Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme Renewal Process 2026
Renewal Guidelines & Conditions
Scholarships for Master's studies are granted for the entire duration of the degree course, subject to satisfactory academic progress. For PhD students, scholarships are awarded for the first two years, after which students are expected to find funding from alternative sources. To maintain an AKF ISP award, students need to demonstrate good academic standing and ongoing financial need throughout their postgraduate program. A guarantor is required to co-sign the award agreement, which includes the loan repayment terms. The repayment period for the loan portion is typically five years, starting six months after graduation or termination of studies.
Key Renewal Prerequisites
- Must pass the previous annual/semester examination in the first attempt.
- No active backlogs or ATKT are permitted in most professional programs.
- Must maintain regular class attendance (typically 75% or higher) validated by the college.
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'.