Fully Funded HEC Commonwealth Scholarships in the UK

Studying abroad can be an enriching experience, but the costs can be prohibitive. The Fully Funded HEC Commonwealth Scholarships offer Pakistani students an incredible opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK with all tuition and living expenses covered.

In this guide, we’ll provide key details on eligibility, application requirements, benefits and more for these highly coveted scholarships. Read on to learn how you could earn your Masters or PhD in the UK fully funded!

Key Takeaways

• The HEC Commonwealth Scholarships fully fund tuition, airfare, stipend and other costs for Pakistani students to study in the UK.
• There are up to 26 scholarships available for Masters programs and 30 for PhD programs for 2023-2024.
• Applicants must have a first class degree and meet HEC and Commonwealth Scholarship criteria.
• The application deadline is October 17, 2023 for both HEC and Commonwealth online portals.
• These popular scholarships provide an amazing opportunity to study in the UK without financial burden.

The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) offers a prestigious scholarship program for students from Commonwealth countries to pursue studies at UK universities. These scholarships are aligned with international development goals and fully fund airfare, tuition, stipend, and other expenses.

For Pakistani students, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) facilitates nominations for these scholarships. There are up to 26 fully funded Masters and 30 fully funded PhD spots available for the 2023-2024 academic year.

These highly competitive scholarships enable talented Pakistani students to access world-class education in the UK, regardless of their financial situation.

Overview of the Fully Funded HEC Commonwealth Scholarships

Here are some key facts about the Fully Funded HEC Commonwealth Scholarships for Masters and PhD Without IELTS, UK:

• Since 1960, over 30,000 students from Commonwealth countries have benefited from these scholarships to study in the UK.
• For 2023-2024, there are up to 26 fully funded spots available for Masters programs and 30 spots for PhD programs.
• The scholarships are open to Pakistani nationals and AJK permanent residents for studies in any subject at UK universities.
• The application deadline is October 17, 2023 for both the HEC and Commonwealth online application portals.
• These popular scholarships enable Pakistani scholars to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK without financial burden.

The CSC administers these prestigious scholarships on behalf of the UK government. The HEC then facilitates nominations of eligible Pakistani students for these fully funded scholarships.

This is an incredible opportunity to earn your Masters or PhD from renowned UK universities with all major costs covered. But to win these highly competitive scholarships, you need to meet the eligibility criteria and submit outstanding applications.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Fully Funded HEC Commonwealth Scholarships, you must meet criteria set by both the HEC and CSC. Here are the key requirements:

General Eligibility

• You must be a Pakistani or AJK national and permanent resident. Dual nationals cannot apply.

For Masters Scholarships

• You must have a first class undergraduate degree in a relevant field. Second or third division degrees do not qualify.
• If awaiting results, you must provide your HAT test score with a minimum of 60 out of 100.

For PhD Scholarships

• You must have a first class Masters or equivalent postgraduate degree in a relevant field.
• You cannot already be registered in a PhD program in Pakistan or the UK.
• You need a supporting statement from a proposed UK supervisor.

CSC Eligibility

• You must be able to start studies in the UK by September/October 2024.
• The CSC typically does not fund second UK Masters degrees, unless justified.
• You must demonstrate financial need.
• You need full transcripts for all higher education qualifications.
• You need references from at least two individuals.

Meeting the eligibility criteria is essential, but does not guarantee selection. You need to stand out with your experience, achievements, and motivation highlighted in your applications.

Key Benefits

The Fully Funded HEC Commonwealth Scholarships provide comprehensive financial support for Pakistani scholars to pursue postgraduate studies at UK universities. Here are the key benefits covered in full:

• Airfare: A return economy ticket from your home city to the UK
• Tuition Fees: Your full tuition fees are covered
• Monthly Stipend: You receive £1,347 monthly for living expenses, or £1,652 if studying in London
• Warm Clothing Allowance: Relevant for scholars from warm climates studying in the UK
• Study Travel Grant: For study-related travel within the UK or abroad
• Child Allowance: Up to £720 per month for the first child, and £143 for the second and third child under 16
• Disability Support: Comprehensive support based on assessed needs

These provisions ensure Pakistani scholars can fully focus on their postgraduate studies and living experience in the UK, without any financial constraints or distractions.

🔑 Pro Tip: The CSC allowances provided are intended as a contribution. You may need to supplement them if bringing dependents. Be prepared for this additional expense.

Step-by-Step Application Process

To apply for the Fully Funded HEC Commonwealth Scholarships, you must complete online applications on both the HEC and Commonwealth Scholarship portals:

Step 1: Commonwealth Online Application

• Apply through the CSC online portal by the October 17, 2023 deadline:
  • Click here to apply for Masters
  • Click here to apply for PhD

Step 2: HEC Online Application

• Complete your application on the HEC portal at https://scholarships.hec.gov.pk/#/auth/login by October 17, 2023.
• Get a printed copy of the form to sign after submitting.
• Upload required documents like transcripts, statement of purpose, CNIC copy etc.

Key Tips for Successful Applications

Follow these tips to strengthen your chances of securing the Fully Funded HEC Commonwealth Scholarships:

💡 Start early – Give yourself plenty of time to submit high quality applications before the deadline.

💡 Follow instructions – Carefully adhere to all requirements outlined by the CSC and HEC.

💡 Check eligibility – Confirm you meet all criteria before applying.

💡 Highlight achievements – Craft a compelling statement of purpose emphasizing your academic excellence, leadership, contributions and motivations.

💡 Get references – Secure strong reference letters that reinforce your aptitude and potential.

💡 Proofread thoroughly – Avoid any errors by reviewing your applications multiple times.

FAQs

Are these scholarships open to all subjects?

Yes, you can apply for the Fully Funded HEC Commonwealth Scholarships to pursue a Masters or PhD in any subject offered at participating UK universities.

Can result-awaiting students apply?

Yes, result-awaiting students can apply but need to provide a HAT score of at least 60 out of 100 on their HEC application.

How are scholars selected?

The CSC makes the final selections based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and the aim of supporting development in Pakistan.

When do studies commence?

The scholarship will enable you to begin your program in the UK by September/October 2024.

Conclusion

The Fully Funded HEC Commonwealth Scholarships provide an incredible opportunity for talented Pakistani students to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK fully covered.

To recap, you need to meet eligibility criteria, apply by the October 2023 deadlines, and submit outstanding applications to win these highly competitive scholarships.

If selected, you can look forward to an enriching, life-changing experience advancing your education and leadership capabilities at a top UK university!