Islamabad: The applications for the British Council-administered Scotland Pakistan Scholarship for Young Women and Girls are now open.

This scholarship funds Bachelor's and Master's/MPhil studies for Pakistani women in any HEC-recognised university across Pakistan. Funded by the Scottish Government, these grants aim to make higher education more accessible to women, supporting them in achieving their potential and ambition. The British Council administers the scheme in Pakistan and coordinates with selected scholars and universities either directly or through nominated university focal persons.

The scholarship covers a two-year Master's/MPhil or four-year Bachelor's degree in one of the following subject areas only:

Education

Sustainable Energy

Food Security and Agriculture

Health Sciences

STEM

Climate

The recently published impact evaluation report highlights the transformative nature of this programme. The scholarships have significantly increased enrolment and retention rates for women, especially from rural and underprivileged backgrounds. Beneficiaries reported improved career prospects, greater confidence, and a stronger voice in their families and communities. Many have gone on to contribute to education, health, agriculture, and other critical sectors in Pakistan - creating a ripple effect of empowerment and development.

These scholarships are open to female applicants only. In addition, applicants must:

Be Pakistani nationals currently residing in Pakistan

Be pursuing a two-year Master's or four-year Bachelor's degree in the above-listed subject areas

Hold a confirmed admission offer from an HEC-recognised university in Pakistan

Maarya Rehman, Deputy Director British Council said: 'These scholarships reflect a shared commitment between Scotland and Pakistan to champion education, equality, and opportunity. Each scholar's journey is a powerful reminder that investing in women's education is investing in a brighter, more inclusive future for us all.'

Young women with disabilities, from rural areas, and/or minority groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

Last date to apply is the 31st of August,2025. To apply and for more information visit bit.ly/4lVP6sR.

The Scottish Government is the devolved government for Scotland and has a range of responsibilities that include: the economy, education, health, justice, rural affairs, housing, environment, equal opportunities, consumer advocacy and advice, transport, and taxation.

Some powers are reserved to the UK Government. These include immigration, the constitution, foreign policy and defence. For more information visit: https://www.gov.scot/about/

The British Council is the UK's international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities. We support peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide. We do this through our work in arts and culture, education and the English language. We work with people in over 200 countries and territories and are on the ground in more than 100 countries. In 2021-22 we reached 650 million people. For more information visit https://www.britishcouncil.pk/