The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 2026 for Graduate Students is a highly competitive and prestigious funding opportunity designed to support outstanding postgraduate students from developing countries who lack alternative means of financing their education. This fully funded international scholarship enables selected candidates to pursue Master’s or PhD studies at reputable institutions worldwide.
Administered through the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP), this award focuses on academic excellence, leadership potential, and demonstrated financial need. The scholarship covers tuition fees and living expenses for the approved duration of funding and is offered to a limited number of exceptional students each year.
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 2026, including eligibility criteria, benefits, selection process, and step-by-step application procedures.
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Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 2026 Summary
- Scholarship Provider: Aga Khan Foundation (AKF)
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded (Partial Loan-Based)
- Category:
- Postgraduate Scholarships
- Master’s Scholarships
- PhD Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: 17 Selected Developing Countries
- Reward:
- Tuition Fees
- Living Stipends
- IELTS Requirement: Not Required
- Application Deadline: March 31, 2026
About the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (ISP)
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme was established in 1969 to provide talented but financially disadvantaged students from developing countries with access to high-quality postgraduate education. Since its inception, the programme has supported over 1,000 scholars worldwide.
The scholarship is awarded annually to a limited number of candidates who demonstrate:
- Strong academic performance
- Genuine financial need
- Clear career goals aligned with development impact
- Leadership qualities and commitment to community service
The programme prioritizes fields of study that contribute to social, economic, and human development, especially in the scholars’ home countries.
Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 2026 Details
The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 2026 is primarily targeted at students who have secured admission to reputable postgraduate institutions but lack sufficient financial resources to fund their studies.
Although the scholarship is often described as fully funded, it operates under a cost-sharing model, where 50% of the funding is provided as a grant and 50% as a loan. This structure ensures the sustainability and continuity of the programme for future scholars.
Funding is normally provided for the first two years of postgraduate study, after which recipients are expected to secure additional funding if their programme extends beyond this period.
Eligible Countries for Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship
The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship is available only in selected developing countries where the AKF International Scholarship Programme operates. Applications are handled locally through designated national offices or partner institutions.
Applicants must be citizens or residents of an eligible country to apply.
Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 2026 Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Possess an excellent academic record
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional qualification
- Be from a country where the AKF International Scholarship Programme is available
- Demonstrate genuine financial need with no alternative funding sources
- Have secured admission to a recognized and reputable postgraduate institution
- Present a realistic and well-structured multi-source funding plan
- Show strong leadership potential, professional experience, and commitment to community development
- Provide evidence of extracurricular involvement, entrepreneurship, or volunteer service
Age Preference
- Priority is given to young professionals under 30 years of age
Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship Benefits and Funding Structure
The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship provides financial support under the following conditions:
1. Tuition and Living Expenses
- Covers tuition fees
- Provides support for basic living expenses
2. Funding Duration
- Funding is generally limited to two years of study
- Priority is given to Master’s degree programmes
- PhD applications may be considered in exceptional cases
3. Grant and Loan Structure
- 50% grant (non-repayable)
- 50% loan (repayable)
4. Loan Repayment Terms
- Repayment period: 5 years
- Repayment begins six months after completion of the funded study period
5. Study Modes
- Local, regional, and international universities are acceptable
- Distance learning programmes may be considered if academic quality is assured
Selection Process for Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 2026
The selection process for the Scholarship is rigorous and highly competitive.
1: Local Review
Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews conducted by local Scholarship Committees, where applicants are assessed based on:
- Academic performance
- Financial situation
- Career objectives
- Leadership qualities
- Community involvement
2: Final Selection
- The Annual Scholarship Selection Meeting is held in late June or early July
- Final decisions are made centrally by the Aga Khan Foundation
- Applicants are notified of the outcome shortly after the meeting
Required Documents for The Scholarship
Applicants should be prepared to submit the following documents (requirements may vary by country):
- Completed AKF Scholarship Application Form
- Academic Certificates and Transcripts
- Proof of Admission to a Postgraduate Institution
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Personal Statement or Motivation Letter
- Financial Information and Funding Plan
- Recommendation Letters
- Any additional documents requested by the local coordinator
How to Apply for Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 2026 (Step-by-Step)
The application process for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme is decentralized and managed at the country level.
1: Visit the Official AKF Website
Click the application link to access the portal.
2: Complete the Eligibility Form
Fill out the eligibility questionnaire to determine if you qualify for the programme.
3: Contact Local Coordinator
Eligible candidates are directed to the local AKF coordinator in their country of residence.
4: Submit Full Application
Complete the full application form and attach all required supporting documents.
5: Return Application Before Deadline
Submit the completed application to the local office before March 31, 2026.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted regarding interviews and final decisions.
Why Apply for the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 2026?
The Scholarship offers more than financial support. It provides:
- Access to world-class postgraduate education
- Strong emphasis on leadership and social impact
- A global network of AKF scholars and professionals
- Long-term career and development opportunities
- Support for students committed to contributing to their home countries
Application Deadline
- Deadline: March 31, 2026
Early preparation is strongly recommended due to the competitive nature of the scholarship.
Conclusion
The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 2026 for Graduate Students remains one of the most respected funding opportunities for talented students from developing countries. With its strong focus on academic excellence, leadership development, and community impact, this scholarship is ideal for candidates seeking to make a meaningful difference through education.
