Study for free in Pakistan and abroad
Higher education is often seen as the key to a brighter future, but for many Pakistani students, the soaring tuition and living expenses can feel out of reach. Scholarships are an incredible ray of hope, offering talented individuals a pathway to achieve their dreams without financial worries.
This blog guides you to the top scholarships for Pakistani students in 2025, covering local and international study opportunities. Whether you’re a student dreaming of prestigious universities abroad or seeking financial aid within Pakistan, there’s something here for everyone.
Why Scholarships Matter for Pakistani Students
Education costs have steadily increased, leaving countless students and families struggling to meet financial demands. Scholarships alleviate this burden and present life-changing opportunities in world-class institutions. Beyond finances, they recognize and reward academic excellence, leadership, and potential, empowering students to focus on their educational and career goals.
Here, we’ve compiled 10 amazing scholarships for Pakistani students to apply for in 2025 and application tips to maximize your chances of success.
1. HEC Need-Based Scholarship Program
Overview:
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan offers need-based scholarships to deserving students studying at public universities across Pakistan.
Eligibility criteria:
- Pakistani national
- Enrolled in an undergraduate program at partner universities
- Financial need demonstrated through supporting documents
How to apply:
- To submit your application, visit the financial aid office at your university. The list of partner universities is available on HEC’s website.
Deadline:
It varies by university, so keep an eye on the deadlines announced for 2025.
HEC Scholarships
Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC) offers many scholarships for Pakistani students. The government and various international organizations, such as the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, fund these scholarships. Some of the top HEC scholarships include:
- Indigenous PhD Fellowship Program: This program is designed to provide financial support to Pakistani scholars who wish to pursue a PhD degree in science and engineering disciplines. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, research grants, and travel expenses.
- Overseas Scholarships for MS/ MPhil Leading to PhD: This program provides opportunities for Pakistani students to pursue their MS/MPhil studies abroad and then pursue a PhD degree.
2. Ehsaas Undergraduate Scholarship Program
Introduction:
The Ehsaas Scholarship is one of the most significant scholarship initiatives in Pakistan. It aims to support financially struggling undergraduate students.
Who can apply:
- Enrolled in a 4- or 5-year undergraduate program in public sector universities
- Annual household income below PKR 45,000
Coverage:
- Full tuition fees
- PKR 4,000 monthly stipend
Documents required:
- Academic transcripts
- CNIC/B-form
- Income certificate
Online application process:
Apply through the Ehsaas Scholarship Portal.
3. Punjab Educational Endowment Fund (PEEF)
For Punjab students:
The PEEF program assists deserving students with Punjab domicile, offering scholarships for matric, intermediate, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels.
Special quotas include:
- Orphans
- Special needs students
- Minorities
How to apply:
Applications are submitted through educational institutions or directly via the PEEF portal.
Learn more on the official PEEF site.
4. Fulbright Scholarship (USA)
Fully funded scholarships for Master’s and PhDs:
Fulbright is one of the most prestigious US scholarship programs offering Pakistani students the chance to study at top universities in the United States.
Eligibility:
- A strong academic record
- GRE scores are required
What it covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Living expenses
- Airfare
- Health insurance
Deadlines:
Usually announced in February, with application deadlines around May.
Visit the US Embassy Pakistan’s website for details.
5. Chevening Scholarship (UK)
Overview:
Chevening offers fully funded Master’s programs in the UK, making it a dream opportunity for aspiring leaders.
Fields of study:
Covers a wide range of disciplines, from law and social sciences to technology.
Eligibility for Pakistani students:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Two years of work experience (internships count)
Tip for Statement of Purpose:
Be genuine and highlight your leadership potential.
Explore more on Chevening’s website.
6. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
Fully/partially funded programs for Master’s and PhDs:
Germany is known for high-quality education and world-class research. DAAD scholarships are perfect for Pakistani students looking for such opportunities.
Language requirements:
- IELTS or TOEFL (for English programs)
- Basic German language skills for programs in German
How to apply:
- Visit the DAAD portal to find eligible programs and application deadlines.
Fields in demand:
Engineering, social sciences, and data sciences.
7. Australia Awards Scholarship
For postgraduate students:
These prestigious scholarships cover Master’s degrees in Australian universities.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fees
- Travel expenses
- Living allowance
Key deadlines:
Applications typically open in February and close in April.
8. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
Fully funded for BS, MS, and PhDs:
Chinese universities are gaining global recognition, and the CSC scholarship allows Pakistanis to study there for free.
Highlights:
- Covers tuition, accommodation, and health insurance
- The monthly stipend included
How to apply:
Through the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan or directly at the university.
9. Turkish Government Scholarship (Turkiye Burslari)
For all degree levels:
Turkiye Burslari is one of the most generous programs, providing financial aid and a multicultural experience.
Coverage:
- Monthly stipend
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation
Interview process:
Shortlisted candidates are invited to an online or face-to-face interview.
10. Local University Scholarships
Pakistani universities also offer several programs to promote merit and accessibility, such as:
- LUMS NOP Program (National Outreach Program): For high-achieving, underprivileged students.
- IBA Talent Hunt Program: Supports financially struggling students enrolling in undergraduate programs.
- NUST and GIKI scholarships: Merit-based and need-based opportunities.
Visit your university’s financial aid office for details.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
Getting a coveted scholarship can be competitive, but these tips will help boost your success rate:
- Write a strong and authentic personal statement tailored to each scholarship.
- Submit solid recommendation letters that highlight your academic and professional potential.
- Start applications early to avoid missing deadlines.
- Apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances.
- Watch out for scams; always apply via official websites.
Take Charge of Your Future
www.mastersportal.com/scholarships/
Scholarships can open incredible doors, so don’t hesitate to apply. Whether it’s a local program like the Ehsaas Undergraduate Scholarship or international opportunities like the Fulbright, now is the time to take control of your educational dreams.
Start exploring these scholarships, gather your documents, and plan. And remember, every rejection is just one step closer to a yes.
Good luck!
As a Pakistani student, pursuing higher education can be daunting due to financial constraints. However, there is good news for you – many scholarships are available specifically for Pakistani students! These scholarships offer opportunities to study in top universities within Pakistan and overseas without worrying about tuition fees.
In this guide, we will examine the top scholarships currently available for Pakistani students in 2025 and provide all the necessary information, including eligibility criteria, application process, and tips on increasing your chances of success.