Applications are now open for the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarships 2026, offering fully funded study opportunities for African students at undergraduate, master’s, and PhD levels.
The scholarship programme is designed to support talented students from IsDB member countries, including Nigeria, to gain quality education in fields that contribute directly to national and regional development. Successful applicants will study at partner universities with full financial support from the IsDB.
The initiative focuses on building future professionals, researchers, and leaders by removing the financial barriers that often limit access to higher education.
About the IsDB Scholarship Programme
The IsDB Scholarship Programme is a long-running international education support initiative of the Islamic Development Bank. It targets students from member countries who demonstrate strong academic ability and interest in development-focused fields.
The programme supports education that aligns with economic growth, innovation, public health, food security, and sustainable development across Africa and other member regions.
What the IsDB Scholarship Covers
The IsDB scholarship is fully funded, meaning selected candidates receive financial support that usually includes:
Full tuition fees at approved universities
Monthly living allowance
Accommodation or housing support
Economy-class return airfare to the host country
Medical insurance
Research and thesis support for postgraduate students
This funding structure allows scholars to focus on their studies without worrying about school fees or basic living costs.
Who Can Apply
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the level of study, but the general conditions include:
Applicants must be citizens of IsDB member countries, including several African nations such as Nigeria, Senegal, Uganda, Mali, and Burkina Faso
Undergraduate applicants must have completed secondary school with good academic results
Master’s and PhD applicants must hold relevant prior degrees with strong academic records
Applicants must meet the academic and language requirements of their chosen programme
Candidates are expected to show academic discipline, leadership potential, and commitment to development
Some programmes may also require proof of English or Arabic language proficiency, depending on the institution.
Fields of Study Supported
The IsDB Scholarships focus on courses linked to development priorities. Supported fields include:
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Agriculture and Agribusiness
Health and Medical Sciences
Economics, Development Studies, and Public Policy
Environmental and Climate Sciences
Islamic Finance and Business
Education and Social Sciences
These disciplines are chosen to help address real challenges in African economies and communities.
Levels of Study Available
The scholarship covers three major study levels:
Undergraduate programmes for qualified secondary school graduates
Master’s programmes for graduates and professionals seeking advanced training
PhD programmes for researchers working on development-relevant topics
Each level has its own admission and documentation requirements, depending on the university and course.
How to Apply for the IsDB Scholarship 2026
Interested applicants should apply only through the official IsDB scholarship platform.
Official Scholarship Page:
👉 https://www.isdb.org/scholarships
Applicants are expected to:
Visit the official scholarship page and review available programmes
Check partner universities and eligibility conditions for each track
Prepare required documents, which may include:
Academic certificates and transcripts
Passport details
Letters of recommendation
Personal statement or motivation letter
Language proficiency certificates (if required)
Research proposal for PhD applicants
Complete and submit the online application before the stated deadline
Application deadlines differ depending on the programme and study level, so applicants are advised to confirm dates directly on the official portal.
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by the IsDB and partner institutions
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or further screening
Final selection is based on academic merit, programme suitability, and development impact
Only candidates who meet all requirements will be contacted.
The IsDB Scholarships 2026 offer a valuable opportunity for African students to gain internationally recognised education with full financial support. For Nigerian applicants, it provides a pathway to advanced training in fields that matter for national growth and development.
Applicants are advised to apply early, follow only official instructions, and avoid third-party agents.
For verified scholarship updates, application guides, and education opportunities, readers are encouraged to follow NgEmpower.com.
💡 Stay Empowered with NgEmpower
Join our community for daily updates on jobs, skills, and financial growth opportunities.
