Study in Pakistan: Complete Guide to the Allama Iqbal Scholarship Program 2026

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has officially invited applications for the Allama Iqbal Scholarships for the 2026 academic session. This program is a flagship initiative under the Pak-Sri Lanka Higher Education Cooperation Programme, aimed at fostering cultural exchange and academic growth between the two nations.

Key Deadline: The online application portal closes on June 25, 2026.

This program offers both fully funded and partially funded scholarships for students pursuing Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees in top-ranked Pakistani universities across various disciplines, including Engineering, Medicine, Social Sciences, and Information Technology.

Scholarship Benefits

The "fully funded" package is designed to provide a comprehensive academic experience:

• Tuition Fees: Full coverage of the program’s tuition costs.

• Maintenance: Monthly maintenance and living allowances.

• Accommodation: Hostel/housing support.

• Books: Annual book and stationery allowance.

• Travel: One-time return air ticket from Sri Lanka to Pakistan.

Note: Partially funded scholarships cover the tuition fee only; all other living and travel expenses are the responsibility of the student.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the 2026 intake, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Citizenship: Must be a Sri Lankan citizen (dual nationals are ineligible).

• Age Limits:

  • Undergraduate: 17–22 years.

  • Graduate/PhD: Maximum 35 years.

• Academic Prerequisites:

  • Medicine/Engineering: 65% marks in GCE A-Levels or equivalent (Pre-Medical/Pre-Engineering).

  • Bachelor’s Degree: 60% marks in GCE A-Levels or equivalent.

  • Master’s/PhD: Minimum 60% or 3.0 CGPA in previous relevant degrees.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted exclusively via the HEC portal. Follow these steps:

1. Online Registration: Visit eportal.hec.gov.pk/paksl to create an account and fill out the application form.

2. Required Documents: Ensure all academic transcripts and identification documents are ready for upload.

3. Aptitude Test: All applicants must appear for an HEC-organized scholarship test conducted in collaboration with the Pakistan High Commission in Colombo.

4. Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview before the final merit list is prepared.

Myth vs. Fact

Myth: You can apply with a hard-copy application form to the HEC office.

Fact: No, the HEC strictly requires online applications. Hard-copy submissions will not be processed.

E-E-A-T Reinforcement

This information is verified against the official HEC scholarship guidelines and the Pak-Sri Lanka Higher Education Cooperation Programme notices. We provide this to help international students navigate the HEC application portal accurately before the June 25 deadline.

FAQ Section

1. Is this scholarship open to Pakistani students?

No, the Allama Iqbal Scholarship scheme is specifically for Sri Lankan nationals.

2. What if I don't have my A-Level results yet?

Applicants must possess the required academic qualifications on or before the application submission deadline.

3. Does the scholarship cover a PhD?

Yes, the program covers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degree levels.

4. Where is the test conducted?

The test is organized by HEC in collaboration with the Pakistan High Commission in Colombo.

5. Can I apply for multiple disciplines?

Candidates should apply for their chosen field of study; changing subjects later is subject to university and HEC policy.

6. What happens if I provide false information?

Providing misleading information or misrepresentation will result in immediate termination of the scholarship at any stage.

Conclusion

The Allama Iqbal Scholarship is a significant academic bridge between Pakistan and Sri Lanka. If you meet the eligibility criteria, ensure your application is completed on the HEC portal by June 25, 2026.