Update 18 October 2026: only 2 days left. The deadline is Tuesday 20 October at 4:00 PM. HAT roll number slips for 25 October are now out.
HEC is taking applications for the Commonwealth Scholarship 2027-28, a fully funded Master's or PhD in the UK. The last date is Tuesday 20 October 2026 at 4:00 PM. You also need a HAT score of 60 or more, and the HAT on 25 October is your last chance to get it for this batch.
Quick details
| What | Details |
|---|---|
| Study | Master's or PhD in the UK |
| Last date | 20 October 2026, 4:00 PM (Pakistan time) |
| HAT needed | 60 out of 100 (HAT-I, II, III or IV) |
| Last HAT for this batch | Sunday 25 October 2026 |
| Seats | 26 Master's, 30 PhD (at least 45% for women) |
| Age limit | None |
Who can apply
- You must be a Pakistani or AJ&K national living here. Dual nationals cannot apply.
- For Master's: first division in a 16 year Bachelor's degree in the same field.
- For PhD: first division in a 17 or 18 year MS or MPhil in the same field.
- No second or third division in your latest degree.
- If your final result is still awaited, you can apply, but you must show the degree before studies start in 2027.
How to apply (2 steps, both needed)
- Apply on the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) online system for Master's or PhD.
- Then apply on the HEC portal at scholarship.hec.gov.pk under "Learning Opportunities Abroad", and save a copy of your form.
Many students only apply on one portal and get rejected. You must do both before 20 October. Do not send paper copies to HEC unless they email you to ask.
The HAT score rule, in simple words
Your HAT result must be from a test taken on or after 25 October 2024. The ordinary HAT for admissions in Pakistani universities does not count here. Only HAT-I, II, III or IV count.
If you do not have a HAT score yet, the HAT on 25 October 2026 is the last one for this batch. You can apply first, and HEC will add your result when it comes. If 2 students have the same HAT score, HEC looks at the percentage in their last degree.
Other scholarships also use HAT and USAT scores. See our list of HEC scholarships that need HAT or USAT.
What happens next
HEC will send its nominations in December 2026. Final results are expected in July 2027, and studies start in September or October 2027. Being nominated by HEC does not mean you are selected. The final choice is made by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK.
My advice: do not leave it for the last day. Fill both forms this week, then spend the rest of your time on HAT practice. A score of 60 is very possible with 10 days of good, timed practice.
Common questions
What is the last date for the HEC Commonwealth Scholarship 2027-28?
The last date is Tuesday 20 October 2026 at 4:00 PM Pakistan time, on both the Commonwealth portal and the HEC portal.
What HAT score is needed for the Commonwealth Scholarship?
At least 60 out of 100 in HAT-I, II, III or IV. The HAT for Pakistani university admissions is not accepted.
Can I apply before my HAT result comes?
Yes. If you take the HAT on 25 October 2026, HEC adds the result to your application by itself when it is announced.
Is there an age limit for the Commonwealth Scholarship?
No. HEC says there is no upper age limit.
How many students will HEC nominate?
HEC will nominate 26 students for Master's and 30 for PhD. At least 45% of nominations will be female.