Each year, the Aga Khan Foundation awards a limited number of postgraduate scholarships to outstanding students from select developing countries who have no other means of funding their studies, with the goal of developing effective scholars and leaders and preparing them for employment, primarily within the AKDN.

The Foundation assists students with tuition fees and living expenses only.

The following are the key criteria used to choose award recipients: 

l) continuously strong academic records, 

2) actual financial need, 

3) admittance to a highly respected university or program of study, and 

4) connection of the field of study to AKDN's focus areas.

The International Scholarship Program of the AKF has a decentralized application process. Students can get application forms through AKF offices or Aga Khan Education Services / Boards in their countries of current residence beginning January 1st of each year. Completed applications should be returned to the organization that provided the form.