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The KPEF Merit cum–inaffordability Scholarships are administered under the framework of Section 13 (cc) of the FEF Act-III of 1992. The primary objective is to promote higher education among talented students from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including those from newly merged districts and ex-FATA regions, by offering financial support to eligible candidates enrolled in public and private sector educational institutions. This initiative aids in reducing economic barriers to quality education, especially for first-year students pursuing BS or MS programs.

Objectives

The scholarship program aims to:

• Reward Academic Excellence: By selecting students who score highly in their examinations or maintain a good CGPA (typically at least 70% or a 3.00 CGPA).
• Support Financially Disadvantaged Students: Ensuring that promising students from low-income families can continue their education.
• Promote Equal Opportunities: Scholarships are awarded equitably among male and female students, with provisions to ensure that if one gender has fewer applicants, the scheme extends benefits to the next eligible candidate regardless of gender.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the scholarship, students must meet several criteria:

• Academic Performance: Applicants must have secured at least 70% marks in their last examination. In programs with semester systems, a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 3.00 is required. For arts-specialized universities, the selection may include a merit aptitude test based on the candidate’s skills.
• Domicile Requirement: Applicants must be residents of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa—including newly merged districts or ex-FATA regions.
• Admission Status: Students must have secured admission in the first year of a degree program (either BS or MS) at an approved educational institution in Pakistan. Only freshly enrolled students are eligible.
• Financial Need: The monthly income of the applicant’s parents or guardians should not exceed Rs. 160,000. Additionally, applicants already availing other scholarships are generally not eligible for this program.

Application Process and Deadlines

The application process is conducted entirely online through the official KPEF website. Key pointers include:

• Online Application Portal: Applicants need to register on the scholarship portal at ef.kp.gov.pk and fill out the scholarship form with all necessary details.
• Submission Guidelines: The application must be submitted digitally. Direct applications to the Foundation or educational institutions are not accepted.
• Deadlines: While one source cites the final date as February 27, 2025, another reference mentions February 20, 2025. Applicants should verify the exact deadline on the official website to ensure timely submission.
• Interview Process: Shortlisted candidates may be called for an interview on their respective university campuses by official scholarship disbursement committees. The interviews allow the committee to further validate candidates’ credentials and financial need.
• Renewal Terms: For continued support, students must maintain the required academic standards (a minimum CGPA of 3.00 or 70% marks). If the academic performance drops below this threshold, the scholarship may be discontinued.

Additional Considerations

• Field of Study: Scholarships are primarily awarded to students in various fields including emerging sciences, engineering, management, general sciences, and arts, ensuring a broad-based impact.
• Preference Categories: Some announcements may detail additional preferences—for instance, prioritizing orphans, children of martyrs (Shuhada), and physically disabled students, as well as families entitled to Zakat. It’s a good idea to check the detailed guidelines on the official portal if you fall into any of these categories.
• Stay Updated: Since scholarship schemes are periodically revised, it is advisable for interested applicants to regularly visit the KPEF website or contact local district education offices for any latest updates or modifications in the procedure.

Final Thoughts

The KPEF Merit cum–inaffordability Scholarships are a significant opportunity for academically deserving yet financially constrained students from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The scheme not only alleviates the burden of educational expenses but also encourages a culture of academic excellence. For further clarity, always refer to the official scholarship guidelines available on the KPEF website, and be mindful of the specified deadlines and documentation requirements.