The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has consistently prioritized human capital development alongside its core development financing initiatives. Since its inception, IsDB has recognized the crucial role of skilled human resources in fostering societal progress and sustainable growth.

Overview of the IsDB Scholarship Programs

In 1983, IsDB launched the Scholarship Program for Muslim Communities (SPMC), focusing on strengthening the human capital of Muslim communities residing in non-member countries (non-MCs). This initiative aimed to support students from underrepresented communities by providing them with access to quality higher education.

In 1992, IsDB expanded its efforts by introducing the Merit Scholarship Program (MSP) for Ph.D. studies and postdoctoral research in applied science and high technology. The program leveraged IsDB’s decade-long experience with the SPMC and sought to enhance scientific and technological capacities in its member countries (MCs).

Recognizing that the Least Developed Member Countries (LDMCs) faced challenges in accessing the MSP, IsDB introduced the Master of Science Scholarship Program (M.Sc.) in 1998. This program aimed to prepare students for advanced research and innovation, serving as a foundation for the MSP.

As part of its Realigned Strategy 2023–2025, IsDB continues to promote inclusive and comprehensive human capital development by offering scholarship programs that contribute to shared prosperity and economic progress.

Quick Details

• Offered by: Islamic Development Bank (IsDB)
• Deadline: 30th April 2025
• Program Duration:
  • Undergraduate: 4 years
  • Master’s: 2 years
  • Ph.D.: 3 years
  • Postdoctoral Research: 6–12 months
• Location: IsDB Member Countries
• Degree Levels: Undergraduate, Master’s, Ph.D., and Postdoctoral
• Eligible Countries: IsDB Member Countries (including Afghanistan)
• Gender: Open to all

Available Scholarship Programs

IsDB offers four distinct scholarship programs to cater to diverse student needs:

1. IsDB-ISFD Scholarship Program
2. Merit Scholarship Program for High Technology (MSP)
3. Master of Science Scholarship Program (M.Sc.)
4. Scholarship Program for Muslim Communities in Non-member Countries (SPMC)

Fields of Study

Undergraduate Programs

Eligible fields for the IsDB-ISFD Scholarship Program include:

• Medicine
• Engineering
• Agriculture
• Dentistry
• Pharmacy
• Veterinary Science
• Nursing
• Nutrition
• Computer Science
• Forestry
• Fishery

Technical Diploma Programs

• Mechanical Manufacturing Methods
• Mechatronics
• Air Conditioning
• Arts and Crafts
• Automotive Maintenance and Repair
• Business and IT
• Civil Engineering Technician
• Early Childhood Educator
• Electricity and Electronics
• Industrial Maintenance
• Tourism and Hospitality

Master’s Programs

Fields for the Master of Science Scholarship Program:

• Science
• Technology
• Medicine or Medical Sciences
• Engineering

Ph.D. and Postdoctoral Research Programs

Eligible fields for the Merit Scholarship Program for High Technology (MSP):

• Agriculture/Food Technology
• Computer Science (including CAD/CAM)
• Chemical Engineering/Material Sciences
• Nuclear Science/Engineering
• Renewable Energy/Fuel Technology
• Space Science/Technology
• Environmental Preservation Technology
• Genetic Engineering/Biotechnology

Benefits

All IsDB scholarship programs cover the following expenses:

• Tuition Fees: Paid directly to the university
• Monthly Stipend: To cover living expenses in the host country
• Books and Clothing Allowance: Equivalent to three months’ stipend
• Medical Care: At the university or a local state hospital
• Airfare: Return economy class tickets
• Thesis Preparation: Support for Master’s and Ph.D. students
• Conference Allowance: For doctoral students

Eligibility Criteria

IsDB-ISFD Scholarship Program

• Under 24 years old at the time of application
• Financial need
• Senior secondary school graduate with honors in science subjects
• Proficiency in the language of instruction at the chosen university
• Admission letter from an accredited university in a relevant field
• Must reside in their home country
• Commitment to returning home after graduation to contribute to national development

Merit Scholarship Program for High Technology (MSP)

• Up to 40 years old for postdoctoral research and 35 years for Ph.D. studies
• M.Sc. degree for Ph.D. applicants, Ph.D. for postdoctoral research
• Outstanding academic record
• Research experience: 2 years for Ph.D. applicants, 5 years for postdoctoral research
• Research proposal in an approved field

Master of Science Scholarship Program (M.Sc.)

• Under 30 years old
• Bachelor’s degree in science or technology
• Strong academic performance
• Nominated by a scientific or research institution
• Admission to an accredited university

Scholarship Program for Muslim Communities in Non-member Countries (SPMC)

• Financial need
• Under 24 years old
• Senior secondary school graduate with science honors
• Proficiency in the university’s language of instruction
• Admission to an accredited university in a relevant field

How to Apply

Interested candidates must register and apply through the official IsDB application portal. Before applying, it is recommended to review the program-specific requirements and gather necessary documentation.

Note: Please visit the IsDB website frequently for up-to-date information regarding the IsDB Scholarships Calendar.

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