The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has opened applications for the Commonwealth Scholarship Programme 2025–26, offering opportunities for Masters and PhD studies in the United Kingdom. The initiative is being carried out in collaboration with the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), which has been funding international students since 1960.
According to HEC, a total of 26 nominations for Master’s programmes and 30 nominations for PhD programmes are available this year for students from Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). The scholarships are part of the UK government’s development-focused scheme, which aims to empower scholars with knowledge, skills, and global networks to tackle pressing international challenges.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be Pakistani or AJK nationals and permanent residents. Dual nationals are ineligible. For Master’s scholarships, candidates must have a first division in 16 years of education (Bachelors/Master’s) in the relevant field. For PhD scholarships, applicants must possess a first division in a 17–18 years qualification (Masters/MS/MPhil) in the relevant discipline.
HEC has made it clear that candidates with a second or third division in their terminal degree will not be considered. However, result-awaiting candidates are eligible to apply.
A key requirement is the Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT) score. Applicants must secure at least 60 out of 100 marks to qualify. Only general HAT categories (HAT-I, II, III, IV) will be accepted, while specific tests such as those for FATA and Balochistan will not be considered. Candidates who have already taken the HAT test on or after October 16, 2023, can upload their scores to the HEC portal. Others may register for the test through the Education Testing Council’s website (https://etc.hec.gov.pk/).
Application Process
HEC has emphasized that merit will be determined strictly on the basis of HAT scores, although it reserves the right to make changes to the criteria. The deadline for submission of applications via the HEC scholarship portal is October 14, 2025, at 4:00 PM (Pakistan Standard Time).
Since its inception, the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission has supported over 30,000 scholars from developing countries in pursuing higher education in the UK. The HEC stated that this programme represents a significant opportunity for Pakistani students to pursue advanced studies in top UK institutions and contribute towards development upon their return.
