10 Currently Open Fully Funded Scholarships for Pakistani Students

Are you a Pakistani student planning to study abroad with a fully funded scholarship? Several international scholarship programs offer opportunities to pursue higher education without paying the tuition fee and living expenses yourself.

Some scholarships are currently open, and some will open in coming weeks. In this guide, we have compiled 10 currently open, fully funded scholarship opportunities for Pakistani students interested in bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and research programs. The list includes the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC), the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme, the Open Doors Scholarship in Russia, the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, Erasmus Mundus, the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship in France, and other university- or government-funded opportunities.

Some currently open fully funded scholarships provide tuition fee waivers, monthly stipends, health insurance, and travel allowances. Others offer funding only under specific award categories, universities, or admission conditions. Therefore, read each scholarship’s benefits and eligibility requirements carefully before submitting an application.

Important: You must visit the official website before applying for any of these scholarships.

Overview of 10 Currently Open Fully Funded Scholarship Opportunities

The following table provides a quick comparison of the scholarships, study levels, destinations, and important application dates.

1. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) – China

The Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) is one of the most prestigious currently open fully funded scholarship opportunities for Pakistani students who want to study at Chinese universities. Pakistani students can explore bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs, depending on the university, scholarship category, and eligibility requirements.

China has a large higher education system, with hundreds of universities offering programs in engineering, computer science, business, economics, agriculture, environmental sciences, medicine, and other disciplines. Under the CSC scholarship, the benefits are the same for each degree level at all universities.

Scholarship Details

Is IELTS Required for the CSC Scholarship?

IELTS is not a universal requirement for every CSC application. Some universities accept alternative proof of English proficiency or an English-medium instruction certificate, while others require IELTS, TOEFL, or another approved form of evidence. Chinese-taught programs may have separate Chinese-language requirements.

CSC Scholarship Application Routes for Pakistani Students

• Type A: Usually refers to applications processed through the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan (HEC).
• Type B: Usually refers to applications submitted through a participating Chinese university.

The exact agency number, eligibility conditions, and document submission procedure depend on the route. Follow the current instructions for your chosen application category.

How to Apply

2. Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme is an internationally competitive program established by Hong Kong’s Research Grants Council to attract outstanding students to doctoral research. Pakistani students with strong academic records and research potential can apply through participating universities.

The 2027/28 application cycle is open. The scheme offers 400 fellowship places across participating institutions and a broad range of doctoral programs.

Scholarship Benefits

• Annual stipend (44,150 USD per year) and research-related financial support according to the official award terms.
• Conference and research travel allowance (1840 USD per year) under the scheme’s published conditions.
• Access to doctoral study at participating Hong Kong universities.
• Opportunities to work with international research teams and academic supervisors.

The fellowship is intended to support doctoral study. Confirm the current stipend amount, duration, and other financial provisions in the official 2027/28 regulations before applying.

Important Application Rules

• Applicants can select a maximum of two programs or departments at one or two participating universities.
• Submit an initial application through the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme electronic system.
• Use the fellowship reference number when completing the university admission applications.
• Each university may have program-specific requirements and supporting documents.

How to Apply

1. Explore the participating universities and suitable PhD programs.
2. Prepare your CV, academic records, research proposal or statement of research interests, and recommendation letters.
3. Submit the initial fellowship application through the official HKPFS system.
4. Obtain your fellowship reference number.
5. Complete the required application on each selected university’s admission portal.
6. Check your email and application accounts for additional requests and updates.

3. Open Doors Scholarship – Russia

The Open Doors Russian Scholarship Project is an international academic competition that gives eligible foreign applicants a pathway to study at participating Russian universities. The competition includes bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral tracks.

It may be especially attractive to students who want to study in Russia without paying tuition under the program’s applicable rules. Selection is competitive, and participants must complete the relevant competition stages.

Scholarship Highlights

• Study levels: Bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, and postdoc.
• Tuition: Winners receive the right to free education at a participating university under the program’s rules.
• Application fee: Participation in the Open Doors competition is free.
• Language: Competition materials and programs may be available in English or Russian, depending on the track and university.
• Monthly stipend: Any stipend or living support depends on the applicable university arrangements and should not be assumed to be automatically included in every award.

How to Apply

1. Visit the official Open Doors website and create an account.
2. Select the appropriate academic track and subject area.
3. Prepare your portfolio, motivation letter, and evidence of relevant achievements.
4. Complete the online tasks or assessment required for your track.
5. Follow the published competition schedule and instructions for subsequent stages.
6. If selected, follow the instructions for university placement and enrolment.

Check the official program rules to understand the available university choices. Do not assume that all applicants can freely select one to six universities under the same conditions.

4. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships – Switzerland

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships support international research cooperation and academic exchange. For eligible Pakistani applicants, the 2027/28 call includes research and doctoral scholarship categories. Eligible art scholarships may also be available under the country-specific rules.

This program is particularly relevant to candidates who have a clear research plan and can secure support from an academic supervisor at a Swiss higher education institution or recognized research institute.

Available Categories

• Research scholarship: A research stay of up to 12 months for eligible doctoral candidates.
• PhD scholarship: Doctoral study support that may extend for up to 36 months under the published conditions.
• Art scholarship: Available only to applicants from eligible countries and in qualifying fields.

Scholarship Benefits

• Monthly financial support according to the current award regulations.
• Health and accident insurance arrangements for eligible recipients.
• Research opportunities are available at Swiss universities and recognized institutions.
• Academic collaboration and access to specialist research facilities.

The official program information lists a monthly contribution of CHF 2,450 for relevant scholarship categories from 2026. The precise award conditions and any additional support depend on the category. Applicants should not assume that every award covers all tuition, travel, or accommodation costs.

Important Eligibility Requirements

• A suitable academic qualification for the selected scholarship category.
• A detailed research plan with a clear methodology and timeline, where required.
• A letter of support from an eligible Swiss academic supervisor.
• Compliance with the official age, nationality, and previous-study conditions.
• Submission through the designated Swiss application process.

How to Apply

1. Check the scholarship categories available to Pakistani applicants.
2. Identify a suitable Swiss university or research institute.
3. Contact an academic supervisor and discuss your research proposal.
4. Prepare your CV, degree certificates, transcripts, research plan, and supporting documents.
5. Complete the official application and submit it before the deadline.

5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship – Europe

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters program offers international students the opportunity to pursue a master’s degree delivered by a consortium of higher education institutions. Students may study in more than one country as part of the same degree program.

Pakistani students can apply to eligible Erasmus Mundus programs in fields such as engineering, environmental science, public policy, economics, agriculture, data science, public health, education, and other disciplines.

The good news is that, over the last 5 years, Pakistan has sent the highest number of students to these programs. In this year (2026), 98 students were selected under the Erasmus Mundus scholarship.

Scholarship Benefits

• Full scholarship support for selected high-ranking applicants under participating programs.
• Coverage of the tuition fee in the scholarship.
• Coverage of travel and visa-related expenses.
• A living allowance for the scholarship period (1400 Euro/month).
• Also cover the health insurance.

The exact benefits, eligibility conditions, and program duration depend on the selected joint master’s course. Erasmus Mundus is a collection of individual programs rather than one application that covers every degree.

Is IELTS Required?

IELTS requirements vary by program. Some courses require IELTS or TOEFL, while others may accept alternative evidence of English proficiency. Check the language policy of each program before applying.

Many programs do not charge an application fee, but this is not guaranteed across all courses. Review the application instructions for your selected program.

Application Deadlines

Most Erasmus Mundus programs accept applications between October and January for courses beginning the following academic year. Some programs use different schedules, so applicants should check the course website for the exact deadline.

How to Apply

1. Search the official Erasmus Mundus catalogue.
2. Select programs that align with your previous education and career goals.
3. Check each course’s entry requirements, language criteria, and scholarship availability.
4. Prepare your CV, academic records, motivation letter, and recommendation letters.
5. Submit your application directly to the consortium or program website.
6. Apply for the scholarship through the same program process where required.

6. University of Padua Scholarships – Italy

The University of Padua in Italy offers funding opportunities for international students through different university and government-supported schemes. Pakistani applicants interested in master’s programs should examine the scholarships available for their chosen course and intake.

Not every University of Padua scholarship is fully funded. Some awards provide tuition-fee waivers, others provide financial assistance, and some may combine several forms of support. Applicants must distinguish between a full scholarship and a partial tuition reduction.

What to Check Before Applying

• Whether your selected master’s program is open to international applicants.
• Check whether the scholarship covers tuition, living costs, or both.
• Whether a separate scholarship application is required.
• Whether your previous degree meets the program’s academic requirements.
• Which English-language evidence is accepted.

How to Apply

1. Find an eligible master’s program at the university.
2. Read the program admission requirements.
3. Review the current international scholarship calls and funding terms.
4. Prepare your academic records, CV, motivation letter, and language evidence.
5. Submit the admission and scholarship applications through the designated portals. Also pay the application fee of 60 euro.
6. Check your email for further instructions or missing-document requests.

7. France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship – France

The France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship is a French government scholarship program designed to help French higher education institutions recruit outstanding international students for master’s and doctoral studies.

