Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship: Grant Details, Eligibility, How to Apply

If you’re a student with big dreams but limited financial resources, the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship might just be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. This prestigious scholarship is meant to help smart people like you go to college without worrying about money. Whether you want to get a master’s degree or a PhD, the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme can help you achieve academic success and personal growth.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship, from its highlights to the application process. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to take the first step toward achieving your academic goals.

Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship Highlights

Also read: International Scholarships for Indian Students After 12th

What is the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship?

The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship is part of the broader Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme, which aims to empower talented students from developing countries to pay for their studies to get a postgraduate education. The scholarship covers tuition fees and living expenses for the student for the entire duration of the degree course. Award winners are chosen through a competitive application process. Each cycle, the foundation only gives out a certain number of new awards. For 2025-26, they began accepting applications in early January.

The foundation may favour applicants who have already obtained some portion of financial aid from other sources. For the 2025-26 application cycle, the Aga Khan Foundation will not accept applications from students planning to study in the UK, Germany, Sweden, Austria, Denmark, the Netherlands, Italy, Norway, or Ireland. 

The scholarship is given half as a grant (free money) and half as a loan (you have to pay back). The selection process is very competitive and happens once a year in June or July. The Foundation mainly supports Master’s degree students. However, it may consider PhD students if they are exceptional and need a PhD for a career in academics or research. Short-term courses are not covered, and you cannot apply if you have already started your studies.

Every year, students from developing countries hope to study at the universities of Canada, the US, the UK, France, and Portugal. Funding for PhD programs in the UK, US, and Canada is provided only for the first two years of study, after which the students are expected to find alternative sources of help.

Also read: Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2025

Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship, you should:

• Be a national of one of the eligible countries and reside in a country where the Aga Khan Foundation, Aga Khan Education Services, or Aga Khan Education Board offices are located. Below is a list of eligible countries:
  • India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Canada, Egypt, France, Kenya, Kyrgyz Republic, Madagascar, Mozambique, Pakistan, Portugal, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Uganda, and the US.
• Have consistently excellent academic records
• Demonstrate genuine financial need
• Have secured admission to a reputable institution for a Master’s or PhD
• Preference is given to students under 30 years of age

Also read: UK Scholarships for Indian Students in 2025

How to Apply for the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship?

If you are eligible, you can apply for the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship by following these steps:  

• Click on the “Apply Now” button.
• Click on “Register and fill in your details to sign up. If you already have an account, just log in using your Gmail, mobile number, or email ID.  
• Get the application form from the Aga Khan Foundation or Aga Khan Education Board office in your country.  
• Fill out the form completely and submit it to one of the addresses below:  

Aga Khan Foundation (India)

Sarojini House, 2nd Floor,  

6 Bhagwan Dass Road,  

New Delhi – 110001, India

Aga Khan Education Services / Aga Khan Education Board

2nd Floor, Diamond Complex

Diamond Jubilee High School Compound

39/43 Nesbit Road, Mazagaon, Mumbai –400010

Documents Required

Following is the list of documents required for applying to the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship:

• Marksheet of the previous qualifying examination
• Age proof
• Domicile certificate
• Income proof
• Caste certificate (if applicable)

Conclusion

The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship is a remarkable opportunity for students from developing countries to pursue postgraduate studies. By providing financial assistance on a 50% grant and 50% loan basis, the program ensures that deserving students can achieve their academic and career aspirations. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about your field of study, consider applying for this scholarship to further your education.

Author: Stanley Lazarus Chelli

Stanley is our seasoned writer known for his deep knowledge of the ed-tech industry. He delivers insightful and impactful content that resonates with readers. Beyond his exceptional writing abilities, he is a die-hard petrolhead with a profound love for the automotive industry. Additionally, Stanley is a soon-to-be professional keyboardist.