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Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (Least Developed Countries and Fragile States)

Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (FCDO); nominated in Pakistan by HEC · Checked September 26, 2026

These fully funded PhD awards at UK universities are for a small group of Commonwealth countries, and Pakistan is on the list for 2027/28. Pakistani candidates are nominated through HEC.

Deadline: 20 October 2026 23 days left
2027/28 cycle closes 20 October 2026 (CSC 16:00 BST; HEC 4:00 PM PST).
Add the deadline to my calendar (with a reminder 2 weeks before)
FundingFully funded
LevelPhD
Study inUnited Kingdom
SubjectsSubjects within the CSC's development themes

What it covers

  • Approved tuition fees
  • Return airfare between Pakistan and the UK
  • Stipend of £1,712 per month (£2,000 per month in the London metropolitan area)
  • Study travel grant
  • Provision towards overseas fieldwork costs
  • Paid mid-term visit to your home country
  • Spouse and child allowances (under specific conditions)

Who can apply

For Pakistani applicants:

  • Pakistani/AJ&K national and permanent resident. Dual nationals are not eligible (HEC).
  • By September 2027, hold a 2:1 first degree, or a lower second plus a relevant master's (CSC). HEC asks for a first division in a 17/18-year MS/MPhil/master's in the relevant field.
  • At least 60/100 in the HEC HAT test.
  • You must not be registered for a PhD (or an MPhil leading to a PhD) before September/October 2026.
  • You must be unable to afford UK study without the scholarship and be available to start in September 2027.

How to apply

  1. Find a proposed UK supervisor and get a supporting statement from them.
  2. Apply on CSC Central.
  3. Also apply on the HEC scholarship portal. HEC is the nominator, and direct applications to the CSC are not accepted.
  4. Make sure you have a valid HAT score.
  5. Submit both by 20 October 2026.

Documents you usually need

  • Passport or national ID card
  • Full transcripts of all higher education qualifications
  • References from at least two people
  • Supporting statement from a proposed UK supervisor
  • HAT test result (HEC)
Official page Apply on the official portal

Scholarship rules and deadlines change every cycle. This page summarises the official information; always confirm on the official page before applying. Official applications are free.

Prepare your application

Universities in United Kingdom

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