Timeframe: January 2025-
The Aga Khan Foundation's
International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) provides financial support for
outstanding scholars from select countries to pursue postgraduate education.
The program is highly competitive, with a limited number of new awards given
each cycle. Eligibility criteria include a reliable funding plan, strong
leadership potential, and professional/extracurricular achievements. The awards
are structured as 50% grant and 50% loan, with repayment beginning after
graduation or withdrawal from the program.
Overview of the AKF ISP
The AKF ISP was established in
1969 by His Highness the Aga Khan. And has supported over 1,000 students to
date. The program is available in select countries in Asia and Africa, as
well as for individuals from those countries studying in Canada, France, Portugal,
and the USA.
Eligibility and Application Process
Applicants must demonstrate a reliable,
multi-source funding plan to cover their studies.
- Preference is given to young
professionals under 30 years of age.
- The program primarily
supports Master's programs but also considers PhD applications.
- Local/regional universities
and distance learning programs are acceptable if the quality is maintained.
- Applicants must be entering
their first year of postgraduate study and have not yet commenced their
program.
- Applications are handled by
local Aga Khan Foundation, Education Services, or Education Board units.
Award Conditions and Repayment
- AKF ISP awards are
structured as 50% grant and 50% loan.
- Master's scholarships cover
the entire duration of the degree, while PhD scholarships are for the first two years.
- The award covers tuition and
living expenses, but not international travel, clothing, furniture, or family
living expenses.
- Maintaining good academic
standing and ongoing financial need is required to retain the award.
- Loan repayment, including a
service charge, begins six months after graduation, termination of studies, or
withdrawal of support.
- A guarantor is required to
co-sign the award agreement.
Documents required for Application
1. Demonstrate a Reliable
Funding Plan:
- You must demonstrate a "thoughtful,
reliable, multi-source funding plan that covers all years of study."
2. Highlight Leadership
Potential and Achievements:
- The application process looks for
"strong leadership potential, professional experience, extracurricular
and/or entrepreneurial achievements, and volunteer contributions."
3. Provide Academic
Background:
- The AKF ISP primarily supports Master's
programmes, but will also consider PhD applications.
- You must be entering your first year of
postgraduate study and have not yet commenced your program.
4. Gather Supporting
Documents:
- The application process is handled by
local units of the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), Aga Khan Education Services
(AKES), or Aga Khan Education Board (AKEB).
- Additional details on the required
application documents will be available when the next cycle opens in
January 2025.
5. Obtain a Guarantor:
- A guarantor must co-sign the
award agreement, as the AKF ISP awards are structured as 50% grant and 50%
loan.
Remember, the specific
application requirements and supporting documents may be subject to change for
the next application cycle. It's recommended to closely review the updated
guidelines when they become available in January 2025.
