The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC) helps people from around the world get scholarships from the UK government. These scholarships are meant to help with international development. Since 1960, the CSC has given scholarships to more than 30,000 people. They come to the UK to study learn new things, and make connections to help solve global problems.
You can apply for these scholarships on the CSC website until October 17, 2023.
There are 26 scholarships available for Master’s programs and 30 scholarships available for PhD programs
WHO CAN APPLY FOR THESE SCHOLARSHIPS?
To be eligible to apply for these scholarships, you need to meet certain requirements set by HEC and CSC
Nationality and Residence
You must be a Pakistani or AJ&K national and a permanent resident of Pakistan or AJ&K. Dual nationals are not eligible.
Education Level
For Master’s Scholarships: You should have a first-class degree in a relevant postgraduate qualification (equivalent to a 16-year Bachelor’s or Master’s degree) in the field of study by the closing date of the HEC application portal.
For PhD Scholarships: You should have a first-class degree in a relevant postgraduate qualification (equivalent to a 17/18-year Master’s/MS/MPhil degree) in the field of study by the closing date of the HEC application portal.
Candidates with second or third division in their last degree are not eligible. However, applicants awaiting their results can apply.
HAT Test Score:
All applicants are required to provide a HAT test score. You must have a minimum score of 60 out of 100 on the HAT test. If you’ve taken the HAT test on or after January 01, 2022, you can upload the test result on the HEC portal. If you haven’t taken the HAT test yet, you can register for it at https://etc.hec.gov.pk/. ETC is currently accepting applications for the HAT test.
Merit for these scholarships will be primarily based on your HAT score, though HEC reserves the right to modify the merit criteria.
CSC Eligibility Criteria (in addition to HEC criteria):
You must be available to begin your academic studies in the UK at the start of the UK academic year in September 2024.
The CSC generally does not fund a second UK Master’s degree. If you’re applying for a second UK Master’s degree, you need to provide a valid reason for pursuing this study.
You should be unable to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship.
You must provide complete transcripts for all your higher education qualifications, including up-to-date transcripts for any ongoing qualifications (with certified translations if they are not in English). These documents should be uploaded to the online application system.
You should provide references from at least two individuals.
Additional Requirement for Ph.D. Candidates:
You should not be registered for a Ph.D. or an MPhil leading to a Ph.D. at a UK university or in your home country before September/October 2024.
You must also include a supporting statement from a proposed supervisor in the UK from at least one of the institutions listed on your application form.
HOW TO APPLY
To apply for these scholarships, you need to follow a two-step application process: one on the Commonwealth Scholarships portal and another on the HEC portal. It’s crucial to complete both steps for your application to be considered. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Commonwealth Online Application
Visit the CSC’s online application system using the links below:
For Master’s Scholarship: Click here to apply for a Master’s Scholarship
For PhD Scholarship: Click here to apply for a PhD Scholarship
Make sure you complete your application using the online system provided by the CSC. Applications submitted in any other way or after the specified closing date won’t be accepted.
Step 2: HEC Online Application
Go to the HEC website: HEC Scholarship Portal.
Create an account and fill out your profile information.
Choose the option ‘Learning Opportunities Abroad’ and complete the application process.
After submitting your application, don’t forget to print a copy and sign it.
The HEC online application portal will close on October 17, 2023, at 04:00 PM Pakistan Time.
Important Reminders:
You must submit both the Commonwealth Application form and the online HEC form to be considered. Make sure your applications are complete in all aspects.
Keep copies of your HEC online application and Commonwealth Scholarships online application for your records.
Do not send hard copies of your applications to HEC.
Additional Information:
HEC promotes equal opportunities, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The minimum female nomination ratio is 45%.
HEC’s online portal will close at the specified deadline, and incomplete applications (those not submitted or saved) will not be accepted.
Please note that HEC plays a facilitating role in the nomination process, and the final selection is made by the donor country. HEC is not financially responsible for this scholarship.
If you provide false information at any stage, HEC reserves the right to cancel your application and bar you from future scholarships.
It’s your responsibility to ensure that you complete both the Commonwealth and HEC application steps before the October 17, 2023, deadline.
FAQS
1. What are the eligibility criteria for the Commonwealth Scholarship?
To find out if you’re eligible for the Commonwealth Scholarship, please check the Introduction/Eligibility criteria section on the HEC Commonwealth Scholarship webpage. Link here
2. How to apply online at HEC & CSC (Commonwealth Portal)?
Applying for the Commonwealth Scholarship involves two important steps:
Step 1 (Commonwealth Online Application):
Apply for the Commonwealth (CW) Scholarship for Master’s and PhD studies through their online application system at:
a) For Master’s: Link here
b) For PhD: Link here
Step 2 (HEC Online Application):
Apply online on the HEC website at the link here. After registering and completing your profile, select “Learning Opportunities Abroad.”
3. What is the last date/deadline to apply for the Commonwealth Scholarship on CW portal?
The deadline for applying on the Commonwealth Portal is October 17, 2023, at 16:00 GMT.
4. What is the last date/deadline to apply for the Commonwealth Scholarship on HEC portal?
The deadline for applying on the HEC Portal is October 17, 2023, at 04:00 PM Pakistan Standard Time. Please note that it’s your responsibility to apply before the deadline.
6. What is the minimum qualifying marks required for the Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT)?
Applicants must score a minimum of 60% marks in the Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT) for consideration for nomination.
7. What is the age limit for Masters/PhD?
There is no age limit. Anyone who meets HEC and CW criteria can apply.
8. Which HAT test option is available on HEC ETC website?
All Master’s applicants should register for the MS/MPhil test available on the HEC ETC website. All PhD applicants should register for the PhD test option for their HAT test.
Conclusion
The Commonwealth Scholarship offers valuable opportunities for Pakistani and AJ&K nationals to pursue Master’s and PhD studies abroad. To determine your eligibility and successfully apply, please refer to the provided links and follow the step-by-step instructions. Remember the important deadlines, ensure the accuracy of your information, and be mindful of the HEC ETC-HAT test requirement. We encourage all eligible candidates, including females, to take advantage of this equal-opportunity scholarship. For any queries or further assistance, you can reach out to HEC and Commonwealth using the provided contact information and explore the FAQs for additional guidance. Don’t miss this chance to advance your education and career on an international platform. Good luck with your application!
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