The Islamic Development Bank IsDB Scholarships for 2024 allow students from member countries and Muslim communities in non-member countries to pursue their studies in key development areas. The scholarships are part of IsDB’s strategy to promote human capital in the sciences and technology fields for sustainable development.

Scholarship Overview

Drawing from IsDB’s scholarship policy, the scholarships aim to impart knowledge and creativity by supporting talented individuals who will return to their home countries and effectively apply the acquired knowledge. The scholarships available include:

  • IsDB Scholarship Program for Muslim Communities in Non-Member Countries SPMC: The target is gifted undergraduates of the Muslim communities in non-member countries who desire to pursue studies in medicine, engineering, and agriculture in their countries or IsDB member countries.
  • IsDB Master of Science Scholarship Program MSc. : The scholarship is open for interested graduates who want to expand their knowledge in scientific and technological areas relevant to their home country’s development.
  • IsDB Merit Scholarship Program for High Technology MSP: It offers post-doctoral research opportunities and Ph.D. studies in applied sciences and high technology to develop skills pivotal to advancement in IsDB member countries.
  • IsDB-ISFD Scholarship Program: The scholarship aims to fight poverty by offering education to gifted and needy students in the least member countries.

Scholarship Benefits

Apart from the monetary value, IsDB does not only aim at giving out scholarships but wishes to create a new generation of scholars who are grateful and committed to giving back to society. IsDB Scholarships typically cater to:



  • a full tuition and mandatory university fees to remove the stress of educational expenses from the scholars.
  • The scholars further receive a fixed helping amount per month, which is adjusted according to the cost of living of the host country.
  • Medical insurance is part of the scholarship to ensure scholars get health care without imposing additional financial burdens.
  • In addition, such costs as travel, registration, and visa fees are also covered by the scholarships, including an economy class return airfare ticket to and from the scholar’s home country at the beginning and the completion of the studies.
  • First-year Masters students also receive special allowances to cover initial costs associated with the academic course, including their thesis preparation, scientific papers, and conferences during their study. This ensures that scholars can complete their research and studies without financial issues​.

Available Courses

The scholarship is based on Sustainable Development, Education for Sustainability, Climate Change Solutions, Energy especially Renewable Energy and Green Technologies, and Urban Development. Social Sciences and Islamic Finance are also among the focal areas​​.

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for scholarships provided by the IsDB are almost the same except for minor differences in some of them. To be eligible an applicant should be:

  • Citizen of IsDB member country or Muslim permanent resident in a non-member country.
  • In need of financial assistance.
  • Must be academically sound.
  • For research-based programs, relevant experience or research is mandatory with a research proposal.
  • Proficient in the language of the instruction in the chosen university​.

Required Documents

To apply for any of the IsDB scholarships, there are certain documents an applicant needs to prepare. These are:

  • Educational Certificates: Proofs of previous academic qualifications including diplomas and transcripts.
  • Proof of Nationality: Passport of national ID to verify the applicant’s citizenship or residence status.
  • Medical Certificate: Medical report to ensure the good health status of the applicants.
  • Language Proficiency Certificates: TOEFL or IELTS certificates can be required as proof of language proficiency of the applicants based on the language in which they will be studying.
  • Research Proposal: For applicants applying for Ph.D. or Master’s research-based programs, a detailed research proposal is required describing the research that will be conducted and how that is related to development goals.
  • Proof of Admission: A letter of admission from the chosen university, if already secured.
    • Financial Needs Assessment: Documentation proving financial need may be necessary for certain scholarships aimed at economically disadvantaged students.

All documents submitted with the application play a critical part in the evaluation process, as they provide proof of the candidate’s academic abilities, readiness, and dedication to return and work to positively influence their home countries and the wider global community.

How to Apply for the Islamic Development Bank Scholarships

The application for the IsDB scholarships is a structured process that requires attention to detail and careful planning. Here is how the prospective scholars can apply:

  • Visit the IsDB Scholarship Portal: all applications for the scholarships must be submitted through the official IsDB scholarship portal. To do so, it is necessary to create an account and access the relevant application form.
  • Fill Out the Application Form: complete the application form with all relevant information. This will include basic information about the applicant, their previous education, and the purpose statement.
  • Upload the Required Documents: attach all necessary documents in the desired format. To facilitate this step, it is advisable to have digital copies of all relevant documents at the time of application.
  • Submit the Application: review all the information and submit it before the deadline. To avoid the most common mistake of application, it is necessary to ensure all information is accurate and all required documentation is uploaded.
  • Follow-Up: After the submission response, the scholarship portal will send emails regarding the status of the application or any missing documents.

It is recommended to apply as early as possible before the upcoming deadline to ensure there is enough time to address potential technical issues or further requirements. Detailed instructions on how to apply can be accessed on the IsDB scholarship portal. The interested parties can find all relevant information on the IsDB scholarships page here.

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