China announces 75 fully-funded BS, MS and PhD scholarships for Pakistani students for 2026–27

China has opened another major educational opportunity for Pakistani students as the Chinese Scholarship Council (CSC) has announced 75 fully funded scholarships for the academic year 2026–27. The program is part of China’s continued effort to strengthen academic cooperation with Pakistan.

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan will serve as the official nominating body to screen and shortlist eligible applicants for the scholarships.

Programs and Study Duration

Under this initiative, international students can apply for Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD programs in a wide range of academic fields. Many applicants will also receive a one-year Chinese language preparatory course, depending on university requirements.

Category Major Study Duration Chinese Language Prep
Undergraduate 4–5 years 1–2 years
Master’s 2–3 years 1–2 years
PhD 3–4 years 1–2 years

For undergraduate candidates, the preparatory year is compulsory unless they hold a valid HSK Level 3 certificate.

Financial Benefits

The CSC scholarship covers almost all major expenses:

  • Tuition fees fully covered by the host university

  • Free accommodation in dormitories or a monthly housing subsidy

  • Monthly stipend based on CSC policy

  • Travel expenses must be paid by the awardee

HEC has reiterated that it carries no financial responsibility under this program.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

  • Be Pakistani or AJK nationals

  • Be in good physical and mental health

  • Not hold dual nationality

  • Hold complete academic degrees at the time of application

Academic Requirements

Program Minimum Qualification Age Limit
Undergraduate Intermediate / A-level / FA / FSc Under 25
Master’s Bachelor’s degree (16 years) Under 35
PhD Master’s/MPhil Under 40

Additional Conditions

  • Must meet CSC and university-specific admission requirements

  • Cannot hold another scholarship simultaneously

  • Must submit valid USAT (for BS) or HAT (for MS/PhD) scores

  • Minimum required score: 50/100

Accepted score timelines include:

  • USAT: from January 6, 2025 onward

  • HAT: from January 6, 2024 onward

  • Or results from the December 7, 2025 test

Applicants for medical, engineering, law, architecture, or veterinary programs must verify accreditation with relevant councils such as PMDC, PEC, PNC, PCATP, PBC, PVMC. Medical applicants must also comply with PMDC’s foreign admission policy.


How to Apply

Applicants must complete two separate online applications:

1. HEC Portal

  • Create or update profile

  • Select “Learning Opportunities Abroad”

  • Submit online form

  • Keep a signed copy for personal record

2. CSC Portal

  • Program Category: Type A

  • Agency Number: 5861 (HEC Pakistan)

  • Fill, download, and sign the application form

Both applications are mandatory. Missing one leads to disqualification.

For Undergraduate Applicants

  • CSCA Test is compulsory

  • Test date: December 21, 2025


Required Documents (For shortlisted candidates)

  • Notarized & translated academic documents

  • CNIC, domicile, birth certificate

  • Study plan / research proposal

    • Undergraduate: 200+ words

    • Master’s/PhD: 800+ words

  • Language proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL/HSK)

  • Valid passport (till March 1, 2027)

  • Foreigner Physical Examination Form

  • Police clearance certificate

  • Pre-admission letter (optional, but helpful)

  • Two recommendation letters (Master’s/PhD)

  • NOC from employer (if applicable)

  • Guardian’s documents (if applicant is under 18)


Deadline

Monday, January 5, 2026 (4:00 PM PST)
Both CSC and HEC applications must be submitted before the deadline.

For help, applicants may contact HEC’s helpline or use the online support portal.

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