HEC invites applications for Commonwealth Scholarships 2025

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has announced the opening of applications for the Commonwealth Scholarships 2025, funded by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), UK, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

The programme aims to promote higher education and international development, offering Pakistani students opportunities for postgraduate studies in UK universities.

Seat Allocation:

There are 26 seats for Master's and 30 seats for PhDs.

Eligibility Criteria:

Applicants must be citizens and permanent residents of Pakistan or AJK. A First Division in the last degree is mandatory. Dual nationality holders are not eligible.
A minimum of 16 years of education for a master's and 17–18 years of education (MS/MPhil) for a PhD. A minimum of 60/100 marks in HAT (General Category I–IV) is required. Merit lists will be based solely on HAT scores.

CSC UK Conditions:

Selected scholars must commence studies in the UK by September 2026. A complete academic record and two references are required. PhD applicants must submit a supporting statement from a UK supervisor. 

Scholarships for a second Master's will be considered only in exceptional cases. Applicants must demonstrate financial need.

Application Process:

Submit online applications on both the HEC portal and the CSC portal (UK). Required documents include academic transcripts, CNIC/domicile, two reference letters, HAT result, and—for PhD applicants—research proposal plus supervisor’s statement.

Both applications must be submitted within the deadline; otherwise, the application will be rejected. 

Deadline:

October 14, 2025, 4:00 PM (Pakistan Standard Time).

HEC has clarified that selected candidates will be bound to return to Pakistan after completing their studies. Further details and the application forms are available on the HEC official website.