Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship: How to Apply, Eligibility & Tips 2026
Fully Funded
Award
24 months
Duration
March
Deadline
Very
Competition
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship is a fully funded Masters scholarship for international students. The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme provides a limited number of scholarships each year for postgraduate studies to outstanding students from developing countries who have no other means of financing their studies. Deadline is typically March each year, with very competitive competition. This complete guide covers eligibility, application steps, benefits, and expert tips to maximize your chances.
| Type | international org |
| Award Amount | Fully Funded (tuition + living + travel) |
| Duration | 24 months |
| Application Deadline | March |
| Study Level | Masters |
| Competition Level | Very Competitive |
| IELTS Required | 6.5+ |
| Work Experience Required | Yes |
| Minimum GPA | Good academic record |
| Eligible Nationalities | All nationalities |
| Official Website | Official Site |
What Does Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Cover?
- 50% scholarship, 50% loan (loan component often forgiven)
- Covers tuition and living expenses
- Mentorship and Aga Khan network access
Eligible Fields of Study
Development StudiesPublic HealthEducationArchitectureEconomics
Study Destinations
How to Apply for Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship
Eligibility Checklist
Before investing time in your application, confirm you meet all requirements:
| Criteria | Requirement | |---------|-------------| | Study level | Masters | | Nationality | Open to all nationalities | | Language | English (IELTS 6.5+ minimum) | | Academic record | Minimum Good academic record | | Work experience | Required (check specific program for minimum years) | | Deadline month | March each year |
Application Steps
Competition Level
This scholarship is Very Competitive. Typical acceptance rates vary from 1-15%. A strong application requires:
Official Website
Apply directly at: https://www.akdn.org/our-agencies/aga-khan-foundation/international-scholarship-programme
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Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship - Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship cover?
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship covering: 50% scholarship, 50% loan (loan component often forgiven), Covers tuition and living expenses, Mentorship and Aga Khan network access.
Who is eligible for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship is open to students of all nationalities. Study level: Masters.
What is the deadline for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship application deadline is typically in March each year. Check the official website at https://www.akdn.org/our-agencies/aga-khan-foundation/international-scholarship-programme for exact dates as deadlines can shift year to year.
Is work experience required for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
Yes, the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship requires work experience. Applicants should have relevant professional experience, usually a minimum of 2-3 years, though requirements vary. Check the official eligibility criteria.
What GPA is needed for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
The minimum academic requirement for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship is: Good academic record. Given the very competitive nature of this scholarship, successful applicants typically have significantly higher academic records than the minimum.
What language score is required for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship requires an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent. TOEFL may also be accepted. Check specific language requirements on the official website.
How competitive is the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship is very competitive. Acceptance rates can be as low as 1-5%. A strong application requires excellent academics, compelling personal statements, strong references, and clear career goals aligned with the scholarship's values.
How do I apply for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
Application steps: 1. Apply through Aga Khan Foundation national agency in your country. 2. Demonstrate both academic excellence and financial need. 3. Strong emphasis on community development intentions. Visit https://www.akdn.org/our-agencies/aga-khan-foundation/international-scholarship-programme for the official application portal.
Which countries can I study in with the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship supports study in: usa, uk, canada, france, germany. Some scholarships are tied to specific universities within these countries.
Is the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship renewable?
Scholarship renewability depends on the specific award. Most scholarship programs require recipients to maintain minimum academic performance to continue receiving funding. Some scholarships are awarded once; others are renewed annually for the full duration of study.
Can I apply for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship if I already started my program?
Most competitive scholarships require you to apply before starting your program. A few allow applications within the first year. Check the specific eligibility conditions for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship on the official website.
Is the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship available for all study levels?
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship is available for: Masters. Applications at other levels are not eligible.
What type of scholarship is the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship is a scholarship from an international organization, typically with a focus on development, research, or global cooperation.
Do I need a letter of acceptance before applying for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
Requirements vary. Some scholarships (like Chevening) require you to apply simultaneously with university applications. Others require a confirmed offer before applying. Some (like DAAD) may offer placement at a university as part of the scholarship process.
How do I write a scholarship essay for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
An effective scholarship essay for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship should: 1. Align with the scholarship's specific values and mission, 2. Use specific examples from your experience, 3. Clearly articulate your career goals and how this scholarship helps achieve them, 4. Show leadership and community contribution, 5. Explain your research or study plan with specificity.
What reference letters are needed for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
Most competitive scholarships like the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship require 2-3 strong reference letters from people who know your academic work and professional capabilities well. Academic referees (professors who supervised your work) and professional supervisors are most appropriate.
Does the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship include airfare and travel expenses?
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship benefits include: 50% scholarship, 50% loan (loan component often forgiven), Covers tuition and living expenses, Mentorship and Aga Khan network access. Travel expenses may not be fully covered - check the official scholarship details for current benefits.
Can I defer the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship if I need more time?
Most scholarship programs do not allow deferrals. If you receive the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship and cannot take it up in the year offered, you will typically need to reapply in a future year. Always verify the current deferral policy directly with the scholarship body.
Is the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship open to mature/older students?
Most government and international scholarships have no upper age limit for Masters applicants. Some have age restrictions (e.g., Rhodes Scholarship: 18-24). Check the specific eligibility on the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship official page.
Are family members covered under the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
Some larger scholarships include a family allowance for married scholars with dependents. Standard scholarships typically cover only the scholarship recipient. Check the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship benefits list and official terms.
What happens if I fail to maintain grades during the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
Most scholarships require minimum academic performance (e.g., passing all courses, maintaining certain GPA). Failing to meet this standard can result in scholarship suspension or cancellation. Contact your scholarship manager immediately if you face academic difficulties.
Is there a bond or return obligation with the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship may not have a formal return obligation but may expect scholars to contribute to their communities. Check the official terms.
What is the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship interview process like?
Shortlisted candidates for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship are typically interviewed by a selection committee. The interview assesses your academic goals, leadership experience, communication skills, and fit with the scholarship's values. Prepare by reviewing your application and practicing articulate, specific answers.
Can I apply for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship multiple times if rejected?
Yes, you can usually reapply for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship in subsequent years after rejection. Use the waiting period to strengthen your application - gain more experience, improve your academic record, and refine your application materials.
Does the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship cover fieldwork or research travel?
Some scholarships include research or study travel grants. Check the specific Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship benefit details on the official website at https://www.akdn.org/our-agencies/aga-khan-foundation/international-scholarship-programme.
What subjects are eligible for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
Eligible subjects for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship include: Development Studies, Public Health, Education, Architecture, Economics. Some scholarships have priority subject areas - check if your field is a stated priority.
How long does the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship selection process take?
Selection timelines vary. Typically after the deadline, applications are reviewed for 2-4 months, shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews, and final decisions are communicated 4-6 months after the deadline. Some scholarships have faster or slower timelines.
Can I combine the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship with other scholarships?
Most scholarship programs prohibit or restrict combining with other scholarship funding to prevent double-dipping. The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship may have specific rules about this. Some partial scholarships can be combined. Always disclose any other scholarship funding in your application.
Are there any restrictions on changing programs during the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
Scholarship holders typically need approval from the scholarship body before changing their study program or university. Changing to a different field or level of study may not be permitted and could result in scholarship withdrawal.
Where can I find official application information for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship?
All official and current information about the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship application, eligibility, and benefits is at: https://www.akdn.org/our-agencies/aga-khan-foundation/international-scholarship-programme. Always use the official source for application information to avoid scholarship scams.