The Government of Punjab has launched the CM Punjab HONHAAR SCHOLARSHIPS Phase 2 in 2025, a continuation of its commitment to empowering youth through education. This initiative, introduced under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, focuses on supporting bright students who face financial hardships. With improved features, higher financial assistance, and wider inclusivity, this phase promises to reach more students across Punjab and even beyond.
The program was first introduced in 2024 as Phase 1, where over 20,000 students from public sector universities received scholarships. The success of the first phase encouraged the government to expand its scope and increase the number of beneficiaries in 2025. Now, Phase 2 aims to cover as many as 80,000 students, making it one of the most extensive scholarship programs in Punjab’s history.
What is the CM Punjab HONHAAR SCHOLARSHIPS Phase 2?
The HONHAAR Scholarship is a merit-cum-need-based financial aid program that ensures talented students can continue their education without interruption due to financial challenges. It is a part of CM Maryam Nawaz’s broader education reforms, aimed at reducing dropout rates and preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow.
Unlike Phase 1, which primarily focused on public sector universities, Phase 2 brings significant improvements. The program now covers students of government colleges, technical institutions, and even diploma programs. This ensures that not only university students but also those pursuing intermediate and vocational education can benefit.
Key Features of Phase 2
Under the new phase, the number of scholarships has been significantly increased. While 20,000 scholarships were distributed in the first phase, Phase 2 has expanded the number to 35,000 new awards, with an overall target of 80,000 students across Punjab. This massive scale-up includes a strong focus on students from remote and underdeveloped districts, ensuring equal access to education opportunities.
The eligibility criteria have also been expanded. Apart from university students, intermediate and college students affiliated with government boards, along with DAE (Diploma of Associate Engineering) students and technical institute learners registered with TEVTA, are now part of the program. This inclusivity guarantees that the scholarship reaches every deserving category of student in Punjab.
The financial assistance has been substantially increased. Each selected student will now receive a monthly stipend of Rs. 10,000, compared to Rs. 4,000 in the first phase. To further support learning, the government has introduced one-time laptop grants and internet stipends for top-performing students. This ensures that deserving scholars not only get financial aid but also the necessary digital tools to compete in the modern world.
To simplify the process, a dedicated online application portal was launched in July 2025. Students can apply directly through this portal, making the process transparent and efficient. Moreover, integrated SMS and WhatsApp notification services have been added to keep students updated about their application status in real time.
Special quotas have also been reserved to make the program more inclusive. Five percent of scholarships are allocated to orphans, another five percent for students with disabilities, and ten percent specifically for female students belonging to rural areas. This ensures that marginalized groups are not left behind in the pursuit of education.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the CM Punjab HONHAAR SCHOLARSHIPS Phase 2, applicants must be domiciled in Punjab or belong to regions such as Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Balochistan, or Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as the program has now extended beyond Punjab. Students must be enrolled in a public sector university, an intermediate college affiliated with a government board, or a technical and vocational institute registered with TEVTA. They should have achieved at least 70% marks in their last academic year, while their family income must not exceed Rs. 60,000 per month. Additionally, students already receiving any other scholarship are not eligible to apply.
Application Process
The application procedure is entirely online to ensure transparency and accessibility. Students are required to create an account on the Punjab Government Scholarship Portal by registering with their CNIC, mobile number, and email. Once registered, they must fill out the application form with academic and financial details, including bank account information for stipend disbursement.
Applicants must also upload supporting documents such as CNIC or B-Form, domicile, passport-size photograph, last academic marksheet, parent or guardian income certificate, and admission letter from their current institution. After submission, each applicant receives a tracking ID, which can be used to check the status of the application. The final deadline to apply is September 15, 2025, and students are encouraged to complete their applications well before the closing date.
Selection and Disbursement
The selection process is strictly merit-based and managed by the Higher Education Department of Punjab. A detailed merit list will be published after reviewing applications. Once selected, students will receive their stipends directly into their bank accounts, ensuring no delays or mismanagement. The top 1,000 students will also be rewarded with laptops and exclusive leadership training opportunities, designed to enhance their skills and prepare them for future challenges.
Official Statement by CM Maryam Nawaz
At the official launch ceremony held at Punjab House, Lahore, in July 2025, CM Maryam Nawaz highlighted the importance of this initiative. She stated that no student in Punjab should be forced to abandon education due to financial issues. She described the HONHAAR Scholarships as not only financial assistance but also an investment in the intellectual capital of Punjab, ensuring that the province’s youth can contribute effectively to Pakistan’s progress.
Latest Updates (August 2025)
The online scholarship portal went live on August 5, 2025, and within 72 hours, over 120,000 applications were received. On August 10, CM Maryam Nawaz directed the Higher Education Department to conduct awareness campaigns in remote areas through mobile information vans, ensuring students from underdeveloped regions are not left behind. Additionally, a mobile application for the HONHAAR portal is expected to launch by the end of August, enabling easier access for students through smartphones.
Conclusion
The CM Punjab HONHAAR SCHOLARSHIPS Phase 2 in 2025 is a transformative initiative that demonstrates the government’s commitment to building a brighter future through education. With higher stipends, broader eligibility, and a transparent online application system, this program is a golden opportunity for deserving students to continue their studies without financial stress. If you meet the criteria, applying for this scholarship could be your stepping stone to academic success and future career growth.
FAQs About CM Punjab HONHAAR SCHOLARSHIPS Phase 2 – 2025
Who can apply for the scholarship?
Students enrolled in public universities, government-affiliated colleges, or TEVTA-registered institutes with at least 70% marks and a family income below Rs. 60,000 per month.
What is the deadline to apply?
The last date for submission of applications is September 15, 2025.
Are students outside Punjab eligible?
Yes, the program has been extended to students from Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
What is the monthly stipend amount?
Each selected student will receive Rs. 10,000 per month, with top achievers also receiving laptops and internet stipends.
How will scholarships be disbursed?
Scholarships will be transferred directly to the student’s bank account after selection based on merit and financial need.
