Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program (AKFISP) is a prestigious scholarship initiative designed to provide financial assistance to outstanding students from developing countries, including India, who wish to pursue postgraduate studies abroad. This program is administered by the Aga Khan Foundation, which has a long-standing commitment to improving education, health, and economic development worldwide.
The program targets high-achieving students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership qualities, and a strong commitment to contributing to their communities. By supporting education in globally recognized universities, the scholarship empowers students to gain international exposure, advanced knowledge, and the skills necessary to become future leaders.
Why the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship is Important
- International Recognition: Scholarships are awarded to meritorious students to study at top universities globally.
- Fully or Partially Funded: Offers financial support for tuition, living expenses, and other essential costs.
- Focus on Merit and Need: Combines academic merit with demonstrated financial need to ensure equitable opportunities.
- Leadership and Community Development: Encourages scholars to apply their knowledge to social, economic, or educational development in India.
- Global Exposure: Provides an opportunity to learn from diverse educational systems and develop cross-cultural competencies.
- Flexible Discipline Coverage: Open to students across various academic fields including science, technology, engineering, management, health, and humanities.
Scholarship Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Name of Program | Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program (AKFISP) |
| Administered by | Aga Khan Foundation, India |
| Target Group | Indian students demonstrating academic excellence and financial need |
| Level of Study | Postgraduate programs (Master’s/PG Diplomas) abroad |
| Number of Scholarships | Limited, highly competitive; varies each year |
| Duration | Program-dependent, typically 1–2 years |
| Mode of Study | Full-time postgraduate programs at accredited universities |
| Financial Support | Tuition fees, living expenses, travel allowance, contingency grants |
| Fields of Study | Science, Technology, Engineering, Management, Health, Humanities, Social Sciences, and related fields |
| Application Mode | Online application via Aga Khan Foundation portal |
Eligibility Criteria
| Criterion | Requirement / Details |
| Nationality | Must be an Indian citizen or resident in India. |
| Caste/Community | Open to all communities; priority may be given to meritorious students with financial need. |
| Age Limit | Typically below 30 years for Master’s programs; age limits may vary based on the host country or program. |
| Academic Qualification | Bachelor’s degree with excellent academic record (minimum 60% marks or equivalent). |
| Work Experience | Not mandatory for academic programs; may be preferred for professional or management courses. |
| Field of Study | Open to all disciplines, including STEM, humanities, social sciences, management, and health. |
| Financial Need | Applicants must demonstrate financial constraints to pursue overseas study. |
| English Proficiency | Required for programs conducted in English (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent). |
| University Admission | Must have secured admission or be in the final stage of acceptance at a recognized international university. |
| Health Requirements | Applicants must be medically fit to study abroad. |
| Previous Scholarships | Must disclose any previous scholarships or financial aid received. |
Financial Assistance and Benefits
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program provides partial or full financial support depending on the applicant’s need and merit.
Coverage Includes:
- Tuition Fees: Full or partial tuition coverage for the academic program.
- Living Expenses: Monthly stipend for accommodation, food, and local transportation.
- Travel Costs: Economy-class airfare from India to the host country and back.
- Contingency Allowance: For books, research materials, or academic needs.
- Health Insurance: Medical coverage for the duration of the study program.
Note: The scholarship generally does not cover dependents, but some exceptions may exist based on the host institution or program requirements.
Application Process
Step 1 – Verify Eligibility
Check nationality, age, academic qualifications, financial need, and admission status at a recognized international university.
Step 2 – Prepare Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Admission confirmation or letter of intent from a foreign university
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Recommendation letters from professors or professional supervisors
- Proof of financial need (family income certificate, bank statements, etc.)
- Health certificate for medical fitness
Step 3 – Submit Online Application
Applications are submitted through the Aga Khan Foundation portal before the specified deadline.
Step 4 – Shortlisting
The Foundation reviews applications based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need.
Step 5 – Interview
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews to assess motivation, career goals, and community impact potential.
Step 6 – Final Selection
Candidates are selected based on merit, demonstrated financial need, and alignment with the Foundation’s mission.
Step 7 – Scholarship Disbursement
Financial support is disbursed directly to students or institutions to cover tuition and living expenses.
Selection Criteria
Candidates are evaluated based on:
- Academic merit and consistent performance.
- Leadership qualities and community involvement.
- Relevance of the chosen course to career goals and societal impact.
- Demonstrated financial need.
- Letters of recommendation and overall motivation.
Tips for Applicants
- Craft a compelling SOP: Explain your career goals, leadership vision, and the reason for choosing your program.
- Highlight achievements: Academic excellence, research work, internships, and community engagement.
- Secure strong recommendations: Obtain letters from professors or employers who know your capabilities.
- Demonstrate financial need: Clearly state your circumstances and why the scholarship is crucial.
- Plan early: Collect documents, SOP, admission proofs, and references well before the deadline.
- Prepare for interviews: Practice articulating goals, achievements, and your commitment to societal development.
Who Should Apply
- Indian students aiming to pursue postgraduate education abroad in any discipline.
- Individuals committed to using global education to contribute to India’s development.
- Students demonstrating academic excellence, leadership, and financial need.
- Scholars seeking international exposure and professional growth.
Conclusion
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program (AKFISP) is a transformative opportunity for Indian students who aspire to achieve world-class education abroad. By combining merit-based selection with financial support, the scholarship allows students to focus on academic and professional growth without financial constraints.
Recipients of this scholarship gain the opportunity to study at top universities globally, develop leadership skills, and make meaningful contributions to their communities and India’s development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program?
It is a scholarship that provides financial assistance to meritorious Indian students for postgraduate studies abroad.
Who is eligible for this scholarship?
Indian students with excellent academic records, leadership potential, financial need, and admission to a recognized foreign university.
Which levels of study are supported?
Primarily Master’s or postgraduate diploma programs.
Is the scholarship fully funded?
It provides full or partial financial assistance depending on merit and financial need.
Which fields of study are eligible?
All disciplines, including STEM, humanities, social sciences, management, health, and related areas.
Is there an age limit?
Typically, applicants should be below 30 years for postgraduate programs, though flexibility may exist.
Do I need work experience?
Work experience is not required for most academic programs, but may enhance professional course applications.
Are dependents covered?
No, the scholarship is intended for the student only.
Do I need an admission letter before applying?
Yes, proof of admission or conditional acceptance is generally required.
What documents are required?
Academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, SOP, recommendation letters, financial proof, and health certificate.
Is English proficiency required?
Yes, for programs conducted in English (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
How are candidates selected?
Selection is based on academic merit, leadership qualities, financial need, and relevance of the program.
Can students from all communities apply?
Yes, the scholarship is open to all, but financial need and merit are key selection factors.
When is the application period?
Typically once a year; dates are announced on the Aga Khan Foundation portal.
What are tips for successful application?
Prepare a strong SOP, highlight achievements, provide credible recommendations, clearly demonstrate financial need, and prepare for interviews.