Commonwealth Scholarship Programme (Master’s & PhD) 2027-28 for Pakistani Students
Provided by Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) UK / HEC Pakistan
Program Overview
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) UK and HEC Pakistan invite applications from eligible Pakistani/AJ&K nationals for fully funded Master’s (26 nominations) and PhD (30 nominations) programs in the UK for the 2027–28 academic year.
The Commonwealth Scholarship Programme 2027-28 is a fully funded opportunity funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to support talented individuals who demonstrate potential to make a impact on global development.
For the 2027/28 academic cycle, HEC serves as the national nominating agency for Pakistan, nominating 26 candidates for Master's and 30 candidates for PhD across six primary CSC development themes:
- Science and technology for development
- Strengthening health systems and capacity
- Promoting innovation and entrepreneurship
- Strengthening global peace, security and governance
- Strengthening resilience and response to crises
- Access, inclusion and opportunity
Note: HEC provides a facilitation role in nominations based on HAT scores; final scholar selections are made by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK. Minimum 45% female nomination quota applies.
Eligibility Criteria & Requirements
- Nationality: Must be a permanent resident and national of Pakistan or AJ&K (Dual nationals are ineligible).
- Age Limit: No upper age limit.
- Master’s Qualification: 16-year Bachelor’s degree in first division (no 2nd/3rd division in terminal degree).
- PhD Qualification: 17/18-year Master’s/MS/MPhil degree in first division (no 2nd/3rd division in terminal degree).
- HAT Requirement: Must have a minimum HAT test score of 60/100 (taken on or after October 25, 2024). Valid categories: HAT-I, II, III, and IV.
- Result Awaiting: Eligible, provided final transcript/degree is submitted before August/September 2027.
Financial Benefits & Coverage
- Full tuition fees covered for full-time Master's or PhD degree in the UK.
- Monthly living allowance (stipend) to cover living costs.
- Approved return airfare from Pakistan to the United Kingdom.
- Warm clothing allowance, thesis grant, and study travel grant (where applicable).
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Applicants MUST submit dual applications on both portals before October 20, 2026, to be eligible:
- Step 1 (CSC Portal): Submit online application on the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission portal (Master’s or PhD).
- Step 2 (HEC Portal): Apply online on the official HEC Portal at scholarship.hec.gov.pk under "Learning Opportunities Abroad".
- HAT Test: Ensure valid HAT score (>=60) is uploaded or register for the upcoming ETC HAT test.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is applying on both HEC and Commonwealth portal mandatory?
Yes. Applicants must submit separate applications on both the CSC portal and the HEC portal before the deadline. Missing either application renders the candidate ineligible.
What is the required minimum score for the HAT test?
Applicants must obtain a minimum score of 60 out of 100 in HAT categories I, II, III, or IV taken on or after October 25, 2024.
Are result awaiting candidates eligible to apply?
Yes, result-awaiting candidates can apply provided they submit their final degree and transcript before academic sessions begin in August/September 2027.
Scholarship Summary
- Provider Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) UK / HEC Pakistan
- Coverage Fully Funded
- Level Master's, PhD
- Deadline 20 Oct 2026
- Total Views 2