PhD Scholarships in the USA (Fully Funded)

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan invites applications for the Fully Funded PhD Scholarships in the USA under the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor (USPKC) Project. This prestigious program enables Pakistani and AJK nationals to pursue doctoral studies at the Top 300 QS World-Ranked Universities in the United States. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living stipends, and health insurance, offering two categories — full funding for the Top 50 universities and partial funding for those ranked 51–300. Applicants must hold at least 16 years of education, demonstrate academic excellence, and possess valid GRE (min 300) or HEC HAT (min 60%) scores. Apply online at scholarship.hec.gov.pk before the deadline.

Share This Job

Career Opportunity – Fully Funded PhD Scholarships in the USA under the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor Project by HEC

Organization Name: Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan
Program Title: PhD Scholarships in the USA (Fully Funded)
Location: United States (Top 300 QS World-Ranked Universities)
Industry: Higher Education / Research & Development
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Apply Online: scholarship.hec.gov.pk
Official Website: www.hec.gov.pk

Job/Company Description

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has announced a prestigious opportunity for Pakistani scholars aspiring to pursue their PhD studies in the United States of America. Under the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor (USPKC) Project, fully funded scholarships are being offered to outstanding students who aim to contribute to Pakistan’s academic, scientific, and technological advancement through higher education in the world’s top-ranked institutions.

This initiative reflects the commitment of both the Governments of Pakistan and the United States to strengthen educational collaboration and intellectual exchange. The program seeks to prepare a new generation of Pakistani scholars, researchers, and educators by enabling them to study at some of the world’s best universities ranked among the Top 300 QS World Rankings.

The scholarships are available in two categories — one for the Top 50 QS World-Ranked Universities and another for those ranked 51–300, offering full or partial financial coverage depending on the institution. Selected candidates will receive funding for tuition fees, a living stipend, and health insurance, ensuring they can fully focus on their academic and research goals.

Through this project, HEC aims to create a knowledge-based economy by empowering Pakistan’s youth with globally competitive education. Successful scholars will return to Pakistan to play leadership roles in universities, research institutions, and industries.

These scholarships are highly competitive and awarded strictly on merit. Applicants are encouraged to apply early and secure admission offers in top U.S. universities to enhance their chances. The program provides a life-changing opportunity to contribute to Pakistan’s development while gaining access to advanced research, innovation, and international collaboration.

Company Introduction

The Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan, is the country’s premier institution responsible for formulating higher education policies, promoting research, and ensuring quality standards across universities and research institutions. Established in 2002, HEC has played a transformative role in developing Pakistan’s academic landscape, driving innovation, and building partnerships with international universities and organizations.

HEC’s primary mission is to strengthen the quality and relevance of higher education in Pakistan, aligning it with international standards. Over the years, it has launched numerous scholarship programs, research grants, and faculty development initiatives to promote academic excellence and intellectual growth. Among its flagship projects is the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor, a strategic collaboration aimed at producing world-class researchers and PhD scholars who can lead the nation’s progress in science, technology, and innovation.

The USPKC Project was conceptualized as part of a bilateral agreement between Pakistan and the United States, designed to send up to 10,000 Pakistani scholars to pursue doctoral studies in top U.S. universities. This effort supports Pakistan’s vision of developing a globally competent academic workforce that contributes to research, innovation, and knowledge creation across disciplines.

HEC ensures transparency and merit in all its scholarship schemes. Applicants undergo a competitive selection process that includes evaluation of academic achievements, research potential, and standardized test scores. The Commission also maintains strict monitoring mechanisms to ensure the success of the scholars and the impact of their work upon return to Pakistan.

In addition to scholarship programs, HEC is responsible for accreditation, quality assurance, curriculum development, and university ranking frameworks in Pakistan. It actively supports partnerships with global institutions, enabling Pakistani scholars to collaborate on international research projects and benefit from cross-border knowledge exchange.

Through initiatives like the PhD Scholarships in the USA, HEC continues to foster human capital development, encourage excellence in higher education, and empower students to pursue globally recognized research careers. This project not only enhances the capabilities of individual scholars but also contributes to Pakistan’s socio-economic growth by introducing modern research methodologies and innovative problem-solving approaches in academia and industry.

