All You Need to Know About Commonwealth Scholarship 2025

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has opened applications for the Commonwealth Scholarships 2025, funded by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), United Kingdom. These scholarships are designed to support higher education and international development by providing opportunities for postgraduate study in the UK.

Key Deadlines

• Application Deadline (HEC Portal): October 14, 2025, at 4:00 PM (PST)
• Available Nominations:

1. 26 for Master’s programs
2. 30 for PhD programs

Eligibility Criteria

General Requirements

• Must be a Pakistani or AJK national and a permanent resident.
• Must have achieved a first division in the terminal degree.
• Dual nationals are not eligible.

Education Requirements

• Master’s Scholarship: Minimum 16 years of education in the relevant field.
• PhD Scholarship: Minimum 17 or 18 years of education (MS/MPhil).

Test Requirements

• A valid HAT test score of 60/100 or above is mandatory.
• Only HAT General categories I–IV will be considered.
• Merit ranking will be based solely on HAT scores.

CSC (UK) Conditions

Applicants must also meet the CSC’s criteria:

• Be able to start studies in the UK by September 2026.
• Provide complete academic transcripts.
• Submit at least two references.
• PhD applicants must submit a supporting statement from a UK supervisor.
• Scholarships will not normally cover a second Master’s degree unless there is a valid justification.
• Must demonstrate financial need (i.e., cannot study in the UK without scholarship support).

Application Process

Step 1: Prepare Documents

• Academic transcripts (attested copies)
• CNIC / domicile certificate
• Two reference letters
• HAT test result card
• Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
• Supporting letter from a potential UK supervisor (PhD only)

Step 2: Apply Online

• HEC e-Portal: Complete the application form and upload documents.
• CSC Online Application System: Submit a parallel application directly on the CSC’s portal.

Step 3: Submission

• Ensure both HEC and CSC applications are submitted before the deadlines.
• Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

Important Notes

• Merit list will be based on HAT scores only.
• Applicants should avoid applying for a second Master’s degree unless they can provide strong justification.
• Selected candidates must comply with all HEC and CSC requirements, including a bond to return and serve Pakistan after completion of studies.

Where to Apply

Detailed information and links for Master’s and PhD applications are available on the HEC official website.