The Honhaar Scholarship Program, launched by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, is a transformative initiative designed to uplift the educational aspirations of Pakistan’s youth. By removing financial barriers and fostering academic excellence, the program has already empowered 80,000 young minds, with 50,000 students currently receiving scholarships and 30,000 more set to benefit soon. Described by CM Maryam Nawaz as the “heartbeat of Punjab’s future,” this flagship undergraduate scholarship scheme is revolutionizing access to higher education across Punjab and beyond. This guide provides a detailed overview of the Honhaar Scholarship Program, including its objectives, eligibility criteria, covered disciplines, application process, and transformative impact.
What is the Honhaar Scholarship Program?
The Honhaar Scholarship Program is a landmark initiative by the Punjab government, managed by the Higher Education Department, to support talented students facing financial constraints. Launched in 2024 with a budget of Rs. 130 billion over four years, the program aims to support 120,000 students, awarding 30,000 scholarships annually. It covers 100% of tuition fees and provides additional support, such as laptops for needy students, to ensure access to digital resources.
The program has expanded to include students from Punjab, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, promoting educational equity nationwide. It supports 67 “future-proof” disciplines, ranging from Artificial Intelligence and Medicine to Arts and Social Sciences, equipping students with skills for thriving careers. With no gender restrictions and a focus on inclusivity, the program ensures opportunities for all deserving students.
CM Maryam Nawaz’s vision for education as a fundamental right drives the Honhaar Scholarship Program. Key highlights include:
- Massive Scale: The program has empowered 80,000 students, with 50,000 currently receiving scholarships and 30,000 more to be added soon. Over four years, 120,000 students will benefit.
- Phase-II Launch: On August 10, 2025, CM Maryam Nawaz announced the second phase, reopening the online portal for new applications with Rs. 4 billion allocated to continue the program’s momentum.
- Nationwide Reach: Initially focused on Punjab, the program now includes students from other provinces, fostering national unity and equal opportunity.
- Ceremonies and Distribution: The first phase awarded 2,473 scholarships at the University of Punjab, 2,570 in Rawalpindi Division at FAST University, Islamabad, 1,886 for UET Lahore students, and 637 for federal university students.
- Laptop Scheme: Laptops are provided to ensure students have access to digital tools for their studies.
CM Maryam Nawaz has urged students to “apply with confidence, study with passion, and never stop believing in what you can achieve,” emphasizing her commitment to youth empowerment.
Eligibility Criteria
The Honhaar Scholarship Program is designed to be accessible and merit-based, with the following eligibility criteria:
- Domicile: Applicants must hold a domicile from Punjab province.
- No Age Limit: The program is open to students of all ages, ensuring inclusivity.
- No Gender Restrictions: Scholarships are available to all genders, promoting equal opportunities.
Family Income:
- Monthly family income must be less than Rs. 350,000 for applicants enrolled in public sector Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).
- Monthly family income must be less than Rs. 500,000 for applicants enrolled in federal or private sector HEIs.
- An affidavit on e-stamp paper is required to verify income (download sample affidavit from the official portal).
Enrollment:
Applicants must be enrolled in the 1st semester/year of the 2025 academic session in selected disciplines at:
- Public sector universities or colleges in Punjab.
- Public medical and dental colleges (for MBBS/BDS students enrolled in 2025).
- Select federal or private universities (for specific disciplines).
- Students already enrolled in the 1st year of MBBS or BDS in 2025 are also eligible.
Academic Merit:
Scholarships are awarded based on a weighted calculation of Matric (30%) and Intermediate (70%) results.
Minimum marks required:
- Public Sector Universities/Colleges: ≥ 70% for Sciences, ≥ 65% for Arts and Social Sciences.
- MBBS/BDS (Public Sector Medical/Dental Colleges): ≥ 80%.
- Federal/Private Universities: ≥ 70% for Sciences, ≥ 65% for Arts and Social Sciences.
- HED Colleges: ≥ 65% for Sciences, ≥ 60% for Arts.
