The British Council, in partnership with the Scottish Government, has opened applications for the Scotland Pakistan Scholarship Scheme for Young Women and Girls 2026–27. The programme aims to help more Pakistani women access higher education.
The scholarship scheme was first launched in 2013. Since then, it has supported more than 25,000 students across Pakistan. The programme focuses on women and girls from financially disadvantaged backgrounds who want to continue their education.
The British Council says the initiative is helping make higher education more affordable for young women. It also aims to create more opportunities for students to pursue their educational and career goals.
The scholarships are available to eligible female students applying for bachelor’s and master’s programmes. Applicants must study at HEC-recognised universities in Pakistan and meet the programme’s eligibility requirements.
The scholarship focuses on several fields considered important for Pakistan’s future development. These include Education, Agriculture and Food Security, Sustainable Energy, Health Sciences, Climate Change and STEM Engineering.
STEM subjects are eligible at both bachelor’s and master’s levels. This provides opportunities for female students interested in science, technology, engineering and related fields.
Selected students will receive support towards tuition fees for their eligible bachelor’s or master’s programmes. The scholarship may also cover university hostel costs where applicable.
Students living in university hostels can also receive travel support. The programme provides funds for travel between their home and university twice a year.
For master’s students, additional funding is available for research work. This can help students access quality laboratories, equipment and other tools required for their chosen course of study.
Postgraduate applicants can apply for support towards two-year Master’s or MPhil programmes. Undergraduate applicants can seek support for four-year bachelor’s degrees in eligible subject areas.
Applicants must be Pakistani nationals currently residing in Pakistan. They must also be pursuing an eligible degree at an HEC-recognised university.
Applicants are required to have a confirmed admission offer from an eligible university. Students should also meet the specific academic and programme requirements before submitting their applications.
Minority students and persons with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply. The initiative is aimed at expanding access to higher education among women from different backgrounds.
The scholarship could provide significant financial support to students who face difficulties covering university expenses. It can help eligible women continue their studies while reducing some of the financial burden associated with higher education.
The Scotland Pakistan Scholarship Scheme has been running for more than a decade. Its organisers say the programme continues to create opportunities for young women across Pakistan.
Interested students should complete their applications before the deadline. The final date to submit applications for the 2026–27 scholarship programme is 15 September 2026.
Female students who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply before the deadline. Applicants should ensure that they provide the required information and meet all programme conditions when submitting their applications.
Also read: Scotland Pakistan Scholarships 2026 Open for Women
