Fully Funded USA Scholarships 2026 for Pakistanis
USA scholarships : The United States remains the top destination for Pakistani students seeking world-class higher education, and 2026 brings multiple fully funded scholarship opportunities. From the prestigious Fulbright Program for Master’s and PhD studies to specialized HEC initiatives under the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor, talented Pakistani students can pursue their educational dreams at top American universities without financial burden .
These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, airfare, and additional academic costs, making American education accessible to students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential .
1. Fulbright Degree Program (Master’s and PhD)
The Fulbright Program is the flagship educational exchange program of the United States government, managed in Pakistan by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) . This is the largest and most prestigious scholarship opportunity for Pakistani students seeking graduate studies in the USA.
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USA Scholarships Program Overview
Category Details
- Degree Levels Master’s and PhD
- Duration 1-2 years for Master’s, 3-5 years for PhD
- Application Status Open
- Deadline April 1, 2026
Scholarship Benefits
The Fulbright scholarship is fully funded and includes :
✅ Full tuition fee coverage
✅ Airfare (round-trip)
✅ Living stipend for daily expenses
✅ Health insurance
✅ Required textbooks and course materials
✅ Computer allowance
✅ Visa fees
✅ Settling-in allowance
Eligibility Criteria
For Master’s Degree Program :
A four-year Bachelor’s degree or a Bachelor’s and Master’s combination totaling 16 years of formal education from an accredited university
Recent graduates are strongly encouraged to apply
MBA and Public Policy/Administration applicants require 2 years of work experience in the relevant field
For PhD Degree Program :
A Master’s, M.Phil, or comparable degree (minimum 18 years of formal education) from an accredited university
Work experience in teaching, research, or the public sector in Pakistan is highly desirable
General Requirements :
Pakistani citizens with strong academic histories, residing in Pakistan throughout the process
All academic disciplines are eligible except clinical medicine
GRE General Test required with minimum score of 145 on each section
High level of fluency in spoken and written English (TOEFL required after selection)
People seeking degrees in Sciences, Technology and AI, Trade and Economics, or Natural Resource Management are particularly encouraged to apply
Ineligibility Criteria
The following individuals are not eligible to apply :
- Persons with dual U.S./Pakistan nationality
- Those having a spouse, or child over 18 years of age who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Employees/contractors of the Fulbright organization, U.S. Department of State, or USAID and their immediate family members
- People who have already availed any Fulbright program scholarship
- Persons already studying in the U.S. or on a work/residence/student visa in any country
Application Process
A complete application package includes :
Online application form
Three reference letters
GRE score report
Scanned transcripts with explanation of grading scale
HEC-attested documents are preferable, but degree and transcripts attested by the issuing authority are acceptable at the time of application . Incomplete applications will not be considered, and paper applications are not accepted .
Apply here: https://www.usefp.org/scholarships/fulbright-degree.cfm
Important Notes
All successful candidates are required to sign a contract with USEFP. PhD candidates must also sign a bond with HEC committing to return to Pakistan immediately after their program and serve the country for the number of years equivalent to the length of their scholarship (minimum two years) .
Selection Timeline
Stage Timeline
- Application review and interviews Until August
- Results announcement Mid-September
- University placement process Until April
- Visa interviews June/July/August
- Departure to U.S. July onwards
2. HEC PhD Scholarships Under US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has announced fully funded PhD scholarships for the USA under the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor Project . This program aims to strengthen Pakistan’s research capacity by sending talented scholars to leading American universities.
Program Background
Launched under the US-Pakistan Bilateral Strategic Dialogue in June 2015, the Knowledge Corridor aims to send 10,000 Pakistani scholars to the US over ten years to build faculty capacity in Pakistan’s higher education sector .
Program Overview
Category Details
Degree Level PhD
Application Deadline April 30, 2026 (Fall 2026 intake)
Target Universities Top 100 QS World-Ranked US Universities
Scholarship Categories
Category 1: Top 50 QS World-Ranked U.S. Universities (Fully Funded) :
100% Tuition Fee Coverage (as per university invoice)
Monthly Living Stipend
Full Health Insurance
Additional research support
Category 2: Rank 51–100 QS World-Ranked U.S. Universities :
Up to USD 12,000 per year tuition support
Monthly stipend
Health insurance
Eligibility Criteria
Requirement Details
- Academic Qualification MS/MPhil (18 years education) OR exceptional BS (16 years) for direct PhD admissions
- Minimum CGPA 3.0 out of 4.0 (or equivalent)
- Age Limit Maximum 35 years for fresh applicants; up to 40 years for faculty members
- Nationality Pakistani/AJK citizen with valid CNIC
- Academic Record No 2nd or 3rd division in entire academic career
- Other Must not be availing any other scholarship
Category I Specific Requirements :
Admission secured in a Top 50 QS World-Ranked US University
Valid GRE General Score (minimum 300) or HAT Score (minimum 60%)
Category II Specific Requirements :
Admission secured in a Top 300 QS World-Ranked US University
Valid GRE General Score (minimum 300) or HAT Score (minimum 60%)
English Language Requirements
Most U.S. universities require :
IELTS (usually 6.5–7.0 band)
OR TOEFL iBT (80–100 score)
Target Study Fields
HEC encourages applications in fields where Pakistan needs high-level experts :
- Engineering & Technology
- Computer Science & IT
- Artificial Intelligence & Robotics
- Biotechnology & Life Sciences
- Agricultural Sciences
- Economics & Social Sciences
- Environmental Sciences
- Physics, Chemistry & Mathematics
- Medical & Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Business & Management
How to Apply
Step 1: Visit the HEC online portal: https://scholarship.hec.gov.pk/
Step 2: Register with your CNIC, email ID, and mobile number
Step 3: Complete the scholarship application form with:
- Academic records
- Research experience
- University preferences
- IELTS/TOEFL scores
- GRE scores
- Personal statement
Step 4: Upload required documents:
- CNIC
- Academic transcripts
- Degrees
- English proficiency certificate
- GRE scorecard
- Updated CV
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Research proposal (if required)
Step 5: Apply separately to U.S. universities (HEC does not apply on your behalf)
Step 6: Submit the HEC application before the deadline
Why This Scholarship is Life-Changing
International networking with world-class researchers
Access to cutting-edge labs and innovation centers
Publishing in top journals
Working with renowned professors
Graduates return to Pakistan as professors, researchers, government advisors, and industry leaders
3. Gilman-McCain Scholarship
Pakistani students going for studies or internships in the US in 2026 are eligible to apply for the Fully Funded Gilman-McCain Scholarship .
