Pakistan has entered 2026 with a major push for student support, as federal and provincial governments expand scholarships, stipends, and education relief programs. The goal is clear: reduce financial pressure on families and keep talented students in education.
📘 Little Detail About Student Relief Expansion
Rising education costs and economic pressure led governments to scale up existing programs instead of launching symbolic schemes. The 2026 expansion focuses on:
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Full tuition coverage
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Monthly stipends
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Merit + need-based selection
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Digital verification to avoid misuse
These updates apply across Punjab, Sindh, and federal programs.
🎓 Punjab Student Relief Programs 2026
CM Honhaar Undergraduate Scholarship
Under the leadership of Maryam Nawaz, Punjab has expanded its flagship youth initiative.
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Scholarships: 100,000 students annually
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Coverage: 100% tuition fee (public & private universities)
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Monthly stipend: Rs. 10,000
Eligibility
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Punjab domicile
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Family income up to Rs. 300,000–350,000
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Minimum 70% marks in Intermediate
Punjab Educational Endowment Fund (PEEF) – 2026
The Punjab Educational Endowment Fund continues to support deserving students.
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Undergraduate & Master’s programs
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Fully funded grants
Eligibility
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Monthly family income below Rs. 60,000
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Relaxation for children of BPS 1–4 employees
Laptop Scheme Phase-II
Punjab has launched Phase-II of its laptop scheme:
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118,000 Core i7 laptops
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Merit-based distribution
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Includes students from AJK, GB, and KP
🎓 Sindh Student Relief Programs
Bhutto STEM Scholarship (2026–27)
Sindh is investing in elite international education.
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Fully funded MS, MPhil, PhD programs
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Study destination: University of Oxford
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6 scholarships, including 3 reserved for female students
Sindh HEC Indigenous Scholarship
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For MS, MPhil, and PhD students
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Interview phase ongoing (February 2026)
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Covers tuition and research support
Sindh Talent Hunt Program (STHP)
In partnership with Sukkur IBA University:
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100% tuition fee waiver
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Monthly stipend up to Rs. 9,000
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Foundation semester support
🏛️ Federal & National Education Support
BISP Taleemi Wazaif
Under Benazir Income Support Programme:
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Education stipends linked with family support
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70% school attendance mandatory
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Verification cycles active in 2026
HEC International Scholarships
The Higher Education Commission has opened applications for:
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Stipendium Hungaricum (Hungary)
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Chinese Government Scholarship
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Other global programs for 2026–27
📊 Quick Comparison Table
| Program | Main Benefit | Stipend / Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| CM Honhaar | Tuition + stipend | Rs. 10,000/month |
| PEEF | Tuition support | Fully funded |
| Sindh Talent Hunt | Fee + stipend | Up to Rs. 9,000 |
| BISP Taleemi | Education aid | Attendance-based |
Who can apply for CM Honhaar Scholarship?
Students with Punjab domicile, required marks, and income within the set limit.
Is the stipend separate from tuition coverage?
Yes, eligible students receive both.
Are these programs merit-only?
Most combine merit with financial need.
Can private university students apply?
Yes, CM Honhaar includes private institutions.
Concluding Insight
The 2026 expansion of student relief programs shows a policy shift from short-term aid to long-term human capital investment. With tuition coverage, monthly stipends, and international opportunities, these initiatives are designed to keep capable students enrolled and competitive—regardless of financial background. Students are advised to apply early and ensure documents are verified to avoid missing deadlines.
