Islamic Development Bank Scholarships
More details :
Since its inception, the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has been steadfast in its commitment to nurturing human capital. In 1983, the Scholarship Program for Muslim Communities (SPMC) was launched, dedicated to supporting academically gifted yet financially constrained Muslim students pursuing undergraduate studies in medicine, engineering, computer sciences, and related fields, both within their own countries and across IsDB member countries.
Expanding its scope, the Merit Scholarship Program for Ph.D. and post-doctoral research in applied sciences was introduced in 1992, followed by the Master of Science Scholarship Program in 1998. These initiatives, tailored to the least developed member countries, focus on fostering excellence in education, particularly in science and technology, crucial for sustainable development.
Aligned with its 2023-2025 strategy, IsDB reaffirms its dedication to human capital development, recognizing it as the cornerstone of economic growth and prosperity. Central to this strategy are the following scholarship programs:
Scholarship Programme for Muslim Communities (SPMC): Launched to empower academically bright and financially disadvantaged young Muslim students, the SPMC aims to cultivate professionals dedicated to advancing their communities and nations.
Master of Science Scholarship Programme (M.Sc.): Geared towards enhancing human capital in 20 IsDB Least Developed Member Countries (LDMCs), this program prioritizes science and technology education, vital for sustainable progress.
Merit Scholarship Program for High Technology (MSP) for IsDB Member Countries: Initiated in 1992, the MSP champions advanced studies and research in critical applied sciences and high technology areas, bolstering the scientific prowess and research capabilities of IsDB member countries.
IsDB-ISFD Scholarship Programme: Launched in 2019 in collaboration with the Islamic Solidarity Fund for Development (ISFD), this program targets poverty reduction in 21 Least Developed IsDB Member Countries (LDMCs). By providing educational opportunities to talented yet financially challenged youth, it aims to uplift socioeconomic conditions and foster meaningful contributions to national development.
Through these scholarship programs, IsDB remains steadfast in its mission to harness the potential of human capital, thereby driving sustainable development and prosperity across member countries and beyond.
Eligibility :
1. IsDB Scholarship Program for Muslim Communities in Non-Member Countries (SPMC)
Financial need is essential for continuation of studies.
Age limit: 24 years.
Excludes IsDB staff, Executive Directors, their alternates, and close relatives (parents, siblings, children, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews).
Completion of 12 years of education with strong science grades.
Proof of language proficiency for university instruction, supported by relevant certificates (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS).
All non-English/French documents must be translated.
Medical fitness required; medical examination post-selection.
Preferably admitted to a relevant discipline at a local recognized institution.
Must reside in home country.
Cannot hold another scholarship concurrently.
List of eligible countries with Muslim Communities are Muslim students in one of these countries 1) Australia 2) Canada 3) Croatia 4) Ethiopia 5) Fiji 6) Germany 7) Ghana 8) India 9) Kenya 10) Madagascar 11) Malawi 12) Myanmar 13) Namibia 14) Nepal Protected 15) Netherlands 16) Russian Federation 17) Rwanda 18) Singapore 19) South Africa 20) Sri Lanka 21) Tanzania 22) Thailand 23) The Philippines 24) Trinidad-Tobago 25) Vietnam 26) Zambia 27) Liberia 28) Cambodia 29) Mauritius 30) Macedonia.
2. IsDB Master of Science Scholarship Program (M.Sc.)
Must be a citizen of one of the 20 LDMCs.
Age limit: 30 years by application deadline.
Hold a B.Sc. in science/technology with above-average grades.
Nominated by a national scientific/academic institution.
Proficient in the study institution's language.
Admission to a listed university for M.Sc. is preferred.
Excludes IsDB staff, their relatives, and Executive Directors.
List of 20 eligible LDMCs: Afghanistan 2. Benin 3. Burkina Faso 4. Chad 5. Comoros 6. Djibouti 7. Gambia 8. Guinea 9. Guinea-Bissau 10. Mali 11. Maldives 12. Mauritania 13. Mozambique 14. Niger 15. Palestine 16. Sierra Leone 17. Somalia 18. Togo 19. Uganda 20. Yemen
3. IsDB Merit Scholarship Program for High Technology (MSP)
Age limit: 35 for Ph.D., 40 for post-doc.
Must hold an M.Sc. for Ph.D. or Ph.D. for post-doc in a relevant science/technology field.
Above average academic record.
Proficient in the language of the institution and capable of scientific work.
Minimum 2 years' experience for Ph.D., 5 years for post-doc.
Publication record in the field.
Proposed study/research must align with approved fields and show development relevance.
No recent (last 2 years) post-doc experience abroad.
Excludes IsDB staff, Executive Directors, their relatives, and alternates.
