Scholarships are a remarkable way for students from developing nations to advance their education. One such opportunity is the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme. This guide provides a comprehensive understanding of this programme, aiming to assist potential applicants.
Overview of the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship Programme
The Aga Khan Foundation sponsors a limited number of scholarships each year for postgraduate studies. This assistance is provided specifically to exceptional students from developing nations who have no other means to finance their studies. The scholarships are awarded through a competitive process once a year.
Note: The scholarships are granted on a 50% grant : 50% loan basis.
Host Institutions
The scholarship is open for any reputable university or postgraduate institution of higher learning worldwide.
Fields of Study
The Foundation primarily favors Master’s level courses but is open to considering applications for PhD programmes. However, applications for short-term courses are not entertained.
Target Audience
The scholarship is specifically targeted towards nationals of the following countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Canada, Egypt, France, India, Kenya, Kyrgyz Republic, Madagascar, Mozambique, Pakistan, Portugal, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Uganda and the USA.
Note: In Canada, France, Portugal and the USA, applications are accepted from those who are originally from one of the above developing countries, are interested in development-related studies, and have no other means of financing their education.
Scholarship Value, Inclusions, and Duration
The Foundation assists students with tuition fees and living expenses only. Travel costs are not included in AKF scholarships.
Scholarships for Master’s studies are granted for the entire duration of the degree course, while funding for PhD programmes is provided for the first two years of study only. After this, students are expected to find alternative sources of assistance.
Half of the scholarship amount is considered a loan, which must be reimbursed with an annual service charge of 5%. A guarantor is required to co-sign the loan agreement. The payback period is five years, starting six months after the study period funded by the Aga Khan Foundation.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for an AKF ISP award, you must:
- Have excellent academic records
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree or have equivalent training/professional experience
- Demonstrate genuine financial need
- Construct a thoughtful, reliable, multi-source funding plan
- Be admitted to a reputable postgraduate institution
- Display strong leadership potential, professional experience, extracurricular and/or entrepreneurial achievements, and volunteer contributions.
Note: Preference is given to young professionals under 30 years of age.
Application Process
The application process is very simple and quick Interested candidates click on Apply Now below:
Disclaimer
This is a summarized listing of the scholarship. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information is up-to-date and correct, details may change at any time without notice. Always refer to the official website of the scholarship provider for complete and updated information. Any reliance you place on this information is strictly at your own risk.
