Guidance for HEC PhD and MS/MPhil Overseas Scholarships

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Higher Education Commission(HEC) Scholarships

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) invites applications from exceptional Pakistani/AJK nationals for PhD and MS/MPhil scholarships in selected fields and Engineering Technology, respectively. The scholarships are available for study at top-ranked foreign universities identified by HEC in advanced countries.


Guidance for Higher Education Commission Scholarships


Eligibility Criteria:

a) Pakistani/AJK national
b) For PhD scholarships, minimum qualification of MS/MPhil/ME or equivalent (18 years) before the closing date
c) For MS/MPhil scholarships in Engineering Technology, minimum 16 years of education, and registration with National Technology Council (NTC), Pakistan
d) Maximum one 2 Division throughout the academic career prior to the final degree
e) Minimum CGPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 in semester system or 1st Division in the annual system in MS/MPhil/ME/Equivalent degree
f) Maximum age: 40 years for full-time regular faculty members of public sector universities/colleges and employees of public sector R&D organizations, 35 years for all others
g) Minimum 70% marks in a valid HEC Aptitude Test (HAT)
h) Must not be availing any other scholarship

Important Notes:

a) Merit determined based on valid HEC Aptitude Test (HAT) score
b) Candidates to choose foreign countries/universities in the online application; HEC reserves the right to re-allocate
c) Ensure the field of study is offered in the chosen country/university
d) Fulfill host university admission requirements, including International GRE, TOEFL, etc.
e) Online application at HEC e-portal

  1. Awardees to execute a bond to serve for five years after completing PhD
    g) Scholarships awarded on Government Approved provincial quota
    h) Previous HEC scholarship awardees need NOC from relevant scholarship section

HEC Aptitude Test (HAT):

The Education Testing Council (ETC) plans HEC Aptitude Test in the second week of June 2021. Visit HEC Overseas Website for details.

The HEC Aptitude Test (HAT) is a standardized test conducted by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan. It assesses the academic aptitude, analytical skills, and subject-specific knowledge of candidates applying for various HEC scholarship programs, including overseas scholarships for PhD and MS/MPhil.

Here are ten sample questions to give you an idea of the types of questions that may appear in the HEC Aptitude Test. Note that these are general examples and may not precisely reflect the actual content of the HAT:

  1. Verbal Reasoning:
    • Question: Select the word that is most opposite in meaning to the given word: Benevolent
      • a) Malevolent
      • b) Gracious
      • c) Kind
      • d) Generous
    • Answer: a) Malevolent
  2. Quantitative Reasoning:
    • Question: If x = 3 and y = 5, what is the value of 2x + 3y?
      • a) 21
      • b) 27
      • c) 33
      • d) 39
    • Answer: c) 33
  3. Analytical Reasoning:
    • Question: Arrange the following words in alphabetical order: Apple, Banana, Orange, Mango.
      • a) Apple, Banana, Mango, Orange
      • b) Banana, Apple, Mango, Orange
      • c) Mango, Orange, Banana, Apple
      • d) Orange, Mango, Apple, Banana
    • Answer: a) Apple, Banana, Mango, Orange
  4. Data Interpretation:
    • Question: The chart represents the sales of a company over four quarters. What was the total sales in Quarter 3?

Quarter

Sales (in millions)

1

15

2

20

3

25

4

18
    • a) 15 million
    • b) 20 million
    • c) 25 million
    • d) 18 million
    • Answer: c) 25 million
  1. General Knowledge:
    • Question: Who is the current Prime Minister of Pakistan as of 2022?
      • a) Imran Khan
      • b) Nawaz Sharif
      • c) Asif Ali Zardari
      • d) Shahid Khaqan Abbasi
    • Answer: a) Imran Khan
  2. Logical Reasoning:
    • Question: If all cats can climb trees, and Fluffy is a cat, can Fluffy climb trees?
      • a) Yes
      • b) No
      • c) Maybe
    • Answer: a) Yes
  3. Reading Comprehension:
    • Passage: Read the following passage and answer the question.
      • Passage: The Industrial Revolution marked a significant shift in human history, leading to the mechanization of production processes. How did this impact society?
      • Question: According to the passage, what was a key outcome of the Industrial Revolution?
      • a) Increased reliance on manual labor
      • b) Mechanization of production processes
      • c) Decline in urbanization
      • d) Preservation of traditional craftsmanship
      • Answer: b) Mechanization of production processes
  4. Sentence Completion:
    • Question: The professor's __________ lecture on quantum physics left the students in awe.
      • a) Confusing
      • b) Concise
      • c) Elaborate
      • d) Boring
    • Answer: c) Elaborate
  5. Mathematical Aptitude:
    • Question: Solve the equation for x: 2x + 5 = 15
      • a) 5
      • b) 6
      • c) 7
      • d) 8
    • Answer: c) 7
  6. Critical Thinking:
    • Question: Should governments invest more in space exploration or focus on solving issues on Earth first? Provide reasons for your answer.

