The Honhaar Scholarship Program 2026 is one of the most ambitious education-support initiatives launched by the Government of Punjab under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The program is designed to ensure that talented and deserving students are not forced to abandon higher education due to financial constraints.
For the 2026 academic cycle, the Honhaar Scholarship has been significantly expanded, increasing the number of beneficiaries from around 30,000 to nearly 80,000 students every year. This expansion makes it one of the largest merit-based scholarship programs in Pakistan, covering both public and private sector institutions across Punjab. In this article, you will find complete details about eligibility, benefits, and how to apply for the Honhaar Scholarship Program 2026.
Understanding the Honhaar Scholarship Program 2026
The Honhaar Scholarship Program is a fully funded tuition-fee scholarship aimed at supporting students who demonstrate strong academic performance but come from middle- or low-income families.
Unlike partial aid programs, Honhaar Scholarship 2026 offers 100% tuition fee coverage for the entire duration of an undergraduate degree, allowing students to focus on their studies without worrying about rising education costs.
The program is administered through the Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC) using a transparent, fully digital application and merit system.
WhatsApp Channel
Key Objectives of Honhaar Scholarship 2026
- Promote merit-based education across Punjab
- Support students from financially constrained families
- Increase enrollment in higher education institutions
- Encourage excellence in professional and emerging fields
- Reduce dropout rates due to financial pressure
Scholarship Benefits – What Students Get
1. Full Tuition Fee Coverage
- 100% tuition fee paid directly to the institution
- Covers the entire degree duration (4–5 years depending on the program)
2. Wide Range of Disciplines
The scholarship applies to 68+ academic disciplines, including:
- MBBS and BDS
- Engineering (all major branches)
- Computer Science and IT
- Business and Economics
- Social Sciences
- Arts and Humanities
3. Monthly Stipend (Selected Categories)
- Some phases include a monthly stipend
- Recently reported stipend: up to Rs. 10,000 per month for top-tier or priority-category students
4. Laptops and Leadership Opportunities
- Top 1,000 students on the merit list may receive:
- Free laptops
- Leadership development and mentoring programs
Eligibility Criteria for Honhaar Scholarship Program 2026
To apply for the 2026 / Phase 2 intake, applicants must fulfill all the following conditions:
Domicile Requirement
- Must possess a valid Punjab Domicile
Enrollment Status
- Must be a fresh student (1st Semester or 1st Year)
- Enrolled in a recognized Public, Private, or Federal chartered university or college located in Punjab
Academic Merit Requirements
Public Sector Institutions
- Sciences: Minimum 70% marks in Intermediate
- Arts: Minimum 65% marks in Intermediate
Medical and Dental Colleges
- Minimum 60% to 80% marks, depending on college tier and category
Income Limit
- Monthly family income must be below Rs. 300,000
- Submission of a legal income affidavit is mandatory
Age Limit
- Generally under 22 years on the closing date
- Some professional programs may have minor relaxations
Exclusivity Rule
- Applicants must not be receiving any other scholarship, including:
- Ehsaas Scholarship
- PEEF
- Any federal or provincial aid program
Required Documents for Online Application
Applicants must upload clear scanned copies (PDF or JPG) of the following documents:
- Applicant’s CNIC or B-Form
- Parent or Guardian CNIC
- Matriculation Result Card
- Intermediate Result Card
- Punjab Domicile Certificate
- University Admission Letter or Bonafide Certificate
- Income Affidavit (format available on the portal)
Incomplete or unclear documents may lead to rejection.
How to Apply Online for Honhaar Scholarship – Step-by-Step Process
The Honhaar Scholarship Program 2026 uses a fully online application system managed by PHEC.
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Access the Honhaar Scholarship Portal through PHEC.
Step 2: Create an Account
- Register using your CNIC
- Provide an active mobile number
Step 3: Complete Your Profile
Enter:
- Personal information
- Educational background
- Family income details
Step 4: Select Degree and Institution
Choose:
- Your university or college
- Enrolled degree program and discipline
Step 5: Upload Documents
Attach all required documents carefully.
Step 6: Final Submission
- Review all details thoroughly
- Edits are usually not allowed after submission
Application Deadline for 2026 Phase
Last Date to Apply:
September 15, 2026
Late or incomplete applications are not entertained.
Merit Calculation Formula – How Selection Is Made
Selection under the Honhaar Scholarship Program 2026 is strictly merit-based.
| Component | Weightage |
| Matric Marks | 30% |
| Intermediate Marks | 70% |
No interview or political recommendation is involved, ensuring transparency and fairness.
Important Points to Remember
- Scholarship is awarded for one degree only
- Continuation depends on satisfactory academic performance
- Providing false income information can lead to permanent disqualification
- Seats are limited and competition is very high in 2026 due to expansion
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who can apply for the Honhaar Scholarship Program 2026?
Students with a Punjab domicile who are newly enrolled in eligible universities and meet merit and income criteria can apply.
Q2: Does the Honhaar Scholarship cover full tuition fees?
Yes, the scholarship provides 100% tuition fee coverage for the entire undergraduate degree.
Q3: What is the income limit for Honhaar Scholarship 2026?
The monthly family income must be below Rs. 300,000, supported by an income affidavit.
Q4: Can students receiving other scholarships apply?
No, applicants already receiving other scholarships like Ehsaas or PEEF are not eligible.
Q5: What is the last date to apply for Honhaar Scholarship 2026?
The expected deadline for the 2026 phase is September 15, 2026.
Final Thoughts
The Honhaar Scholarship Program 2026 reflects the Punjab government’s strong commitment to merit, accessibility, and educational equality. With full tuition coverage, expanded seats, and transparent selection, this initiative opens doors for thousands of talented students who might otherwise be unable to pursue higher education.
For students starting university in 2026, this scholarship is not just financial aid—it is a life-changing opportunity to build a secure academic and professional future.
