Pakistan Government Scholarships 2026 offer valuable financial support to students who want to continue higher education but face financial or accessibility challenges. These scholarships support studies within Pakistan as well as fully funded international programs, including PhD opportunities abroad.

Most scholarship programs are managed by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). International scholarships are generally offered through government partnerships under HEC’s Learning Opportunities Abroad framework.

This guide explains the major government scholarships available in 2026, eligibility requirements, coverage details, and the documents students need to prepare.

Overview of Government Scholarships in Pakistan 2026

In 2026, Pakistan government scholarships fall into three main categories:

• National scholarships for students studying in Pakistan
• International scholarships for study abroad
• Special regional and strategic initiatives

These programs aim to promote merit, support financially deserving students, encourage regional inclusion, and strengthen research capacity.

National Government Scholarships in Pakistan 2026

These scholarships support students enrolled in public sector universities across Pakistan.

Benazir Undergraduate Scholarship (BISP)

The Benazir Undergraduate Scholarship is one of the largest need-based programs in Pakistan.

Level: Undergraduate
Eligibility: Newly admitted students with a family income below PKR 45,000 per month

Coverage Includes:
• Full tuition fee
• Monthly stipend of approximately PKR 4,000

This program prioritizes students from low-income families and places strong emphasis on supporting female education.

HEC Need-Based Scholarships

HEC provides need-based scholarships for financially deserving students at multiple academic levels.

Level: Undergraduate and Master’s
Eligibility: Students enrolled in participating public universities with verified financial need

Coverage Includes:
• Full or partial tuition fee
• Living allowance

Selection is based on financial verification and academic performance.

Indigenous PhD Fellowship (Phase II)

This scholarship supports doctoral studies within Pakistan and strengthens local research development.

Level: PhD
Eligibility:
• Pakistani or AJK nationals
• Minimum 3.0 CGPA in MS or MPhil

Coverage Includes:
• Monthly stipend
• Tuition fee
• Research and book allowance

Scholars complete their PhD studies at recognized universities in Pakistan.

Gilgit-Baltistan and Balochistan Scholarships

These scholarships aim to improve educational access for students from underdeveloped regions.

Level: Undergraduate
Eligibility: Domicile of Gilgit-Baltistan or Balochistan

Coverage Includes:
• Full academic expenses for 4 to 5 year degree programs

These programs promote regional inclusion and equal educational opportunities.

International Government Scholarships 2026

For overseas study, HEC acts as the central nominating authority. Most programs require valid USAT or HAT test scores.

Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship (Hungary)

This is one of the most popular European scholarship programs for Pakistani students.

Application Cycle: 2026–27 (usually opens late 2025 or early 2026)
Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD

Coverage Includes:
• Full tuition fee
• Monthly stipend
• Accommodation support
• Medical insurance

Programs are offered in English at Hungarian universities.

Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)

A long-standing fully funded scholarship under cooperation between Pakistan and China.

Fields: Engineering, Medicine, Agriculture, Social Sciences
Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD

Coverage Includes:
• Tuition fee
• Hostel accommodation
• Monthly stipend

HEC manages the nomination process for CSC scholarships.

Commonwealth Scholarships (United Kingdom)

These scholarships focus on development-oriented fields.

Levels: Master’s and PhD

Focus Areas Include:
• Sustainable development
• Public policy
• Health and education
• Climate studies

Commonwealth Medical Fellowships

This program is designed for healthcare professionals.

Eligibility: Mid-career doctors from Pakistan
Purpose: Advanced clinical and professional training in the United Kingdom

Special Government Scholarship Initiatives 2026

US–Pakistan Knowledge Corridor

This long-term initiative aims to send 10,000 Pakistani scholars to leading universities in the United States.

Level: PhD
Coverage: Fully funded doctoral studies
Structure: Multiple application calls throughout the year

The program focuses on high-impact research areas aligned with national development goals.

Fudan University Elite Pioneer Program (China)

A 2026-focused initiative for advanced research training.

University: Fudan University, China
Levels: Master’s and Doctoral
Fields: Science and Engineering
Deadline: Usually around February 2026

This program supports elite-level academic research and innovation.

Key Requirements for Pakistan Government Scholarships 2026

Students should prepare the following documents in advance:

Test Scores

• USAT for undergraduate programs
• HAT for graduate and PhD programs

Income Proof (for need-based scholarships)

• Salary slips
• Utility bills
• BISP registration record (if applicable)

Academic Documents

• HEC-attested degrees and transcripts
• IBCC equivalence for O Level or A Level students

Final Thoughts

Pakistan Government Scholarships 2026 provide strong opportunities for students across all academic levels. Whether you are an undergraduate student from a low-income family or a researcher planning to pursue a PhD abroad, multiple funded options are available.

Students should begin preparation early, secure valid test scores, and keep all required documents ready. Regularly checking official announcements from HEC and BISP is important to avoid missing deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are Pakistan government scholarships fully funded?
Some scholarships are fully funded, while others cover tuition fees and stipends only.

Is HAT or USAT required in 2026?
Yes, most HEC scholarships require valid HAT or USAT scores.

Can students from private universities apply?
Most programs are designed for public universities, but some may allow private institution students.

Does HEC manage international scholarships?
Yes, HEC handles nominations for most foreign-funded programs.

When do applications open for 2026 scholarships?
Most programs open between late 2025 and mid-2026.

Pakistan Government Scholarships 2026 – Complete List, Eligibility Criteria and Application Guide