The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship is a prestigious human capital development initiative aimed at fostering social advancement and sustainable development. Realigned for the 2023–2025 strategy, the program focuses on building scientific, technological, and research capabilities in IsDB Member Countries (MCs) and Muslim communities in non-Member Countries (non-MCs). The scholarship covers various levels including TVET, Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, and Post-Doctoral research, with a strong emphasis on fields that drive economic growth and shared prosperity.
Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 31 January 2026 |
| Eligible Levels | Bachelor, TVET, Master, PhD, Post-Doc |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded (Tuition, Stipend, Medical, Airfare) |
| Application Fee | FREE (IsDB never charges fees) |
Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship Details
The IsDB Scholarship is a special program that helps students go to university for free. It is for people who live in IsDB member countries or Muslim communities in other parts of the world.
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The goal of this program is to find smart students who want to help their home countries grow. The bank pays for your school fees and living costs so you can focus on your studies. In return, the bank expects you to use your skills to help your community after you graduate. It is more than just money; it is an investment in your future and your country.
Scholarship Tracks (2026–2027)
1. IsDB-ISFD Scholarship Programme
- Target: Students from Least Developed Member Countries (LDMCs).
- Levels: Bachelor’s Degree and Technical/Vocational Diplomas (TVET).
2. Master of Science Scholarship (M.Sc.)
- Target: Students from IsDB LDMCs.
- Duration: Typically up to two years.
- Focus: Science and technology-related fields.
3. Merit Scholarship Programme (MSP)
- Target: Citizens of IsDB Member Countries.
- Levels: PhD study and Post-doctoral research.
- Focus: High technology and applied sciences aligned with national development goals.
4. Muslim Communities in Non-Member Countries (SPMC)
- Target: Academically strong but financially needy Muslim students in non-Member Countries.
- Levels: Undergraduate/First-degree studies.
- Eligible Countries: Includes India, Ghana, South Africa, Philippines, Thailand, Australia, and many others.
Coverage & Benefits
While benefits vary slightly by track, the scholarship generally includes:
- Full Tuition Fees: Paid directly to the university.
- Monthly Stipend: To cover cost-of-living expenses.
- Medical Coverage: Health treatment/insurance as specified by the bank.
- Travel (Study Abroad): Economy return airfare and an “installation allowance” for approved international students.
- Allowances: Some tracks include books and clothing allowances.
What is NOT covered: Visa costs, family support, personal computers, and extracurricular activities.
Eligibility Criteria
- Citizenship: Must be from an IsDB Member Country or an eligible Muslim community in a non-Member Country.
- Academic Excellence: Applicants must demonstrate strong academic records and a commitment to serving their community after graduation.
- Development Impact: Research and study plans must align with the development needs of the home country.
- Health: Must be medically fit.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Review the Booklets: Visit the official IsDB page to download the specific handbook for your chosen track (e.g., MSP vs. SPMC).
- Register on the Portal: Create an account at isdbscholarships.smartsimple.com.
- Choose Your Track: Select the specific program that matches your current educational level and nationality.
- Prepare Documents: Gather transcripts, proof of nationality, and a study/research plan.
Application Deadline: 31 January 2026.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the application deadline for the 2026–2027 cycle? The official deadline for all scholarship tracks is 31 January 2026.
Is there any cost associated with applying? No. IsDB does not charge any application or processing fees. Beware of unofficial entities asking for money.
Who is eligible for the SPMC track? This track is for academically strong but financially needy students from Muslim communities in non-member countries (e.g., India, Kenya, Australia, etc.).
Does the scholarship cover family members or dependents? No. Official handbooks note that the scholarship does not provide family support or travel for dependents.
What fields of study are prioritized? Priority is given to applied sciences, high technology, and fields that align with human capital development and IsDB’s Realigned Strategy.
Are personal equipment costs like laptops covered? No. Personal equipment such as computers and personal travel are generally excluded from the funding package.
Is admission to a university required before I apply? While not always mandatory for the initial application, having a confirmed admission increases competitiveness, especially for M.Sc. and PhD tracks.
What are the obligations after completing the study? Scholars are expected to return to their home countries to contribute to their development. Some tracks may have interest-free loan repayment components.
Can I apply for multiple tracks simultaneously? No. Applicants must select the one specific track that best matches their current educational level and residency status.
What documents are required for the SPMC track? Key requirements include academic records, proof of community membership, a surety bond, and a medical fitness report upon selection.
