The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) has introduced a change in the language proficiency test for the prestigious Fulbright Scholarship Program for the year 2025.

Aspiring candidates, who were previously required to pass the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), will now need to successfully clear the Duolingo English Test.

The Fulbright Scholarship program

The Fulbright Scholarship Program, generously funded by the U.S. Department of State, has long stood as a beacon of opportunity for Pakistani students.

This esteemed program covers various aspects of academic pursuits, providing support for tuition, textbooks, airfare, living stipends, and health insurance.

New testing frontier

While the language proficiency test may have changed, the eligibility criteria for the Fulbright Scholarship Program remain intact. The program invites all Pakistani citizens with a robust academic background residing in the country, who are committed to returning and serving Pakistan.

Special encouragement is extended to women, individuals with disabilities, and those hailing from specific regions such as Balochistan, Northern Sindh, Southern Punjab, KP, AJK, and GB.

For candidates aspiring to pursue a Master’s program, a four-year Bachelor’s degree or a combination of Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees totaling 16 years of formal education from an accredited university is required.

Those eyeing the Ph.D. program should possess a Master’s, M.Phil, or an equivalent degree, equivalent to a minimum of 18 years of formal education.

Documentation and application details

Prospective applicants are required to submit an application form along with three reference letters, a GRE score report, and scanned transcripts explaining the grading scale from the issuing university.

While documents attested by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) are preferable, those attested by the issuing authority will be acceptable at the time of application.

Apply Now: Deadline and submission details

Eligible candidates keen on seizing this opportunity can submit their applications for the 2025 Fulbright Scholarship Program through the USEFP’s website. The deadline for applications is set for February 28, 2024.

As the academic landscape shifts with the introduction of the Duolingo English Test, Pakistani scholars are urged to embark on this journey of educational excellence and global exposure through the Fulbright Scholarship Program.