Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship 2025-2026

• partial
• January 1, 2025
• Germany

Scholarship Description

Eligibilities

Requirements

Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) 2025-2026: Requirements

To be eligible for the Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP), applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Academic Requirements:

• Excellent Academic Record: Applicants must have an outstanding academic record, demonstrating their commitment and potential for success in postgraduate studies.
• Degree Requirement: Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional training/experience.

2. Financial Need:

• Applicants must demonstrate genuine financial need and be unable to finance their studies without external assistance.
• A reliable, multi-source funding plan that covers all years of study is required, with a preference for applicants who have secured additional funding.

3. Admission to a Postgraduate Program:

• Applicants must be admitted to a reputable postgraduate institution and must be starting the first year of their program.
• Preference is given to candidates enrolling in Master's programs, though PhD programs will also be considered.

4. Leadership and Contribution:

• Applicants should demonstrate strong leadership potential and have notable professional experience, extracurricular achievements, entrepreneurial skills, and volunteer contributions to their community.

5. Age Preference:

• Preference is given to applicants under 30 years of age.

6. Program Type:

• AKF ISP prioritizes Master's programs, though PhD programs will also be considered.
• Part-time programs and short-term courses are not eligible for funding.
• Local/regional universities and distance learning programs are acceptable only if the quality of the course is maintained.

7. Additional Conditions:

• Guarantee for Loan Repayment: A guarantor is required to co-sign the award agreement, and students are required to repay the loan component after graduation or termination of studies.
• Maintain Academic Standing: Students must maintain good academic standing during their postgraduate studies to continue receiving support.

Deadline: March 30, 2025 (17 days left)

Required Documents:

Required Documents for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) 2025-2026

To apply for the AKF ISP, you must submit the following documents:

1. Academic Transcripts:

• Official records of your academic performance, including transcripts from your undergraduate studies or equivalent training/professional experience.

2. Proof of Admission:

• A letter or document confirming that you have been admitted to a reputable postgraduate institution for the first year of your programme.

3. Financial Documentation:

• Documents showing your financial need (e.g., family income statements, tax records, etc.).
• A clear plan demonstrating multi-source funding to cover all years of your study. This may include information on other scholarships or financial support you are seeking.

4. Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume:

• A comprehensive CV highlighting:
  • Academic achievements
  • Work experience (both professional and volunteer)
  • Leadership roles
  • Extracurricular activities (including entrepreneurial and volunteer contributions).

5. Letters of Recommendation:

• Two or more recommendation letters from professors, mentors, or professional colleagues who can speak to your academic abilities, leadership potential, and contributions to your community.

6. Personal Statement or Motivation Letter:

• A personal statement that explains:
  • Why you are applying for the AKF ISP.
  • How the scholarship will help you achieve your academic and professional goals.
  • Your leadership aspirations and how you intend to contribute to your community or field of study.
  • Your financial need and why you are unable to finance your studies without external support.

7. Other Documents:

• Depending on the country or local unit processing your application, additional documents might be required, such as:
  • Proof of citizenship or residency.
  • Research proposals (for PhD applicants).
  • Health insurance (for international students)

How to Apply

How to Apply for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) 2025-2026

To apply for the AKF ISP, follow these steps:

1. Check Eligibility:

• Before applying, use the eligibility tool available on the AKF ISP website to determine if you meet the requirements (academic, financial, and professional).
• If you are eligible, you will be given the contact information for the relevant local unit of the Aga Khan Foundation or other affiliated organizations.

2. Gather Documents:

You will need to prepare the following documents:

• Academic Transcripts: Official records of your academic history.
• Proof of Admission: Evidence that you have been admitted to a reputable postgraduate institution for the first year of study.
• Financial Documentation: Documents that show your financial need, including family income and any other funding sources.
• CV/Resume: A detailed curriculum vitae outlining your academic achievements, work experience, volunteer work, and leadership roles.
• Letters of Recommendation: Typically from professors or professionals who can vouch for your abilities and leadership potential.
• Personal Statement or Motivation Letter: An essay explaining why you are a suitable candidate for the AKF ISP, your future goals, and why you need financial support.
• Other Documents: Depending on your local unit’s requirements, there may be additional documents needed.

3. Apply Online:

• After confirming eligibility, you will receive the contact information for the local unit responsible for processing applications in your country.
• Submit your application directly to the respective unit (online or via email, depending on the local process).

4. Selection Process:

• Your application will undergo a competitive selection process. This involves review by the Aga Khan Foundation or its local affiliates.
• Shortlisted candidates will likely be contacted for an interview.
• Key Criteria for Selection: Academic excellence, financial need, leadership potential, and community contribution.

5. Final Decision:

• If selected, you will receive an award letter outlining the scholarship amount, terms, and repayment details.
• You will be required to sign an agreement with the Aga Khan Foundation that includes loan repayment conditions.
• After acceptance, ensure you maintain good academic standing and meet the terms to continue receiving funding throughout your postgraduate studies.

6. Application Deadline:

• The application cycle for the 2025-2026 academic year will open in early January 2025 and close by 31 March 2025. Make sure to submit your application before the deadline.

Apply Link | Official Website

https://the.akdn/en/what-we-do/developing-human-capacity/education/international-scholarships