Program Overview
Category Details
Scholarship Value Up to $5,000
Coverage Tuition, program fees, travel, and living expenses
Application Deadline Varies by cycle
This scholarship is available for U.S. undergraduate students, including children and spouses of active U.S. military personnel, which makes it a good opportunity for international students from Pakistan who are studying in the U.S. .
The primary Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship opens in cycles throughout the year. Eligible applicants may also apply for supplementary prizes like the STEM Supplemental Award or Critical Need Language Award for extra funding .
Comparison of Major Scholarships
Feature Fulbright Program HEC Knowledge Corridor
- Degree Level Master’s & PhD PhD only
- Deadline April 1, 2026 April 30, 2026
- GRE Required Yes (min 145 each section) Yes (min 300)
- Tuition Coverage Full Full (Top 50) / Partial (51-100)
- Stipend Yes Yes
- Health Insurance Yes Yes
- Airfare Yes Yes
- Target Universities Any accredited US university Top 100 QS World-Ranked
Tips for a Successful Application
1. Start Early
The application process is lengthy and requires careful preparation. Begin gathering documents, studying for GRE/TOEFL, and researching universities at least 6-8 months before deadlines .
2. Prepare a Strong Statement of Purpose
Your SOP should clearly explain :
Your academic and research interests
Why you want to study in the US
How the program aligns with your career goals
What you plan to contribute after returning to Pakistan
Contact EducationUSA Advising Centers at advising@usefp.org for free weekly workshops on essay writing .
3. Secure Strong Recommendations
Choose referees who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities, research potential, and character. Provide them with your CV and SOP to help them write detailed, personalized letters.
4. Research Universities Carefully
Don’t just apply to the most famous names. Research which universities have strong programs in your field, faculty members whose research interests align with yours, and good track records of supporting international students .
5. Proofread Everything
Errors in your application can create a negative impression. Have someone else review your essays and application forms before submission.
6. Prepare for Interviews
If shortlisted, you may be called for an interview. Practice common questions, be ready to discuss your research interests, and demonstrate your communication skills .
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I apply for both Fulbright and HEC scholarships simultaneously?
A: Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships. However, if selected for both, you must choose one.
Q2: Do I need to know a professor before applying?
A: For Master’s programs, no. For PhD programs, it’s beneficial but not always required. Some universities require you to identify a potential supervisor in your application.
Q3: What if I don’t have GRE scores yet?
A: You can apply with the registration slip and submit scores later. However, meeting deadlines is crucial. Fulbright requires minimum 145 on each section .
Q4: Is there an age limit for Fulbright?
A: There is no strict age limit for Fulbright, but preference is given to recent graduates and early-career professionals .
Q5: Can I bring my family with me?
A: Dependents are allowed on F2 visas, but the scholarship stipend may not cover their expenses. Fulbright applicants should be prepared to complete grants without accompanying dependents, if need be .
Q6: What is the success rate?
A: Fulbright is highly competitive with acceptance rates around 5-10%. HEC scholarships also have rigorous selection processes. Strong applications significantly improve your chances.
Q7: Do I have to return to Pakistan after studies?
A: Yes. Both Fulbright and HEC scholarships require a binding commitment to return and serve Pakistan for a specified period .
Q8: Can candidates already studying in the USA apply for HEC scholarships?
A: No, this program is for students applying from Pakistan .
Why Study in the USA?
- World-Class Education: US universities consistently rank among the top globally, offering cutting-edge research facilities and renowned faculty .
- Research Opportunities: Access to state-of-the-art labs, libraries, and collaboration with leading experts in your field.
- Cultural Diversity: Experience a multicultural environment with students from around the world.
- Career Prospects: A US degree opens doors to international career opportunities and networking.
- Return on Investment: The skills, knowledge, and connections gained during your studies benefit Pakistan upon your return .
Analysis by Best Pak Mag
The United States remains the top destination for Pakistani students seeking world-class education, and these fully funded scholarships represent life-changing opportunities. The Fulbright Program, with its comprehensive coverage and prestige, is the gold standard for Master’s and PhD studies . The HEC Knowledge Corridor initiative specifically targets PhD candidates, aiming to build Pakistan’s research capacity in critical fields like AI, biotechnology, and engineering .
For prospective applicants, the key to success lies in early preparation. The April deadlines are approaching rapidly, so students should begin gathering documents, registering for GRE and TOEFL exams, and drafting their Statements of Purpose immediately .
Both scholarships require a binding commitment to return to Pakistan after completion—this isn’t just a formality. The bond with HEC ensures that the investment in your education benefits Pakistan’s development . For PhD scholars, this often leads to faculty positions at Pakistani universities, creating a multiplier effect for future generations.
The numbers tell the story: thousands apply, hundreds are selected, but those who succeed become ambassadors of Pakistan-US educational cooperation. If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t let the competition deter you. A well-prepared application can open doors you never imagined possible.
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