Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme

The selection process is global, annual, and highly competitive. Applications are initially reviewed by local Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) committees, which assess candidates based on their academic achievements, potential for leadership, commitment to societal development, and genuine financial need. Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews with local Scholarship Committees, where their financial situation, academic performance, extra-curricular achievements, and career plans are discussed. The final decisions are made by a Global Selection Panel, and award decisions are final with no appeals process.

Scholarships for Master's studies are granted for the entire duration of the degree course, subject to satisfactory academic progress. For PhD students, scholarships are awarded for the first two years, after which students are expected to find funding from alternative sources. To maintain an AKF ISP award, students need to demonstrate good academic standing and ongoing financial need throughout their postgraduate program. A guarantor is required to co-sign the award agreement, which includes the loan repayment terms. The repayment period for the loan portion is typically five years, starting six months after graduation or termination of studies.