Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) has announced fully funded PhD scholarships for Autumn 2026 admissions, offering selected students a monthly stipend of Rs. 80,000 along with complete tuition fee coverage. The scholarships will be awarded on merit to eligible candidates who meet both the university’s admission requirements and additional scholarship criteria.
According to AIOU, admissions to the PhD programs will be conducted under the standard eligibility criteria set by the Higher Education Commission (HEC). However, applicants seeking the fully funded scholarship must also fulfill extra requirements specified by the university. The scholarship aims to support talented researchers and encourage advanced academic studies.
The university is offering PhD admissions in a wide range of disciplines. These include Islamic Studies, Distance and Non-Formal Education, Science Education, Mass Communication, Pakistani Languages and Literature, Agricultural Extension, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Sciences, Food and Nutrition, Mathematics and Physics. Additional specializations are also available in Islamic Studies and Pakistani Languages.
To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must have secured a minimum CGPA of 3.5 out of 4.0, or an equivalent grade, in their MS or MPhil degree. Candidates are also required to submit a strong research proposal relevant to the research areas of their chosen department. While previous research experience or published work is preferred, it is not a mandatory requirement.
AIOU has set the maximum age limit for scholarship applicants at 35 years as of the closing date for admissions. The university said the scholarships will be awarded purely on merit, ensuring that deserving students receive financial support for their doctoral studies.
Selected scholars will receive full tuition fee coverage throughout the PhD program along with a monthly stipend of Rs. 80,000 to help cover living expenses. Students will also have access to the university’s research facilities, including libraries, laboratories and online academic databases to support their research work.
The scholarship will remain valid for four years, subject to satisfactory academic performance. Since it is a residential scholarship, selected students will be required to remain physically present at the AIOU Main Campus during the stipend period to actively participate in research and academic activities.
AIOU has also announced the schedule for PhD entry tests. The test for Arabic and Islamic Studies will be held on August 21, 2026, followed by Education on August 24. Entry tests for Social Sciences and Humanities are scheduled for August 27, while Science programs will conduct their tests on August 28. Interested candidates can check the complete eligibility criteria and submit their online applications through the official AIOU website before the admission deadline.
Also read: Allama Iqbal University Introduces New Scholarship Program
