Pakistani education is becoming more costly annually. Rising living expenses and tuition fees might be challenging whether your desire is of studying overseas or you wish to attend a great local university. Here is where scholarships find application. They help students who qualify to study but cannot afford it financially. Many fully sponsored scholarships in Pakistan will be accessible to students at all levels—undergraduate, master’s, and PhD in 2025.
From government-sponsored initiatives like the Ehsaas Scholarship Program and the HEC scholarships 2025 to foreign grants like the Chevening Scholarships Pakistan and Commonwealth Scholarships, there are countless options just waiting for you. This blog will break everything down in understandable language so you may apply with assurance. Whether your position is Parent or Student, this article will assist you locate the greatest scholarships in Pakistan 2025 and correct application techniques.
Types of Scholarships in Pakistan
Pakistan offers many types of scholarships to help students at different levels. Here’s a clear breakdown.
Government-Funded Scholarships
Undergraduate, MS, PhD scholarships from HEC
Among Pakistan’s greatest sponsors of education is the Higher Education Commission (HEC). HEC is providing totally sponsored scholarships for PhD, master’s, and undergraduate students till 2025.To apply visit www.hec.gov.pk
Ehsaas Scholarship Program
This is a need-based scholarship launched by the government for students from low-income families. It covers full tuition and gives a monthly stipend. It’s available for students studying in public universities. Over 200,000 scholarships have already been awarded. For 2025, applications will open around July. Visit ehsaas.hec.gov.pk.
Punjab Educational Endowment Fund (PEEF)
PEEF offers scholarships to bright and needy students from Punjab. If you’re a Matric, Intermediate, or higher-level student with good grades and low income, you can apply. They also offer special quotas for orphans, minorities, and disabled students. Visit peef.org.pk for details.
Sindh Endowment Fund Scholarship
Sindh’s government also gives financial support to students studying in professional universities. These scholarships are mainly for Sindh residents and cover tuition fees.
QUICK OVERVIEW:
Scholarship Name | Offered By | ProgramsCovered | Eligibility Criteria | Official Website / Updates |
HEC Scholarships | Higher Education Commission (HEC) | Undergraduate, MS, PhD | Merit-based, varies by program (local & abroad) | www.hec.gov.pk |
Ehsaas Scholarship Program | Government of Pakistan | Undergraduate | Need-based, enrolled in public universities, from low-income families | ehsaas.hec.gov.pk |
Punjab Educational Endowment Fund (PEEF) | Government of Punjab | Matric, Intermediate, BS, MS, PhD | Punjab domicile, merit + need-based, minimum 60% marks, studying in public institutions | www.peef.org.pk |
Sindh Endowment Fund Scholarship | Government of Sindh | Undergraduate & Postgraduate (Professional) | Sindh domicile, studying in selected professional institutions/universities | Check Sindh Govt Education Dept or university notices |
International Scholarships for Pakistani Students
The Chevening program is funded by the UK government. It’s one of the most popular overseas scholarships for Pakistani students. It’s for students who want to do a one-year master’s in the UK. Everything is covered—tuition, travel, living costs. You must have at least two years of work experience and strong leadership skills. Visit chevening.org to apply.
Commonwealth Scholarships
Offered by the UK for students from developing countries. Pakistani students can apply for master’s and PhD programs. These are fully funded and perfect for students looking for academic and research opportunities abroad.
Fulbright Program (USA)
The Fulbright Scholarship is run by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP). It offers full funding for master’s and PhD programs in the USA. You’ll need good academics, GRE scores, and a strong personal statement. For 2025, deadlines are expected by May. Apply at usefp.org.
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships (EU)
If you want to study in Europe, Erasmus is a great option. It allows you to study in two or more EU countries under one program. Pakistani students get tuition, travel, and living costs covered.
Quick Overview:
Scholarship Name | Offered By | Target Programs | Eligibility Requirements | Official Website |
Chevening Scholarships (UK) | UK Government | One-year Master’s in the UK | At least 2 years of work experience, strong leadership skills | www.chevening.org |
Commonwealth Scholarships | UK Government / Commonwealth | Master’s, PhD | From developing countries, academic excellence | cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk |
Fulbright Program (USA) | United States Educational Foundation Pakistan (USEFP) | Master’s, PhD | Good academics, GRE scores, strong personal statement | www.usefp.org |
Erasmus Mundus (EU) | European Union | Joint Master’s Programs | Open to all, including Pakistani students, competitive academic record | www.eacea.ec.europa.eu |
University-Specific Scholarships
LUMS Financial Aid
LUMS provides generous need-based financial aid. You don’t have to be rich to study here. If you have potential, they’ll help you financially. Their National Outreach Program (NOP) is also great for students from remote areas.
