Aga Khan University | Fee Structure | Courses
General Information
Overview
Aga Khan University (AKU) is a distinguished international institution focused on health sciences, education, and research, with its main campus located in Karachi, Pakistan, and additional campuses in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and the United Kingdom. Established in 1983 under the Aga Khan Development Network, AKU aims to improve quality of life by training highly skilled professionals, promoting research, and providing medical and educational services to underserved regions. The university emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach that integrates medical, nursing, educational, and policy-oriented programs with research initiatives tackling public health challenges.
AKU is renowned for producing graduates who excel in clinical practice, public health leadership, and academic scholarship, emphasizing ethical, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based practices. The institution combines rigorous academic training with practical experience, offering state-of-the-art facilities, teaching hospitals, laboratories, libraries, and digital resources to ensure students gain hands-on experience. Its programs also focus on leadership development, community engagement, and global health perspectives, positioning AKU as a leading institution in health sciences education both regionally and internationally.
Contact Information
Address: Stadium Road, Karachi, Pakistan
Phone Numbers: +92 21 3486 4031 – 35
Email Addresses: info@aku.edu (General), admissions@aku.edu (Admissions)
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded / Established | 1983 |
| Type | Private, International, Health Sciences |
| Motto | Knowledge, Ethics, Excellence |
| Campus Locations | Pakistan, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, UK |
| Core Values | Academic Excellence, Social Responsibility, Innovation, Leadership |
| Approximate Student Population | 6,000+ |
| Academic Programs | Undergraduate, Graduate, Professional, Doctoral, Continuing Education |
Aga Khan University Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position / Note |
|---|---|
| National (Pakistan) | Recognized among top universities for medical and health sciences education |
| Global | Ranked among leading institutions for health sciences and nursing education; notable for research impact and international collaborations |
Aga Khan University Academics
Aga Khan University Faculties / Departments
- Faculty of Health Sciences
- School of Nursing and Midwifery
- Institute for Educational Development
- Graduate School of Media and Communications
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences
- Department of Continuing Education
- Research Centers in Public Health, Policy, and Innovation
Aga Khan University Courses and Programs / Majors
- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Bachelor of Science in Midwifery
- Master of Public Health (MPH)
- Master of Health Professions Education
- Master of Science in Nursing
- Master of Science in Clinical Research
- Master of Education (ME)
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences and Education
- Certificate Programs in Public Health, Health Informatics, Leadership, and Professional Development
Online Learning
AKU offers online and blended learning platforms for certain programs, especially continuing education and professional development courses. Digital modules include interactive lectures, virtual simulations, research workshops, and collaborative projects. Online learning enables access for international students, healthcare professionals, and educators, integrating high-quality educational content with flexible scheduling. Online students are provided access to virtual libraries, online mentoring, and assessment tools to ensure academic rigor is maintained.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Typical Range / Notes |
|---|---|
| SAT / ACT | Not generally required for AKU admissions |
| GRE | Required for select graduate programs |
| National/Board Exams | Required for medical, nursing, and professional programs |
Retention and Graduation Rates
AKU maintains strong retention and graduation rates due to structured academic support, mentorship, and active monitoring of student performance. Students benefit from integrated curricula, faculty mentorship, and professional development opportunities that enhance persistence through program completion and professional readiness.
Aga Khan University Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admissions are competitive, based on prior academic performance, standardized test results where applicable, and professional experience for graduate programs. High academic standing in secondary or undergraduate studies is essential.
Aga Khan University Acceptance Rate
| Program Level | Approximate Acceptance Rate / Notes |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Selective; highly competitive for MBBS and nursing programs |
| Graduate / Professional | Competitive; based on academic excellence, professional experience, and interviews |
Aga Khan University Application Requirements
Applicants must submit completed application forms, academic transcripts, standardized test scores where required, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. For health sciences programs, candidates may need to complete entrance exams and interviews. International applicants submit proof of English proficiency and academic equivalency evaluations. Graduate applicants provide CVs, research statements, and professional references.
Application Process
- Complete the online application form
- Submit academic transcripts and required documents
- Provide letters of recommendation
- Complete entrance exams/interviews if required
- Await admission decision
- Confirm enrollment and complete payment of fees
Aga Khan University Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event / Intake | Typical Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate MBBS & Nursing | Annually, April – June |
| Graduate Programs | Varies by program; rolling admissions available |
Essay Prompt
Applicants to professional and graduate programs are often required to submit a personal statement describing motivation for pursuing the field, career goals, and commitment to community service.
Aga Khan University Scholarships
AKU offers need-based and merit-based scholarships for local and international students. Scholarships cover tuition, boarding, and living expenses for exceptional candidates, particularly for medical and nursing programs. Financial aid is also available for graduate-level and continuing education courses.
Aga Khan University Fee Structure (Costs)
| Program / Fee Component | Estimated Cost / Notes |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate MBBS | USD 7,000 – 12,000 per year |
| Bachelor of Science in Nursing | USD 5,000 – 8,000 per year |
| Graduate Programs | USD 3,000 – 10,000 per year depending on program |
| Miscellaneous / Administrative Fees | Additional charges for library, laboratories, and clinical rotations |
Aga Khan University Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
AKU attracts students primarily aged 18–30 for undergraduate programs and 25–40 for graduate programs. Gender distribution is balanced, with students from diverse ethnic, religious, and socio-economic backgrounds across Pakistan, East Africa, and international regions. Students are committed to careers in health sciences, education, and leadership roles in public service.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
AKU emphasizes equitable access to education through scholarships, financial aid, and support services for students with disabilities. Accessible facilities, mentoring, and counseling ensure inclusivity and academic success for all learners.
Student Body
| Metric | Approximate / Known Value |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 6,000+ |
| Undergraduate Students | 2,500+ |
| Graduate Students | 3,500+ |
| International Students | 15–20% |
University Diversity
AKU maintains a highly diverse and inclusive environment. Students from multiple countries, cultures, and professional backgrounds learn collaboratively in classrooms, laboratories, and community-based projects. Diversity is reinforced through outreach programs, international exchanges, and community service initiatives. The university promotes respect, intercultural understanding, and ethical engagement, ensuring students are prepared for leadership in global and regional contexts. Collaborative group work and clinical placements further enrich cross-cultural learning and social responsibility.
Average Earnings
Graduates from AKU are positioned for leadership and professional success in healthcare, research, and education. Early-career salaries for medical and nursing graduates are competitive locally and internationally. Alumni often pursue advanced studies, healthcare administration, research careers, or clinical practice, benefiting from AKU’s reputation, professional networks, and experiential training. Over time, alumni attain senior roles in hospitals, academic institutions, research organizations, and public health initiatives.
Aga Khan University Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
AKU employs highly qualified faculty with advanced degrees and global experience. Faculty are involved in teaching, research, clinical practice, and community development. Administrative and support staff ensure smooth operation of academic programs, student services, and campus facilities.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members are leaders in their respective disciplines, with research publications, conference presentations, and participation in international collaborations. They mentor students in clinical practice, research projects, and leadership development, integrating theory and practical application in all programs.
Aga Khan University Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
AKU campuses feature modern classrooms, libraries, laboratories, teaching hospitals, and recreational facilities. Students may reside in on-campus housing or nearby accommodations. Campus life emphasizes experiential learning, research, and community engagement, complemented by student organizations, leadership programs, and professional development activities.
Transportation
Campuses are accessible via public transport, including buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services. Students can easily commute between residences, academic buildings, hospitals, and research centers. Transportation is designed to support timely access to clinical rotations, classes, and extracurricular activities.