HEC IRSIP PhD Fellowship for International Research

HEC IRSIP PhD Fellowship 2026

Apply now for the HEC IRSIP PhD Fellowship abroad. This opportunity is open to Pakistani and AJK PhD scholars who have secured placement with a top global university and hold a research plan.

About the HEC IRSIP PhD Fellowship

Country: Any country where the host university is ranked among the world’s top 200,
University: Globally ranked institutions (Top 200 in Times Higher Education or QS ranking),
Status: Available for Pakistani and AJK PhD scholars who fulfill the eligibility conditions,
IELTS: Required if asked by the host university,
Duration: 6 Months,
Deadline: Applications are accepted throughout the year.

Also Apply For: Azerbaijan Government Scholarship

Admission Announcement Date

HEC states that IRSIP applications can be submitted at any time during the year. Candidates should apply as soon as they are eligible to start their research placement abroad.

Last Date to Apply

There is no fixed closing date for applications. The fellowship programme accepts submissions year‑round and selections are made on a quarterly basis. Applicants are encouraged to send their complete application as soon as they meet all eligibility requirements.

Also Check: York University International Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria for the HEC IRSIP PhD Fellowship

To be eligible for this fellowship:

• You must be a full‑time PhD student holding Pakistani or AJK nationality.
• You should have completed at least 18 months and up to 3.5 years of your doctoral programme.
• You must have finished at least 18 credit hours of required coursework.
• You must have passed the admission test required by HEC (GAT Subject or equivalent) at the time of enrolment.
• Your university must have approved your research synopsis and topic through the Board of Advanced Studies and Research (BASR) or its equivalent.
• You must present an official acceptance or invitation letter from a foreign university or research institute ranked in the top 200 globally (subject‑specific or overall ranking).
• Your foreign supervisor must not be a former supervisor from your home institution.
• Scholars who are already receiving another HEC scholarship can still apply, provided they submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the relevant HEC officer.

Also Apply For: Three Dot Dash Global Youth Program

IELTS Requirements

If your host university requires proof of English proficiency, you must submit a valid IELTS score. While there is no fixed minimum score for IRSIP itself, it is recommended that applicants meet the host university’s English language requirements. Achieving a strong IELTS score can improve your chances of acceptance and ensure smooth communication during your research placement. Other then this you can apply for scholarships worldwide without IETLS.

How to Apply for HEC IRSIP PhD Fellowship

Applications for the IRSIP PhD Fellowship must be submitted online via the official HEC scholarship portal as soon as you meet all eligibility conditions. Scholars are advised to secure their official acceptance letter from the host institution first before applying. The selection committee reviews applications quarterly based on merit and completeness.

Also Check: Trent University Graduate Scholarships

Program Offered

Under IRSIP, HEC provides six‑month research placements abroad that allow PhD scholars to work at internationally recognised universities while strengthening their research capabilities. These placements help enhance research quality, develop academic networks, and improve future academic and professional prospects.

Application Procedure

• Confirm that you meet all eligibility requirements as specified by HEC.
• Secure an official acceptance or invitation letter from an eligible foreign university/institute.
• Complete the online application form on the HEC IRSIP portal.
• Upload all required documents. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
• Wait for the quarterly selection review and shortlisting.

Also Apply For: Danish Government Scholarship

Required Documents for IRSIP Application

You should prepare:

• Approved research topic and synopsis by your university’s BASR or equivalent body.
• Proof of PhD admission test clearance.
• Transcript showing at least 18 credit hours completed.
• Official acceptance/invitation letter from a top‑ranked foreign university/institution.
• Proof of the host university’s global ranking.
• Endorsement from your local PhD supervisor and university authorities.

Must Apply For: Romania Government Scholarship

Contact Information

Jehanzeb Khan
Project Director (IRSIP)
Higher Education Commission, Islamabad, Pakistan
Website: Official HEC portal

The HEC IRSIP PhD Fellowship 2026 is a prestigious and fully funded opportunity for Pakistani and AJK PhD scholars to gain international research experience. It not only enhances your research profile but also provides exposure to advanced labs, global networks, and collaborative opportunities that can shape your academic and professional career. Early application and strong preparation, including fulfilling IELTS requirements if applicable, are key to maximizing your chances of selection.