Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme Selection Process 2026
How Candidates are Selected
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.
Verification Flow
Institute Nodal Officer Verification
Your college/school checks your bonafide status, fees paid, and marks cards against the database.
District Welfare Officer / State Board Sanction
The state/central department approves the budget release for verified records based on category quotas.
Fund Disbursement via DBT
The bank issues direct fund credits to Aadhaar-seeded accounts using treasury payment systems.
FAQs for Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme
Q.When does the application cycle for the 2026-2027 academic year open?
The application cycle for studies commencing in the 2026-2027 academic year is now closed, as the application period typically runs from January 1st to March 31st of the year preceding the academic year. The next application cycle will open in early 2027 for studies commencing in the 2027-2028 academic year.
Q.Is the Aga Khan Foundation scholarship a full grant?
No, the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme is structured as a 50% grant and a 50% loan. Recipients are required to repay half of the scholarship amount after completing their studies. The loan portion is interest-free, but a cumulative service charge of 5% per annum is levied on the amount of the loan.
Q.Can I apply if I have already started my postgraduate studies?
No, the scholarship is exclusively for students who are about to begin their first year of a postgraduate program. Students who have already enrolled in, or have commenced their Master's or PhD studies, are not eligible to apply.
Q.Does the scholarship cover all costs, including travel and family expenses?
The scholarship primarily covers tuition fees and student living expenses (accommodation, food, and essential costs). It does not cover the cost of international travel, clothing, furniture, or living expenses for family members. Applicants are also expected to demonstrate a multi-source funding plan, as the AKF ISP is considered a 'resource of last resort'.