The HEC changes deadline for Commonwealth Scholarships, now moved from October 14 to October 21, 2025, giving Pakistani students more time to complete and submit their applications. This extension is a relief for many candidates who were struggling to gather documents, finalize their proposals, or secure recommendation letters.
Under this scheme, Pakistan gets 56 nominations in total: 26 seats for Master’s level studies and 30 seats for PhD aspirants.Applicants from Pakistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) are eligible to apply, provided they also meet the HEC and CSC (Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, UK) requirements.
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Table of Contents
HEC Commonwealth Scholarships Eligibility and Requirements?
| Category | Requirement / Detail |
| Nationality | Pakistani / AJK permanent resident (dual nationals are not eligible) |
| Academic record | No second or third division marks in the final degree; first division or equivalent is required |
| Educational level | For Master’s: 16 years of education (BS, MA/MSc or equivalent). For PhD: 17 or 18 years (MS/MPhil/PhD) |
| HAT test score | Minimum 60 out of 100 in general categories I–IV |
| CSC / UK conditions | Must start UK studies by Sept/Oct 2026; PhD applicants need supporting statement from UK supervisor; cannot already be enrolled in a PhD program |
How to Apply for HEC Commonwealth Scholarships
- CSC (UK) Online Application
Candidates first apply via the CSC Electronic Application System (EAS). This includes providing academic transcripts, personal statements, research proposals (for PhD), references, and other documents. - HEC Online Application
Alongside the CSC application, applicants must also register in the HEC e-portal under “Learning Opportunities Abroad (LOA)” and upload required documents, HAT score, etc.
Both parts must be completed and submitted before the new deadline to avoid disqualification.
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Benefits of the Deadline Extension & Cautions for Applicants
Advantages:
- More time to collect transcripts, NOCs, translations, and referee letters
- Opportunity to refine statements and proposals
- Reduces pressure and risk of last-minute mistakes
- Helps applicants in remote areas or with slower document approvals
But be mindful:
- The extension does not relax the eligibility criteria
- Competition remains high; quality still matters
- Missing either CSC or HEC submission causes disqualification.
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Tips for Strong Application Before October 21
- Start early: coordinate transcripts, references, and supervisor contacts
- Register and prepare for HAT test well ahead
- Draft your research proposal and personal statement, then revise
- Contact potential UK supervisors (for PhD) early
- Organize and double-check all documents, translations, and forms
- Keep backups (digital and physical) of all submissions.
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Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the HEC changes deadline for Commonwealth Scholarships has given students a valuable extra week to polish their applications and manage logistics. But this relief comes with responsibility — applicants must still meet strict eligibility and submit both CSC and HEC applications by October 21, 2025. With careful preparation and timely action, deserving students can make the most of this opportunity. Good luck to all who apply!
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