The Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan has opened applications for the Commonwealth Scholarship Programme for the 2027-28 academic year. Eligible Pakistani and AJ&K nationals can apply for full-time Master’s and PhD study in the United Kingdom, with studies expected to begin in September or October 2027.
Commonwealth Scholarship 2027-28 Deadline
The deadline for both the HEC application and Commonwealth application is 20 October 2026. The HEC portal closes at 4:00 PM Pakistan Standard Time. Applicants should complete both applications well before the deadline.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must be Pakistani or AJ&K nationals and permanent residents. Dual nationals are not eligible. Master’s applicants need the required 16 years of education in the relevant field, while PhD applicants need the prescribed 17/18 years Master’s, MS or MPhil qualification. Applicants should carefully check the complete eligibility requirements before submission.
HAT Requirement
HEC requires a valid HAT score, with a minimum score of 60 out of 100. HAT-I, HAT-II, HAT-III and HAT-IV are the accepted categories for this nomination process. Candidates should ensure that their test status meets the conditions announced for the 2027-28 scholarship cycle.
Application Process
Candidates must submit applications through both the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission system and the HEC scholarship system. Completing only one application is not sufficient for HEC nomination. Applicants should keep copies of their submitted applications and ensure their HEC profile contains an active email address and mobile number.
Available Opportunities
HEC has announced nomination opportunities for Master’s and General PhD applicants. Final scholarship selection is made by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission after the HEC nomination process.
Important Advice for Applicants
Do not wait until the closing day. Review eligibility, prepare academic documents, verify your HAT status, complete both online applications and carefully check all information before final submission. HEC advises applicants not to send hard copies unless specifically requested.
Student update: Applications became active on 8 September 2026. Candidates interested in the 2027-28 Commonwealth Master’s or PhD scholarship should begin the application process now and complete both required submissions before 20 October 2026.
