The Allama Muhammad Iqbal Scholarship for Central Asia & Friendly Countries, HEC Scholarship 2026, is one of Pakistan’s flagship international scholarship initiatives launched by the Higher Education Commission (HEC). The program is designed to attract talented students from friendly countries by providing them with access to world-class education at recognized Pakistani universities.
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The scholarship promotes academic excellence, regional cooperation, and cultural understanding. Students admitted through this program can study in various disciplines ranging from engineering and medicine to business, agriculture, and social sciences.
Since it is a fully funded scholarship, selected candidates can focus entirely on their education without worrying about financial expenses.
Scholarship Highlights– HEC Scholarship 2026
| Scholarship Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan |
| Scholarship Name | Allama Muhammad Iqbal Scholarship |
| Degree Levels | BS, Master’s, PhD |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Country | Pakistan |
| Deadline | 10 August 2026 |
| Eligible Students | Central Asia & Friendly Countries |
Available Degree Programs– HEC Scholarship 2026
The scholarship supports admissions in three major academic levels.
Undergraduate (BS)– HEC Scholarship 2026
Students who have completed GCE A-Level or equivalent education can apply for undergraduate degree programs. Engineering and Medical programs require higher academic performance than other disciplines.
Master’s Programs– HEC Scholarship 2026
Applicants possessing 16 years of education in a relevant field can apply for master’s degree programs offered by participating universities.
PhD Programs
Candidates with 18 years of education, a minimum CGPA of 3.00/4.00, and a completed MS research thesis are eligible for doctoral studies.
Available Fields of Study
Students can choose from a wide range of academic disciplines, including:
- Engineering & Technology
- Computer Science & Information Technology
- Medical & Allied Health Sciences
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Agriculture
- Social Sciences
- Food Security
- International Relations
- Media Studies
- Languages
These disciplines are offered by leading public universities across Pakistan.
Scholarship Benefits
One of the biggest advantages of this scholarship is its comprehensive financial support.
Successful applicants will receive:
- 100% Tuition Fee Coverage
- Free Accommodation
- Monthly Living Stipend
- One-Time Airfare During Degree Program
- Settlement Allowance
- Opportunity to study in internationally recognized Pakistani universities.
- Cultural exchange and networking opportunities.
These benefits make it one of the most attractive scholarship opportunities available for international students.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must fulfill the academic requirements according to the selected degree level.
For BS Programs
- GCE A-Level or equivalent qualification.
- Minimum 60% marks.
- 65% marks required for Engineering and Medical programs.
For Master’s Programs
- Minimum 16 years of relevant education.
- At least 65% marks.
For PhD Programs
- Minimum 18 years of education.
- CGPA 3.00 out of 4.00.
- MS/MPhil research thesis.
Selected candidates will also be required to obtain:
- IBCC Equivalence Certificate
- HEC Equivalence Certificate
after receiving the scholarship award.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents before submitting their application:
- Academic Certificates
- Transcripts
- Passport Copy
- Recent Photograph
- Research Proposal (for PhD applicants)
- Recommendation Letters (if required)
- Valid Identification Documents
Applicants should ensure all documents are complete and accurate before the closing date.
How to Apply for HEC Scholarship 2026
Interested candidates should follow these steps:
- Visit the official HEC CAFC Scholarship Portal.
- Register an online account.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all required documents.
- Carefully review your application.
- Submit before the closing date.
Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Applications Open | Open Now |
| Last Date to Apply | 10 August 2026 |
Applicants are advised to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Contact Information
For further information, applicants may contact:
Project Director: Mr. Jehanzeb Khan
Email: studyinpak@hec.gov.pk
Phone: +92-51-90408036
Why Should You Apply?
Studying in Pakistan under the Allama Muhammad Iqbal Scholarship offers numerous academic and professional advantages. Students gain access to quality education, experienced faculty, modern research facilities, and a multicultural learning environment.
Graduates also develop international networks that can contribute to future career opportunities and strengthen regional cooperation among participating countries.
Conclusion
The HEC Scholarship 2026 for Central Asia & Friendly Countries is an excellent opportunity for talented international students seeking fully funded higher education in Pakistan. Covering tuition fees, accommodation, monthly stipend, airfare, and settlement support, the scholarship removes financial barriers and enables students to pursue their academic goals.
Interested applicants should carefully review the eligibility criteria, prepare the required documents, and submit their online application before 10 August 2026.
