The Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship: Study in USA/Canada Fully FundedAugust 13, 2024 by Digital Vaults Editorial Team
- Amount: Fully Funded
Scholarship Summary
- Name: Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP)
- Country: Multiple countries (see eligibility criteria)
- Institution awarding scholarship: Aga Khan Foundation
- Level of study: Postgraduate (Master’s and PhD)
- Separate application required: Yes
- Type of scholarship: Partial (50% grant, 50% loan)
- Deadline: Applications for 2025-2026 cycle open in early January 2025
Scholarship Benefits
- Covers tuition fees and living expenses
- Support for the entire duration of Master’s degree courses
- Funding for the first two years of PhD programs
- Opportunity to pursue postgraduate education at reputable institutions
Eligibility Criteria
- Excellent academic record
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent training/professional experience
- Genuine financial need
- Comprehensive funding plan covering all years of study
- Admission to a reputable postgraduate institution
- Starting the first year of the program
- Strong leadership potential and extracurricular achievements
- Preference given to applicants under 30 years old
- Citizenship and residency in eligible countries (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Kenya, Kyrgyz Republic, Madagascar, Mozambique, Pakistan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Uganda)
- For Canada, France, Portugal, and USA: Open to those originally from eligible countries
How to Apply
- Wait for the application cycle to open (early January 2025 for 2025-2026 awards)
- Contact local units of the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), Aga Khan Education Services (AKES), or Aga Khan Education Board (AKEB) for application details
- Prepare and submit required documents
- Undergo the competitive selection process
Required Documents
Specific requirements to be announced when the application cycle opens
Official Website
https://the.akdn/en/what-we-do/developing-human-capacity/education/international-scholarships
Key Dates
- Application opening for 2025-2026 cycle: Early January 2025
- Deadline: To be announced
Courses Offered
The scholarship supports a wide range of postgraduate programs, with priority given to Master’s degrees. PhD applications are also considered.
Additional Details
- The scholarship is structured as 50% grant and 50% loan
- Loan repayment begins 6 months after graduation, termination of studies, or withdrawal of support
- 5-year repayment period with 5% annual cumulative service charge
- Does not cover international travel, clothing, furniture, or family living expenses
- Local/regional universities and distance learning programs are acceptable if quality is maintained
- Part-time programs and short-term courses are not eligible
FAQs
- Can I apply if I’ve already started my postgraduate studies?
No, the scholarship is only for students starting their first year of study. - Is the scholarship available for study in the UK?
No, the AKF ISP is not available for studies in the United Kingdom. - How long does the scholarship support PhD students?
The scholarship covers the first two years of PhD studies, after which students must secure alternative funding. - Can I apply if I’m over 30 years old?
Yes, but preference is given to applicants under 30 years of age. - What happens if I can’t repay the loan portion of the scholarship?
A head of family or another guarantor is required to co-sign the loan agreement, ensuring repayment.
The Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Programme offers a valuable opportunity for talented students from developing countries to pursue postgraduate education. By combining financial support with a commitment to repayment, the program aims to create a sustainable cycle of educational empowerment and community development.
