This is an eleven-day non -residential programme offered on the Stadium Road campus of the Aga Khan University in Karachi, Pakistan.
The programme is designed to challenge, inspire, and provide a rigorous, intellectually enriching, and development-focused co-curricular experience to 50 students from across Pakistan. Participants of the programme will engage in immersive learning, collaborative activities, and dynamic discussions that extend beyond the traditional classroom.
The AKU Challenge (scholarship) Programme is fully funded for all selected students (50% females). Course fee, excursion fees, and meals during the day (breakfast and lunch) will be covered by the University. Students with no residence in Karachi may request hostel accommodation.
As part of the programme from July 12 to 22, 2026, you will be engaged in:
enhancing critical thinking skills
strengthening your presentation, reading and writing skills
understanding the need for research and spending time in the AKU laboratories with highly qualified University faculty
career guidance to help you choose the ‘right’ career
appreciating the need for a broad-based education in preparing for professional life
participating in sports
learning first aid
visiting low-income areas and understanding how you, as an individual, can make a difference in their lives
Who can Apply?
Candidates following any national system of education in Pakistan including the AKU Examination Board, and fulfil the following criteria, may apply:
Achieved at least 85% in the Secondary School (SSC) / Matric examinations and 80% in English (any group i.e. Science, Commerce, Humanities and Arts etc. ).
Will be completing the Higher Secondary School (HSSC) examinations in 2026 and 2027.
How to Apply?
Candidates are required to apply online. The following documents must be uploaded with the online application.
One clear photograph showing your full face (no selfie and party picture)
Secondary School Certificate (SSC) / O-Levels / Grade 10 mark sheet
Current educational institution ID card / current enrollment card (if applicable) / Bonafide letter from the school principal
B-form / National Identity Card / Passport copy- first two pages (for overseas applicants)
Application fee payment receipt/acknowledgement email received from the AKU Finance Office must be uploaded in the application form
Application fee is PKR 1,500 (non-refundable)
Application form: https://forms.gle/V86f4uNh54vbFvVeA
Please pay the application fees through https://payonline.aku.edu.
Follow the instructions below for making online payment:
Under Application Tracking ID / Student ID / IIP Reference / Applicant reference number, please write your First name with a hyphen ( - ) and 2026 (Example: Ali-2026)
Under Apply Payment Towards, please select "Medical College - Pakistan"
Under Purpose, please enter "AKUCSP2026"
Please select PKR
In case you are unable to receive the payment acknowledgment, please notify the Finance Office by emailing student.finance@aku.edu
Fee Schedule
Application Fee*
| Rs 1,500
|
Programme Fee
| Funded by the University
|
Hostel Rent
| Rs 1,360 Per day
(shared accommodation)
|
Notes - Limited financial assistance is available for hostel rent.
- For students residing in the University accommodation, transport arrangements to and from the University will be provided.
- Non-residential students in the programme must arrange to be at AKU according to the prescribed schedule to benefit fully from the programme.
* Mandatory and non-refundable |
Selection Process
The University will evaluate each application on its merit, including mark sheets/transcripts and essay. Care will be taken to include a diverse group of students in the programme.
Although minimum eligibility is specified, the selection will be based on the pool of applicants.
The decision of the University will be final.
If selected, you will receive an Acceptance Form to register.
International Students
Selected international students must have a valid visa to be in Pakistan. Please consult the Pakistani consulate in your country if you have any questions about visas, country-specific policies, or the necessary documentation for your visit.
Contact
For your queries and further details please contact us at:
+92 21 3486 5140
+92 21 3486 5406
