The Commonwealth Scholarships 2025 for Pakistani Students is now open for applications, offering a prestigious and fully funded opportunity for Master’s and PhD studies in the United Kingdom. This exceptional programme is jointly administered by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan and the UK’s Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), giving high-achieving Pakistani scholars a chance to study at top UK institutions free of cost.
Overview and Availability
A total of 56 scholarships are available for Pakistani and AJK nationals—26 slots allocated for Master’s and 30 for PhD programmes. These awards are fully funded, covering tuition, airfare, living stipend, and additional allowances in line with CSC guidelines.
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted by October 14, 2025, at 4:00 PM Pakistan Standard Time (PST) via the HEC’s online portal. This is a strict deadline—no late or incomplete submissions will be considered.
Eligibility Requirements
Nationality and Academic Standing
- Must be a Pakistani or AJK national and permanent resident—dual nationals are ineligible.
- For Master’s applicants: a first-division 16-year degree (e.g., BS, BA, 16 years) in a relevant field.
- For PhD applicants: a first-division 17/18-year postgraduate qualification (MS, MPhil) in a relevant area.
- Applicants awaiting result announcements are still eligible.
HAT (Higher Education Aptitude Test)
- A minimum score of 60 out of 100 in the HAT (General Categories I–IV) is mandatory.
- Merit ranking will be based exclusively on the HAT score.
- Other versions of HAT (e.g., FATA/Balochistan-specific tests) are not valid.
CSC (UK) Requirements
- Must demonstrate genuine financial need—unable to fund UK study without the scholarship.
- Must be able to start studies in the UK by September 2026.
- For PhD applicants: must submit a research proposal and a supporting statement from a UK supervisor.
- CSC typically does not fund a second Master’s in the UK, unless the applicant can provide strong justification.
- Two reference letters and complete academic transcripts are required from all applicants.
Application Process: Two-Part Submission
Applicants of Commonwealth Scholarships 2025 must complete a dual application process:
- HEC e-Portal Submission
- Fill out the application form in the Learning Opportunities Abroad section.
- Provide attested transcripts, CNIC or domicile, reference letters, HAT score, and—for PhD candidates—a research proposal and supervisor’s letter.
- Print and sign the completed form after submission.
- CSC (Commonwealth) Online Application
- Simultaneously apply via the CSC’s Electronic Application System (EAS) under appropriate categories (Master’s or PhD).
- Make sure both submissions are complete and submitted before the deadline.
Applications for the Commonwealth Scholarships 2025 will not be accepted if missing or incomplete on either portal.
Benefits and Post-Award Obligations
The Commonwealth Scholarships 2025 for Pakistani students offers comprehensive funding, including:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Round-trip airfare between Pakistan and the UK
- Monthly living stipend
- Warm clothing allowance, if applicable
- Study travel grants for research and conferences
- For PhD scholars, potential family allowances
Recipients are typically required to sign a service bond, committing to return to Pakistan and serve the country after completing their studies.
Application Tips for Success
To enhance your chances of success for the Commonwealth Scholarships 2025:
- Start early: Gather all required documents well ahead of the October 14, 2025 deadline.
- Prepare thoroughly for HAT, as your merit ranking depends solely on this score.
- Tailor your research proposal and supervisor’s statement, especially for PhD applications.
- Highlight development impact, leadership potential, and financial need in your personal profile.
- Ensure two strong letters of reference and accurate, attested transcripts in your submission.
- Keep records of both submitted applications and avoid hard copies unless requested.
Why This Scholarship Matters
The Commonwealth Scholarships 2025 stands out for its:
- Prestige and international recognition
- Full financial coverage, eliminating cost barriers for top candidates
- Long-term academic and professional impact, by enabling study in world-class UK universities
- Commitment to developing future leaders and researchers in Pakistan
Other than Commonwealth Scholarships 2025, you cn also explore Rhodes Scholarship 2026 in the UK
For Pakistani and AJK students with outstanding academic backgrounds and aspirations for the UK’s academic environment, the Commonwealth Scholarships 2025 for Pakistani students is a life-changing opportunity. With full funding, rigorous selection based on merit, and the backing of reputable agencies (HEC and CSC), this scholarship is one of the most sought-after paths to postgraduate excellence abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the Commonwealth Scholarships for Pakistani students 2025?
The Commonwealth Scholarship for Pakistani students 2025 is a fully funded programme offered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in the UK and facilitated by HEC Pakistan. It allows Pakistani and AJK nationals to pursue Master’s and PhD studies at top UK universities with full financial support.
2. How many scholarships are available for 2025?
A total of 56 scholarships are available for 2025: 26 for Master’s degree programmes and 30 for PhD studies.
3. What is the deadline to apply for the Commonwealth Scholarships 2025?
The last date to submit applications is October 14, 2025, at 4:00 PM (PST). Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
4. Who is eligible for the Commonwealth Scholarships 2025?
Applicants must be Pakistani or AJK nationals, have a first-division degree, achieve a minimum score of 60 in the HAT test, and meet CSC requirements, including financial need and availability to start studies in the UK by September 2026.
5. Do applicants need to apply on both HEC and CSC portals?
Yes. Applicants must apply simultaneously on the HEC portal and the CSC’s Electronic Application System (EAS). Applications missing from either portal will not be considered.
6. Does the scholarship cover all expenses?
Yes. The scholarship covers tuition fees, airfare, a monthly stipend, clothing allowance, research support, and additional allowances for PhD scholars.
7. Is IELTS required for the Commonwealth Scholarships 2025?
IELTS or English language requirements depend on the chosen UK university’s admission policy. Applicants must check individual university requirements while applying.
8. Can I apply for a second Master’s through this scholarship?
Generally, the CSC does not fund a second Master’s degree unless the applicant provides strong justification. Preference is given to those applying for their first Master’s or PhD.
9. Do scholarship recipients have to return to Pakistan after completion?
Yes. All successful candidates must sign a bond with HEC, committing to return to Pakistan and serve the country after completing their studies in the UK.