Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan offers various fully and partially funded scholarships each year for local and overseas studies. Whether you’re an undergraduate, a Master’s student, or planning a PhD abroad, HEC provides opportunities that can change your academic future.
This complete step-by-step guide will help you understand everything about HEC Scholarships 2025 — including eligibility, online application process, semester details, universities, benefits, and pro tips for success.
What Are HEC Scholarships?
HEC scholarships are financial aid programs offered by the Government of Pakistan through the Higher Education Commission to help deserving students complete their higher education. These scholarships are available for:
- Undergraduate programs (e.g., Ehsaas Undergraduate Scholarship)
- Postgraduate studies (MS/MPhil)
- PhD and Post-Doctorate (mostly abroad)
- Regional and need-based scholarships (Balochistan, FATA, etc.)
Step 1: Know Which Scholarship You’re Eligible For
There are different types of HEC scholarships for 2025. Each has its own criteria:
Undergraduate (BS Programs)
- Program: Ehsaas Undergraduate Scholarship, Need-Based Scholarship
- Eligibility:
- Passed FA/FSc with 60%+
- Enrolled in public sector university
- Family income < Rs. 45,000/month (for need-based)
- Age limit: under 24 years
Postgraduate (MS/MPhil)
- Program: HEC Indigenous or Overseas Scholarships
- Eligibility:
- 16 years of education completed
- CGPA ≥ 3.0/4.0 or 70% marks
- GAT (General) required
PhD & International
- Program: HEC Overseas Scholarships
- Eligibility:
- MS/MPhil (18 years)
- Minimum 3.0 CGPA
- IELTS/TOEFL (varies by country)
- Admission letter from listed foreign university
Always check the exact requirements for your chosen scholarship on: https://www.hec.gov.pk
Step 2: Check List of Eligible Universities
HEC scholarships are only applicable to certain approved institutions. These include:
For Local Scholarships:
- NUST (Islamabad)
- LUMS (Lahore) – for specific programs
- COMSATS University
- Quaid-e-Azam University
- Punjab University
- UET Lahore & Peshawar
- University of Karachi
- University of Peshawar
For Overseas Scholarships (Selected Countries & Institutions):
- United Kingdom (University of Glasgow, Oxford, Leeds)
- Germany (TU Munich, Heidelberg University)
- China (Tsinghua University, Peking University)
- Australia (University of Melbourne, UNSW)
- USA (Arizona State, Purdue, NYU subject to admission)
Note: Each scholarship announcement mentions its own list of approved universities. You must apply to one of those.
Step 3: Register on HEC e-Portal
To apply, follow this verified process on the HEC online scholarship portal:
- Go to https://scholarship.hec.gov.pk
- Click on “Sign Up” to register a new account
- Use a valid CNIC number, email, and mobile number
- Confirm account through email verification
Important: Use your personal Gmail and correct CNIC — they cannot be changed later.
Step 4: Complete Your Profile
Once signed in:
- Fill your academic background: Matric to current degree
- Upload scanned documents (PDF, clear scan)
- CNIC/B-Form
- Domicile certificate
- Academic transcripts
- Passport (for overseas applicants)
- Add contact and family income details
- Upload recent passport-size photograph
Save your profile at each step before proceeding
Step 5: Choose Your Desired Scholarship
After completing your profile:
- Click on the “Scholarships” tab
- Browse the available scholarships for 2025
- Read eligibility and requirements carefully
- Click “Apply” on the scholarship you’re eligible for
Tip: Don’t apply for more than one scholarship at a time unless allowed.
Step 6: Submit Your Application
Once you choose the scholarship:
- Fill additional required fields (statement of purpose, interest area)
- Upload extra documents (SOP, essays, admission letters if required)
- Double check everything
- Click “Submit Application”
A confirmation email and downloadable receipt will be provided. Keep it safe.
Step 7: Prepare for Test or Interview (If Applicable)
Some HEC scholarships require testing:
- GAT (General) – For local MS/MPhil scholarships
- Custom HEC Aptitude Test – For Ehsaas, Undergraduate
- Interview – For final selection in overseas scholarships
Prepare using HEC sample papers or NTS-style tests for practice.
Application Timeline for 2025 (Expected)
| Month | Stage |
| Jan – Mar | Portal open for applications |
| Apr – May | Initial screening & shortlisting |
| Jun – Jul | Interviews/tests |
| Aug – Sept | Final selection & award letters |
| Oct – Dec | Admission confirmation & classes |
Dates may vary by program. Always refer to official HEC announcement pages.
Scholarship Benefits (2025)
| Type | Coverage Includes |
| Local (Ehsaas) | Tuition fee, books, transport, monthly stipend |
| Overseas | Tuition fee, airfare, settlement allowance, health insurance |
| PhD (Local) | Monthly stipend, research funding, tuition |
Tuition Fee & Semester Coverage
- Most scholarships are 100% tuition-funded
- Duration:
- Undergraduate: 8 semesters (4 years)
- MS/MPhil: 4 semesters (2 years)
- PhD: 6-8 semesters (3-4 years)
- Semester-wise GPA requirements must be met (usually ≥ 2.5)
Warning: Scholarship can be canceled if CGPA drops below threshold or fake documents are found.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Write a personal, well-thought-out essay
- Keep all documents scanned & verified in advance
- Start application early to avoid last-minute portal issues
- Don’t apply blindly — research the university and program
- Mention why you’re applying & how the scholarship will impact your career
Real Example (Overseas Scholarship Case)
Ahmed from Multan got selected for a PhD in Environmental Sciences under HEC Overseas Scholarship. He applied in 2023, got accepted at University of Melbourne, and the scholarship covered:
- Full tuition
- $1,200/month stipend
- Return airfare
- Medical insurance
He says:
The process was long but worth it. Make sure your documents are perfect, and your essay shows clarity and vision.
Final Thoughts
HEC Scholarships 2025 offer a chance to pursue your dream education either in Pakistan or abroad. If you’re serious about your academic future, start preparing early, follow each step properly, and keep yourself updated via HEC’s official website.
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