HEC Overseas Scholarship Program 2027 (Pakistan)
About this scholarship
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan provides overseas scholarships for Pakistani students to pursue PhD degrees at top universities worldwide. The program covers all expenses including tuition, living allowance, and travel. Priority is given to faculty members of Pakistani universities and researchers in STEM fields, social sciences, and humanities. This is Pakistan’s largest government scholarship program for overseas study.
Eligibility
Must be a Pakistani citizen. Must hold a Master's degree (16 years of education for most categories). Must have conditional or unconditional admission from a foreign university. For Faculty Development: must be a permanent faculty member at an HEC-recognized university. Age limit varies by category (generally under 40 for PhD). Must sign a bond to return and serve in Pakistan after completing studies.
Benefits & Coverage
- Full tuition fees at the host university
- Monthly living allowance (varies by country: $1,500-$2,000 for US/UK/Europe)
- Round-trip international airfare
- Health insurance
- Initial settlement allowance
- Book allowance
- Conference travel support
Required Documents
- HEC online application form
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates (attested)
- GRE/GAT General and Subject scores
- IELTS/TOEFL scores
- Admission letter from foreign university
- Research proposal
- Two academic recommendation letters
- NOC from employer (if employed)
- CNIC and passport copies
- Domicile certificate
How to Apply
- Be a Pakistani/AJK national (priority to faculty at HEC-recognised universities)
- Meet the HAT test requirement
- Apply online through the HEC scholarship portal during the call
- Selected PhD scholars sign a bond to return and serve Pakistan
