The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has announced Undergraduate Scholarships for Gilgit-Baltistan students to study at prestigious Pakistani universities/institutions. Applications are being sought from outstanding Gilgit-Baltistan students planning to pursue undergraduate studies (four/five years BS Programmes) at HEC-recognized public sector universities/degree awarding institutions (DAIs). Under the project titled "Undergraduate Scholarship Programme for Students of Gilgit-Baltistan in Top Pakistani Universities/Institutions (Batch-III)", scholarships are being offered in all areas of study/disciplines for the academic year 2023-24. The sources said that Gilgit-Baltistan has significant geographical importance and is the terminal point of CPEC. The main aim of this programme is to provide financial assistance to GB’s students aspiring for undergraduate studies in the best Public Sector Universities in Pakistan.
The program also aligns with Pakistan's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are to eradicate extreme poverty and mobilize resources. To achieve these goals, the government has directed HEC to expand higher education scholarships for the least developed areas and reduce inequality within the country, they added. Meanwhile, the following are the general eligibility requirements for all of these scholarships: Applicants must have a Gilgit-Baltistan domicile/local certificate, have completed their Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC)/Equivalent, and are not eligible to apply if they are already receiving another HEC/Government scholarship. Students who were enrolled in any BS Program prior to the advertisement may also apply for a maximum of one academic year/session.
Scholarships will be awarded regardless of gender, caste, race, or religion. Students who were enrolled in any BS Program at public sector universities/institutions prior to the advertisement (for a maximum of one academic year/session) are also eligible to apply. However, in accordance with the selection criteria, the HEC Scholarship Aptitude Test will be organized by HEC/ETC. Applicants must score at least 50% on the exam. The test result is valid for one year. The selected applicants must gain admission to the specified program of study in Pakistan on their own. Before receiving the scholarship, the scholar must sign an agreement/undertaking. Both parties are bound by the terms and conditions outlined in the agreement/undertaking and award letter. After securing admission and completing all required formalities, including the legal documents, final award letters will be issued. Students must apply using the following HEC Online Application System? https://eportal.hec.gov.pk/? is available until September 30, 2023.