The 2027 campaign is open. Pakistani students who meet the eligibility requirements may be considered in the program’s approved academic fields, including economics and management, engineering sciences, ecological transition, mathematics and digital sciences, biology and health, law and political science, and history and French civilisation.

Scholarship Benefits

• Monthly financial support according to the level of study and applicable award rules.
• Eligible international and domestic travel assistance.
• Insurance and other specified services under the program arrangements.
• Assistance with finding accommodation, subject to the program conditions.
• Access to postgraduate study at a participating French higher education institution.

Does the Eiffel Scholarship Cover Tuition Fees?

The Eiffel scholarship itself does not directly pay tuition fees. However, eligible recipients may qualify for tuition-fee exemptions at certain French public higher education institutions. Other institutions or programs may charge fees that are not covered by the award. Obtain written clarification from your chosen institution about tuition, exemptions, and any additional costs.

Eligibility Requirements

• Applicants must satisfy the nationality and age requirements in the current regulations.
• Master’s applicants must meet the program’s academic admission conditions.
• Doctoral applicants must meet the relevant doctoral-school requirements.
• The proposed degree must fall within an eligible academic field.
• The French institution must agree to support and nominate the applicant.

How to Apply

1. Identify a French university that offers a suitable master’s or doctoral program.
2. Contact the university’s international office or relevant academic department.
3. Ask about its internal Eiffel selection process and application deadline.
4. Prepare your CV, transcripts, degree certificates, motivation letter, and other requested documents.
5. Submit your materials to the institution for consideration.
6. If the university selects you, it submits your nomination to Campus France.

8. US–Pakistan Knowledge Corridor PhD Scholarship

The US – Pakistan Knowledge Corridor is a Higher Education Commission initiative intended to support eligible Pakistani and Azad Jammu and Kashmir students pursuing doctoral education at qualifying universities in the United States.

The program’s application process is different from scholarships, where a student submits one application and immediately competes for a university-funded award. Depending on the category, applicants may need to secure admission at a qualifying US university and meet HEC’s additional requirements.

Who Can Apply?

The precise criteria depend on the scholarship category and the current HEC advertisement. The published program guidance includes requirements concerning Pakistani nationality, prior education, academic divisions, age limits, university ranking, and GRE or HAT scores where applicable.

Applicants should read the current eligibility criteria carefully. Admission to a US university does not automatically guarantee HEC funding, and a student must not assume that all categories follow the same admission or funding procedure.

How to Apply

1. Review the current US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor announcement on the HEC website.
2. Identify a suitable US university and a doctoral program that falls within the relevant eligibility category.
3. Confirm whether you must secure admission before submitting your HEC application.
4. Prepare your academic documents, test scores, CV, research materials, and admission evidence as required.
5. Submit the application through the designated HEC portal and follow the advertised instructions.
6. Monitor your application account for updates and requests for additional documents.

9. JUSTCOOL PhD Program – China

The JUSTCOOL PhD program is an opportunity for international students interested in doctoral study in China. According to the program information supplied for this guide, the initiative involves Fudan University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and Tongji University.

One distinctive feature of the advertised opportunity is the possibility of direct PhD entry after a bachelor’s degree, subject to the program’s academic and admission requirements. This can be relevant to strong undergraduate graduates who want to progress directly into research.

Program Highlights

• Study level: PhD.
• Entry route: Direct PhD after a bachelor’s degree, where permitted by the program.
• Fields: Mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, and other areas listed in the current call.
• Language requirements: The supplied program information states that IELTS is not required; confirm the exact language policy and accepted alternatives.
• Application fee: The supplied information states that there is no application fee. Verify this in the current admission notice.
• Funding: Scholarship support is advertised, including a monthly stipend, health insurance, and other benefits under the applicable rules.

Check the official program information for the award’s precise duration, tuition arrangements, accommodation conditions, and any additional eligibility criteria. The availability of a stipend should not be interpreted as confirmation that every personal expense is covered.

How to Apply

1. Review the program’s current call and identify an eligible research area.
2. Check the direct-entry requirements for bachelor’s graduates.
3. Prepare your transcripts, degree certificate or expected-graduation evidence, CV and statement of research interests.
4. Confirm the English-language requirements and whether additional evidence is accepted instead of IELTS.
5. Complete the application through the official program portal.
6. Submit all documents before the confirmed deadline.

10. Shenzhen University PhD Scholarships – China

Shenzhen University is a Chinese higher education institution offering postgraduate programs in a range of academic and research fields. Pakistani students interested in doctoral study can explore its available PhD programs and the scholarships advertised for international applicants.

The supplied opportunity refers to a March intake and approximately 20 PhD programs. Applicants should confirm the number of programs, availability of funding, and the intake schedule in the current university announcement.

