Honhaar Scholarship Phase 2 (Merit List 2026) | Apply Online

Are you a talented student from Punjab worried about how to fund your remaining university semesters? The wait is finally over. The Government of Punjab has launched the Honhaar Scholarship Phase 2 for 2026, specifically designed for students already enrolled in the 3rd to 8th semester of their degree programs. This comprehensive guide walks you through every single detail—from eligibility and the online application process to checking your name on the Honhaar Scholarship Phase 2 merit list 2026—ensuring you don’t miss this golden opportunity to secure 100% tuition coverage.

Key Takeaways

• Program Scope: Honhaar Scholarship Phase 2 targets 20,000 students enrolled in 3rd to 8th semesters of BS programs and 2nd to 5th year MBBS/BDS students across Punjab.
• Financial Coverage: Selected students receive 100% tuition fee coverage for the remainder of their degree, with potential monthly stipends for top performers.
• Eligibility Foundation: A Punjab domicile, family income below Rs. 300,000–500,000 (depending on institution type), and minimum 60-70% marks are non-negotiable requirements.
• Merit Calculation: Your selection depends on a 30% Matric + 70% Intermediate formula, with no entry test required.
• Application Mode: The entire process is digital—register, upload documents, and track your status on the official PHEC portal only.
• Document Verification: If shortlisted, appearing with original documents (especially the e-Stamp paper affidavit) is mandatory; missing this step means disqualification.

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Honhaar Scholarship Phase 2 (Merit List) | Apply Online

What is the Honhaar Scholarship Phase 2 Program for 2026?

The Honhaar Scholarship Phase 2 is a continuation of the Punjab government’s flagship “STAR” (Students for Talent Reward) initiative, designed to retain meritorious students in higher education by removing financial barriers. Unlike Phase 1, which focused on newcomers, Phase 2 specifically supports students who have already demonstrated academic consistency by advancing to the later stages of their degrees.

Program Overview: A Star Initiative by the Punjab Government

This is a merit-cum-need-based program executed by the Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC) under the Higher Education Department. Its core mission is to ensure that no student drops out of a university or college program solely because their family cannot afford the tuition fees. For the 2026 academic cycle, Phase 2 is operational with a dedicated online portal and a transparent selection mechanism.

Key Differentiators: Phase 1 vs. Phase 2 vs. Phase 3

Understanding the phase you belong to is critical, as each targets a different student demographic.

• Phase 1: Awarded 30,000 scholarships to students newly enrolled in the 1st semester of BS programs or the 1st year of medical colleges.
• Phase 2 (Current): Specifically for “continuing students.” This includes those in the 3rd to 8th semester of BS programs and the 2nd to 5th year of MBBS/BDS programs. The target for this phase is 20,000 awards.
• Phase 3: An expansionary phase designed to accommodate 5,000 students, often including those from other provinces or specific hardship cases, ensuring broader national inclusion.

What does the Honhaar Scholarship Phase 2 amount cover?

Financial support under Phase 2 is substantial and designed to be worry-free.

• 100% Tuition Fee: The primary benefit is the coverage of your entire tuition fee for the remaining duration of your degree program. This amount is paid directly to your educational institution.
• Additional Stipends: While the core coverage is tuition, high-achieving students (especially those in the top 1,000) may also receive a monthly stipend, which can range up to Rs. 10,000, along with free laptops and internet allowances.
• Is it a loan or a grant? It is a straight grant. You are not required to repay any amount, provided you maintain the minimum academic CGPA (usually 2.70/4.00) to stay eligible for the subsequent semesters.

Who is eligible for Phase 2 of the Honhaar Scholarship in 2026?

Eligibility for the Honhaar Scholarship Phase 2 is a combination of residency, academic standing, and financial status. Meeting all three pillars is mandatory.

