Commonwealth Scholarship 2027–28: Overview
The Commonwealth Scholarship 2027 Pakistan opportunity is available for eligible Pakistani and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) nationals who want to pursue postgraduate study in the United Kingdom.
The programme supports full-time taught Master’s and PhD study at UK universities, with courses expected to begin in September or October 2027. In Pakistan, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) manages the nomination process, while the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) makes the final selection.
Scholarship at a Glance
Scholarship: Commonwealth Scholarship Programme 2027–28
Destination: United Kingdom
Degree levels: Master’s and PhD
Eligible applicants: Pakistani and AJK nationals who meet the criteria
HEC and CSC deadline: October 20, 2026
Expected study start: September/October 2027
Applications: Both the CSC and HEC portals are required
Commonwealth Scholarship 2027 Pakistan: Available Study Levels
The scholarship supports full-time taught Master’s and PhD programmes at UK universities. HEC lists 26 nominations for Master’s applicants and 30 for general PhD applicants. These are nomination numbers, not a guarantee of final awards.
Commonwealth Scholarship 2027 Pakistan: Eligibility and Application
Applicants must meet both HEC’s requirements and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s eligibility criteria.
HEC requirements
Applicants must:
Be a Pakistani or AJK national and permanent resident of Pakistan/AJK.
Not hold dual nationality.
For a Master’s scholarship, have a first-division 16-year Bachelor’s degree in the relevant field.
For a PhD scholarship, have a first-division 17- or 18-year Master’s, MS, or MPhil degree in the relevant field.
Not have a second or third division in their terminal degree.
Provide a valid HAT score of at least 60 out of 100.
HEC states that there is no upper age limit. Result-awaiting candidates may apply, but must submit their final degree and transcript before the academic session begins.
HAT test requirement
Applicants must provide a valid HEC Aptitude Test (HAT) score of at least 60/100. HEC accepts HAT-I, HAT-II, HAT-III, and HAT-IV. The announcement also states that the HAT scheduled tentatively for October 25, 2026, is eligible for the nomination process. Applicants should review the official HEC notice for the latest test instructions.
Development Themes
Applicants should explain how their proposed studies connect to development challenges and how the knowledge gained could contribute to Pakistan. The Commonwealth programme lists six 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
How to Apply
Applicants must submit applications through both the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission and HEC portals. Completing only one application is not sufficient.
Review the official eligibility requirements for the intended degree level.
Complete the online application through the Commonwealth portal.
Register or update your profile on the HEC website.
Select “Learning Opportunities Abroad” in the HEC application system.
Submit both applications before the deadline and save copies for your records.
HEC advises applicants to use an active email address and mobile number, submit early, and regularly check the official websites. Hard copies should not be sent unless HEC specifically requests them.
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Application Deadline
The deadline for both the CSC and HEC applications is Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 4:00 PM Pakistan time. HEC warns that incomplete applications will not be accepted. Applicants should submit well before the closing time.
Official Application Information
Read the full eligibility criteria and application instructions on the official HEC announcement:
Commonwealth Scholarship Programme 2027–28 – HEC Pakistan
Applicants should use the official portals linked through HEC and confirm all requirements before submitting.
