Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (ISP)
The Aga Khan Foundation ISP funds Masters (and exceptional PhD) candidates from developing countries — including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Mozambique, Madagascar, Egypt — with 50% grant and 50% loan.
By Scholarships for Africans EditorialGlobal (apply through AKF country office)
At a glance
- Sponsor
- Aga Khan Foundation (AKF)
- Level
- Masters (priority) and exceptional PhD
- Funding
- 50% grant + 50% interest-free loan covering tuition + living
- Deadline
- March 31 each year (eligible countries only)
Who is eligible
- Citizen of a country where AKF operates — in Africa: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Mozambique, Madagascar, Egypt.
- Strong academic record (typically First Class or upper Second).
- At least 2 years of paid work experience after your undergraduate degree.
- Admission letter from a recognised university (apply in parallel).
- Maximum age 30 at application; preference for under 25.
What the award covers
- Tuition fees at the host university
- Monthly living stipend
- Round-trip airfare to and from your study destination
- 50% of the package is an interest-free loan — repayable over 5 years after graduation
How to apply
- Download the ISP application form from your country's AKF office (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Egypt, Madagascar, Mozambique).
- Apply for university admission separately — AKF does not place you at a school.
- Submit the completed AKF form plus admission/conditional offer, transcripts, references and CV by March 31.
- Shortlisted candidates are interviewed in May–June; awards announced June–July.
Frequently asked questions
Which African countries are eligible for the Aga Khan ISP?
In Africa: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Mozambique, Madagascar, and Egypt. Other AKF country programs cover South-Central Asia and the Middle East.
Is the Aga Khan ISP a full grant?
It is a 50% grant plus a 50% interest-free loan. Repayment begins after you complete your studies, typically over 5 years.
Do I need an admission letter to apply?
You should apply for ISP in parallel with your university applications. AKF will issue a conditional award; final disbursement is conditional on you securing admission.
Is the ISP available for PhD?
PhD funding is offered only in exceptional cases. The program is overwhelmingly oriented to Masters-level study.