HEC US-Pakistan PhD Scholarships 2026
The HEC US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor PhD Scholarships 2026, a flagship initiative by Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC) in partnership with top U.S. institutions. This fully funded program isn’t just financial aid; it’s a launchpad for Pakistani scholars to dive into doctoral pursuits at globally ranked universities, fostering expertise that drives national progress in STEM and beyond. As applications gear up for Spring/Summer and Fall 2026 intakes, with key deadlines on November 15, 2025, and April 30, 2026, the window is wide open from today’s October 26, 2025.
🎓 Scholarship Notice
HEC US-Pakistan PhD Scholarships 2026
Available PHD Scholarship Categories in HEC
Funding scales with university prestige, ensuring access to the best while supporting broader excellence. All categories cover stipends, health insurance, and more, but vary in tuition support.
| University Category | Coverage & Benefits |
|---|---|
| Top 50 QS World-Ranked Universities | Full coverage including tuition, monthly stipend (~$2,000), and comprehensive health insurance. Ideal for placements at elite institutions like MIT or UC Berkeley. Focus on high-impact research in priority fields. |
| Rank 51-300 Universities | Up to $12,000 per year for tuition, plus monthly stipend and health insurance. Opportunities at strong programs such as Purdue or Texas A&M, balancing prestige with specialized STEM offerings. |
| Focus Areas & Selection | HEC prioritizes QS or U.S. News ranked universities with robust PhD tracks in engineering, computer science, physical sciences, biosciences, agriculture, and environmental studies. Placement is competitive, with HEC nominating candidates to partner universities for final selection. |
| These scholarships provide exceptional financial and academic support for Pakistani scholars pursuing high-quality PhD programs abroad, fostering research excellence and global exposure. | |
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Seize This Opportunity?
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality & Age | Pakistani or AJK nationals only (dual nationals not eligible). Must be 40 years or younger as of December 31, 2025. |
| Academic Qualifications | Minimum 16 years of education (e.g., 4-year BS or MS/MPhil) with CGPA ≥ 3.00 or first division. No third division or grades below C allowed. |
| Test Scores | Valid GRE (minimum 150 quantitative, 4.0 analytical writing) or subject-specific GRE. TOEFL iBT ≥ 80 or IELTS ≥ 6.5, all within the last 2 years. |
| Other Restrictions | Applicants must not currently hold another HEC scholarship and must commit to full-time study without employment. |
| Quotas & Special Provisions | 50% seats reserved for women, 10% for AJK nationals. No prior U.S. admission required—apply concurrently via HEC and target universities. |
| The eligibility criteria ensure selection of high-potential early-career researchers while promoting diversity and equitable access for women and AJK applicants. | |
Application Process for PhD Scholarships
The process is streamlined and online-first, blending HEC oversight with university autonomy. Here’s how to navigate it for 2026 intakes:
- Register and Prepare: Sign up at the HEC Scholarship Portal starting February 15, 2025. Gather test scores and transcripts early.
- Complete Online Form: Fill out the detailed application, uploading all documents and a 1,500–2,000-word research proposal aligned with priority disciplines.
- University Application: Simultaneously apply to 3–5 U.S. PhD programs (deadlines vary: May–June 2025 for Fall 2026). Secure admission offers.
- Nomination Phase: If admitted, forward your HEC application to your nominating Pakistani university for endorsement.
- HEC Review and Shortlisting: Submit to HEC by April 15, 2025; they shortlist and send to U.S. partners.
- Final Selection and Award: U.S. universities confirm by August 2025; accepted scholars receive funding details and prepare for departure.
Required Documents: Build a Strong, Complete Profile
Submit everything digitally via the portal—ensure scans are clear and attested:
- Personal ID: CNIC or B-Form copy.
- Academic Records: Attested transcripts and degree certificates from Matric onward.
- Test Scores: Official GRE/TOEFL/IELTS reports.
- Recommendations: Two letters from academic supervisors or employers.
- Research Proposal: Detailed outline of your PhD focus (1,500–2,000 words).
- Admission Proof: U.S. university offer letter (if available at submission).
- Legal Undertakings: HEC-formatted affidavit and no-objection certificate.
- Photos: Recent passport-sized images (4–6).
- HEC verifies authenticity; inco
Important Deadlines: Mark Your Calendar for 2026 Success
| Intake/Phase | Deadline / Notes | |
|---|---|---|
| HEC Portal Opens | February 15, 2025 – Start registrations | |
| HEC Submission | April 15, 2025 – For all applicants | |
| U.S. University Applications | May–June 2025 – Varies by school | |
| Spring/Summer 2026 | November 15, 2025 – Early intake via portal | |
| Fall 2026 | April 30, 2026 – Main cycle | |
| Awards Announced | August 2025 – Post-selection | |
| This timeline provides key dates for the HEC US-Pakistan PhD Scholarships 2026. Applicants should adhere closely to deadlines to ensure a smooth application process. | ||
Benefits: A Fully Funded Path to Global Expertise
This scholarship removes barriers, letting you focus on research:
- Financial Coverage: Full tuition (up to $60,000/year for top schools), $2,000 monthly stipend, and full health insurance.
- Additional Perks: One-time travel allowance, annual books grant, and thesis completion fund.
- Duration Support: Up to 5 years standard (extendable to 7 with justification), with semesterly CGPA checks (minimum 3.00).
- Career Edge: Access to U.S. networks, alumni prestige, and no repayment if you complete—ideal for academia, industry, or policy roles back home.
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