Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship 2027

Overview

The Aga Khan Foundation funds postgraduate study (Masters or PhD) for outstanding students from a defined list of developing countries who cannot afford to fund their studies otherwise. The award is a 50 percent grant and 50 percent loan, paid back at low interest over a period after graduation. Around 100 to 150 scholarships per cycle. Operates through Aga Khan Foundation national offices in eligible countries. The 2027 cycle deadline is typically 31 March 2027.

Benefits

• Half-grant, half-loan covering tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of the postgraduate programme.
• Loan repayment begins one year after completion of studies and is structured over 5 to 7 years at low interest.
• Access to the Aga Khan Development Network professional alumni community.
• Career placement support, with priority for Aga Khan Network organisations across health, education, and economic development.

Eligibility

• Citizen of an eligible country. The Foundation’s primary eligible regions are Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Mozambique, Madagascar, Syria, Egypt, and a few others. Check the country list before applying.
• Holding an offer of admission to a Masters or PhD programme at a recognised university.
• Strong undergraduate academic record.
• Demonstrated financial need, evidenced through household income and dependants.
• Aged 30 or younger at the time of application.

How to apply

1. Contact the Aga Khan Foundation office in your home country (the offices accept applications, not the head office). Source link has the country contact list.
2. Apply for admission to your chosen Masters or PhD programme through that university’s normal admissions process.
3. Complete the AKF scholarship application: financial declaration, academic transcripts, three references, statement of purpose, and return-to-home-country commitment.
4. Submit through the country office by 31 March 2027 (date varies by country office).
5. Interviews and decisions follow over the summer; scholarships are confirmed before the September academic year.