HEC opens PhD scholarships at top 100 US universities – Who can apply?
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has announced a major opportunity for Pakistani students seeking higher education. Applications have been invited for PhD scholarships at the top 100 universities in the United States under the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor Programme for 2027 admissions.
Scholarship aims to support talented students
The scholarship programme is designed to help talented Pakistani students pursue advanced education and research at world-class universities. HEC says the initiative aims to strengthen Pakistan’s academic and research capacity by producing highly qualified scholars.
Who can apply?
According to HEC, only citizens of Pakistan or Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) are eligible to apply. Applicants must have completed at least 16 years of education, including a four-year bachelor’s degree.
Candidates with second or third division grades anywhere in their academic record will not be considered. Applicants must also not have received any previous HEC scholarship for higher studies.
Age limit for applicants
The maximum age limit is 36 years for most applicants. However, government employees, faculty members of public universities and researchers can apply up to the age of 40 years.
Two scholarship categories announced
The programme offers two different scholarship categories based on university rankings. Each category provides financial support, but the benefits vary according to the university’s position in the QS rankings.
Category one: Top 50 US universities
Students admitted to a university ranked among the top 50 in the United States will receive full tuition fee coverage. They will also receive an annual stipend of $19,200 and health insurance of up to $2,000.
Applicants in this category must secure admission to a top 50 university. They must also obtain at least 300 marks in the GRE or score 60 percent in the HEC Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT).
Category two: Universities ranked 51 to 100
Students admitted to universities ranked between 51 and 100 will receive tuition fee support of up to $12,000 per year. They will also receive an annual stipend of $19,200 and health insurance worth up to $2,000.
Admission to an eligible university and the required GRE or HAT score are also mandatory for this category. HEC says all eligibility conditions must be fulfilled before the scholarship can be awarded.
Application deadlines
For Spring and Summer 2027 admissions, applications can be submitted until October 30, 2026. For Fall 2027 admissions, the deadline is March 30, 2027.
Important conditions to remember
HEC has clarified that the scholarship is only available for direct PhD programmes. Master’s leading to PhD programmes are not included in this scheme.
All applications must be submitted through HEC’s online portal. The selection of eligible universities will be based on the latest QS World University Rankings 2027.
This scholarship offers a valuable opportunity for talented Pakistani students to study at some of the world’s best universities. Those who meet the eligibility criteria and apply early will have a better chance of completing the admission and scholarship process on time.
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