The Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Programme-2024-25
Introduction
The Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) for the academic year 2024-2025 is now open for applications. Established in 1969 by His Highness the Aga Khan, this program provides an opportunity for exceptional scholars from selected countries to pursue postgraduate education. With a commitment to supporting outstanding individuals who lack other means of financing their studies, the AKF ISP has been instrumental in empowering over 1,000 students to date.
Objectives
The primary objective of the AKF ISP is to offer a global platform for scholars to undertake postgraduate education. This initiative aims to contribute to the development of future leaders who are not only academically proficient but also committed to positive change. The scholarship is structured as a combination of a grant and a loan, emphasizing the importance of financial responsibility and sustainability.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the AKF ISP award, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Excellent academic records.
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree or possess equivalent training/professional experience.
- Demonstrate genuine financial need.
- Construct a thoughtful, reliable, multi-source funding plan.
- Be admitted to a reputable postgraduate institution.
- Exhibit strong leadership potential, professional experience, extracurricular and/or entrepreneurial achievements, and volunteer contributions.
- Preference is given to young professionals under 30 years of age.
Awards are granted based on need, and candidates are encouraged to secure multiple sources of funding to reduce the amount requested from the AKF ISP.
Available Regions
As of now, the AKF ISP is available in the following regions:
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
- Egypt
- India
- Kenya
- Kyrgyz Republic
- Madagascar
- Mozambique
- Pakistan
- Syria
- Tajikistan
- Tanzania
- Uganda
For applicants in Canada, France, Portugal, and the USA, applications are accepted from those who are originally from one of the aforementioned countries.
Benefits
The AKF ISP awards are structured as a combination of a grant and a loan:
Master’s Scholarship Benefits:
- Tuition fees covered by the host organization.
- Travel expenses to and from the country of study.
- Living expenses.
- Internship expenses.
- Insurance coverage.
Repayment Conditions:
- 50 percent of the award amount needs to be repaid.
- Repayment period is five years, starting six months after graduation, termination of studies, or withdrawal of support.
- A cumulative service charge of five percent per annum is levied on the loan amount.
- A co-signer is required to co-sign the loan agreement.
Application Process
The application process for the AKF ISP is managed by local units of the Aga Khan Foundation, Aga Khan Education Services, or Aga Khan Education Board. Candidates should liaise with the appropriate country-level entity to request an application form. It is crucial to submit a completed application to the agency from which the ISP application form was obtained. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Application Deadline
The deadline for submitting applications for the 2024-2025 award cycle is March 31, 2024.
Contact Information
For application forms and additional details, candidates can contact the relevant country-level entity based on their place of residence.
The AKF ISP is a unique opportunity for scholars to pursue postgraduate education with a focus on financial sustainability and academic excellence. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are committed to making a positive impact, consider applying for this scholarship to further your academic and professional journey.
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