The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarships 2025 offers an incredible opportunity for students from select developing countries to pursue postgraduate studies (Master’s and PhD) at highly reputable universities worldwide. This scholarship aims to nurture future leaders and scholars committed to making impactful contributions in their respective fields.
In this article, we will outline the scholarship’s benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and additional details to help you understand how to apply successfully.
Important Points for Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarships 2025
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Level of Study | Master’s, PhD |
| Institution(s) | Highly reputable universities (except those in the UK, Germany, Sweden, Austria, Denmark, Netherlands, Italy, Norway, and Ireland). |
| Program Period | As per the chosen university. |
| Application Deadline | March 31, 2025 |
Courses Offered
The scholarship supports studies in fields relevant to the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), including:
- Health
- Education
- Culture
- Rural Development
- Institution Building
- Economic Development
- Agriculture and Food Security
- Civil Society
- Enterprise Development
- Financial Inclusion
- Habitat and Historic Cities
- Humanitarian Assistance
- Industrial Development
- Infrastructure Development
- Media and Music
- Tourism Promotion
Scholarship Benefits
The Aga Khan Foundation provides the following financial support:
- Tuition and Living Expenses: Covers these costs based on the student’s needs.
- PhD Funding: Limited to the first two years, after which alternative funding sources must be arranged.
- Loan Assistance: Half of the scholarship amount is provided as a loan with the following conditions:
- Annual Service Charge: 5%
- Payback Period: Five years, beginning six months after the funded study period.
- Guarantor Requirement: A guarantor must co-sign the loan agreement.
Note: Students are encouraged to seek additional funding to reduce reliance on the scholarship.
Eligibility Criteria For Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarships 2025
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Language Proficiency
- Proficiency in the language of instruction as required by the chosen institution.
Eligible Countries
- Applications are accepted from nationals of the following countries:
- Asia: Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan.
- Middle East: Syria, Egypt.
- Africa: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Madagascar, Mozambique.
- Diaspora Applicants: Nationals from these countries residing in France, Portugal, the UK, USA, and Canada are eligible if they lack financial means and focus on development-related studies.
Other Requirements
- Consistently excellent academic records.
- Admission to a highly reputable university or program.
- Financial need, demonstrated through supporting documents.
- Field of study relevance to AKDN’s focus areas.
- Strong educational and career plans.
- Work experience in the chosen field of study.
- Age preference: Applicants under 30 are given priority.
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarships:
- Admission Offer
- Obtain admission to a highly reputable university in an eligible program.
- Application Form
- Acquire the scholarship application form from local Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) offices or Aga Khan Education Services/Boards in your country of residence.
- Submit Application
- Complete the application form and send it to the agency from which it was obtained.
- Do not send applications directly to Geneva.
Key Highlights of the Loan Conditions
- Repayment Terms: Half of the awarded scholarship amount must be repaid with a 5% annual service charge.
- Duration: The repayment begins six months after the study period and must be completed within five years.
- Guarantor Obligation: A guarantor is required for the loan agreement.
Conclusion
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarships 2025 is a unique blend of financial aid and a loan program that empowers deserving students to pursue their higher education goals. By supporting fields relevant to AKDN’s mission, this scholarship creates opportunities for personal and professional growth while ensuring contributions to global development.
Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply before March 31, 2025, and take a step toward shaping a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
FAQs
1. Who can apply for the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship?
Students from select developing countries who demonstrate financial need, have outstanding academic records, and are admitted to highly reputable universities in eligible programs.
2. Can I apply for short-term courses?
No, the scholarship is only available for full-time Master’s and PhD programs.
3. Is funding provided for the entire duration of a PhD program?
No, funding is limited to the first two years of a PhD program.
4. Are there age restrictions for applicants?
While there are no strict age limits, preference is given to applicants under 30 years old.
5. Can I apply if I have already started my course?
No, the scholarship does not support applicants who have already begun their studies.
6. What are the repayment terms for the loan?
Half of the scholarship amount is treated as a loan with a 5% annual service charge. Repayment begins six months after the funded study period and must be completed within five years.
7. How can I obtain the application form?
You can collect the application form from local AKF offices or Aga Khan Education Services/Boards in your country of residence.
8. Can I apply for this scholarship if I have partial funding from other sources?
Yes, preference is given to students who can secure some funding from alternative sources.
