Global
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme
IELTS Requirement & Application Guide
- IELTS
- 6.5
- Components
- L 6 / R 6 / W 6 / S 6
- Level
- PG
- Deadline
- January–March
Last verified: 2026-03
About Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme
The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme provides a limited number of scholarships annually for postgraduate studies to outstanding students from developing countries. The funding is structured as 50% grant and 50% loan, covering tuition and living expenses. It supports study at reputable universities worldwide.
IELTS Required
| Overall | L | R | W | S |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6.5 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
Accepts: Academic ✓ / General ✗
Also accepted: TOEFL iBT 79
Tips for Meeting the Requirement
- 1The Aga Khan Foundation requires IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each component. Since funding is partly loan-based, maximise your scholarship competitiveness by scoring as high as possible to demonstrate academic readiness.
- 2Apply between January and March through your country's local Aga Khan Foundation office. Each country has a national selection committee, so check your local office's specific requirements and deadlines.
- 3The programme values leadership and community impact. While preparing for IELTS, also draft compelling personal statements that articulate how your studies will benefit your home community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What IELTS score do I need for the Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship?
The Aga Khan Foundation requires IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each component. TOEFL iBT 79 is accepted as an alternative. Requirements may vary by programme and host university.
Does the Aga Khan Foundation accept TOEFL?
Yes, TOEFL iBT with a minimum score of 79 is accepted. The specific language requirement may also depend on your chosen university and programme.
Can I apply for the Aga Khan Scholarship without IELTS?
You generally need IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught programmes. Contact your local Aga Khan Foundation office for specific requirements, as some flexibility may exist depending on your academic background and the programme language.
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