Are you dreaming of studying in the UK for free? The Commonwealth Scholarship 2025 is a golden opportunity for Pakistani and AJK students to pursue Master’s or PhD programs in top universities of the United Kingdom. This fully funded program is managed by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan in collaboration with the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) UK.
Why You Should Apply for Commonwealth Scholarship 2025
- 100% tuition fee covered in top UK universities
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
- Return airfare from Pakistan to the UK
- Warm clothing allowance & study travel grants
- Research support for PhD students
Key Details of Commonwealth Scholarship 2025
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
Offered By | HEC Pakistan & Commonwealth Scholarship Commission UK |
Study Level | Master’s & PhD |
Eligible Applicants | Pakistani & AJK Nationals |
Application Mode | Online (HEC Portal + CSC EAS Portal) |
HEC Application Deadline | 14 October 2025 – 4:00 PM (Pakistan Time) |
Number of Nominations | 26 Master’s, 30 PhDs |
Program Start | September 2026 |
Selection Basis | HAT Test Score + Academic Record |
Eligibility Criteria for Pakistani Students
- Must be a Pakistani or AJK citizen (dual nationals not eligible)
- Master’s Applicants: Minimum 16 years of education (BS/MA/MSc)
- PhD Applicants: MS/MPhil or equivalent (17–18 years of education)
- Minimum 60% score in HAT test (conducted by HEC)
- Strong academic background (first division in last degree preferred)
- Financial need must be proven (cannot afford UK studies without scholarship)
- Applicants must return to Pakistan after completing studies
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Prepare Documents
- Academic transcripts & certificates
- CNIC & domicile
- HAT test result (minimum 60%)
- 2 reference letters (academic/professional)
- Research proposal (for PhD only)
- Apply Online via HEC Portal
- Sign in to HEC scholarship portal
- Complete profile & upload documents
- Select “Commonwealth Scholarship 2025”
- Apply via CSC (UK) Online Portal
- Submit application in CSC’s EAS system
- Upload research proposal & references
- Ensure information matches HEC application
- Wait for Shortlisting
- HEC nominates candidates to CSC UK
- Final selection by CSC
Tips to Increase Your Chances
- Score above 70 in HAT test for better ranking
- Write a unique & impactful research proposal (for PhD)
- Contact a UK supervisor in advance for support letter
- Use strong academic references
- Apply well before the deadline to avoid portal issues
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply for both Master’s and PhD?
No, you must choose one program.
Q2: Is IELTS required for Commonwealth Scholarship 2025?
IELTS is not required at the application stage, but some UK universities may demand it later.
Q3: What if I already have a UK degree?
Applicants with the same level UK degree are not eligible.
Q4: How are candidates selected?
Selection is based on HAT test score, academic record, and research proposal (for PhD).