Job Description

The PhD Scholarships in the USA offered under the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor Project are designed for Pakistani and AJK nationals who aspire to pursue advanced doctoral studies in leading American universities. These fully funded scholarships are available for Spring/Summer 2026 and Fall 2026 admissions, offering students a chance to study in some of the Top 300 QS World-Ranked Universities across the United States.

The program has two distinct categories:

Category I – Top 50 QS World-Ranked Universities:
Selected candidates under this category will receive full coverage, including tuition fees as per university invoice, a generous living stipend, and health insurance. Applicants must have secured admission in one of the top 50 globally ranked universities in the United States and possess a valid GRE General Score of at least 300 or an HEC HAT Score of 60% or higher.

Category II – Universities Ranked 51–300 (Overall or Subject Ranking):
Applicants under this category are eligible for a tuition fee waiver of up to USD 12,000 per year, along with a stipend and health insurance. Preference will be given to candidates admitted to universities with a subject ranking of up to 100 in their chosen field.

The scholarships are exclusively for PhD programs and do not cover MS leading to PhD pathways. Students who meet the eligibility criteria and demonstrate academic excellence, research aptitude, and leadership potential are strongly encouraged to apply.

HEC emphasizes merit and fairness in selection. Applicants must submit their applications online through the official HEC scholarship portal. Shortlisted candidates will undergo a transparent evaluation process that considers academic record, standardized test performance, research interests, and alignment with national development priorities.

The scholarship covers:

Full or partial tuition fee (depending on category)
Monthly stipend for living expenses
Health insurance during the study period

In addition, selected candidates will gain access to world-class faculty, advanced research facilities, and networking opportunities with international peers. The experience will not only enhance their academic profile but also prepare them for leadership positions in academia, industry, and government upon return to Pakistan.

The US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor Project is more than a scholarship—it is a national investment in the country’s future. Graduates are expected to return and contribute to Pakistan’s higher education system, research ecosystem, and technological advancement.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the PhD Scholarships in the USA under the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor Project, applicants must meet the following requirements:

General Eligibility:

Applicants must be Pakistani or AJK nationals.
Must have completed a minimum of 16 years of education (Bachelor’s degree equivalent to BS/BSc/BE) from a recognized institution.
No second or third division is allowed in the academic record for Category I and II applicants.
Must not currently be availing of any other national or international scholarship.
Applicants should possess strong academic backgrounds, research potential, and proficiency in English.

Age Limit:

Maximum age 40 years for regular government employees, faculty members of public universities, or researchers in approved R&D organizations.
Maximum age 35 years for all other applicants.

Category I – Top 50 QS World-Ranked Universities:

Must have secured admission in a Top 50 QS World-Ranked University in the USA (overall or subject ranking).
Must have a valid GRE General Score (minimum 300 total) or HEC HAT Score (minimum 60%).
Eligible for full tuition fee coverage, stipend, and health insurance.

Category II – Universities Ranked 51–300:

Must have secured admission in a Top 51–300 QS World-Ranked University (overall or subject ranking).
Subject ranking must be within the Top 100 for the chosen field.
Must have a valid GRE General Score (minimum 300) or HEC HAT Score (minimum 60%).
Eligible for tuition support up to USD 12,000 per year, along with a stipend and health insurance.

Important Notes:

Only those candidates who fulfill both the general and specific eligibility criteria should apply.
There is no obligation on HEC to award scholarships to all applicants; selection will be made strictly on merit.
Preference will be given to applicants admitted to universities ranked within the Top 100 overall or by subject according to QS World University Rankings 2025 (reference: www.topuniversities.com).
The latest QS ranking will apply at the time of evaluation.
Selected candidates must sign a bond to return to Pakistan after completing their studies and serve in the country for a specified period.

The HEC PhD Scholarships offer an unparalleled opportunity for deserving Pakistani students to gain world-class education, contribute to knowledge creation, and help bridge Pakistan’s academic and industrial research gap.