Pakistan government scholarships in 2026 provide major financial relief to students who want to continue higher education but face economic or access barriers. These scholarships range from undergraduate support inside Pakistan to fully funded international PhD programs, covering tuition fees, monthly stipends, accommodation, and research costs.
Most of these programs are managed by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), while international opportunities are offered through government-to-government agreements under HEC’s Learning Opportunities Abroad framework.
This article explains all major Pakistan government scholarships for 2026, who can apply, what benefits are offered, and what documents students must prepare.
Overview of Government Scholarships in Pakistan (2026)
In 2026, government scholarships fall into three main categories:
- National (Domestic) scholarships for students studying in Pakistan
- International (Foreign-funded) scholarships for study abroad
- Special strategic and regional initiatives
These programs aim to promote merit, need-based access, regional inclusion, and advanced research capacity.
WhatsApp ChannelNational (Domestic) Government Scholarships – 2026
These scholarships support students enrolled in public sector universities within Pakistan.
Benazir Undergraduate Scholarship (BISP)
This is one of the largest need-based undergraduate scholarships in Pakistan.
- Level: Undergraduate
- Eligibility: Newly admitted students; family income below PKR 45,000 per month
- Coverage:
- Full tuition fee
- Monthly stipend (approximately PKR 4,000)
The program focuses on financially disadvantaged families, with a strong emphasis on female students.
HEC Need-Based Scholarships
HEC offers need-based scholarships across multiple degree levels.
- Level: Undergraduate and Master’s
- Eligibility: Financially deserving students enrolled in participating public universities
- Coverage:
- Full or partial tuition fee
- Living allowance
Selection is based on financial need verification and academic standing.
Indigenous PhD Fellowship (Phase-II)
This scholarship strengthens local research capacity.
- Level: PhD
- Eligibility:
- Pakistani or AJK nationals
- Minimum 3.0 CGPA in MS/MPhil
- Coverage:
- Monthly stipend
- Tuition fee
- Book and research allowance
Scholars pursue doctoral studies at recognized Pakistani universities.
Gilgit-Baltistan & Balochistan Scholarships
These scholarships promote regional educational inclusion.
- Level: Undergraduate
- Eligibility:
- Domicile of Gilgit-Baltistan or Balochistan
- Coverage:
- Full academic expenses for 4–5 year degree programs
They are designed to support students from underdeveloped regions.
International (Foreign-Funded) Government Scholarships – 2026
For international study, the HEC acts as the central nominating authority. Most programs require valid HAT or USAT scores.
Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship (Hungary)
One of the most popular European scholarships for Pakistani students.
- Application Cycle: 2026–27 (applications usually open late 2025 or early 2026)
- Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- Coverage:
- Full tuition fee
- Monthly stipend
- Accommodation contribution
- Medical insurance
Programs are offered in English at Hungarian universities.
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
A long-standing fully funded program between Pakistan and China.
- Fields: Engineering, Medicine, Agriculture, Social Sciences
- Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- Coverage:
- Tuition fee
- Hostel accommodation
- Monthly stipend
HEC processes nominations for CSC scholarships.
Commonwealth Scholarships (United Kingdom)
These scholarships focus on development-oriented education.
- Levels: Master’s and PhD
- Focus Areas:
- Sustainable development
- Public policy
- Health, education, climate studies
Commonwealth Medical Fellowships
A specialized program for healthcare professionals.
- Eligibility: Mid-career doctors from Pakistan
- Purpose: Advanced clinical and professional training in the UK
Special Government Scholarship Initiatives – 2026
US–Pakistan Knowledge Corridor
This long-term initiative aims to send 10,000 Pakistani scholars to top US universities.
- Level: PhD
- Structure: Multiple application calls during the year
- Coverage: Fully funded doctoral education
It targets high-impact research fields aligned with national development.
Fudan University Elite Pioneer Program (China)
A 2026-specific initiative.
- University: Fudan University, China
- Levels: Master’s and Doctoral
- Fields: Science and Engineering
- Deadlines: Usually around February 2026
This program focuses on elite research training.
Key Requirements for Pakistan Government Scholarships 2026
Applicants should prepare the following in advance:
Test Scores
- USAT: Required for undergraduate programs
- HAT: Required for graduate and PhD programs
Income Proof (For Need-Based Scholarships)
- Salary slips
- Electricity or utility bills
- BISP registration records (where applicable)
Academic Documents
- HEC-attested degrees and transcripts
- IBCC equivalence for O/A-Level students
Other Requirements
- CNIC or B-Form
- Valid passport (for international scholarships)
Final Thoughts
Pakistan government scholarships in 2026 offer unprecedented access to higher education, both locally and internationally. Whether you are a low-income undergraduate student or a high-achieving researcher aiming for a PhD abroad, there are multiple fully funded options available.
Early preparation, valid test scores, and complete documentation are the key factors for success. Students are advised to regularly check official HEC and BISP announcements to avoid missing deadlines.
FAQs about Pakistan Government Scholarships 2026
Q1: Are Pakistan government scholarships fully funded?
Some are fully funded, while others cover tuition and stipends only.
Q2: Do I need HAT or USAT for scholarships in 2026?
Yes, most HEC scholarships require valid HAT or USAT scores.
Q3: Can private university students apply?
Most programs are for public universities, but some allow private institutions.
Q4: Are international scholarships handled by HEC?
Yes, HEC manages nominations for most foreign-funded programs.
Q5: When should students apply for 2026 scholarships?
Most applications open between late 2025 and mid-2026.
