IsDB Merit Scholarship Program for High Technology (MSP)

Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) · Checked September 26, 2026

IsDB funds PhD study (about 3 years) and 6-12 months of postdoctoral research in applied science and high technology for scholars from its member countries, including Pakistan. Candidates are nominated by their home institutions and must return to work there.

Deadline: IsDB announces calls yearly. Its page lists 'Scholarship Programs 2026-2027' but still says the previous application period has closed.

Funding	Fully funded
Level	PhD, Postdoc / research
Study in	Multiple
Subjects	17 applied science and technology fields, e.g. biotechnology, computer science, renewable energy, water resources, medicine/pharmaceutical, agriculture/food technology, space science

What it covers

Tuition fees paid directly to the university
Monthly stipend based on cost of living (single status)
Medical insurance under university health scheme
Thesis/scientific paper preparation
Conference allowance (PhD)
Return air ticket and installation allowance

Who can apply

A national of an IsDB member country. Pakistan is a member.
Attached to an educational, scientific or technological institution or research centre at home, and nominated by that institution.
Maximum age 35 for PhD and 40 for postdoc.
An M.Sc. (for PhD) or a PhD (for postdoc) in a listed science or technology field, with 'Very Good' grades.
At least 2 years (PhD) or 5 years (postdoc) of work or research experience in the field, plus a publication record.
A research proposal endorsed by your institution that shows development relevance.
Good command of the language of instruction.

Scholars sign a bond to return and serve for twice the study period.

How to apply

Check the IsDB scholarships page for the annual call.
Arrange PhD admission, preferably at an IsDB partner (e.g. Malaysia, Türkiye, Queen Mary University of London) or a top-1,000 university in a member country.
Get your home institution to nominate you and endorse your proposal.
Apply online at isdbscholarships.smartsimple.com.
Shortlisted applications are endorsed by Pakistan's IsDB Governor's office.

Documents you usually need

Online application on IsDB portal
Nomination from home institution
Endorsed research proposal
M.Sc./PhD degree and transcripts
Proof of work/research experience and publications
Language proficiency proof
Admission letter (where available)

Official page Apply on the official portal

Scholarship rules and deadlines change every cycle. This page summarises the official information; always confirm on the official page before applying. Official applications are free.

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