Next Batch of Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Opens January 2026
The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) has officially confirmed that the next application cycle for its International Scholarship Programme (ISP) will open in January 2026. This global, highly competitive programme supports outstanding postgraduate students from select countries who have no other means of financing their studies — and the time to start preparing is now.
About the Scholarship
Founded in 1969 by His Highness the Aga Khan, the AKF ISP has already supported over 1,000 students to achieve their postgraduate dreams. Each year, a limited number of awards are offered through a rigorous selection process.
The programme is available to students from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Kenya, Kyrgyz Republic, Madagascar, Mozambique, Pakistan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, and Uganda. In Canada, France, Portugal, and the USA, applicants must be originally from one of these eligible countries.
Note: AKF ISP does not accept applications for study in the United Kingdom.
What Makes This Opportunity Unique?
- Covers tuition fees and living expenses (excluding travel and family costs)
- Half grant, half loan structure — 50% of the award must be repaid, starting six months after graduation or program termination
- Preference for Master’s programmes, though select PhD applications are considered
- Requires admission to a reputable postgraduate institution before applying.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply in January 2026, you must:
- Have an excellent academic record and hold at least a bachelor’s degree
- Demonstrate genuine financial need and a multi-source funding plan
- Show leadership potential through professional, extracurricular, or volunteer achievements
- Be entering the first year of your postgraduate programme (Master’s or PhD)
Why Start Preparing Now?
The application process is managed by local Aga Khan Foundation offices or partner agencies in your country, and it demands proof of admission, financial documentation, and a strong personal profile. Since the January 2026 opening is just months away, gathering these materials early can give you a competitive edge.
How to Apply?
Applications are handled through local AKF units, Aga Khan Education Services (AKES), or Aga Khan Education Boards (AKEB). Detailed guidelines will be available on the Aga Khan Foundation website (https://the.akdn/en/what-we-do/developing-human-capacity/education/international-scholarships) when the portal opens in January 2026.
Award Conditions
Master’s students can receive funding for the entire degree duration, while PhD students are funded for the first two years. Continued support requires good academic standing and sustained financial need. A guarantor is required for the loan component.
Final Tip: Since the AKF ISP is a last-resort funding source, applicants are strongly encouraged to secure additional scholarships in advance. Begin searching for complementary funding now so you’re fully prepared when the application window opens.
Next Application Launch: January 2026 – Mark your calendar and start preparing today.
