The program helps applicants pursue their PhD in the USA, specifically targeting universities ranked in the Top 300 QS World Rankings. This competitive scholarship aims to send thousands of Pakistani academics and researchers to top US universities to strengthen faculty development, research, and academic quality back home.

Priority Fields of Study

The program prioritizes critical development-focused fields, including Engineering, Computer Science and AI, Health Sciences, and Public Policy.

Scholarship Categories and Benefits

There are two main categories for applicants. Category I is for those securing admission in a Top 50 QS World Ranked US University. Category II is for those admitted to a university ranked between 51 and 300.

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Key benefits include a living stipend of USD19,200 annually, health insurance, and a return airfare of Rs250,000. The program aims to cover or partially cover tuition, but applicants often must secure a tuition fee waiver from the US university, especially for Category II.

Eligibility and Requirements

To be eligible, applicants must be Pakistani/AJK nationals, hold at least a 16-year degree (BS/BSc/BE), and have a good academic record with no more than two second divisions in their career. The maximum age limit is 35 years for general applicants and 40 years for public sector employees/faculty. A valid GRE General score (minimum 300) or HAT score (minimum 60%) is required to apply, and applicants must commit to returning and serving in Pakistan after completing their PhD. The application process is entirely online via the HEC portal.

Expert Advice for Success

This scholarship is a game-changer for Pakistani higher education, but prospective scholars must be strategic. The most challenging aspect is securing the necessary admission and tuition waiver from a highly ranked US university. Early preparation for GRE/HAT scores and aggressive pursuit of university admissions are the keys to success.