Overview of the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship Program 2025
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program 2025 is a prestigious, fully funded initiative aimed at supporting outstanding students from developing countries who lack financial resources to pursue postgraduate studies. This highly competitive scholarship is unique in its approach, combining a 50% grant and 50% loan system, empowering talented individuals to complete their master’s or PhD programs at globally recognized institutions. It focuses on building future leaders who can bring positive change to their communities, particularly in Asia and Africa.
What Makes the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship Unique?
Unlike many other scholarships, the Aga Khan Foundation provides funding with a long-term development goal. It is designed for students who demonstrate academic excellence, strong leadership potential, and a deep commitment to social service. The scholarship stands out because it requires recipients to repay half of the funding through a low-interest loan over five years, fostering accountability and financial discipline while still offering extensive support.
Who Can Apply for the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship 2025?
The program is open to students from select developing countries where the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) operates. Eligible nationalities include residents of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Madagascar, Mozambique, Pakistan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, and Uganda. Candidates must be under the age of 30, possess a strong academic record, demonstrate genuine financial need, and have been accepted to a reputable graduate program.
Which Degrees Are Covered Under the Scholarship?
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program supports full-time postgraduate studies such as master’s and PhD degrees. It does not support short-term training, undergraduate programs, or part-time courses. Priority is given to disciplines that contribute to the development of the applicant’s home country, including but not limited to health sciences, education, architecture, sustainable development, civil society, and economic development.
What Expenses Does the Scholarship Cover?
The scholarship covers full tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of the graduate program. It includes funding for accommodation, textbooks, travel costs, health insurance, and other educational materials. The coverage does not extend to family members or dependents. While 50% of the amount is provided as a grant, the remaining 50% must be repaid through a loan with an annual service fee of 5% and a 5-year repayment plan starting six months after graduation.
Application Process and How to Apply
The Aga Khan Foundation accepts applications only through local scholarship offices located in eligible countries. Interested applicants must contact the local Aga Khan Education Services or Aga Khan Foundation office in their country to obtain the application form and guidance. Applications are not accepted online. The completed form, along with all required documentation, must be submitted directly to the local office before the specified deadline, typically in March.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants must submit the following: completed application form, academic transcripts, proof of admission to a graduate program, curriculum vitae, personal statement, evidence of financial need, two academic or professional references, and a proposed repayment plan for the loan portion. It is essential to provide honest and clear financial data as this forms the basis of scholarship selection.
Selection Process and Timeline
Applications are first screened by the local scholarship committee, which conducts interviews and evaluates academic potential, financial need, and commitment to development. Shortlisted candidates are forwarded to the Aga Khan Foundation’s headquarters in Geneva for final selection. Successful applicants are notified by July or August. The process is rigorous and designed to identify the most committed and capable individuals.
Eligibility Criteria Summary
Applicants must be from eligible countries supported by the Aga Khan Foundation
Must hold a bachelor’s degree and be applying for a master’s or PhD program
Must demonstrate outstanding academic performance
Must show genuine financial need and submit a complete financial profile
Should be under 30 years of age at the time of application
Must have secured or be in the process of securing admission to a recognized university
Is English Proficiency Required?
Yes, since the scholarship supports study at international universities where English is often the medium of instruction, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English. This can be shown through academic transcripts, English-taught degrees, or standardized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, depending on the university’s admission requirements.
Is There an Official Mobile App for the Scholarship?
As of 2025, there is no dedicated mobile app for the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship Program. All official communication and application forms are handled through regional offices and the foundation’s main website. Applicants are encouraged to avoid unofficial platforms and always verify details through recognized local offices.
Where Can You Study with This Scholarship?
The Aga Khan Foundation allows students to pursue studies at top universities across North America, Europe, and Asia. Past scholars have attended institutions such as Harvard, Oxford, Stanford, McGill, University of Toronto, MIT, ETH Zurich, and the London School of Economics. The foundation does not restrict where you can study, but the chosen program must be relevant to your country’s development.
What Are the Terms of the Loan Portion?
Half of the total scholarship amount is treated as a loan. Recipients are expected to sign a loan agreement and provide a guarantor. The loan bears a 5% annual service fee and must be repaid within five years, starting six months after graduation or completion of the program. The loan helps the foundation recycle funds to support more students in the future.
Does the Scholarship Favor Any Particular Fields of Study?
Yes, while the program is open to all disciplines, priority is given to those that contribute to social and economic development in the recipient’s home country. Fields such as public health, education, sustainable development, agriculture, architecture, economics, and civil society development are strongly encouraged.
Can Married Students Apply?
Yes, married applicants are welcome to apply; however, the scholarship does not provide allowances or additional financial support for dependents. Students are expected to manage family expenses independently and should include them in their financial planning.
What Are the Risks in the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship?
One of the main risks is the loan component, which some students may overlook. Applicants must ensure they are financially prepared to repay the loan portion after graduation. Additionally, securing admission to a top global university is a prerequisite, which can be challenging for some. Students must also be ready to commit to returning to their home country to contribute to its development after completing their studies.
What Happens If You Don’t Repay the Loan?
The Aga Khan Foundation has a repayment monitoring system and expects scholars to uphold the terms of the agreement. Failure to repay the loan may result in legal consequences, loss of professional credibility, and could affect future opportunities for you and other applicants in your region. The system is built on trust and responsibility, and repayment ensures the sustainability of the program.
Are There Job Opportunities After Graduation?
Yes, graduates of the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship Program often secure employment in leadership roles within NGOs, governments, academic institutions, and multinational organizations. Many scholars return to their home countries to contribute through research, education, healthcare, and development projects. The scholarship alumni network also supports job placements, collaboration, and peer mentoring.
Can I Reapply If I’m Not Selected?
Yes, applicants who are not selected in a particular year are encouraged to apply again, especially if they improve their academic qualifications, gain admission to a stronger program, or refine their financial and career goals. Previous applicants have succeeded in later cycles by strengthening their profiles.
Stories from Previous Aga Khan Foundation Scholars
Former recipients of the scholarship include prominent educators, policymakers, researchers, and NGO leaders. Many scholars have established successful careers in public health, economic development, and environmental conservation. Their testimonials reveal how the program transformed their lives and gave them the tools to positively impact their communities.
Countries Where Local Applications Are Accepted
Applicants must apply through Aga Khan Foundation offices or affiliated agencies in the following countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Madagascar, Mozambique, Pakistan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, and Uganda. Applications from other countries are not accepted at this time.
How to Increase Your Chances of Selection
Apply only if you meet all eligibility criteria and possess clear academic and financial records
Secure admission to a top graduate program before applying
Craft a compelling personal statement focused on development goals
Provide detailed and honest financial documentation
Submit the application before the deadline through the correct local office
Include strong reference letters from academic or professional sources
Contact Information for Local Offices
Each country has its own application procedures and deadlines. Visit the official Aga Khan Foundation website or contact the Aga Khan Education Services or Aga Khan Development Network office in your country to get the most up-to-date application guidelines. Avoid using third-party agents or unofficial websites.
Conclusion
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program 2025 is a life-changing opportunity for students from developing countries to gain access to world-class graduate education. Its focus on leadership, development, and accountability makes it a unique program that not only invests in academic potential but also in the long-term transformation of societies. If you have the ambition, academic excellence, and a passion for making a difference, this scholarship could be your path to a brighter future.