Domicile and Residency Requirements

• Is a domicile of Punjab mandatory for this scholarship? Yes, absolutely. You must hold a permanent domicile certificate issued by any district within the province of Punjab. This is the primary residency filter for Phase 2.
• Can students from other provinces apply if they study in Punjab? Generally, no for Phase 2. Phase 2 is strictly for Punjab domicile holders. However, students from Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Balochistan, and KP may find opportunities under Phase 3 or specific quotas announced later.

Academic Enrollment: Who can apply?

• Which semesters are eligible? You must be currently enrolled in the 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, or 8th semester of a BS program at a recognized public sector university or college in Punjab.
• Can medical (MBBS/BDS) students apply for Phase 2? Yes, medical students are a key demographic. If you are in your 2nd, 3rd, 4th, or 5th year of MBBS or BDS at a public medical college, you are eligible.
• Can ADP (Associate Degree Program) students apply? ADP students are typically eligible if their program is equivalent to the first two years of a BS and they are enrolled in an institution covered under the program. Always check the portal for your specific program code.
• Are 3rd-semester students eligible for the Phase 2 scholarship? Yes, this is explicitly clarified. If you have successfully completed your 1st and 2nd semesters and are enrolled in the 3rd semester of the 2026 academic year, you are the prime target for Phase 2.
• Are evening shift students eligible for the scholarship? Eligibility is usually tied to the program and institution, not the shift. If your evening shift program is officially recognized and listed on the portal, you are eligible. However, always verify your department’s status during application.

Financial Eligibility: The Income Limit

• What is the monthly income limit for Phase 2 applicants? The income ceiling varies slightly based on the type of institution you are attending.
  • Public Sector Universities and Colleges: Your family’s monthly income must be less than Rs. 300,000 to Rs. 350,000.
  • Federal Chartered / Private Sector Universities: For institutions like LUMS, NUST, or FAST, the limit is higher, typically less than Rs. 500,000 per month.
• How is family income verified? You will be required to submit a sworn affidavit. This is a legal document printed on e-Stamp paper, declaring your family’s total monthly income, and it must be signed and notarized.

Academic Merit: Percentage and CGPA Requirements

• What percentage is required in Intermediate to apply for Phase 2? Your final selection is based on your past performance.
  • Public Universities (Science disciplines): Minimum 70% marks or equivalent CGPA.
  • Public Universities (Arts/Humanities): Minimum 65% marks or equivalent CGPA.
  • Medical & Dental Colleges (MBBS/BDS): Minimum 80% in FSc/Intermediate.
  • HED Government Colleges: Minimum 65% for Science and 60% for Arts.
• Minimum CGPA requirement for continuing students: Once you are a scholar, you must maintain a minimum CGPA of 2.70 out of 4.00 each semester to continue receiving the funding in subsequent years.

General Requirements

• Is there an age limit for the Honhaar Scholarship Phase 2? Most official sources indicate there is no strict age limit for Phase 2, as it targets continuing students. However, some guidelines suggest applicants should ideally be under 22 years of age at the time of application. It is best to confirm this on the portal.

How can I apply for the Honhaar Scholarship Phase 2 online?

The application process is fully digital, eliminating the need for physical paperwork. You must complete it on the official portal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Online Registration

• How to register on the Honhaar portal? Go to honhaarscholarship.punjabhec.gov.pk. Click on “Sign Up” or “Register.” You will need your CNIC number (or B-Form if under 18) to create an account. A verification code will be sent to your mobile number or email.
• Filling out the application form: Log in using your credentials. You will need to navigate through three main sections:
  1. Personal Details: Name, date of birth, gender, address, and contact information.
  2. Educational Details: Your enrollment year, current semester, program name, university/college, and previous marks from Matric and Intermediate.
  3. Socio-Economic Details: Family structure, guardian’s occupation, and total monthly household income.

Document Upload Guide: Format and Size Specifications

Prepare digital scans of all your documents before you start filling the form to avoid session timeouts.

