Punjab Chief Minister Mariyam Nawaz has officially extended the Honhaar Scholarship Program’s deadline to October 26, 2025. The decision comes after floods disrupted educational activities across several districts, leaving students unable to meet the earlier submission date. This extension provides additional time for deserving students to apply and ensures that no talented individual loses their chance due to circumstances beyond their control.
Objective of the Scholarship Program
The Honhaar Merit-Based Scholarship Program was launched by the Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC) to support financially challenged families. The scheme provides full tuition fee coverage for undergraduate students studying in public sector universities and colleges. Around 30,000 scholarships are being offered, directly reducing the financial burden on parents while encouraging students to focus on academic excellence without worrying about expenses.
Relief for Flood-Affected Students
One of the main reasons behind the extension is the devastation caused by recent floods in Punjab. Several families lost their livelihoods, while academic routines were disturbed across affected areas. By extending the application deadline, the government aims to provide equal opportunity to students who could not prepare or submit forms on time. This special consideration strengthens the program’s role during natural disasters.
Eligibility Requirements for Applicants
To qualify for the Honhaar Scholarship, students must have a Punjab domicile and belong to households with an income between Rs. 300,000 and Rs. 350,000 annually. They also need at least 60–70% marks in their intermediate exams. Applicants must be enrolled in a public sector institution and should not already be receiving a similar scholarship. These criteria ensure that aid reaches deserving candidates who genuinely require support.
Special Consideration for Medical and Dentistry Students
For medical and dentistry students, the scholarship applies from the second year up to the fifth year of their programs. This rule is designed to help students cope with heavy financial costs during advanced stages of their studies. For other undergraduate programs, eligibility is assessed on a semester basis. This flexible structure ensures fair distribution of funds across diverse academic disciplines.
Application Process Through Online Portal
Applications can only be submitted online through the official PHEC Scholarship Portal. Students are required to upload essential documents, including their valid CNIC, academic transcripts, household income certificates, and enrollment verification forms. The Commission has strongly advised candidates to apply early, as the portal may face technical issues closer to the deadline due to high traffic from last-minute submissions.
Impact of Deadline Extension
The extension to October 26, 2025, is expected to help a large number of flood-affected students secure their chance at higher education. By widening the application window, the government demonstrates its commitment to supporting youth even during challenging times. The Honhaar Scholarship Program not only empowers low-income families but also ensures that bright, deserving students continue their education without financial interruption.
