About the Yalda Hakim Foundation Scholarship

• Scholarship Name: Yalda Hakim Foundation Scholarship.
• University: Partner universities in the UK and internationally.
• Amount: Fully funded — tuition, living expenses, and travel.
• Eligibility: Afghan women, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate study.
• Selection Criteria: Academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to empowering Afghan women.
• GPA Requirement: Strong academic record required.
• English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5+ / TOEFL 90+.
• Application Process: Apply through the Yalda Hakim Foundation website.
• Renewability: Awarded for the full duration of the degree program.
• Application Deadline: Varies by cohort — check the foundation's website.

How to Win the Yalda Hakim Foundation Scholarship

Writing a Winning Motivation Letter

• Open with a personal moment that shaped your ambition as an Afghan woman.
• Show academic record and community impact.
• Name the exact program and why it fits your goals.
• Explain how you will empower other Afghan women after graduation.
• Close with a two-sentence commitment to your mission.

Asking for Recommendation Letters

• Ask two teachers or mentors 6 weeks in advance.
• Provide your CV, transcript, draft statement, and foundation criteria.
• Offer to draft, so referees only edit.
• Send polite reminders one week before the deadline.

Preparing for the Interview

• Rehearse "Why this field?" and "How will you empower Afghan women?"
• Prepare one story for each challenge and leadership question.
• Show awareness of the foundation's mission.
• Prepare 2–3 thoughtful questions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing deadlines because of time zones. Confirm in UK local time (GMT).
• Submitting uncertified transcripts. Certified translations required.
• Weak commitment to Afghan women. The foundation expects clear evidence.
• Generic statements. Tailor every paragraph to the foundation's values.
• Applying to only one scholarship. Successful applicants apply to 10+.
• Ignoring recommender deadlines. Give referees a written schedule.

Remember, the Yalda Hakim Foundation is specifically for Afghan women — highlight your commitment to empowering others!

Application Details

Required Documents

• Completed online application form
• Certified academic transcripts
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Two letters of recommendation
• Personal statement and study plan
• Copy of passport or national ID (Tazkira)

Application Timeline

• Exact Deadline: Varies by cohort — check the foundation website
• Application Opens: Announced on the foundation's website
• Review Period: 4–8 weeks after submission
• Interviews: Virtual (Zoom)
• Final Decisions: Announced by the foundation
• Academic Year Begins: Following semester

Selection Criteria

• Academic excellence
• Demonstrated leadership
• Commitment to empowering Afghan women
• Financial need
• Fit with the chosen university and program

Additional Information

• Application Fee: None
• Number of Awards: Varies by cohort
• Interview Format: Virtual (Zoom)
• Notification Date: Announced by the foundation
• Proof of Funds: Not required
• Health Insurance: Covered by the scholarship
• Family Allowance: No
• Visa Support: Yes, in coordination with the host university
• Contact Email: info@yaldahakimfoundation.org