The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) 2026 is now open for applications from academically outstanding and financially disadvantaged students seeking to pursue postgraduate studies abroad. This prestigious and highly competitive programme is designed to support exceptional individuals who lack alternative means of financing their education and wish to undertake Master’s or PhD degrees at reputable institutions worldwide.
The AKF ISP is awarded annually through a rigorous international selection process and targets future leaders committed to contributing to the development of their communities and home countries.
Summary of the Scholarship
- Scholarship Provider: Aga Khan Foundation
- Host Institutions: Any recognized postgraduate institution worldwide
- Funding Type: Fully funded (need-based)
- Number of Awards: Multiple
- Study Level: Master’s (MSc) and Doctoral (PhD)
- Eligible Applicants: International students
- Application Deadline: March 31, 2026
Eligibility Criteria / Requirements
To qualify for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Demonstrate outstanding academic performance throughout previous studies.
- Possess a Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification, including relevant professional or practical experience where applicable.
- Show clear and genuine financial need.
- Present a realistic and well-structured multi-source funding plan.
- Secure admission to a recognized and reputable postgraduate institution.
- Exhibit strong leadership qualities, relevant professional background, community involvement, entrepreneurial activities, and volunteer experience.
Preference is given to young professionals under the age of 30 who show long-term commitment to development-oriented careers.
Eligible Countries
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme is open to applicants who are citizens of the following countries:
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
- Egypt
- India
- Kenya
- Kyrgyz Republic
- Madagascar
- Mozambique
- Pakistan
- Syria
- Tajikistan
- Tanzania
- Uganda
Applications are also accepted from individuals originally from the above-listed countries who are currently residing in Canada, France, Portugal, or the United States.
Application Process
Applications for the AKF ISP are managed through local Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), Aga Khan Education Services (AKES), or Aga Khan Education Board (AKEB) offices.
Interested candidates must request an application form directly from the appropriate national organization in their country of residence or origin. For example, applicants living in India must apply through the AKF office in India, while those in Kenya must apply via the Kenyan office.
Completed application forms must be submitted to the same organization from which they were obtained. Incomplete applications or submissions received after the deadline will not be considered.
For detailed guidelines, contact information, and official updates, applicants are advised to visit the Aga Khan Foundation official scholarship webpage.