Key Takeaways
- The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has announced scholarships for Pakistani students at top US universities.
- Scholarships cover tuition, stipends, and health insurance for students seeking admission in 2027.
- Applicants must meet specific academic criteria and secure admission to eligible US universities.
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has launched a scholarship program for Pakistani students to pursue PhD studies at the world’s top 100 QS-ranked universities in the United States. This initiative, part of the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor Project, aims to provide financial support to students from Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK).
Scholarship benefits vary based on the university’s ranking. Students admitted to universities ranked among the top 50 can receive full tuition fee coverage, an annual stipend of $19,000, and health insurance support of up to $2,000. For universities ranked between 51 and 100, the scholarship covers up to $12,000 in tuition fees annually, along with a stipend and health insurance.
The application process is rigorous, with specific eligibility criteria. Applicants must have completed at least 16 years of formal education, including a four-year bachelor’s degree, and must not have a second or third division in their academic history. The maximum age limit is 35 years for general applicants, with a higher limit of 40 years for certain categories.
HEC requires applicants to provide a valid Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test score or Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT) result, with a minimum score of 300 in the GRE or 60% in HAT. Students must secure admission to a qualifying US university under the relevant scholarship category.
The application deadline for the Spring/Summer 2027 intake is October 30, 2026, while candidates seeking admission for Fall 2027 can apply until March 30, 2027. The scholarships are designed to cover doctoral studies only and do not include standalone master’s degrees or MS programs.
HEC has emphasized that the scholarship is available to Pakistani and AJK nationals who meet the academic and eligibility requirements. The program aims to enhance academic and research collaboration between Pakistan and the United States, providing students with the opportunity to pursue advanced studies in the US.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen educational ties between the two countries. By offering fully-funded scholarships, HEC aims to support talented students in pursuing their academic goals and contribute to the development of Pakistan’s higher education sector.
For more information, interested students can visit the HEC website or contact the relevant US universities directly. The application process is competitive, and students are encouraged to begin preparing early to meet the deadlines and requirements.
