form.
2. Verify University Compatibility: Ensure your host university is “reputable” and not located in the UK.
3. Finalize Other Funding: AKF prefers to be the “last piece of the puzzle.” Show that you have applied for at least 2–3 other scholarships.
4. Complete the 10-Page Form: Fill out the application electronically (do not handwrite) and answer every section comprehensively.
5. Submit the Physical Package: Return the completed form and all supporting documents to the exact office where you obtained them.
6. The Local Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an in-person interview focusing on their leadership potential and financial situation.
7. Wait for Geneva Review: Your application will be forwarded to the International Scholarship Committee in Geneva for final approval.
8. Sign the Loan Agreement: If selected, you and your guarantor must sign the official grant/loan contract before funds are released.