• What documents are required for upload?
  • CNIC (front and back) or B-Form
  • Father/Guardian’s CNIC
  • Punjab Domicile Certificate
  • Matriculation Certificate (or O-Level equivalence)
  • Intermediate Certificate (or A-Level equivalence)
  • Latest Semester Transcript or Enrollment/Admission Letter
  • Recent Passport-sized photograph
• Technical Specifications: All documents must be in JPG or PNG format. Each file size should be under 200 KB. Ensure the scans are clear and legible.
• How do I download the income affidavit for Phase 2? On the portal dashboard, you will find a link to download the “Sample Affidavit.” Download this template.
• Is an E-stamp paper necessary for the affidavit? Yes, this is critical. You must print the downloaded template onto a physical e-Stamp paper. The stamp paper must be of a minimum value (usually Rs. 50 or Rs. 100, as specified on the portal). Get the affidavit signed by a notary public or an oath commissioner. Then, scan this signed e-Stamp paper and upload it back to the portal.

Final Submission and Application ID

• Review and Submit: Before clicking the final “Submit” button, review every single field. Incorrect information is the leading cause of rejection.
• Saving the Application ID: Upon successful submission, the system will generate a unique Application ID or Tracking Number. Write this down immediately. You will need it to check your status and download the merit list.

Troubleshooting Common Technical Issues

• Why is my CNIC already registered on the Honhaar portal? This usually happens if you applied for Phase 1 or if a family member used the same CNIC. Try the “Forgot Password” option to reset your login. If that fails, contact the PHEC helpdesk with your CNIC copy.
• What should I do if my university name is not on the list? First, check the spelling or try alternative names. If it is genuinely missing, your institution might not be included in the approved list for Phase 2. You can raise a query on the portal, but the list of eligible institutions is usually final.
• How do I recover my forgotten password for the Honhaar portal? On the login page, click the “Forgot Password” link. Enter your CNIC and registered email. A reset link will be sent to your email.

What documents are required for the Honhaar Scholarship Phase 2?

Having your documents in order is half the battle won. This checklist ensures you don’t miss anything.

Comprehensive Document Checklist for 2026

Organize these documents in a folder before you begin your online application:

Category A: Identification

• Student’s CNIC (if 18+) or B-Form (if under 18)
• Father’s / Legal Guardian’s CNIC

Category B: Academic Records

• Matriculation (SSC) Marksheet / Certificate
• Intermediate (HSSC) Marksheet / Certificate
• Proof of current enrollment (Admission Letter or latest fee receipt or roll number slip)

Category C: Residency & Income

• Permanent Domicile Certificate (Punjab)
• Income Affidavit on e-Stamp Paper (signed and notarized)
• Recent utility bills (electricity, gas) as supplementary address/income proof

Category D: Miscellaneous

• Recent passport-size photograph with white background

The Income Affidavit: A Detailed Guide

• Where to get e-Stamp paper? E-Stamp paper is not sold at regular stationery shops. You can purchase it from designated branches of banks (like HBL, NBP) or authorized e-Stamp vendors in your city.
• How to correctly fill the affidavit?
  1. Download the template from the official portal.
  2. Carefully copy the exact wording from the template onto your e-Stamp paper, or print it directly if the vendor allows.
  3. Fill in your specific details (name, CNIC, income amount) accurately.
  4. Sign it in the presence of a Notary Public or Oath Commissioner, who will also sign and stamp it.
• Notarization: Is it required? Yes, for the document to be legally valid, notarization is mandatory. An unnotarized affidavit will lead to immediate rejection during verification.

Avoiding Disqualification: The “Missing Documents” Pitfall

Many students get selected on the merit list but lose the award at the final hurdle.

• What happens if documents are missing? If you are shortlisted and called for verification but fail to produce the original documents or upload missing files by the deadline, your name will be struck off the list.
• Deadline for submitting missing documents: Universities usually give a strict window (e.g., 3-5 days) for selected candidates to submit missing documents. Keep checking your portal status and university notice boards.

Which universities and colleges are included in the Phase 2 list?

The scholarship covers a vast network of institutions across Punjab, ensuring wide accessibility.

List of Eligible Public Sector Universities (All 50)

All 50 government-chartered universities in Punjab are eligible. Some of the major ones include:

Are Private Universities Included?

