Timeline
Four dates that shape your year
Applications open
May 15, 2026
Applications close
Jul 31, 2026
Results announced
Oct 15, 2026
Period begins
Jan 1, 2027
02 — Eligibility
Who can apply
Ensure you qualify on core disciplines, citizenship status, and credential requirements.
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Pakistani citizenship
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Master's/MPhil degree with minimum CGPA 3.0/4.0
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Enrolled or to be enrolled in a PhD programme at an HEC-recognized Pakistani university
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Preference for university faculty members
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GAT (Subject) qualifying score
Who this is NOT for
- Short-term residency seekers: Candidates looking for conference or travel support rather than active degree enrollment.
- Remote learners: Students planning to attend online degree modules from Pakistan.
- U.S. Dual Citizens: Dual nationals holding U.S. citizenship (for U.S. study grants).
- Late planners: Those unable to commit 9–12 months of early preparation for visa and document assembly.
03 — Documents
Required credentials
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HEC online application
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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Academic transcripts
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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GAT Subject score
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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PhD enrollment proof
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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Research proposal
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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Recommendation letters
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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CNIC
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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NOC from employer (if employed)
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
04 — The pipeline
Narrative steps, four acts
Most candidates underestimate how much prep work is done before the online form opens. Follow this structured chronological timeline to plan deliberately.
Pass GAT Subject test
Follow the official playbook instructions to complete this step.
Secure PhD enrollment at...
Secure PhD enrollment at an HEC-recognized Pakistani university
Apply on HEC ePortal
Follow the official playbook instructions to complete this step.
Submit research proposal and...
Submit research proposal and academic documents
HEC reviews and conducts interviews
Follow the official playbook instructions to complete this step.
Selected fellows receive monthly...
Selected fellows receive monthly stipend and research funds
Get the free application checklist (PDF)
A comprehensive, printable spreadsheet checklist mapping milestones, required essays, references, and deadline checks.
05 — Answered
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply from any university?
Yes, any HEC-recognized Pakistani university offering PhD programmes.
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