Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship

Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme 2026 Guide

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) is a highly competitive and prestigious scholarship program for outstanding students from developing countries, including Pakistan. It is designed to support postgraduate studies at renowned universities worldwide, fostering future leaders who can contribute to development in their home countries. For the 2026 intake, Pakistani students have a golden opportunity to pursue a Master's or PhD degree with substantial financial backing and a strong professional network.

The selection process is entirely merit-based and considers not only academic excellence but also genuine financial need and a clear commitment to returning to Pakistan to apply their skills. This popular scholarship program is a cornerstone of the Aga Khan Development Network's efforts to build human capacity and drive sustainable progress in key sectors across the nation.

For the 2026 cycle, the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme scholarships continue to focus on fields critical to development, such as health, education, architecture, rural development, and media. The financial support is primarily a loan, but a significant portion is converted to a grant upon the scholar's successful return and work in Pakistan, making it a uniquely impactful investment in the country's future.

Eligibility Criteria for Pakistani Applicants

To be eligible for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme scholarships, Pakistani applicants must hold a strong academic record, typically a first-class or high second-class undergraduate degree. Applicants must have secured admission to a reputable postgraduate university program for the 2026 academic year. Crucially, candidates must demonstrate genuine financial need, as the program prioritizes those who would otherwise be unable to pursue such studies. There is a strong preference for students under 30 years of age for Master's programs and under 35 for PhD candidates.

Application Process and Key Deadlines

The application for this popular scholarship program is managed locally through the Aga Khan Foundation country office in Pakistan, not through a central portal. The process typically opens in early January, with a strict internal deadline often in late March for the 2026 intake. Applicants must submit a detailed application form, academic transcripts, admission letters, a personal statement, and references. It is critical to contact the AKF Pakistan office in Karachi or Islamabad as early as possible to obtain the precise application package and timeline.

Financial Coverage and Post-Study Commitment

The scholarship provides comprehensive funding covering tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of the degree program. This financial support is structured as a 50% loan and 50% grant. The unique condition of the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme scholarships is the mandatory return to Pakistan after graduation. Scholars are required to work in the country for a period equivalent to the length of their scholarship support, applying their new skills to contribute directly to national development efforts.

The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) International Scholarship Programme (ISP) is a prestigious opportunity that supports exceptional students from developing nations, including Pakistan, to pursue postgraduate studies abroad at world-renowned universities. Established in 1969 by His Highness the Aga Khan, the program’s mission is to develop visionary scholars and leaders who can contribute meaningfully to their communities and the global society.

Overview of Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 2026

The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship offers a limited number of awards each year for Master’s degree programs, and in rare cases, for PhD studies. The selection process is highly competitive, based on academic merit and financial need.

A unique feature of this program is its funding model — 50% grant and 50% loan. This means that half of your scholarship is non-repayable, while the remaining half is a low-interest loan payable after graduation (typically starting six months after completing studies).

Although the foundation mainly supports Master’s programs, PhD scholarships are also considered for candidates with exceptional academic profiles and career goals aligned with academic or research leadership.

Programs and Fields Supported by AKF Scholarship

The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship primarily supports Master’s degree programs, but also considers PhD studies in special cases.

Preferred study areas are those aligned with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) goals, including:

• Education
• Health
• Rural Development
• Civil Society
• Culture and Heritage
• Economic Development

Recipients may study at leading universities in the USA, Canada, France, Portugal, and other countries.

Benefits of Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship for Pakistani Students

The AKF International Scholarship Programme provides comprehensive financial assistance, including:

• Tuition Fees Coverage: Full payment of tuition at recognized universities.
• Living Stipend: A monthly allowance to cover basic living expenses.
• Access to Global Universities: Opportunity to study at top-ranked institutions
• International Exposure: Global learning experience that enhances cross-cultural understanding.
• Networking and Mentorship: Access to a network of AKF alumni and professionals for career guidance.

Note: The scholarship does not cover travel costs or family expenses. For PhD students, funding is typically provided for the first two years, after which other funding sources must be secured.

Eligibility Criteria for Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 2026

To apply for the AKF International Scholarship, applicants from Pakistan must meet the following requirements:

• Nationality & Residence: Must be a Pakistani citizen living in Pakistan, with access to local Aga Khan Offices that manage applications.
• Academic Excellence: Strong academic record and a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent professional training/work experience).
• Financial Need: Applicants must demonstrate genuine financial need and should ideally have partial funding from other sources.
• University Admission: Must have secured admission to a reputable postgraduate institution before applying.
• First-Year Applicants Only: Only those starting their first year of postgraduate studies are eligible.
• Age Preference: Applicants under 30 years are preferred, though there’s no strict age limit.
• Leadership & Experience: Proven leadership qualities, professional experience, and community involvement.
• Career Alignment: A clear plan showing how your studies align with Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) focus areas and how you’ll contribute to your home country after graduation.

How to Apply for Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship (AKF ISP) 2026

The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship Application Process is simple and handled locally in Pakistan through Aga Khan offices.

Step-by-Step Application Process

• Application Availability: Forms are usually available from early January each year. Check the AKDN official website or contact your local AKF/AKES/AKEB office for updated information.
• Get Application Forms: Obtain forms from your local Aga Khan Foundation, Aga Khan Education Services, or Aga Khan Education Board office in Pakistan.
• Complete the Application Form: Fill it carefully with detailed information on your academic background, achievements, financial situation, and career goals.
• Prepare Required Documents:
  • Academic transcripts and degree certificates
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Proof of university admission
  • Financial need documentation
  • Updated CV or resume
  • English language test scores (IELTS/TOEFL, if required)
• Submit the Application: Send your complete application package to your local office before the deadline (usually March 31st).
• Selection Process: Shortlisted candidates are interviewed based on academic performance, leadership, and alignment with AKDN values.

Timeline:

• Applications open: January
• Submission deadline: March 31
• Interviews: March–April
• Final results: April

FAQs about Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme

1. Is the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship fully funded? 
   No. It is 50% grant and 50% loan, with repayment starting about six months after graduation.
2. Does the scholarship cover travel expenses? 
   No, it covers tuition and living expenses only, not travel costs.
3. Can I apply if I’ve already started my postgraduate studies? 
   No. Only students in the first year of their program can apply.
4. Is there an age limit? 
   There is no fixed age limit, but students under 30 are preferred.
5. What kind of programs are supported? 
   Primarily Master’s programs. PhD programs are considered in exceptional cases.
6. Do I need to be admitted to a university before applying? 
   Yes, you must have confirmed admission to a recognized postgraduate university.
7. How do I repay the loan portion? 
   Repayment begins around six months after completing studies, with a co-signer required.
8. Is the scholarship open to non-Muslims? 
   Yes. The Aga Khan Foundation ISP is open to all eligible applicants, regardless of religion or background.
9. Where can I get application forms in Pakistan? 
   Visit your local Aga Khan Foundation, Aga Khan Education Services, or Aga Khan Education Board office for forms and guidance.