The Chinese Scholarship Council (CSC) has announced 75 fully-funded scholarships for Pakistani students for the academic year 2026–27 as part of the Government of China’s initiative to strengthen educational ties with Pakistan.
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan is the official nominating agency responsible for shortlisting eligible applicants for the program.
Programs offered:
The Chinese Government Scholarship Program supports international students pursuing undergraduate, master’s, and PhD degrees in various academic fields. A one-year Chinese language preparatory course is included where necessary.
For undergraduate programs, the study duration is 4 to 5 years, with a mandatory Chinese language preparatory year of 1 to 2 years unless the student holds a valid HSK Level 3 certificate. Master’s programs last 2 to 3 years, and doctoral (PhD) programs are 3 to 4 years, with a preparatory year required for those who need it.
Financial coverage:
The CSC scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, covering:
Tuition Fees: Fully covered by the host university, including education, administration, and health insurance costs.
Accommodation: Free university dormitory or a housing subsidy.
Monthly Stipend: Provided according to CSC policy, varying by degree level.
Travel Expenses: To be borne by the scholarship awardee.
HEC will not bear any financial liability under this scholarship.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a Pakistani or AJK national (dual nationality holders are not eligible).
- Must be in good health.
- Must have completed relevant degrees before the application deadline.
For undergraduate applicants, the minimum education requirement is 12 years of schooling (Intermediate/A-Level/F.A/F.Sc), with an age limit of under 25 years. For master’s applicants, a Bachelor’s degree (16 years) is required, with an age limit of under 35 years. PhD applicants must have a Master’s or MPhil degree and be under 40 years old.
Applicants must fulfill CSC eligibility and the admission requirements of the chosen university (academic performance, language proficiency, etc.). They cannot hold another scholarship simultaneously. They must submit valid test scores (USAT for Bachelor’s, HAT for Master’s/PhD).
Applicants applying for medical, engineering, law, architecture, or veterinary degrees must confirm accreditation with the relevant professional council (e.g., PMDC, PEC, PNC, PCATP, PBC, PVMC, etc.).
Applicants must complete two online applications: one on the HEC Portal and another on the CSC Portal.
To apply through the HEC Portal, complete your profile and select “Learning Opportunities Abroad.” Submit your application online and keep a signed printed copy. You must also apply through the CSC Portal under Program Category Type A, Agency Number 5861 (HEC/Pakistan), and sign the application form for your records.
Undergraduate applicants must take the CSCA test, which will be held on December 21, 2025. You must obtain your score report before the application deadline.
Shortlisted candidates will need to submit attested and translated documents as per HEC instructions. These include notarized educational documents, CNIC, domicile, birth certificate, equivalence certificates (if applicable), study plans or research proposals, proof of language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/HSK), a valid passport, physical examination form, police clearance certificate, and two recommendation letters for master’s or PhD applicants.
The last date to apply is Monday, January 5, 2026 (4:00 PM PST). Applications must be submitted on both the HEC Portal and CSC Portal before the deadline.
For queries or technical assistance, visit the HEC online help portal or contact the helpline (051-111-119-432 or 0334-111-9432).
