Commonwealth Scholarship for Masters & PhD 2025

The scholarships are fully funded, covering tuition fees, airfare to and from the UK, and living allowances. This allows you to focus entirely on your studies and research without financial burden.

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For 2025, the allocations for Pakistan through the Higher Education Commission (HEC) are as follows:

26 nominations for Master’s programs
30 nominations for PhD programs

These numbers reflect Pakistan’s share of the program, based on CSC allocations.

Who Can Apply

The scholarships are designed for talented individuals with the potential to become future leaders and innovators in their home countries. To be eligible, you generally need to:

Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country (such as Pakistan) or hold refugee status in one.
Hold a first degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) honors standard for Master’s applicants.
Hold a relevant Master’s degree for PhD applicants.
Demonstrate financial need (you should not be able to study in the UK without this award).
Commit to returning home after your studies to contribute to development goals.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Applying involves both the CSC and your national nominating agency (for Pakistan, the Higher Education Commission). Here’s the process:

Step 1: Review the Eligibility Criteria

Read the CSC’s official eligibility guidelines and HEC’s instructions carefully. Ensure your academic record and development goals align with the program’s requirements.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

You’ll need:

Academic transcripts and degree certificates
A research proposal (for PhD applicants)
A development impact statement explaining how your studies will benefit your country
Recommendation letters
A valid passport or CNIC

Step 3: Submit to HEC Scholarship Portal

Apply through the HEC online portal before October 14, 2025, at 4:00 PM (Pakistan Standard Time).
Pay attention to deadlines; late submissions are not accepted.

Step 4: Apply on the CSC Portal

After HEC submission, complete your application directly on the CSC’s portal.
Applications must be consistent across both systems.

Step 5: Await Shortlisting and Interviews

HEC will shortlist candidates for nomination to the CSC. Final decisions rest with the CSC in the UK.

Key Dates for 2025

Application deadline (HEC portal): October 14, 2025, 4:00 PM PST
CSC portal deadline: Usually falls a few days after HEC’s closing date (check official CSC announcements).
Results announcement: Spring 2026
Programs begin: Fall 2026 (September/October intake)

Frequently Asked Questions

What costs are covered by the Commonwealth Scholarship?

The award covers tuition fees, international travel, a monthly stipend for living costs, and additional allowances for study-related expenses.

Can I apply for both Master’s and PhD at the same time?

No. You must choose one category, either Master’s or PhD, based on your academic background and career goals.

What fields of study are prioritized?

The CSC emphasizes fields aligned with development goals, such as climate change, health, education, science and technology, and public administration.

Do I need an admission offer from a UK university first?

No. You apply for the scholarship first. If selected, the CSC will help secure your placement at a UK institution.

What is the acceptance rate?

The program is highly competitive. With only 26 Master’s and 30 PhD nominations available for Pakistan in 2025, strong academic credentials and a clear development vision are essential.

The Commonwealth Scholarship Program 2025 is more than a chance to study abroad—it’s an opportunity to join a global community of leaders working toward sustainable development. If you’re dedicated, academically strong, and ready to give back to your country, this program can open doors to world-class education and lifelong networks.