UK Opens Fully Funded Scholarships and Startup Fellowships for Pakistani Students and Entrepreneurs

ISLAMABAD: The United Kingdom has opened applications for three fully funded flagship programmes aimed at supporting Pakistan’s emerging leaders, researchers and entrepreneurs through higher education, research and startup development opportunities.

The programmes include the Chevening Scholarships, the Chevening Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (OCIS) Fellowship and the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship.

Chevening Scholarships provide fully funded one-year master’s degree opportunities at UK universities for individuals with demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to creating positive change in their communities.

The Chevening OCIS Fellowship offers mid-career academics and professionals the opportunity to undertake independent research at the University of Oxford, while the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship is designed to help high-potential entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses, receive mentorship from UK experts and prepare for international growth.

British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott CMG OBE said Pakistan had no shortage of talent and that the programmes would help outstanding Pakistanis develop the skills, networks and ideas needed to lead institutions, grow businesses and address global challenges.

She also urged applicants to submit original applications based on their own experiences and ambitions, warning that AI-generated responses could lead to disqualification.

All three programmes cover tuition or programme fees, return airfare, visa costs and living expenses.

In addition to academic and professional development, participants will gain international exposure, build global networks and establish long-term connections with the UK and fellow leaders from around the world.

Pakistan has a strong Chevening alumni network of more than 2,000 professionals serving in public service, business, academia, media and civil society. Globally, the Chevening programme has produced more than 20 current or former heads of state or government.

Applications for Chevening Scholarships and the Chevening Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies Fellowship are now open. Applications for the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship will remain open from August 3 to September 1, 2026.