HEC Launches Fully Funded PhD Program at Top 300 US Universities

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has recently announced a fully funded PhD scholarship program for Pakistani scholars wishing to study at top U.S. universities (ranked within QS top 300). Under this initiative, the HEC aims to support doctoral-level research abroad by covering tuition, stipends, health insurance, and travel, thereby enabling scholars to pursue world-class research without financial barriers.

This program falls under the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor project, which seeks to foster academic collaboration between Pakistani and American institutions, enhance research capabilities in Pakistan, and train faculty members for domestic universities. Over time, scholars trained abroad are expected to return and contribute to teaching, research, and institutional development in Pakistan.

HEC Launches Fully Funded PhD Program at Top 300 US Universities

Under the new scheme, Pakistani students who secure admission to U.S. universities ranked in the top 300 by QS can apply for a scholarship that covers major expenses associated with doctoral study. The program is open across disciplines, with priority subject areas aligned with national development needs, such as engineering, agriculture, biotechnology, environmental sciences, public health, and social sciences.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet several conditions to qualify for the fully funded PhD scholarships under the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor program:

• Pakistani or Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) nationality.
• Hold a four-year bachelor’s degree (16 years of education) or an equivalent, or a master’s (MPhil/MS) degree, depending on the requirement of the U.S. university.
• Secure admission (or apply) to a U.S. university ranked within QS top 300.
• Present valid standardized test scores—either GRE (General) with a recommended minimum score (around 300) or HAT (HEC Aptitude Test) with at least 60% score.
• Maintain a good academic record, typically with no third division or D grade in the academic history.
• Be under an age limit: generally up to 35 for regular candidates, and up to 40 for government employees or public sector faculty.
• Agree to sign a service bond: after completing the PhD, scholars must return to Pakistan and serve (often 5 years) in a Pakistani university or R&D institution.

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Conclusion

The HEC Fully Funded PhD Program at Top 300 US Universities is a landmark opportunity for Pakistani scholars to pursue advanced research at globally recognized institutions. It not only removes the financial barriers that often limit access to world-class education but also strengthens Pakistan’s higher-education sector by building a new generation of researchers, innovators, and faculty members.

Through this initiative, the HEC aims to bridge the academic gap between Pakistan and leading international universities while ensuring that scholars return to contribute to national development. For students with strong academic backgrounds and a vision to serve the country, this program offers a direct path to personal growth, academic excellence, and lasting impact on Pakistan’s research ecosystem.