Allama Iqbal Scholarship for Sri Lankan Students 2025
The Allama Iqbal Scholarship Program is part of the Pakistan–Sri Lanka Higher Education Cooperation Programme, administered by Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC). Aimed at strengthening educational and cultural ties, this scholarship invites Sri Lankan students to pursue higher education across multiple levels—undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral—in leading Pakistani universities.Higher Education Commissionocds.lk
The initiative not only opens academic doors but also fosters mutual understanding and leadership across both nations. Women are especially encouraged to apply.Higher Education Commission
In 2024, Pakistan awarded 200 fully and partially funded scholarships to the sixth batch of Sri Lankan students, joining approximately 500 peers already pursuing education in Pakistan.Higher Education CommissionDawn
Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship offers a comprehensive funding package, including:
- Full tuition fee waiver (or partial in some cases)
- Accommodation allowance
- Study and book allowance
- One-time return airfareHigher Education Commissionclassifylanka.com
This ensures selected candidates benefit from financial support across academic and living expenses.
Eligible Program Levels & Fields
Sri Lankan students can apply for:
- Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) degrees
- Master’s (MS/MPhil) programs
- Doctoral (Ph.D.) studiesHigher Education Commissionclassifylanka.com
Disciplines include but are not limited to:
- Engineering Sciences
- Basic and Natural Sciences
- Social SciencesHigher Education Commissionclassifylanka.com
Eligibility Criteria
Nationality
- Only Sri Lankan citizens are eligible; dual nationals are not.Higher Education Commission
Academic Qualifications
- Undergraduate (Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy): GCE A-Levels (Pre-Medical) with at least 65%.
- Engineering: GCE A-Levels (Pre-Engineering) with at least 65%.
- Other Bachelor’s programs: GCE A-Levels in relevant subjects with at least 60%.
- Master’s programs: Minimum 60% at graduate level.
- Ph.D. programs: CGPA of 3.00/4.00 at Master’s level and relevant research.Higher Education Commission
Age Limits
- Undergraduate: Typically 17–22 years
- Graduate/Doctoral: Up to about 35 years (some sources vary slightly)Higher Education Commissionclassifylanka.com
Other Conditions
- Must have completed required qualifications before the application deadline.
- Selected candidates are generally expected to return to Sri Lanka upon completion.
- Medium of instruction is English.
- Scholarships are merit-based; misrepresentation may lead to termination.Higher Education Commission+1
Application Process
- Online Application
- Apply via the HEC e-portal:
http://eportal.hec.gov.pk/paksl. Higher Education Commissionclassifylanka.com - Fulbright Scholarship Pakistan-Master’s & PhD Opportunities
- Apply via the HEC e-portal:
- Select Candidates
- Candidates must pass a scholarship test administered by HEC in collaboration with the Pakistan High Commission in Colombo and the Sri Lankan Ministry of Higher Education.
- Shortlisted students then appear for an interview at the Pakistan High Commission in Colombo.Higher Education Commission
- Selection & Placement
- HEC makes final placements based on merit and institutional discretion.Higher Education Commission+1
Deadline Reminder: The last date for applications was 15 May 2025—ensure to check the latest timeline when planning your application.Higher Education Commission+1
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Words
The Allama Iqbal Scholarships represent a remarkable opportunity for Sri Lankan students to access high-quality education in Pakistan, while acting as cultural ambassadors. With substantial support covering tuition, living expenses, and travel, this initiative reinforces bilateral relations and nurtures future leaders.
If you’re interested, keep an eye on the HEC portal (paksl) for updated deadlines, and prepare diligently—this could be the stepping stone to your global academic success.
