Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 2026-2027: Complete Guide

The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) is one of the most prestigious opportunities for Pakistani students seeking Master’s or PhD degrees abroad.

Established in 1969 by His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, Aga Khan foundation Scholarship programme has supported over 1,500 outstanding students from developing countries. Unlike fully funded scholarships, the AKF ISP follows a 50% grant and 50% interest-bearing loan model – ensuring sustainability and helping more students each year.

Scholarship Coverage

What Is Covered

Benefit	Details
Tuition Fees	Full coverage
Living Expenses	Monthly stipend
Master’s	Full duration
PhD	First 2 years only

What Is NOT Covered in Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship

• International travel costs
• Clothing, furniture
• Family living expenses

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Loan Terms

Feature	Details
Loan Portion	50% of total award
Service Charge	5% annual
Repayment Start	6 months after graduation
Repayment Period	5 years
Guarantor	Required

Eligible Countries

Pakistani students are eligible. Complete list:

Region	Countries
South Asia	Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan
Africa	Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda
Middle East	Egypt, Syria
Central Asia	Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan

Where Can You Study?

Approved Countries

• United States
• Canada
• France
• Portugal

Accepted Programmes

• Distance learning (if quality maintained)
• Local/regional universities

Eligibility Criteria

You must meet ALL requirements:

Criteria	Requirement
Academic Excellence	Strong record throughout education
Education	Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
Age	Preference for under 30 years
Financial Need	Genuine – cannot afford through other means
Funding Plan	Multi-source; request minimum amount
University Admission	Admitted to reputable institution
Leadership	Strong potential, professional experience valued
Programme Type	Priority to Master’s; PhD only for outstanding candidates with professor recommendations
Enrollment	Entering first year only

Resource of Last Resort

The AKF ISP is a “resource of last resort.” You must:

1. Explore other scholarships first
2. Document family support
3. Show personal savings
4. Request only the minimum amount needed

The Foundation prefers candidates who have already secured some funding elsewhere.

Application Process

Step 1: Verify Eligibility

Visit the.akdn and use the online eligibility tool.

Step 2: Obtain Application Form

Contact your local AKF office, Aga Khan Education Service, or Aga Khan Education Board in Pakistan.

Important: Forms are not available online. You must get them directly.

Step 3: Prepare Documents

Document	Details
Application Form	Complete all sections
Academic Transcripts	Attested copies
University Admission Letter	Proof of admission/pending
Financial Statement	Detailed need breakdown
Multi-Source Funding Plan	Other funding secured/applied
Letters of Recommendation	2-3 from referees
CV	Highlight leadership, experience
Statement of Purpose	Career goals, community impact
Proof of Citizenship	Passport or ID card

Step 4: Submit

Deadline	Date
Global Deadline	March 31, 2026
Local Office Deadlines	May be earlier – confirm immediately

Step 5: Interview

Shortlisted candidates are called for interview with local committee.

Step 6: Final Notification

Annual Selection Meeting expected in late June/early July 2026. All applicants notified.

Selection Criteria

Criteria	What you Need for
Academic Excellence	Consistent strong performance
Financial Need	Clear evidence
University Quality	Reputable institution
Field Relevance	Aligns with development priorities
Leadership	Demonstrated in work/community
Experience	Professional background
Career Goals	Clear vision for Pakistan

Tips for Strong Application

Official Links

Resource	Link
Official Website	the.akdn
Deadline	March 31, 2026

:Disclaimer: This guide is based on official information from the Aga Khan Development oficial Network. For latest updates, visit the.akdn.

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FAQs