About the Scholarship
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (ISP) is one of the few major need-based scholarships available to Nepali postgraduate students. It is administered globally by the Aga Khan Foundation, with local Foundation offices coordinating applications in each country.
Roughly 15–20 scholarships are awarded worldwide each year. Nepal has a local Aga Khan Foundation office that handles Nepali applications.
What's Covered
The award is structured as 50% grant and 50% interest-free loan. Together they cover tuition, basic living expenses, books, fees, and one return airfare. The exact amount depends on the country of study and your demonstrated need.
The loan portion must be repaid after you complete your studies, typically over 5 years, with no interest charged. This makes the effective cost of postgraduate education substantially lower than a commercial loan, while still covering your full need.
Eligibility for Nepali Students
Nepali citizens are eligible. Priority is given to applicants from countries where the Aga Khan Development Network is active, which includes Nepal. You must be a postgraduate student — Master's or PhD.
You must be able to demonstrate genuine financial need — the Foundation reviews your family income and assets carefully. You must also show academic excellence (typically first-class or distinction at Bachelor's level) and leadership potential.
Critical: you must have explored other funding sources first. The Foundation expects you to combine ISP with other partial funding (university scholarships, savings, etc.) — it is not designed to be your sole source of funding.
How to Apply from Nepal
Contact the local Aga Khan Foundation office in Nepal (located in Kathmandu) between January and March each year to request the application form. Applications are not accepted directly online from a global portal.
Submit completed application, transcripts, recommendation letters, admission offer (or proof you are applying), and detailed financial information. Shortlisted applicants are interviewed by the local office.
Final selections are made by the global Aga Khan Foundation office. Awards are announced in June–July for September enrolment.
Ready to apply?
Continue on the official scholarship website to start your application.
Apply on official site