HEC National Research Program for Universities (NRPU) 2026–27 — Apply by 30 October 2026

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has launched the National Research Program for Universities (NRPU) 2026–27 Call for Research Proposals, offering a competitive research funding opportunity for researchers and faculty members associated with higher education institutions in Pakistan. HEC describes NRPU as a flagship research programme designed to support high-quality and promising scientific research projects in both basic and applied research. The new call is currently open, and the deadline for submission is 30 October 2026. Researchers interested in applying should carefully review the official call and eligibility requirements before submitting their proposals.

A major update for the 2026–27 call is that HEC has removed the Rs. 5,000 application fee, meaning applicants are not required to pay this fee for submission under the new call. HEC has also announced an eligibility relaxation under which universities having more than five delayed or unsettled NRPU cases may now be eligible to apply, provided that they meet all other applicable eligibility conditions. HEC has stated that the remaining terms, conditions and eligibility requirements continue to apply.

The NRPU programme is intended to encourage research that can contribute to the advancement of knowledge while demonstrating strategic relevance and potential impact on local industry and society. HEC encourages Principal Investigators to develop collaborative research teams involving senior and junior academic staff, researchers from relevant sectors or industries, and students where appropriate. Applications are assessed through a competitive and merit-based evaluation process. The programme uses a two-stage mechanism in which proposal outlines are initially reviewed, while shortlisted applicants may subsequently be invited to submit detailed project proposals for further evaluation.

According to HEC’s published funding details, NRPU awards can have budgets of up to Rs. 20 million, with a maximum project duration of three years. Researchers and eligible university faculty members should prepare their proposals according to the requirements specified in the official 2026–27 call and submit them through the designated HEC research portal before the 30 October 2026 deadline. Applicants should also consult the official NRPU guidelines, FAQs and eligibility conditions for complete information before submission.

🔗 HEC NRPU Official Page: https://www.hec.gov.pk/english/services/universities/nrpu/Pages/Introduction.aspx