AIOU PhD Scholarship — Deadlines & Entry Test Schedule
AIOU is conducting PhD entry tests in four phases by subject group. Confirm your test date below and apply before the Autumn 2026 admission deadline.
Entry Test Schedule by Subject Group
Check aiou.edu.pk for your exact test centre and reporting time closer to the date.
Full Application Timeline
- Admission
Autumn 2026 admissions open
Submit your online admission and scholarship application via fmbp.aiou.edu.pk.
- Exam
Entry test — Arabic and Islamic Studies
Attempt the PhD entry test for your subject group at your assigned test centre.
- Exam
Entry test — Education
Attempt the PhD entry test for your subject group at your assigned test centre.
- Exam
Entry test — Social Sciences and Humanities
Attempt the PhD entry test for your subject group at your assigned test centre.
- Exam
Entry test — Sciences
Attempt the PhD entry test for your subject group at your assigned test centre.
- Result
Departmental interview & merit review
Shortlisted candidates are interviewed; research proposal and academic record are reviewed to finalise the scholarship merit list.
- Result
Scholarship award & residency confirmation
Selected scholars confirm the award and begin the program at the AIOU Main Campus, Islamabad, receiving the Rs. 80,000 monthly stipend.
Deadline FAQs
What is the last date to apply for the AIOU PhD scholarship?
The exact closing date for Autumn 2026 admissions is published in the official AIOU prospectus at aiou.edu.pk. Apply as early as possible via fmbp.aiou.edu.pk, since document verification and entry test scheduling depend on timely submission.
When is the AIOU PhD entry test for Sciences?
The entry test for Sciences (including Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Sciences, Mathematics, Physics, Food and Nutrition) is scheduled for August 28, 2026.
When is the AIOU PhD entry test for Education?
The entry test for Education (including Distance and Non-Formal Education, Science Education) is scheduled for August 24, 2026.
When is the AIOU PhD entry test for Social Sciences and Humanities?
The entry test for Social Sciences and Humanities (including Mass Communication, Pakistani Languages and Literature, Agricultural Extension) is scheduled for August 27, 2026.
When is the AIOU PhD entry test for Islamic Studies?
The entry test for Arabic and Islamic Studies is scheduled for August 21, 2026.
What happens if I miss my entry test date?
AIOU's prospectus specifies whether a retake or make-up slot is offered — as a rule, missing your scheduled subject-group test date puts your scholarship application at risk for that admission cycle, so confirm your date and test centre well in advance.