The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship (AKF ISP) 2027 is a prestigious fully funded scholarship designed to support outstanding international students from developing countries who have strong academic records but limited financial resources. Established in 1969 by His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, the programme aims to nurture future leaders committed to improving the quality of life in their home countries.
This competitive, merit- and need-based postgraduate scholarship provides funding for higher education at reputable institutions worldwide, with some country-specific restrictions.
Scholarship Overview
Degree Levels Supported:
Master’s Scholarship (priority)
PhD Scholarship (funding generally available for the first two years)
Note: Part-time programmes, short-term courses, and students already enrolled in postgraduate studies are not eligible.
Eligible Fields of Study:
The scholarship is open to all academic disciplines offered by recognized universities. Popular areas include:Development Studies
Education
Public Policy
Health Sciences
Engineering & Technology
Social Sciences
Environmental Studies
Economics & Finance
Benefits of the Scholarship
The AKF ISP provides comprehensive financial support for international students scholarships, including:
Full coverage of tuition fees
Living expenses during the study period
Long-term support for the entire Master’s programme
Funding Structure:
50% grant
50% loan (repayable with a service charge)
Important Notes:
International travel, clothing, furniture, and family expenses are not covered.
A guarantor is required to co-sign the loan agreement.
Loan repayment begins six months after graduation or completion of studies.
Eligible Nationalities
The AKF ISP is open to students from selected countries, including:
Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Kenya, Kyrgyz Republic, Madagascar, Mozambique, Pakistan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Uganda
Applicants residing in countries like Canada, Portugal, or the USA may apply only if they originate from eligible countries.
Students planning to study in the United Kingdom or Russia are not eligible.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements for this fully funded postgraduate scholarship:
Excellent academic record
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience
Demonstrated financial need
Admission to a recognized postgraduate institution
Entering the first year of a postgraduate programme
Strong leadership qualities, professional experience, and community involvement
Preference is given to young professionals under the age of 30.
Application Procedure
The AKF ISP application process is managed through local Aga Khan Foundation offices.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Check Eligibility – Confirm qualification using the official eligibility tool.
Contact Local AKF Office – Applications are submitted through the local office in your country.
Prepare Required Documents – Academic transcripts, admission proof, financial details, and references.
Submit Application – Submit through your designated local contact.
Selection & Interview – Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews before final selection.
Why Choose the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship?
Focuses on developing human capacity and leadership
Supports international students committed to giving back to their communities
Encourages ethical leadership and social impact
Long-standing global reputation with over 1,500 scholars supported worldwide
- The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship is one of the top fully funded scholarships for international students available worldwide, offering full tuition and living expenses support.
FAQs
1. Can part-time students apply for AKF ISP?
No, only full-time postgraduate students entering the first year of their programme are eligible.
2. What expenses does the scholarship cover?
It covers tuition fees and living expenses. Travel, clothing, furniture, and family costs are excluded.
3. Is financial need required to apply?
Yes, applicants must demonstrate genuine financial need alongside strong academic records.
4. Can students from the USA or Canada apply?
Only if they originally belong to an eligible country.
5. Are PhD students fully funded?
Funding is usually available for the first two years of a PhD programme.
6. What is the age preference for applicants?
Preference is given to applicants under 30 years of age.
7. Is a guarantor required for the loan portion?
Yes, a guarantor must co-sign the loan agreement.
8. How is the selection process conducted?
Applicants undergo a merit- and need-based evaluation, followed by possible interviews by the local AKF office.
