The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship
Study in the USA with Full Financial Support
Country Focussed
United States (USA)
Scholarship Type
Need + Merit Based
Organising Entity
Aga Khan Development Network
(AKDN)
Scholarship Coverage
Partly Funded
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship
The Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) is one of the most respected global initiatives that empowers talented students to pursue postgraduate studies at leading universities worldwide. This program is designed for outstanding individuals who have excellent academic records but lack sufficient financial resources to continue their higher education. With its unique half–grant, half–loan structure, the AKF ISP ensures access to quality education while encouraging responsibility and leadership among its recipients.
Link – Visit Official Page
Why Study in the USA?
Studying in the USA offers world-class education, diverse programs, and globally recognized universities. Students benefit from cutting-edge research, multicultural exposure, and excellent career opportunities. The flexible academic structure encourages innovation and practical learning. With access to top-notch facilities, global networking, and post-study work options, the USA remains a dream destination for ambitious students seeking academic excellence and professional growth.
Everything You need to Know about the The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Programme, candidates must fulfill specific eligibility criteria. The programme seeks highly motivated, academically excellent students with financial need and leadership potential. Applicants must:
Have excellent academic records
Candidates should demonstrate consistent excellence in previous studies and be prepared to thrive in competitive postgraduate environments.
Hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent training/professional experience
A strong educational foundation or equivalent professional expertise is required.
Demonstrate genuine financial need
Applicants must show that they cannot pursue higher education without external funding.
Present a thoughtful, reliable, multi-source funding plan
Students must provide a well-planned financial roadmap that demonstrates how they will cover all years of study, balancing scholarships, loans, and personal resources.
Be admitted to a reputable postgraduate institution
Proof of admission or strong application to a well-recognized university is essential.
Be starting the first year of the programme
Only students beginning their postgraduate journey are considered.
Show strong leadership potential and professional experience
Candidates should have extracurricular achievements, entrepreneurial initiatives, volunteer contributions, and relevant work experience.
Organising Entity
Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN)
Is it Country Focused?
USA and Worldwide – The scholarship is not limited to a single country; instead, it supports students admitted to reputable postgraduate institutions across the globe, including the USA and other leading destinations.
Is it University Focused?
No specific university – The scholarship is open to candidates applying to any reputable postgraduate institution worldwide. However, applicants must secure admission before applying.
Type of Scholarship
Need-Based
Need-based with merit considerations – The AKF ISP primarily addresses financial need but also emphasizes strong academic performance, leadership potential, and extracurricular achievements.
Number of Students Selected
Varies annually – The number of students selected depends on available funds and the quality of applications received. Since the program is highly competitive, only a limited number of outstanding candidates are awarded each year.
What are the Benefits Available
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme provides generous support tailored to help students succeed in their academic and personal development journeys. Benefits include:
50% grant and 50% loan structure
Recipients receive half of their scholarship as a grant and the other half as an interest-free loan, repayable after graduation. This approach fosters accountability while ensuring affordability.
Living expenses allowance
Students receive funding for essential living costs during their studies, enabling them to focus entirely on academics.
Coverage of tuition fees
The programme covers tuition fees at reputable universities, removing the burden of high education costs.
Exclusions
The scholarship does not cover international travel costs, clothing, furniture, or living expenses for family members.
Why Apply for the Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship?
Global Reach and Recognition
The Aga Khan Foundation is internationally respected, and its scholarship programme is recognized by universities worldwide. Being selected enhances your credibility and opens doors to leading institutions.
Unique Financial Structure
Unlike many other scholarships, the AKF ISP uses a 50% grant–50% loan system, which ensures long-term sustainability. You benefit from immediate financial relief while also learning responsibility by repaying part of the award.
Focus on Leadership and Social Impact
The programme is not only about academic excellence but also about nurturing future leaders. It prioritizes applicants with leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, and community involvement, ensuring that scholars give back to society.
Support for a Wide Range of Fields
The scholarship does not limit applicants to specific disciplines. Whether your field is science, arts, economics, or international development, you can apply as long as you meet the criteria and secure admission at a reputable institution.
Comprehensive Student Support
By covering tuition and living expenses, the programme allows scholars to dedicate themselves fully to their studies and career goals without financial stress.
Pro Tip
Strengthen Your Application
To strengthen your application for the AKF ISP, here are some professional insights and tips:
- Prepare early – Start collecting academic transcripts, proof of admission, and financial documents well before the application deadline.
- Highlight leadership and impact – Demonstrate your achievements outside the classroom, such as volunteer work, entrepreneurial projects, or leadership roles.
- Show genuine financial need – Be transparent and clear about your financial situation, explaining why you cannot pursue studies without support.
- Develop a realistic funding plan – Provide details of all possible funding sources, including personal contributions, other scholarships, and part-time work, to demonstrate a sustainable financial strategy.
- Secure admission first – Ensure you have a strong admission offer from a reputable university before applying, as this is a mandatory requirement.
Planning to Study in the USA?
Before you travel to the USA, ensure your finances are well-planned. A Forex Card from Supreme Forex is a smart, secure, and cost-effective way to manage your USD expenses abroad. With zero markup on exchange rates, competitive pricing, and doorstep delivery of both forex cards and foreign currency, Supreme Forex helps you avoid hidden fees and enjoy a hassle-free experience. Travel confidently knowing your money is safe and easily accessible wherever you go.
Final Thoughts
The Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship is more than just financial aid – it is an investment in future leaders who will contribute positively to their communities and professions. With its focus on academic merit, financial need, and social responsibility, the programme offers deserving students a life-changing opportunity to pursue world-class postgraduate education.
By applying, you gain access to funding, mentorship, and a global network of scholars committed to making a difference. If you are an ambitious student with proven academic excellence, leadership qualities, and financial need, the AKF ISP can be the key to unlocking your future.
