Commonwealth Scholarship for Pakistani Students-Study in UK
The Commonwealth Scholarship is one of the most prestigious international scholarship programs funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). It provides students from developing Commonwealth countries, including Pakistan, with the chance to pursue Master’s and PhD degrees in the United Kingdom.
For Pakistani students, this scholarship is administered by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan, which facilitates applications and nominations. The program is aimed at academically excellent students who would otherwise not be able to afford study in the UK.
Key Features
- Funding Body: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
- Administered by: Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in the UK, and HEC in Pakistan
- Degree Levels: Master’s and PhD programs
- Disciplines Covered: Wide range of fields, with focus on development-related areas such as:
- Science & Technology
- Engineering
- Agriculture
- Health Sciences
- Education
- Social Sciences
- Environment & Sustainable Development
Eligibility Criteria
Pakistani applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Nationality: Must be a Pakistani or AJK citizen (dual nationals with UK citizenship are not eligible).
- Education:
- For Master’s: 16 years of education (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent).
- For PhD: 18 years of education (MS/MPhil or equivalent).
- Academic Record: Strong academic background (minimum first division in final degree, no third division throughout academic career).
- English Language Requirement: Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL, depending on university).
- Financial Need: Applicants must demonstrate inability to afford UK study without scholarship.
- Return Requirement: Scholars must return to Pakistan after studies to contribute to national development.
Scholarship Benefits
The Commonwealth Scholarship provides full financial coverage, including:
- Tuition fees (fully funded by CSC)
- Airfare (return ticket Pakistan ↔ UK)
- Monthly stipend/living allowance
- Warm clothing allowance (if applicable)
- Thesis and study travel grant (for research purposes)
- Child/Family allowance (in some cases for married scholars)
- Visa and health insurance coverage
Application Process
The application is a two-step process:
- Apply Online at CSC Portal: Candidates must apply through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s online application system.
- Apply via HEC Portal: Applicants must also submit their application through the HEC E-Portal, along with required documents.
- HEC Indigenous PhD Fellowship Program 2025
Required Documents include:
- Academic transcripts and degrees (attested)
- Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
- Statement of Purpose / Study Plan
- References/Recommendation letters
- Proof of English proficiency (if required)
Deadline: Applications usually open in September/October and close in December each year.
Selection Criteria
Applicants are evaluated on:
- Academic merit
- Quality of study plan/research proposal
- Potential impact on Pakistan’s development
- Commitment to return and serve the country
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Words
The Commonwealth Scholarship offers Pakistani students a golden opportunity to study at leading UK universities free of cost, gain international exposure, and bring back valuable skills to Pakistan. By focusing on development-related fields, the program ensures that scholars not only achieve personal growth but also contribute meaningfully to the country’s progress.
For ambitious students with strong academic records and a passion for contributing to national development, this scholarship is one of the best paths to success.
