Timeline
Four dates that shape your year
Applications open
Jan 15, 2026
Applications close
Apr 30, 2026
Results announced
Jul 1, 2026
Period begins
Oct 1, 2026
* Joint HEC and Campus France programme for PhD in France.
02 — Eligibility
Who can apply
Ensure you qualify on core disciplines, citizenship status, and credential requirements.
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Pakistani nationality
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Master's degree with minimum 3.0 CGPA
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Age limit
typically under 40
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Admission/acceptance letter from French university
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French or English proficiency depending on programme
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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French university acceptance letter
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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Master's transcripts
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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CV
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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2 recommendation letters
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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Language certificate
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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CNIC and passport
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.
Contact French universities and...
Contact French universities and secure admission/acceptance
Apply on HEC portal
Follow the official playbook instructions to complete this step.
HEC reviews and shortlists
Follow the official playbook instructions to complete this step.
Interview by HEC committee
Follow the official playbook instructions to complete this step.
Selected candidates finalize French...
Selected candidates finalize French university formalities
Visa processing and departure
Follow the official playbook instructions to complete this step.
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 without French university acceptance?
Having an acceptance or intent letter greatly improves your chances. It's strongly recommended.
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