Are you a scholar or researcher seeking financial support for advanced studies in science and technology? If so, the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Merit Scholarship Program (MSP) offers an exceptional opportunity for highly qualified individuals from IsDB Member Countries (MCs) to pursue Ph.D. and post-doctoral research in cutting-edge fields. This program is designed to nurture talent and enhance the scientific, technological, and research capacity of scholars, ultimately contributing to the socioeconomic development of their home countries.

The primary goal of the MSP is to develop technically qualified human resources in high-tech fields. It aims to strengthen the scientific and research capabilities of scholars and researchers, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to address national development challenges. By supporting advanced studies in applied sciences and technology, the program ensures that scholars can contribute effectively to their country’s technological progress.

The scholarship covers research in high-priority technology fields, categorized under emerging technologies, innovative science applications, problem-solving research, and science for sustainable development. It supports Ph.D. studies for three years and post-doctoral research for six to twelve months at top universities worldwide, ensuring alignment with international academic standards.

Selected scholars are expected to return to their home countries upon completion of their studies to apply their knowledge in national institutions, fostering long-term technological and scientific growth.

You may also explore the following opportunities from IsDB for the 2025-26 academic year:

• IsDB-ISFD Scholarship Program 2025-26 for IsDB Least Developed Member Countries
• IsDB M.Sc. Scholarship Program 2025-26 for Least Developed Member Countries

Key Details and Dates

• Application Deadline: To be confirmed by IsDB
• Funding Type: Fully funded
• Organizer: Islamic Development Bank (IsDB)
• Eligible Countries: IsDB Member Countries
• Eligible Gender: Male/Female
• Target Group: Scholars and researchers affiliated with academic, scientific, or technological institutions in their home countries
• Study Level: Ph.D. and Post-Doctoral Research
• Degree Required: Master’s degree for Ph.D. applicants, Ph.D. degree for post-doctoral research applicants
• Duration:
  • Ph.D.: 3 years (36 months)
  • Post-doctoral research: 6-12 months
• Program Language: English or host institution language
• Host Country: IsDB member country

Fields of Study

The eligible high technology fields include:

• Laser and Fiber Optics
• Conductors/Semiconductors
• Polymer Science
• Genetic Engineering/Biotechnology
• Nuclear Science/Engineering
• Electronics/Microelectronics/Telecommunication
• Computer Science (including CAD/CAM)
• Renewable Energy/Fuel Technology
• Hydrology/Water Resources
• Metallurgy
• Chemical Engineering/Material Sciences
• Medicine/Pharmaceuticals
• Agriculture/Food Technology
• System Engineering
• Space Science/Technology
• Environmental Preservation Technology
• Technology Management and Innovation (Post-doctoral research only)

Benefits and Financial Aid

The IsDB Merit Scholarship provides the following benefits:

• Full tuition fee (paid directly to the university)
• Monthly stipend (based on the cost of living in the host country)
• Medical insurance under the university’s health scheme
• Thesis/scientific papers preparation allowance
• Conference allowance for Ph.D. scholars
• Return economy-class airfare (one trip at the start and one at the end of studies)
• Installation allowance for students studying abroad
• Student grants

The scholarship does not cover:

• Visa application fees
• Family support expenses
• Extracurricular courses or training
• Language training
• Additional travel during the study period
• Research materials, fieldwork costs, or participation in seminars/conferences
• Educational equipment (e.g., laptops, software)
• Residence permit fees

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a citizen of an IsDB Member Country
• Be affiliated with an academic, scientific, or technological institution in their home country
• Age limit:
  • Ph.D. applicants: Up to 35 years old
  • Post-doctoral researchers: Up to 40 years old
• Educational background:
  • Ph.D. applicants: Must hold a Master’s degree in a relevant science/technology field
  • Post-doctoral applicants: Must hold a Ph.D. degree in a relevant science/technology field
• Have an above-average academic record (“Very Good” grade or equivalent)
• Prove language proficiency in instruction at the chosen university
• Have at least two years of research/work experience in the related field (Ph.D. applicants)
• Have at least five years of research experience in the related field (Post-doctoral applicants)
• Have published research papers in relevant fields
• Submit a research proposal with clear scientific and developmental relevance to their home country
• Not be an IsDB staff member, Executive Director, or close relative of IsDB personnel
• The nominating institution must endorse the research proposal
• Post-doctoral applicants with prior international post-doctoral experience in the last two years are ineligible

Important Notes

• The scholarship cannot be combined with any other financial support. If awarded another scholarship, the applicant must notify IsDB.
• Admission to a university does not guarantee a scholarship.
• Applicants should wait for official confirmation before making commitments.

Eligible Member Countries

The following IsDB Member Countries are eligible to apply for the Merit Scholarship 2025-26:

Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Benin, Brunei Darussalam, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Comoros, Cote d’Ivoire, Djibouti, Egypt, Gabon, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Guyana, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Kyrgyz, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Suriname, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen.

Commitments of Scholarship Recipients

The recipients of this scholarship must commit to the following activities:

• Sign a surety bond, committing to:
  • Completing their studies without interruption
  • Returning to their home country after graduation
  • Working in science, technology, or development for at least twice the duration of the scholarship
• Submit regular academic progress reports to IsDB
• Not accept any other scholarship or paid work that may interfere with studies

How to Apply?

Visit the official IsDB Scholarship Portal using the link below for scholarship application updates.

For more details, email [email protected], visit the IsDB’s official website, or review the scholarship booklet.