Overview
The Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Programme (AKF ISP) supports outstanding students from selected developing countries — Pakistan included — who have no other means of financing postgraduate study. Master’s programmes get priority; PhDs are considered for the first two years.
Each award is half grant and half loan: you repay 50% with a service charge, starting six months after graduation, and a guarantor must co-sign. It is a last-resort funding source. The 2026-27 cycle is closed; the next opens in early 2027 — contact the AKF ISP team in Pakistan via the eligibility tool.
Who can apply
Citizens of eligible countries (including Pakistan) with an excellent academic record, a bachelor's degree, demonstrated financial need, admission to a reputable postgraduate institution and leadership or volunteer experience. Preference for applicants under 30.
- Eligible nationalities
- Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Mozambique, Pakistan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Uganda
- Academic stage
- Graduate, Master's
Mandatory conditions
- 50% of the award is a loan that must be repaid, with a guarantor.
- You must show financial need and a multi-source funding plan.
- Not for study in the UK or Russia; no part-time programmes.
Preferred, not required
- Applicants under 30 are preferred.
Funding package
Tuition and living expenses as 50% grant + 50% loan. Not covered: international travel, family living costs.
- Tuition covered
- Stipend or salary covered
- Travel not stated
- Accommodation not stated
- Health insurance not stated
Application dates
- Deadline
- To be confirmed Deadline to be confirmed
- Duration
- Full master's; first 2 years of a PhD
Verification
- Status
- Verified against the official source
- Official source
- the.akdn
- Last checked
- 18 Oct 2026
- Listing updated
- 18 Oct 2026
ScholarsChapter is an independent listing service. We never charge application fees. Deadlines, amounts and eligibility can change — always apply through the official website. How we verify listings