 

Application Submission:

  • Apply online at HEC e-portal
  • Deposit non-refundable application fee to Account Number of HEC

The HEC Overseas Scholarships for PhD and MS/MPhil in Engineering Technology hold significant importance for several reasons:

  1. Capacity Building: These scholarships contribute to the development of highly qualified professionals, enhancing the intellectual capital of Pakistan in critical fields. The focus on Engineering Technology addresses the demand for expertise in technological advancements.
  2. Global Exposure: Scholars benefit from studying at top-ranked foreign universities, gaining exposure to advanced research methodologies, cutting-edge technologies, and international academic environments. This exposure fosters a global perspective and enriches the scholars' academic experience.
  3. Research and Innovation: By supporting PhD and MS/MPhil studies, the scholarships promote research and innovation. Scholars are equipped to contribute original research in their respective fields, addressing local and global challenges and advancing knowledge.
  4. Knowledge Transfer: Upon completion of their studies, scholars return to Pakistan with advanced knowledge and skills, facilitating the transfer of technology and expertise. This knowledge transfer positively impacts local industries, academia, and research institutions.
  5. Enhanced Academic Reputation: The collaboration with top-ranked foreign universities enhances the academic reputation of scholars and the institutions they represent. This, in turn, contributes to the overall standing of Pakistani universities on the international stage.
  6. Contribution to Economic Development: Scholars, armed with advanced degrees and expertise, play a vital role in economic development. They contribute to innovation, research and development, and the overall growth of key sectors, thus contributing to the economic progress of the country.
  7. Networking Opportunities: Scholars build valuable networks with international peers, professors, and professionals during their overseas studies. These connections can lead to collaborations, joint research projects, and partnerships that extend beyond the duration of their studies.
  8. Fulfillment of National Needs: The focus on specific fields, such as Engineering Technology, aligns with the country's strategic priorities. The scholarships aim to address skill gaps and meet the evolving needs of the nation in areas crucial for its progress and development.


To apply for HEC Overseas Scholarships for PhD and MS/MPhil in Engineering Technology, you need to follow the application process outlined by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan. Below is a step-by-step guide:

Application Process:

  1. Check Eligibility:
    • Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria specified by HEC for the respective scholarship program.
  2. Prepare Required Documents:
    • Gather all the necessary documents, including educational certificates, transcripts, HEC Aptitude Test (HAT) score, NOC (if applicable), and any other documents specified in the application guidelines.
  3. HAT Registration (if applicable):
    • If the HEC Aptitude Test (HAT) is required, register and take the test during the specified period.
  4. Choose Foreign Country/University:
    • Decide on the foreign country and university where you wish to pursue your PhD or MS/MPhil. You will need to specify this information in the online application form.
  5. Visit the HEC e-portal:
    • Go to the official HEC e-portal for scholarship applications. The URL is typically provided in the official scholarship announcement.
  6. Create an Account:
    • If you don't have an account on the HEC e-portal, create one by providing the necessary information.
  7. Complete the Online Application:
    • Fill in the online application form with accurate and complete details. Make sure to select the correct scholarship program (PhD or MS/MPhil in Engineering Technology).
  8. Upload Required Documents:
    • Upload scanned copies of all required documents, including educational certificates, transcripts, HAT score, and others. Follow the specified format and file size guidelines.
  9. Pay Application Fee:
    • Pay the non-refundable application processing fee through the prescribed method (usually through a bank deposit). Upload the original online deposit slip or ATM transfer slip.
  10. Submit Application:
    • After completing the application form and uploading all required documents, submit your application through the online portal.
  11. Check Application Status:
    • Periodically check the status of your application on the HEC e-portal. Ensure that your application is complete, and there are no missing documents.
  12. Prepare for Interviews (if shortlisted):
    • If shortlisted, prepare for interviews as only shortlisted candidates are called for interviews.
  13. Fulfill Host University Requirements:
    • If selected, fulfill any additional requirements of the host university for securing admission (e.g., GRE, TOEFL, etc.).
  14. Execute Bond (if awarded):
    • Awardees may need to execute a bond with HEC or the respective Pakistani university, committing to serve for a specified period after completing their studies.
  15. Complete NOC Requirements (if applicable):
    • If you have been previously selected for any HEC scholarship scheme, obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) and submit it before the closing date.

Important Links:

Ensure that you carefully read and follow all instructions provided by HEC during the application process. It's essential to meet deadlines and provide accurate information to increase your chances of being considered for the scholarship.

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