IBA Need-Based Scholarships
IBA Karachi helps students who can’t afford the high fees. Their scholarships are for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need and good academic records.
Aga Khan University Scholarships
Aga Khan offers scholarships for medical and nursing students. Their scholarships are highly competitive and require a strong academic background.
Quick Overview:
Scholarship Name | Offered By | Programs Covered | Eligibility Criteria |
LUMS Financial Aid & NOP | Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) | Undergraduate (all programs) | Need-based, academic potential, especially for students from remote areas |
IBA Need-Based Scholarships | Institute of Business Administration (IBA), Karachi | Undergraduate & Graduate | Financial need, good academic performance |
Aga Khan University Scholarships | Aga Khan University | MBBS, Nursing, and Health Sciences | Strong academic record, high competition, merit-based + financial need |
Private & NGO Scholarships
Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship
This scholarship is for students from developing countries, including Pakistan. It’s a mix of grant and loan. You can apply for master’s and PhD programs abroad. Check akdn.org for updates.
Pakistan Army Scholarships
The Army provides education scholarships to children of military personnel and martyrs. These scholarships cover schooling, college, and university fees.
Corporate Scholarships (e.g., PTCL, Engro)
Big companies like PTCL and Engro offer scholarships to children of employees and students from underprivileged backgrounds. Keep an eye on their official websites for announcements.
Quick Overview:
Scholarship Name | Offered By | Programs Covered | Eligibility Criteria | Website / Notes |
Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship | Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) | Master’s & PhD (International) | Citizens of developing countries incl. Pakistan, merit-based, partial loan/grant combo | www.akdn.org |
Pakistan Army Scholarships | Pakistan Armed Forces / GHQ | Schooling, College & University | Children of serving/retired military personnel and martyrs | Contact relevant Army Education Directorate |
Corporate Scholarships | Companies (e.g., PTCL, Engro, etc.) | Varies (School to University) | Children of employees, students from underprivileged backgrounds | Visit official websites (PTCL, Engro, etc.) |
How to Apply for Scholarships in Pakistan?
First, read the eligibility criteria carefully. Most scholarships ask for good academic records or proof that you need financial help. Make sure you have the following documents ready:
- Matric, Intermediate, or university transcripts
- CNIC/B-Form
- Recommendation letters
- Admission letter (for university-specific scholarships)
- Personal statement or essay
Each scholarship has a deadline. For example, HEC scholarships 2025 usually close around October. Fulbright applications close in May. Always check the official websites for the latest dates.
Writing a strong personal statement is key. Be honest. Share your story, your goals, and how this scholarship will help you. Make it personal and convincing, not just a list of achievements.
Top 5 Fully Funded Scholarships in 2025
1. HEC Need-Based Scholarship
Offered to students at public universities. Covers tuition and monthly stipend. Great for students from families earning less than PKR 45,000/month.
2. PEEF Scholarships
Available to students from Punjab. For Intermediate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and special quota students. Visit peef.org.pk.
3. Chevening Scholarships UK
Fully funded one-year master’s in the UK. Includes everything from airfare to living costs.
4. Fulbright Scholarship USA
Covers tuition, living, and even textbooks. Open for master’s and PhD students. Application through USEFP.
5. German DAAD Scholarships
For technical and engineering students. Study in Germany with full tuition and living costs covered.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t miss deadlines. This is the number one mistake students make. Set reminders and apply early. Many students also submit incomplete forms. Double-check your documents.
Avoid weak personal statements. This is your chance to stand out. Don’t copy-paste generic essays. And don’t ignore small or local scholarships—every rupee helps.
Conclusion
Scholarships can change your life. They take away the stress of money and let you focus on learning. In 2025, there are more fully funded scholarships in Pakistan than ever before. Whether you’re in school, university, or planning to study abroad—there’s something for everyone.
Start early. Stay organized. And don’t give up. Even if you face rejection once, keep trying. Visit official websites regularly and stay informed.