Covered Disciplines
The Honhaar Scholarship Program supports 67 disciplines, carefully selected to align with emerging industries and societal needs. These include:
- Technology and Innovation: Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Robotics, Cyber Security, Data Sciences, Mining and Analysis, Mobile System Applications, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Business Analytics.
- Engineering and Sciences: Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Molecular Genetics, Space Sciences, Engineering Programs, Chemistry, Zoology, Botany, Physics, Mathematics, Statistics, Geology, GIS.
- Medical and Health Sciences: MBBS, BDS, Pharmacy, Allied Health Sciences, Nursing, Veterinary Sciences.
- Environmental and Climate Sciences: Climate Change, Environmental Sciences, Water Technology, Solar Manufacturing/Technology, Fisheries/Wildlife.
- Business and Management: Strategic Business Management, Business Administration, Hospitality Management, Tourism Management, Agri Business, Commerce/Economics, Banking and Finance, Public Administration, HRM.
- Social Sciences and Humanities: Archaeology, Geography, Political Sciences, History, Social Works, Sociology, Philosophy, Psychology, Mass Communication.
- Arts and Literature: Film and Performing Arts, Fine Arts, Languages & Literature (English, Urdu, Punjabi, Arabic, Persian).
- Law and Education: Law, Education, Islamic Studies.
- Technical Disciplines: Coal Technology, Civil Technology, Electrical Technology, Mechanical Technology, Polymer Technology, Textile Technology, Chemical Technology.
- Cultural and Regional Studies: Punjabi, Islamic Studies.
This diverse range ensures students can pursue fields that align with their passions and career goals.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents via the online portal:
- CNIC or B-Form
- Domicile certificate (Punjab)
- Recent photograph
- Matric and Intermediate mark sheets
- Proof of enrollment in a selected university/college for 2025
- Affidavit on e-stamp paper verifying family income
- Bank account details
Application Process
The application process is user-friendly and fully online:
- Visit the official portal: https://honhaarscholarship.punjabhec.gov.pk
- Navigate to the Honhaar Scholarship 2025 section and click “Apply Now.”
- Complete the application form with personal, academic, and income details.
- Upload scanned copies of all required documents.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
- Save a printed or PDF copy of the application form for your records.
Application Deadline:
The last date to apply for the 2025 cycle is May 20, 2025. Only online applications are accepted, and the portal is currently open for Phase-II.
Applications are processed transparently through an online portal, with scrutiny by institutional and provincial-level committees and oversight from a steering committee chaired by Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb.
Impact and Vision
The Honhaar Scholarship Program is a catalyst for change, empowering Pakistan’s youth by removing financial barriers and providing access to quality education. By covering tuition fees and providing laptops, it ensures students can focus on their studies and career aspirations. The inclusion of 67 disciplines prepares students for emerging industries, from technology and medicine to arts and social sciences.
The program’s expansion to other provinces and removal of age and gender restrictions demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity. CM Maryam Nawaz’s vision is to create a generation of educated, skilled, and confident youth who will drive Pakistan’s progress. The Honhaar Scholarship Help Desk further supports applicants, ensuring a smooth and transparent process.
FAQs
Q: Can students from private universities apply?
A: Yes, students enrolled in select federal or private universities for specific disciplines are eligible, provided they meet the income and academic criteria.
Q: How is merit determined?
A: Merit is calculated based on Matric (30%) and Intermediate (70%) results, with minimum marks varying by institution and discipline.
Q: Where can I get more information?
A: Visit https://honhaarscholarship.punjabhec.gov.pk or contact the Honhaar Scholarship Help Desk.
The Honhaar Scholarship Program, led by CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif, is a beacon of hope for Pakistan’s youth. By empowering 80,000 students and counting, it provides not just financial support but also the tools and opportunities to achieve greatness. With Phase-II now open, students across Punjab are encouraged to apply and seize this chance to shape their futures. As CM Maryam Nawaz said, “Your dreams are the heartbeat of Punjab’s future.” Apply today, pursue your passion, and soar to new heights with the Honhaar Scholarship Program.