• Is the scholarship open for private university students in Phase 2? Yes, but only for a select list of top-tier private and federal chartered universities. This includes prestigious institutions like:
  • LUMS (Lahore University of Management Sciences)
  • NUST (National University of Sciences and Technology)
  • FAST-NUCES
  • COMSATS University
  • GIKI (Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute)
  • University of Central Punjab (UCP)
  • University of Management and Technology (UMT)
  • Beaconhouse National University (BNU)

Other Eligible Institutions

• Public Medical & Dental Colleges: All 16 public sector medical and dental colleges in Punjab are covered, including Nishtar Medical University, Allama Iqbal Medical College, and Rawalpindi Medical University.
• Public Graduate Colleges: A total of 131 government graduate colleges running BS programs under the Higher Education Department are included.

What is the merit formula for Phase 2 selection?

Transparency is a hallmark of this program. The merit is calculated using a standardized formula that leaves no room for discretion.

Decoding the Merit Calculation

• What is the merit formula for Phase 2 selection? The merit is calculated strictly on your past academic performance using the following weightage:
  • Matriculation (SSC): 30% weightage
  • Intermediate (HSSC): 70% weightage
• How is CGPA converted for merit? If you are already in a semester system, your university will convert your CGPA into an equivalent percentage based on HEC-approved policy guidelines for uniform semester systems. This converted percentage is then used in the 70% Intermediate/Equivalent bracket.

Selection Process: How are awardees finalized?

• Is there an interview or test? No. There is no entry test or interview for the scholarship. Selection is purely and solely based on the academic merit formula mentioned above, combined with income eligibility.
• Role of the selection committee: A committee at the university level (often including the Registrar and a PHEC nominee) verifies the documents of shortlisted students. They ensure the data entered online matches the original documents. The final list is approved based on their verification report.

Special Quotas and Considerations

• Is there a female quota? Yes, the Punjab government has a strong focus on female education. Approximately 60% of the scholarships are reserved for female students to empower them through higher education.
• Preference for disadvantaged groups: Special consideration is given to students from remote or underdeveloped districts, orphans, and differently-abled persons, ensuring inclusivity beyond just academic numbers.

When and how to check the Honhaar Scholarship Phase 2 Merit List 2026?

This is the moment of truth. Knowing where and how to look can save you days of anxiety.

Merit List Announcement Schedule

• When will the merit list for Phase 2 be announced? Based on the application timeline (which typically closes around September), the Honhaar Scholarship Phase 2 merit list 2026 is expected to be released in October 2026. Keep a close watch starting early October.
• Where is the merit list published? The primary source is the official PHEC portal: honhaarscholarship.punjabhec.gov.pk. It will also be displayed on the official websites and physical notice boards of all participating universities.

How to check your name on the merit list?

• How do I check my application status on the Honhaar portal?
  1. Visit the official portal.
  2. Log in using your CNIC and password.
  3. Navigate to the “Application Status” or “Merit List” section.
  4. Your status will be displayed (e.g., “Under Process,” “Shortlisted,” “Awarded”).
• How to download the Honhaar Scholarship Phase 2 merit list PDF?
  1. On the portal’s homepage, look for the “Merit Lists” or “Downloads” section.
  2. Click on the link titled “Phase 2 Merit List 2026” or similar.
  3. You will usually find separate PDFs for different divisions (e.g., Lahore Division, Multan Division) or university categories.
  4. Download the relevant PDF.
  5. Use the search function (Ctrl+F) in your PDF reader and type your name or Application ID to see if you are on the list.

What to do if you are selected?

• Document Verification Schedule: Congratulations! Your name on the list is just the first step. You will be notified (via portal and SMS) to appear for manual document verification at your university on a specific date.
• What if there is a discrepancy in the merit list? If your name is misspelled or your CNIC or Roll Number is wrong, immediately contact your university’s Financial Aid Office (SFAO). You may be allowed to make corrections within a short window, as seen in official notices from institutions like GCUF.

