Applications are now officially open for the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship Programme 2026–2027, unlocking one of the world’s most competitive fully funded study opportunities for students from IsDB member countries and Muslim communities worldwide. Known for its generous funding and development-focused mission, the IsDB Scholarship is once again inviting ambitious students to pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, and post-doctoral studies without financial barriers, while preparing future leaders to drive progress in their home countries and beyond.
Funding Plan and Financial Coverage Explained
The IsDB Scholarship Programme is fully funded, with benefits structured to ensure scholars can focus entirely on their academic and research goals. While the exact package may vary depending on the scholarship track and level of study, the funding plan generally includes full academic and living support.
Successful applicants receive full tuition fee coverage, paid directly to the host institution. In addition, scholars are provided with a monthly living stipend sufficient to cover accommodation, food, transportation, and basic daily expenses according to the host country’s cost of living.
The scholarship also includes medical and health insurance, ensuring access to essential healthcare throughout the study period. For students studying abroad, the programme typically covers return economy-class airfare from the scholar’s home country to the host institution. In some tracks, scholars may also receive a one-time installation or settling-in allowance at the start of their studies, as well as limited support for books and academic materials.
Importantly, the IsDB Scholarship does not support dependents, visa application costs, or personal equipment, and scholars are expected to complete their studies within the approved duration.
Academic Levels, Fields of Study, and Host Institutions
The IsDB Scholarship Programme 2026–2027 supports multiple academic pathways, making it suitable for a wide range of applicants:
The programme covers Bachelor’s degrees and Technical/Vocational Education and Training (TVET) primarily for candidates from Least Developed Member Countries. It also supports Master of Science programmes aimed at building advanced technical and applied skills in key development sectors.
For advanced research and innovation, the Merit Scholarship Programme for High Technology supports PhD and Post-Doctoral research, focusing on scientific excellence, innovation, and high-impact research outcomes. Additionally, the programme includes a dedicated track for Muslim communities in selected non-IsDB member countries, supporting studies at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels.
Fields of study are aligned with national and global development priorities. These include engineering and technology, computer science and information technology, renewable energy, agriculture and food security, health and medical sciences, environmental studies, economics, development studies, and other applied sciences that contribute to sustainable growth.
Scholars may be placed in recognized universities and institutions within their home countries, other IsDB member countries, or internationally approved institutions, depending on the programme track and academic availability.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility requirements vary by scholarship track, but all applicants must demonstrate strong academic potential and a commitment to development-focused careers.
Applicants must be nationals of IsDB member countries or belong to Muslim communities in eligible non-member countries. Candidates applying for undergraduate programmes must have completed secondary education with strong academic results, while Master’s applicants must hold a relevant Bachelor’s degree. PhD and post-doctoral candidates are expected to possess appropriate advanced qualifications and, where required, a clear and feasible research proposal.
Applicants must meet the English language requirements of the chosen programme, typically in English or French, and must be medically fit. Preference is often given to candidates whose fields of study align with their country’s development needs and who demonstrate a willingness to return home and contribute after completing their studies.
Apply: https://www.isdb.org/scholarships
Application Timeline for IsDB Scholarship 2026-2027 Intake
The last date to apply for the IsDB Scholarship Programme for the 2026–2027 academic year is 31 January 2026. After the deadline, applications undergo a rigorous review and selection process, with results announced later in the year in line with academic calendars.