HEC Commonwealth Scholarship 2027–28 for Pakistani Students: Eligibility, HAT Score & Deadline
HEC Pakistan has opened applications for the Commonwealth Scholarship Programme 2027–28 for eligible Pakistani and AJ&K students. The programme offers opportunities for Master’s and PhD study in the UK, with applications closing on October 20, 2026.
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan has announced the Commonwealth Scholarship Programme for the academic year 2027–28, providing Pakistani and AJ&K students with an opportunity to pursue higher education in the United Kingdom.
The scholarship programme is available for eligible candidates interested in full-time Master’s and PhD studies at UK universities. Students planning to apply should carefully review the eligibility requirements and complete applications on both the HEC and Commonwealth Scholarship Commission portals before the deadline.
Commonwealth Scholarship 2027–28 Deadline
According to HEC Pakistan, the application deadline is:
HEC Application Deadline: October 20, 2026, at 4:00 PM Pakistan Standard Time.
Applicants must also submit their Commonwealth Scholarship Commission application by the relevant closing time on October 20, 2026.
Students are advised not to wait until the final dayday because online application portals may experience heavy traffic near the deadline.
How Many Nominations Are Available?
HEC has announced the following nomination opportunities for Pakistan:
26 nominations for Master’s programmes 30 nominations for General PhD programmes
HEC will shortlist and nominate applicants according to its eligibility and merit criteria. However, nomination by HEC does not automatically guarantee the final scholarship award.
Final selection will be made by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission.
Eligibility Criteria for Pakistani Students
Applicants interested in the HEC Commonwealth Scholarship 2027–28 must meet both HEC and Commonwealth Scholarship Commission requirements.
Under the HEC criteria, applicants must be Pakistani or AJ&K nationals andDual nationals are not eligible under the stated HEC criteria.
There is no upper age limit mentioned by HEC for this scholarship cycle.
Eligibility for Master’s Scholarship
Applicants for a Master’s scholarship should have:
A first division in a 16-year Bachelor’s degree in the relevant field. No second or third division in their latest or terminal degree. The required HAT score. Eligibility for PhD Scholarship
Applicants for the PhD scholarship should have:
A first division in a 17/18-year Master’s, MS or MPhil degree in the relevant field. No second or third division in their latest degree. The required HAT score.
Result-awaiting candidates may also apply, but they must obtain and submit their final degree and transcript before the academic session begins in 2027.
HAT Test Requirement The HAT test is an important part of the HEC nomination process.
Applicants must obtain a minimum score of:
60 out of 100 in HAT
HEC states that applicants who have taken an eligible HAT test on or after October 25, 2024 may submit that score for consideration.
The acceptable categories are:
HAT-I HAT-II HAT-III HAT-IV
Applicants should carefully check that their HAT category is accepted for the Commonwealth Scholarship nomination process.
HEC has also indicated that merit for nominations will primarily be determined through HAT scores, subject to its official selection rules.two or more applicants obtain the same HAT score, the percentage obtained in the applicant’s latest completed degree may be considered for determining merit.
How to Apply for HEC Commonwealth Scholarship 2027–28
Applicants are required to complete applications on two separate portals.
Step 1: Apply Through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission
Candidates must first complete the relevant Commonwealth Scholarship Commission online application for their chosen Master’s or PhD programme.
Make sure all required educational information, supporting details and documents are completed correctly.
Step 2: Apply Through HEC Pakistan
Applicants must also submit an application through the HEC Scholarship Portal.
After creating or updating an HEC profile:
Log in to the HEC scholarship portal. Complete your profile information. Select Learning Opportunities Abroad. Complete the Commonwealth Scholarship application section. Review all information carefully. Submit the application before the deadline. Download or save a copy for your records.
Submitting an application on only one portal is not enough. Applicants must complete the required applications on both the HEC and Commonwealth systems.
Important Instructions for Applicants
Candidates should ensure that their active mobile number and email address are updated in their HEC profile.
All information and documents should be accurate. Incorrect or misleading information may result in an application being rejected or a nomination being cancelled.
Applicants should also keep copies of their submitted applications.
HEC advises applicants not to send hard copies unless HEC specifically requests them. Fields Covered by the Commonwealth Scholarship
The Commonwealth Scholarship Programme is linked with development-focused areas. The six broad development themes include:
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
Applicants should clearly explain how their proposed studies relate to development challenges and how the skills gained could contribute to Pakistan.
When Will Studies Begin?
According to the current HEC schedule, shortlisted nominations are expected later in 2026, while scholarship results are expected around July 2027.
Successful students are expected to begin their studies in the UK in September or October 2027. Final Advice for Applicants
Students interested in the Commonwealth Scholarship 2027–28 should begin preparing their applications early.
Before submitting, check your educational qualifications, HAT score, personal information and supporting documents carefully.
Applicants should rely on official HEC and Commonwealth Scholarship Commission information because scholarship requirements or schedules can be updated.
Official Source: Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan
Frequently Asked Questions What is the deadline for the HEC Commonwealth Scholarship 2027–28?
The HEC application deadline is October 20, 2026, at 4:00 PM Pakistan Standard Time.
What HAT score is required? Applicants need a minimum HAT score of 60 out of 100 under the current HEC criteria.
Can Pakistani students apply?
Yes. Eligible Pakistani and AJ&K nationals who meet the required criteria can apply.
Is the scholarship available for both Master’s and PhD students?
Yes. The current programme includes Master’s and General PhD nomination opportunities.
Do applicants need to apply on both portals?
Yes. Applicants must complete the required application process through both HEC and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission.
When will studies start?
Successful candidates are expected to begin their UK studies in September or October 2027.