International Research Support Initiative Program (IRSIP) 2025

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

• Objectives of the Program
• Eligibility Criteria
• Application Process
• Fellowship Package
• Terms & Conditions
• Conclusion

The International Research Support Initiative Program (IRSIP) provides a unique opportunity for full-time PhD students in Pakistan to conduct research abroad for six months. This initiative aims to improve the quality of doctoral research and establish valuable linkages with foreign institutions.

Objectives of the Program

• Enhance Research Quality: Improve the standards of doctoral research in Pakistan.
• Develop Skilled Workforce: Create a pool of qualified individuals to contribute to national development.
• Transfer Knowledge: Facilitate the assimilation of advanced scientific knowledge for economic progress.
• Global Exposure: Offer training and research opportunities in reputable foreign labs.
• Foster Collaboration: Explore international collaboration avenues.
• Promote Pakistani Talent: Introduce Pakistani researchers on a global stage.
• Disseminate Research Information: Share insights about research in Pakistan.
• Achieve International Standards: Align doctoral research with global benchmarks.

Eligibility Criteria

• AJK/Pakistani national enrolled as a full-time PhD student.
• Completed a minimum of 18 credit hours of coursework.
• Eligible after 18 months of enrollment, up to a maximum of 3 years in the PhD program.
• Passed the local GAT subject test or University Admission Test.
• Approved PhD research topic and synopsis by the appropriate university body.
• An official acceptance letter from a top 200 foreign university as per Times or QS rankings.
• The foreign supervisor should not have previously supervised your local supervisor.

Application Process

Eligible candidates should apply via the online portal at HEC Scholarship and submit the following documents:

• Foreign university acceptance letter(s).
• CV of proposed foreign supervisor(s).
• BASR/DASR approval of the PhD research topic.
• Complete PhD thesis synopsis.
• Recommendation letter from the local PhD supervisor.
• CV of local PhD supervisor.
• NOC from HEC (if applicable).
• CV of applicant.
• Copy of passport.
• Academic documents including PhD coursework transcript.
• GRE result certificate/card.

Important Note: Incomplete applications will not be considered. A hard copy is required after selection. The deadline for the current batch is 30 March 2025.

Fellowship Package

• Travel Allowance: Economy class return airfare up to $1300.
• Living Allowance:
  • UK: £750/month
  • USA: $1500/month
  • Rest of Europe: €900/month
  • Other regions vary based on location.
• Bench Fee: Maximum amounts based on currency:
  • USD: $3500
  • GBP: £1750
  • EUR: €2550
  • AUD: $4100
  • CAD: $3700

Note: The bench fee must be specified in the acceptance letter and is reimbursed upon receipt of the paid invoice.

Terms & Conditions

Selected candidates must sign a bond with HEC to return and complete their PhD studies. They are required to commence the scholarship within six months of the award letter issuance.

For queries, contact: irsip@hec.gov.pk.

Conclusion

The IRSIP program offers a fantastic opportunity for PhD students in Pakistan to enhance their research capabilities and gain international exposure, ultimately contributing to the advancement of science and technology in the country.

NOTE: To see more information about the programme please visit the HEC Official website here!