List of Member Countries: Afghanistan., Maldives, Albania, Mali, Algeria, Mauritania, Azerbaijan, Morocco, Bahrain, Mozambique, Bangladesh, Niger, Benin, Nigeria, Brunei Darussalam, Oman, Burkina Faso, Pakistan, Cameroon, Palestine, Chad, Qatar, Comoros, Saudi Arabia, Cote d’Ivoire, Senega, Djibouti, Sierra Leone, Egypt, Somalia, Gabon, Sudan, Gambia, Suriname, Guinea, Syria, Guinea Bissau, Tajikistan, Guyana, Togo, ndonesia, Tunisia, Iran, Turkey, Iraq, Turkmenistan, Jordan, Uganda, Kazakhstan, United A. Emirates, Kuwait, Uzbekistan, Kyrghyz, Yemen, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia
4. IsDB-ISFD Scholarship Program
Open to academically excellent, financially needy students from LDMCs.
Age limit: 24 years by application deadline.
Must not be affiliated with IsDB staff or their relatives.
Completed 12 years of education with strong science grades.
Field of study must be among the approved disciplines.
Required language proficiency with certification.
All documents must have certified English or French translations.
Medical fitness is a prerequisite
Prior admission in a related discipline is preferred.
Applicants should reside in their home country.
Must be endorsed by a local NGO.
Commitment to contribute to home country's development post-study.
No concurrent scholarship awards.
List of eligible LDMCs: Afghanistan , Bangladesh, Benin, Burkina Faso, Chad, Comoros 7. Djibouti, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Mali Protected, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Togo, Uganda, Yemen.
More details can be found here
Required documents :
A recent curriculum vitae (CV) or resume
Official transcripts from your previous education
Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional references
A copy of your passport
Evidence of proficiency in English, if it is not your first language
A statement of purpose or motivation letter, outlining your academic and professional goals, and explaining why you are interested in the scholarship and how it will help you achieve your goals
Any other relevant supporting documents, such as publications, awards, and relevant work experience
It's important to carefully read the application guidelines and requirements, as they may vary based on the specific scholarship program and the organization offering it. Some programs may also have additional requirements, such as a specific format for the statement of purpose or a minimum GPA.
How to apply :
To apply for the four scholarship programs offered by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), prospective candidates typically need to follow a structured application process. While specific details may vary slightly between programs, the general steps to apply are as follows:
Review Eligibility Criteria: Before applying, carefully review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship program to ensure you meet the requirements. Eligibility criteria typically include academic qualifications, nationality, field of study, and financial need.
Gather Required Documents: Prepare all necessary documents required for the application process. These may include academic transcripts, certificates, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, proof of financial need, and any other supporting documents specified by the scholarship program.
Select a Program: Determine which scholarship program aligns best with your academic goals, field of study, and eligibility criteria. Each program may have specific focuses and requirements, so choose accordingly.
Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form for your chosen scholarship program accurately and thoroughly. Provide all requested information and ensure that your application reflects your academic achievements, aspirations, and commitment to the program's objectives.
Submit Application: Once you have completed the application form and gathered all required documents, submit your application through the designated online portal or mailing address. Be sure to adhere to the specified deadline for submissions.
Await Notification: After submitting your application, wait for notification from the IsDB regarding the status of your application. This may include confirmation of receipt, requests for additional information or documentation, and ultimately, the outcome of your application.
Acceptance and Further Instructions: If you are selected for a scholarship, you will receive notification of acceptance along with any further instructions regarding enrollment, visa procedures (if applicable), and commencement of studies.
Comply with Program Requirements: Upon acceptance, ensure that you fulfill all requirements outlined by the scholarship program, including maintaining academic progress, adhering to program guidelines, and fulfilling any obligations or commitments associated with the scholarship.
The Scholarship Benefits:
Tuition fees: The scholarship covers tuition fees for the selected program of study.
Monthly Allowance: A monthly allowance is provided to cover living expenses, such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other necessities.
Travel expenses: The scholarship covers the cost of round-trip travel from the recipient's home country to the host institution.
Health insurance: Health insurance coverage is provided for the duration of the scholarship.
Research and study materials: The scholarship provides funding for research and study materials.
Access to academic and professional networks: Scholars have the opportunity to network with other students, faculty, and professionals in their field, both within the host institution and in the wider academic community.
Career development opportunities: The scholarship provides opportunities for career development and advancement, such as internships, job placements, and research opportunities.
It is important to note that the specific benefits of the IsDB-ISFD Scholarship Programme may vary based on the host institution and the program of study. It is recommended to review the specific terms and conditions of the scholarship program to understand the full range of benefits provided.