Commonwealth Scholarship 2027-28 In UK – Master's & PhD Applications Open via HEC

Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan, as the country’s nominating agency, is now accepting applications for the Commonwealth Master’s and PhD Scholarships 2027-28 offered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in the United Kingdom (UK). These scholarships provide an opportunity to pursue full-time taught postgraduate studies (Master’s and PhD) in UK universities starting in September/October 2027. The deadline for applications through both HEC and CSC portals is Tuesday, October 20, 2026 (16:00 BST / 4:00 PM PST). There are 26 nominations available for Master’s and 30 nominations for General PhD. Applicants are required to apply separately on both of these portals by the deadlines given below.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements of both HEC and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission.

HEC Eligibility Criteria

• Nationality: Pakistani/AJ&K national and permanent resident
• Dual Nationality: Dual nationals are not eligible
• Age Limit: No upper age limit
• Master’s Scholarship:First Division in a 16-year Bachelor’s degree
• Degree must be in the relevant field
• PhD Scholarship:First Division in a 17/18-year Master’s, MS, or MPhil degree
• Degree must be in the relevant field
• Academic Record: No Second or Third Division in the terminal (latest) degree
• Result-Awaiting Candidates: Eligible to apply, provided the final degree and transcript are submitted before August/September 2027
• HAT Test: Minimum score of 60 out of 100HAT-I, HAT-II, HAT-III, or HAT-IV accepted
• University admission HAT is not applicable

Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) Eligibility

• Applicants must meet the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) eligibility requirements.
• Candidates should check the official CSC criteria for detailed eligibility requirements.

Fields of Study / Development Themes

The scholarships are offered under the following six CSC development themes :

1. Science and technology for development
2. Strengthening health systems and capacity
3. Promoting innovation and entrepreneurship
4. Strengthening global peace, security and governance
5. Strengthening resilience and response to crises
6. Access, inclusion and opportunity

How to Apply Commonwealth Scholarship 2027-28

Step 1: Commonwealth Online Application

• For Master's: Visit https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/scholarships/commonwealth-masters-scholarships/
• For PhD: Visit https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/scholarships/commonwealth-phd-scholarships-for-least-developed-countries-and-vulnerable-states/

Step 2: HEC Online Application

• Apply online at HEC website: https://scholarship.hec.gov.pk/
• Register and fill your profile, then select "Learning Opportunities Abroad"
• After submission, download the application for your record

Important Dates (2027-28)

Application Portal Opens: September 8, 2026

CSC Application Deadline: October 20, 2026 — 4:00 PM BST

HEC Application Deadline: October 20, 2026 — 4:00 PM PST

Expected Nomination by Agencies: December 2026

Expected Announcement of Results: July 2027

Expected Commencement of Studies: September/October 2027

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I apply if I am awaiting my final degree result?

A: Yes, result-awaiting candidates may apply, provided they obtain and submit their final degree and transcript before the commencement of the academic session in August/September 2027.

Q2: Do I need to apply on both the HEC and Commonwealth (CSC) portals?

A: Yes, it is mandatory to submit online applications on both the CSC portal and the HEC portal. If you fail to apply on either website, HEC will be unable to accept your application.

Q3: What is the minimum HAT test score required, and which HAT categories are acceptable?

A: You must obtain a minimum score of 60 out of 100 in the HAT test. Only HAT categories HAT-I, II, III, and IV are acceptable. HAT tests conducted for Pakistani university admissions are not applicable for this scholarship.

Q4: Is there any age limit for the Commonwealth Scholarship?

A: No, there is no upper age limit for this scholarship.

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