HEC Commonwealth Scholarship for Masters & PhD 2026

Dreaming of studying in the UK but worried about the financial burden? The HEC Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 could be your life-changing opportunity. This fully funded program allows talented Pakistani students to pursue master’s or PhD studies at top universities in the United Kingdom. With a monthly stipend of £1,452 outside London or £1,781 in London, full tuition coverage, airfare, research grants, and travel support, the scholarship removes all financial barriers.

But this isn’t just about money—it’s about fulfilling your academic potential, contributing to Pakistan’s future, and becoming part of a global network of leaders. If you’re a high-achieving student under 30 (Master’s) or 35 (PhD), with an outstanding academic background and a dream to study abroad, this is your chance to make it real.

Details of HEC Commonwealth Scholarship

Key Points

Financial Benefits

The HEC Commonwealth Scholarship 2024–25 is a fully funded opportunity that covers all major study expenses in the UK. Selected scholars will receive:

• Airfare: Approved flight from Pakistan/AJ&K to the UK and return after completion of the award.
• Tuition Fees: Fully covered at the approved university.
• Monthly Stipend (Living Allowance):
  • £1,452 per month outside London
  • £1,781 per month for universities in the London metropolitan area
    (Rates at 2025–2026 levels)
• Warm Clothing Allowance (if required)
• Thesis Grant to cover the cost of preparing a dissertation or thesis (if applicable)
• Study Travel Grant for study-related travel in the UK or overseas
• Paid Mid-term Visit (Airfare) to Pakistan/AJ&K during the award (unless family allowances or fieldwork airfare has already been claimed).

Programs Offered

The scholarship supports full-time master’s and PhD studies at UK universities. Fields of study are aligned with the following six Commonwealth themes:

1. Science and technology for development
2. Strengthening health systems and capacity
3. Promoting global prosperity
4. Strengthening global peace, security, and governance
5. Strengthening resilience and response to crises
6. Access, inclusion, and opportunity

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be a Pakistani/AJ&K national and a permanent resident of Pakistan/AJ&K.
• Age limit:
  • Master’s: Maximum 30 years
  • PhD: Maximum 35 years
• Be available to begin academic studies in the UK by September/October 2025.
• For Master’s: Hold a first-class degree (16 years of education, such as MSc, MA, MBA, BS, BBA, etc.) in a relevant field by the application deadline.
• For PhD: Hold a first-class postgraduate qualification (MS/MPhil—17/18 years of education) in a relevant field by the application deadline.
• Must not be registered for a PhD, MPhil leading to PhD, or master’s at a UK university before September/October 2025.
• Must not have studied at the same level in the UK before.
• Be financially unable to afford education in the UK without this scholarship.

Important Notice

Before applying, all applicants must carefully read and adhere to the following guidelines:

1. HEC Screening Process: The Higher Education Commission (HEC) may conduct a test, an interview, or both to shortlist candidates. Only nominated applicants will be forwarded to the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission.
2. Mandatory HEC Nomination: The Commonwealth UK scheme does not accept direct applications from Pakistan. All applications must be submitted through the HEC portal to be considered for nomination.
3. Equal Opportunity: HEC strongly encourages qualified female candidates to apply, in line with its policy of promoting equal opportunity.
4. Consequences of Misinformation: Providing false information at any stage of the application process will result in immediate disqualification. HEC reserves the right to debar such applicants from all future scholarships and impose additional penalties as deemed appropriate.
5. Dual Application & Deadline Responsibility:
   • It is the sole responsibility of the applicant to complete BOTH of the following steps on or before the deadline of October 14, 2025:
     1. Submit the application through the HEC Online Portal.
     2. Submit the EAS (Electronic Application System) online form to the Commonwealth Commission.
   • Important: Applications or supporting documents received after the deadline will not be entertained under any circumstances.

How to Apply for HEC Commonwealth Scholarship?

The application process is detailed and must be completed through both the Commonwealth Scholarship portal and the HEC portal. Candidates cannot apply directly without going through HEC.

Step 1: Apply Online via Commonwealth EAS Portal

• Submit your application through the Commonwealth Electronic Application System (EAS).
• Use the relevant links:
  • Master’s Scholarship: Click here to apply
  • PhD Scholarship: Click here to apply

(Make sure to select Pakistan/HEC as your nominating agency when filling the application.)

Step 2: Apply Online via HEC Portal

• Visit the HEC Scholarship Portal: https://scholarships.hec.gov.pk
• Register or log in, then update your profile with the latest email, phone number, and academic details.
• From the left-hand menu, go to “Scholarship and Grant” → “Learning Opportunities Abroad” and select the Commonwealth Scholarship.
• Complete and submit the form, then print a copy of your application.
• Sign the printed application form (required for submission).

Conclusion

The Commonwealth Scholarship 2026 represents the pinnacle of academic opportunity for Pakistan’s brightest minds. It is a comprehensive investment in your future, removing financial barriers and opening doors to world-class education and unparalleled professional networks in the UK. The path to securing this prestigious award is highly competitive and demands meticulous attention to the dual application process and eligibility criteria set by the HEC.

For those who meet the high academic standards and possess the drive to contribute to Pakistan’s development upon their return, this scholarship is more than funding—it is a call to become a future leader. Seize this chance to transform your potential into impact. Begin your application today and take the first step toward representing Pakistan on a global scholarly stage.

Frequently Asked Questions