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The Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship: Study in USA/Canada Fully FundedAugust 13, 2024 by

  • 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

  1. Wait for the application cycle to open (early January 2025 for 2025-2026 awards)
  2. Contact local units of the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), Aga Khan Education Services (AKES), or Aga Khan Education Board (AKEB) for application details
  3. Prepare and submit required documents
  4. 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

  1. Can I apply if I’ve already started my postgraduate studies?
    No, the scholarship is only for students starting their first year of study.
  2. Is the scholarship available for study in the UK?
    No, the AKF ISP is not available for studies in the United Kingdom.
  3. 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.
  4. Can I apply if I’m over 30 years old?
    Yes, but preference is given to applicants under 30 years of age.
  5. 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.

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