This guide explains how to apply for an HEC scholarship online through the official HEC scholarship portal. It is for Pakistani students and researchers who want to apply for an HEC programme such as IRSIP, Commonwealth or other scholarships abroad. The key rule: only a form with the status “Submitted” is considered, and a form that is only “Saved” is treated as incomplete.
Before you start: what you need
Every HEC programme has its own eligibility rules, documents and last date, published on that programme’s page on the HEC website. Read that page first. HEC says to apply only if you meet the basic criteria, and incomplete applications are not entertained.
- Your CNIC and an email address and mobile number you use regularly.
- Scanned academic documents, such as degrees and transcripts.
- Programme-specific papers. For example, the IRSIP page lists acceptance letters from foreign universities, a supervisor recommendation letter, a CV, a passport copy and a GRE result. Other programmes ask for different documents.
- Any NOC your department or employer must give, if the programme requires it.
How to apply for HEC scholarship online: steps
- Open the HEC scholarship portal at scholarship.hec.gov.pk.
- Register and complete your profile. HEC asks applicants to update their latest email and mobile number before applying.
- Find the programme you want on the official HEC scholarships page and read its eligibility criteria and last date.
- Select the programme in the portal (for scholarships abroad, HEC’s pages refer to “Learning Opportunities Abroad”) and fill in the online form.
- Attach the documents the programme asks for.
- Submit the form. Then check your application status: it must read “Submitted”.
- Download or print the submitted form and keep a signed copy where the programme page asks for it.
After you apply
What happens next depends on the programme. For IRSIP, HEC says selected candidates must submit a hard copy of their application. For the Commonwealth programme, HEC’s page said hard copies are not required at the application stage. Do not post papers to HEC unless your programme page or an HEC email tells you to. Some programmes also need a separate application on a partner portal, so check the programme page for a second step.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Leaving the form as “Saved”. Saved forms are treated as incomplete.
- Applying on the last day. The portal can be busy near the deadline, so submit early.
- Skipping a required document. Incomplete applications can be discarded.
- Outdated contact details in your profile, which means you may miss HEC emails.
- Applying for a programme you are not eligible for.
- Following advice from social media pages instead of the official programme page.
Current openings and related posts
Frequently asked questions
Where do I apply for HEC scholarships?
Use the HEC scholarship portal at scholarship.hec.gov.pk and follow the instructions on the programme page on the HEC website.
What does a “Saved” application status mean?
It means the form is incomplete. HEC says only applications with the status “Submitted” are considered.
Do I need to send a hard copy to HEC?
It depends on the programme. Some ask for a hard copy only after selection, and others do not need one at the application stage. Read the “How to Apply” page of your programme.
New to this? Read our guide: How to Apply for HEC Degree Attestation Online.
Note: Always confirm details on the official website before you apply or pay any fee. Great Pak Times is not affiliated with any government body.
Source: Higher Education Commission, Scholarships and Grants. Checked 20 October 2026.