The HEC Need-Based Scholarship is a financial-aid programme run by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan for undergraduate students from low-income families. It covers full or partial tuition fees plus a monthly living stipend, and is offered at dozens of public-sector universities across the country. Applications are made through your own university's Financial Assistance Office.

What is the HEC Need-Based Scholarship?

The scholarship is designed for students who earn their place at university on merit but cannot afford the cost of studying. It is one of the largest financial-support schemes for undergraduates in Pakistan. According to HEC information, the programme runs at a large number of public-sector universities and is delivered through each campus rather than as a single central application.

Benefits

  • Full or partial coverage of your tuition fees for the degree.
  • A monthly living stipend to help with day-to-day study costs.
  • Support that continues through your programme as long as you stay eligible and meet academic requirements.
  • It is a scholarship, not a loan — there is nothing to repay.

Who is eligible?

  • You are enrolled (or admitted on merit) in an undergraduate programme at an HEC-recognised public-sector university.
  • Your family is from a low-income background. Universities usually set a monthly family-income limit (often around Rs. 45,000, but this can differ by campus and year).
  • You maintain satisfactory academic performance.
  • You are not already receiving another scholarship that fully covers your tuition.

Documents you'll need

  • CNIC or B-Form (and your parent's/guardian's CNIC).
  • Family income certificate / proof of income.
  • University enrolment or admission certificate.
  • Latest marks sheets / academic transcripts.
  • Recent passport-size photographs.

How to apply — step by step

  1. Confirm your university participates

    Check that your public-sector university takes part in the HEC Need-Based Scholarship. The participating list is published on the official HEC website.

  2. Go to your Financial Assistance Office (FAO)

    The undergraduate need-based scholarship is handled by your university's FAO, not by a direct application on the HEC website. Ask the office for the current cycle and deadline.

  3. Collect and fill the form

    Get the prescribed application form from the FAO and complete every section honestly and accurately.

  4. Attach your documents

    Include your CNIC, family income certificate, enrolment certificate and latest marks sheets. Make sure photocopies are clear.

  5. Submit before the deadline

    Hand everything back to the FAO before the closing date and keep a copy of your submission. Apply early — processing can take a couple of months.

Apply on the official source

This is the only official source. Applying is free.

Visit hec.gov.pk →

Frequently asked questions

Who is eligible for the HEC Need-Based Scholarship?

Undergraduate students admitted on merit to an HEC-recognised public-sector university in Pakistan, who come from low-income families, are eligible. Universities typically set a monthly family-income limit (often around Rs. 45,000) and require satisfactory academic performance.

How much does the HEC Need-Based Scholarship give?

It generally covers full or partial tuition fees plus a monthly living stipend for the duration of the degree. The exact amounts are set by HEC and the university each year, so confirm the current figures on the official HEC website.

How do I apply?

Apply through your university's Financial Assistance Office (FAO), not directly on the HEC website. Collect the form from the FAO, attach your CNIC, income certificate, enrolment certificate and marks sheets, and submit before your university's deadline.

Is it free to apply?

Yes. Applying is free. You should never pay an agent a fee or commission — submit your own application through your university's Financial Assistance Office.