What happens after selection? Payment and Disbursement

Once verified, the financial process begins. Here is how the money flows.

How is the scholarship amount disbursed?

• Does the scholarship cover hostel dues and transport? The core coverage is 100% tuition fees. However, for students receiving a monthly stipend (especially top performers), that money can be used for hostel dues, transport, books, or other educational expenses.
• Is the scholarship a one-time payment or for the full degree? It is a recurring scholarship. Once selected, your tuition fees will be covered for the remainder of your degree program, subject to you maintaining a minimum CGPA (usually 2.70) each semester. You do not need to reapply every year.

Payment Process

• Direct Transfer to Institutions: The PHEC or Finance Department does not give cash to students. The scholarship amount is transferred directly to the bank account of the university or college to cover the student’s tuition fee.
• Bank Transfers for Stipends: For students eligible for stipends, the amount is transferred directly to the student’s own bank account. Ensuring you provided accurate bank details during application is vital.

Maintaining the Scholarship

• Can I apply if I am already receiving HEC Need-Based Scholarship? Generally, students are not allowed to hold two government-funded scholarships simultaneously. If you are receiving another major award, you may be disqualified from this one unless the rules explicitly allow combination. You must declare this in your application.

Honhaar Scholarship Phase 3 and Other Government Initiatives

The Honhaar program is part of a larger ecosystem of support for Punjab’s youth.

What is Honhaar Scholarship Phase 3?

• Overview of Phase 3: Phase 3 is an extension of the program, often designed to be more inclusive. It aims to provide an additional 5,000 scholarships, sometimes opening the door for students from other provinces (AJK, GB, KP, Balochistan) who are studying in Punjab, or for students in specific disciplines not covered in Phase 2.
• Honhaar scholarship Phase 3 merit list pdf: This list is released separately after Phase 2 lists are finalized. The process for checking it is identical to Phase 2.

Complementary Initiatives by Punjab Govt

• CM Laptop Scheme: High-achieving students selected for the Honhaar Scholarship are often also awarded free, latest-generation laptops (Core i7, 13th Gen) to aid their digital education and research.
• Electric Bike Scheme: To address transportation issues, the government has introduced affordable electric bikes for students, making commuting to universities easier.
• Nawaz Internet City: A long-term vision project aimed at hosting campuses of international universities in Lahore, creating a hub for world-class education accessible to local students.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the last date to apply for Phase 2?
The last date to apply for the Honhaar Scholarship Phase 2 varies by academic cycle. For the current cycle, the deadline was typically around September 15, 2025, with some extensions for specific cases. For the most accurate and current deadline in 2026, you must check the official portal immediately, as late applications are never accepted.

Can I make changes to my application after submission?
No, once you click the final submit button, the application is locked. You cannot edit your personal details or marks. If there is a critical error (like a wrong CNIC), you must contact the helpdesk or your university’s financial aid office before the deadline.

What is the helpline number for the Honhaar Scholarship?
Helpline numbers are usually published on the official PHEC portal. You can find the contact details for the Punjab Higher Education Commission or the dedicated scholarship helpdesk at the bottom of the website. Avoid calling unofficial numbers.

Is the scholarship only for BS programs or for Masters as well?
Phase 2 is specifically designed for students in the 3rd to 8th semester of BS (Bachelor’s) programs and medical students. It does not typically cover MPhil or PhD students. Masters programs (MA/MSc) are generally not covered unless they are part of a BS scheme.

How do I get my income affidavit attested?
After printing your affidavit on e-Stamp paper, you need to get it attested. You can visit a Notary Public, an Oath Commissioner, or a Grade 17 government officer to have them verify and stamp your signature on the document.

What is the last date to submit missing documents for Phase 3?
If you are selected in Phase 3, you will be given a specific deadline, often within 2-3 weeks of the merit list announcement. For a recent Phase 3 cycle, the last date for submitting missing documents was around February 23, 2026. Always adhere to the date mentioned in your specific notification.