In a significant step to deepen ties with Afghanistan, the Government of Pakistan has announced 4,500 fully-funded scholarships for Afghan students, offering them a chance to pursue higher education in some of Pakistan’s top universities.
The initiative is not just about academics—it is aimed at building bridges between the two nations, fostering people-to-people connections, and contributing to Afghanistan’s long-term development by equipping its youth with quality education.
A plethora of opportunities
The scholarships will be given to students in various fields, including
- Medicine
- Engineering
- Agriculture
- Management Sciences
- Computer Science
And more, opening doors for Afghan students to contribute to vital sectors back home. Programs are available at the undergraduate, MS/M.Phil, and PhD levels, making it extremely feasible for both fresh school graduates and advanced scholars to benefit.
What makes the scheme particularly appealing is its comprehensive financial support. Recipients will have their tuition fees fully covered a living allowance, hostel dues and book allowance, guaranteeing students can focus on their studies without financial worries.
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Who Can Apply?
The scholarships are open to Afghan students with strong academic backgrounds who meet specific eligibility criteria:
• Undergraduate applicants must be between 17 and 23 years old, with at least 60 percent marks in general subjects or 65 percent in medical and engineering (based on Pakistan’s IBCC equivalency).
• MS/M.Phil students must not exceed 35 years old
They must hold at least 16 years of education with a 2.5 CGPA out of 4.0.
• PhD aspirants must have 18 years of education and a 3.0 CGPA, with the age limit set at 35 years (40 for faculty members).
Application Process
Students are capable of applying online through the Higher Education Commission (HEC) portal at http://pakafghan.hec.gov.pk. A user manual is available on the site for guidance, and only online applications will be considered. 30 September 2025, is the last date to apply, so apply before wasting any second.
Officials say the program is clearly depicting dedication of Pakistan to nurturing Afghanistan’s human capital at a critical time. For Afghan youth, these scholarships offer not just education, but also a pathway to hope, empowerment, and rebuilding their country’s future.