In a shocking development, the US funding freeze 2025 has cast a long shadow over some of the most prestigious academic opportunities for Pakistani students.
The Fulbright scholarship Pakistan, known for opening doors to higher education in the United States, and the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (UGRAD) are facing suspension due to halted funds by the US State Department.
According to a report by Dawn, the decision, tied to the Trump administration’s freeze on “non-essential” federal programs, is threatening the very foundation of US-Pakistan educational exchange.
Since February 2025, this freeze has paused multiple US exchange programs, including the Fulbright program, deeply affecting both prospective and current scholars. The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) has reported delays in stipends, halted admissions, and even full program closures.
More than 9,300 Pakistanis have benefited from these initiatives since 1951. The current halt could jeopardize that legacy.
Table of Contents
Eligibility
For the Fulbright scholarship Pakistan, applicants must:
- Be Pakistani citizens
- Hold a four-year Bachelor’s degree or a two-year Bachelor’s with a two-year Master’s
- Demonstrate strong academic and leadership potential
- Be committed to returning to Pakistan after studies
For the now-suspended UGRAD program, undergraduates in any discipline were eligible, provided they were enrolled in a Pakistani university.
Deadline
Despite uncertainty, USEFP is still accepting Fulbright applications for the 2026 cycle. The deadline is May 15, 2025. However, with ongoing funding issues, the future of the selection process remains uncertain.
Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Academic transcripts and degrees
- A well-crafted personal statement
- GRE scores (for Fulbright)
- Three recommendation letters
- Valid passport copy
English language proficiency is crucial, though TOEFL is required only after shortlisting.
Steps to Apply
- Visit www.usefp.org
- Go to the Fulbright Program section
- Read the eligibility and FAQs carefully
- Register and fill out the online application
- Upload all required documents before the deadline
- Await interview calls and further instructions
Benefits
The Fulbright program offers:
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly living stipends
- Return airfare
- Health insurance
- Professional development support
These US grants for Pakistani students have historically been lifelines for those seeking global academic exposure.
Conclusion
The Pakistan Fulbright crisis reflects a larger dilemma in international education. The Fulbright program funding cut not only threatens educational dreams but also weakens people-to-people ties between the two nations.
With over 11,000 Pakistani students currently in US institutions, the ripple effect could be significant. In a world where opportunities should grow, not shrink, this pause in international student programs US is a disheartening setback.
Also Read: Undergraduate Scholarships Open in England – Check Details Now for the 2025 Intake!
Yet, hope persists. While challenges remain, students are encouraged to apply, prepare, and keep faith in the revival of these life-changing opportunities.
Share it with others—give them an opportunity to achieve their goal.