By scholarshipswithaakash@gmail.com 
HEC PhD Scholarships in USA – The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan, under the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor Project, has officially announced the opening of applications for fully funded PhD scholarships in the USA for Fall 2025, Spring/Summer 2026, and Fall 2026 admissions. This prestigious initiative aims to send talented Pakistani students to top-ranked US universities to pursue world-class doctoral training.
Whether you’re an academic, a professional, or a fresh graduate with a passion for research, this scholarship offers an exceptional pathway to join the world’s leading research environments and bring back expertise to Pakistan.
📅 Application Timeline
Applications are open for three admission cycles:
- Fall 2025: Deadline – 20 July 2025
- Spring/Summer 2026: Deadline – 15 November 2025
- Fall 2026: Deadline – 30 April 2026
📌 Apply online: HEC Scholarship Portal
🌍 About the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor
The US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor (US-PKC) is a flagship higher education program initiated by HEC to strengthen Pakistan’s human capital in science, technology, engineering, and innovation. The program aims to send 10,000 PhD scholars to the United States over the next decade to contribute to Pakistan’s knowledge economy.
By sponsoring PhD studies in top 300 US universities, the initiative ensures that scholars gain cutting-edge knowledge, global exposure, and the ability to lead transformative change in Pakistan’s academic and industrial sectors.
🎯 General Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the HEC PhD Scholarships in USA, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Nationality: Must be a Pakistani or AJK national.
- Education: Minimum of 16 years of formal education (BS/BE/MA/MSc or equivalent).
- Academic Record: No 2nd or 3rd division in the entire academic career for Category-I and Category-II scholarships.
- Age Limit:
- 40 years for regular government employees, faculty of public sector universities, and researchers in approved R&D organizations.
- 35 years for all other candidates.
- Exclusivity: Must not be availing any other scholarship.
🏆 Scholarship Categories & Benefits
The program offers two categories of scholarships based on the university ranking:
Category I – Top 50 QS World Ranked US Universities (Overall/Subject Ranking)
- 📚 Tuition Fee: As per university invoice.
- 💰 Stipend & Health Insurance provided.
- 📌 Eligibility:
- Admission secured in a Top 50 US university.
- Valid GRE General (minimum score 300) OR HAT Score (minimum 60%).
Category II – US Universities Ranked 51–300 in QS World Ranking (Overall/Subject)
- 📚 Tuition Fee Coverage: Up to USD 12,000/year.
- 💰 Stipend & Health Insurance provided.
- 📌 Eligibility:
- Admission secured in a US university ranked 51–300.
- Valid GRE General (minimum score 300) OR HAT Score (minimum 60%).
📌 Important Notes
- Applications will be shortlisted strictly on general and specific eligibility criteria.
- Preference will be given to applicants already admitted to Top 100 US universities.
- The latest QS World Ranking 2025 from TopUniversities.com will be used for university placement verification.
- GRE/HAT scores must be valid at the time of application.
🧾 How to Apply
- Check Eligibility: Review the general and specific eligibility requirements for your category.
- Secure Admission: Apply to US universities and secure an admission offer (preferably Top 100).
- Prepare Documents:
- CNIC / Passport copy
- Academic transcripts & degrees
- GRE/HAT score report
- Admission offer letter (if available)
- Apply Online: Submit your application at HEC Scholarship Portal.
- Submit Before Deadline: Applications after the deadline will not be considered.
If you require any help regarding your application, you can contact us at scholarshipswithaakash@gmail.com
🎓 Why Apply for HEC PhD Scholarships in USA?
1️⃣ World-Class Education
Study at Ivy League and other top US institutions renowned for cutting-edge research and innovation.
2️⃣ Fully Funded Opportunity
Covers tuition, stipend, and health insurance, with generous support for living expenses.
3️⃣ Global Exposure
Experience diverse academic cultures and collaborate with international researchers.
4️⃣ Career Advancement
Return to Pakistan as a highly qualified researcher and secure top positions in academia, R&D, and industry.
🗣️ Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- 🎯 Target Top Universities: Preference is given to candidates with offers from Top 100 US universities.
- 📈 Boost Your GRE/HAT Scores: Higher scores increase your chances.
- 📄 Strong Research Proposal: Outline innovative research aligned with Pakistan’s development needs.
- 🤝 Network with Supervisors: Secure strong academic recommendations.
🤔 FAQs
❓ Can I apply without an admission letter from a US university?
Yes, but preference is given to candidates with confirmed admission offers.
❓ Which fields are eligible?
All fields listed on the HEC website are eligible — ranging from STEM disciplines to social sciences.
❓ Is there a bond requirement?
Yes, scholars must sign a bond to serve in Pakistan after completion of studies.
❓ Can I apply if I already have a PhD?
No, this program is exclusively for first-time PhD applicants.
📌 Official Links & Contact
- Apply Here: https://scholarships.hec.gov.pk
- HEC US-PKC Details: http://www.hec.gov.pk/site/US-PAK-KC
- Contact: UAN: 051-111-119-432, Ext: 8334, 1191432
📢 Final Words
The HEC PhD Scholarships in USA 2025–2026 under the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor Project represent one of the most prestigious and fully funded doctoral opportunities for Pakistani students. If you have the academic potential, research vision, and ambition to contribute to Pakistan’s knowledge economy, this is your chance to train in the best universities in the world.
Don’t miss this opportunity — start preparing now and submit your application before the deadline for your desired intake.
🧑🎓 Author Bio
Mubeen Ali Niaz
Founder of ScholarshipsWithAakash.site
Mubeen curates top-ranked, fully funded scholarships for international students. With a strong background in global education and SEO, he helps students worldwide gain access to world-class research programs.
Stay tuned with Scholarships with Aakash — Where Your Academic Dreams Take Flight.
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