For students across Punjab, rising tuition costs often become a barrier to higher education, even for those with strong academic records. In response, the Punjab Government has announced a major expansion of student support in 2026, led by the Honhaar Undergraduate Scholarship Program, opening doors for tens of thousands of deserving students. Alongside scholarships, the government has also signaled a stronger focus on career-oriented internship opportunities to help students transition from education to employment.
This update explains what has been officially announced, who can benefit, how to apply, and what students should do next.
What Is the Honhaar Scholarship Program 2026
The Honhaar Scholarship Program 2026 is a merit-based financial assistance initiative launched under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. The program aims to ensure that talented students from low- and middle-income families are able to continue undergraduate education without tuition fee pressure.
For 2026, the government has announced 30,000 scholarships, making it one of the largest scholarship initiatives in Punjab’s history.
How Many Scholarships Are Available and What Is Covered
Under the 2026 phase, the program will offer:
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30,000 undergraduate scholarships
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Full tuition fee coverage
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Applicable to public and private universities recognized by HEC
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Administered through the Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC)
The scholarship does not cover hostel, transport, or personal expenses. Its core purpose is to remove the tuition fee burden, which is the biggest hurdle for many families.
Who Can Apply – Eligibility Criteria Explained
To maintain fairness and merit, clear eligibility conditions have been defined.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
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Punjab domicile
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Completion of Intermediate (FA, FSc, ICS, I.Com, or equivalent)
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At least 70% marks in Intermediate
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Admission in an undergraduate degree program (BS, BA, BSc, MBBS, Engineering, etc.)
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Family monthly income below Rs. 350,000
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Enrollment in an HEC-recognized institution
These criteria ensure that support reaches academically capable students with genuine financial need.
Honhaar Scholarship Phases – What’s New in 2026
The Honhaar program has expanded steadily over time.
Phase 2 – Background
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Implemented earlier with strong response
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More than 20,000 students benefited
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Covered both science and arts disciplines
Phase 3 (2026) – Major Expansion
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Scholarships increased to 30,000
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Special quota for female students
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Greater focus on STEM disciplines
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Fully digital merit and verification system via PHEC
This expansion reflects a policy shift toward large-scale youth investment.
Internship Opportunities – How They Fit Into the 2026 Vision
Alongside scholarships, the Punjab Government has emphasized the importance of practical exposure and employability for students. While the primary confirmed announcement relates to scholarships, official statements highlight that internship pathways linked with higher education and skill development are part of the broader youth empowerment strategy for 2026.
These internships are expected to:
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Complement academic learning
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Provide workplace exposure
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Improve employability after graduation
Students receiving scholarships are advised to stay connected with PHEC and university notices for updates related to internships and placement-linked opportunities as they are rolled out.
How to Apply for Honhaar Scholarship 2026
The application process is fully online, with no physical submission required.
Step-by-Step Application Process
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Visit the official PHEC scholarship portal
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Create an account using CNIC and email address
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Fill in academic and personal details carefully
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Upload required documents
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Submit the application before the deadline
Incomplete or late applications are not entertained.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants should prepare scanned copies of:
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CNIC or B-Form
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Father’s or guardian’s CNIC
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Punjab domicile certificate
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Intermediate result card
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University admission letter
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Recent passport-size photograph
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Income certificate of guardian
Accurate documents help avoid rejection during verification.
Last Date to Apply – Do Not Miss This
The final deadline to apply for Honhaar Scholarship 2026 is September 15, 2026.
Applications submitted after this date are not considered, regardless of eligibility. Students are strongly advised to apply early to avoid portal congestion near the deadline.
Merit List and Selection Process
After the application deadline:
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Applications are digitally verified
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Merit lists are prepared based on academic performance
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Shortlisted students receive SMS or email alerts
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Tuition fee coverage is approved for selected candidates
Merit lists will be published on the PHEC portal.
Important clarity for students
Does the scholarship cover hostel or transport costs?
No. Only tuition fees are covered.
Can private university students apply?
Yes, if the institution is HEC-recognized.
Is the program limited to science students?
No. Arts, commerce, medical, and engineering students are also eligible.
Conclusion
The Honhaar Scholarship & Internship direction for 2026 marks a significant opportunity for Punjab’s youth. With 30,000 full tuition scholarships officially announced and a growing emphasis on career-oriented internships, the program aims to support students not just in education, but also in long-term employability.
Eligible students should prepare documents, apply on time, and regularly check official PHEC updates. For many families, this initiative could be the difference between stopping education and completing a degree with confidence and dignity.