Key Information

• Study level: PhD.
• University: Shenzhen University, China.
• Intake: March intake, according to the supplied opportunity.
• Program options: Around 20 PhD programs were listed in the supplied information; confirm the current program catalogue.
• Acceptance letter: The supplied information indicates that an acceptance letter is required.
• Application fee: An application fee may apply. Verify the amount and payment procedure with the university.
• Language requirement: The supplied information states that IELTS is not required, but the current program-specific language rules must be checked.

What About the Funding?

Shenzhen University may offer different scholarships or funding arrangements to international students. Do not assume that every PhD program comes with a full scholarship. Confirm whether the award covers tuition, provides a monthly stipend, includes insurance, and offers accommodation support.

How to Apply

1. Identify an eligible PhD program in your research field.
2. Review the current admission notice and scholarship terms.
3. Contact the relevant academic department or supervisor if an acceptance letter is required.
4. Prepare your CV, research proposal, academic records, recommendation letters and language evidence.
5. Complete the university’s online application and pay any required fee through the official process.
6. Submit the application before the confirmed deadline.

Documents to Prepare for Currently Open Fully Funded Scholarships

Preparing your documents early can save time when multiple scholarship deadlines fall within the same month. The exact requirements vary by university, country, study level, and scholarship category, so use this checklist as a starting point rather than a universal list.

How to Prepare a Strong Scholarship CV

Your CV should clearly present your academic qualifications, research experience, publications, internships, relevant employment, technical skills, and awards. Keep the format professional and easy to read, and tailor the document to the program rather than sending the same generic CV to every university.

For PhD applications, give particular attention to research experience, publications, methods, software skills and your proposed research interests. For bachelor’s and master’s applications, highlight academic achievements, relevant projects, extracurricular activities, and other evidence of suitability.

Should You Contact Professors Before Applying?

For research-based scholarships, contacting potential supervisors can be useful or mandatory, depending on the program. The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships and some Chinese university PhD opportunities specifically require supervisor support or an acceptance letter. Other programs, such as the HKPFS, also require you to follow formal university application procedures.

Before sending an email, read the professor’s research profile and explain how your interests align with their work. Attach a clear CV and any other document specifically requested. Never assume that a professor’s positive response guarantees a scholarship.

Important Tips for Pakistani Scholarship Applicants

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which fully funded scholarships are currently open for Pakistani students?

The 2026/27 Open Doors competition, the 2027/28 Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, and the 2027/28 Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme have published application periods extending into October, November, or December 2026. The 2027 Eiffel campaign is also open for institutional nominations. Other opportunities on this list require program-specific or current intake verification.

2. Which scholarships are available without IELTS?

The supplied information identifies Open Doors and certain Chinese university opportunities as options where IELTS may not be required. However, language requirements depend on the program and university. Confirm whether an alternative certificate, interview, or other proof of proficiency is accepted.

3. Can I apply for a PhD directly after a bachelor’s degree?

Some programs, including the advertised JUSTCOOL opportunity, may allow direct entry to a doctoral program after a bachelor’s degree. Applicants must meet the specific academic requirements of the program. Many other PhD scholarships require a master’s degree or equivalent preparation.

4. Do all fully funded scholarships cover accommodation and travel?

No. Funding packages vary. Some awards include accommodation arrangements, travel support, insurance, and monthly stipends, while others cover only selected expenses. Read the official award conditions carefully.

5. Do I need an acceptance letter for a scholarship?

Some research scholarships require supervisor support or an acceptance letter. Others use central scholarship and university application portals. Follow the specific procedure for each opportunity.

6. Can I apply to several scholarships at the same time?

You can generally prepare applications for multiple opportunities, as long as you meet each program’s rules. However, some scholarships restrict simultaneous awards or impose conditions on receiving other funding. Check the relevant terms before accepting more than one offer.

7. Are applications always free?

No. Open Doors participation is free, but some universities charge application fees. The fee for the CSC route, Shenzhen University, or another institution depends on its current application policy. Always verify charges through the official portal.

8. What should I do first if I want to study abroad in 2027?

Choose suitable programs, verify eligibility and deadlines, prepare your CV and academic records, request recommendation letters, and contact supervisors where necessary. Prioritise scholarships with the earliest confirmed deadlines.

9. Where can I find the official scholarship announcements?

Use the official university, government, and scholarship websites linked in this guide. For university-specific scholarships, confirm the exact degree, intake, funding category, and deadline with the institution offering the award.

Official Scholarship Websites

Use the official resources below to verify eligibility, current application dates, and funding conditions. For CSC, JUSTCOOL, Padua, and Shenzhen University, please select the appropriate university or program portal for your intended intake.