IsDB Scholarship Programs 2026–2027: Investing in Human Capital for Sustainable Development
The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has long recognized that sustainable development begins with people. From its earliest days, the Bank has placed human capital development at the heart of its mission, complementing its development financing activities with strategic investments in education, skills, and knowledge. This commitment continues today through the IsDB Scholarship Programs, which are now open for applications for the 2026–2027 academic year.
Designed to nurture qualified human resources and empower communities, the IsDB Scholarship Programs reflect the Bank’s vision of promoting social advancement, economic growth, and shared prosperity across its Member Countries (MCs) and Muslim communities in non-Member Countries (non-MCs). Over the decades, these programs have evolved into a comprehensive framework that supports students at different academic levels while addressing the specific development needs of participating countries.
A Legacy of Educational Empowerment
The foundation of IsDB’s scholarship initiatives dates back to 1983, when the Bank launched the Scholarship Program for Muslim Communities (SPMC). This undergraduate scholarship was created in response to the pressing need to develop human resources among Muslim communities living in non-Member Countries. By offering access to quality education, the program aimed to equip young people with the knowledge and skills required to contribute meaningfully to their societies.
Building on the experience and success of the SPMC, IsDB introduced the Merit Scholarship Program (MSP) in 1992. This initiative focuses on Ph.D. studies and post-doctoral research in applied sciences and high technology. The MSP was established to strengthen scientific, technological, and research capacities within institutions in Member Countries, ensuring that advanced knowledge could be translated into practical solutions for development challenges.
Recognizing that many Least Developed Member Countries (LDMCs) faced barriers to benefiting from doctoral-level opportunities, IsDB launched the Master of Science (M.Sc.) Scholarship Program in 1998. This program serves as a feeder for the MSP, providing students from LDMCs with access to postgraduate education and preparing them for advanced research and leadership roles.
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Scholarships Aligned with a Forward-Looking Strategy
IsDB’s commitment to education and capacity development is further reinforced by its Realigned Strategy 2023–2025, which dedicates an entire pillar to comprehensive and inclusive human capital development. Through this strategic focus, the Bank aims to help Member Countries and Muslim communities in non-Member Countries overcome development challenges by strengthening institutional capacity and investing in people.
Scholarship programs are a central component of this strategy. By supporting students across undergraduate, master’s, Ph.D., and post-doctoral levels, IsDB ensures a continuous pipeline of skilled professionals who can drive innovation, economic development, and social progress. These investments also contribute directly to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to quality education, decent work, and reduced inequalities.
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Opportunities for the 2026–2027 Academic Year
Applications are now open for the IsDB Scholarship Programs 2026–2027, offering eligible candidates the chance to pursue their academic ambitions while contributing to the development of their communities. The programs cover a wide range of fields aligned with IsDB’s development priorities, including science, technology, engineering, and other disciplines critical to sustainable growth.
Beyond financial support, IsDB scholarships emphasize values such as leadership, community service, and knowledge-sharing. Scholars are encouraged to return to their home countries or communities upon completion of their studies, where they can apply their expertise to address local challenges and foster long-term development.
A Lasting Impact
Over the years, IsDB scholarship alumni have made significant contributions in academia, government, industry, and civil society. Their achievements demonstrate the transformative power of education when paired with a clear development vision and institutional support.
As the call for applications for the 2026–2027 academic year opens, IsDB reaffirms its belief that investing in people is one of the most effective ways to build resilient economies and inclusive societies. For aspiring students from Member Countries and Muslim communities worldwide, the IsDB Scholarship Programs offer not just an education, but an opportunity to become agents of positive change.
