Brunei Darussalam, a small yet prosperous Southeast Asian country on the island of Borneo, is increasingly recognized as a rising destination for international education. Known for its stable economy, modern infrastructure, and fully funded government scholarships, Brunei attracts students from Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.
For Pakistani students, Brunei offers excellent opportunities to study in a safe, Islamic environment while receiving world-class education at no cost. The Brunei Government Scholarship, in particular, is highly popular for its generous benefits and fully funded coverage.
Why Study in Brunei as a Pakistani Student?
Fully Funded Scholarships: The Brunei Government covers tuition, accommodation, health insurance, and even monthly stipends.
Top Universities: Brunei is home to institutions like the University of Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), and Sultan Sharif Ali Islamic University (UNISSA).
Islamic Environment: Brunei’s Islamic values align closely with Pakistani culture.
Affordable Living: Most costs are covered by scholarships, making it a financial relief for students.
Safe & Peaceful: Known for its political stability and low crime rate, Brunei provides a secure environment for students.
Top Scholarships in Brunei Darussalam for Pakistani Students
1. Brunei Darussalam Government Scholarship (BDGS)
Provider: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Brunei
Coverage: Full tuition, monthly allowance (BND 500–600), free accommodation, book allowance, medical insurance, and airfare.
Level of Study: Diploma, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD.
Eligibility: International students under 35 years (for Master’s/PhD) or under 25 years (for undergraduate).
2. University of Brunei Darussalam Graduate Scholarships (UBD GS)
Coverage: Full tuition, research grant, monthly stipend, and accommodation.
Level of Study: Master’s and PhD research programs.
Focus Areas: Science, technology, Islamic studies, social sciences, business, and health.
Special Feature: Research-based scholarship for high-achieving graduates.
3. Universiti Teknologi Brunei Scholarships (UTB Scholarships)
Coverage: Tuition fee waiver, stipends, and housing.
Level of Study: Primarily undergraduate and postgraduate programs in engineering, ICT, and design.
Highlight: UTB is among the fastest-growing technical universities in Asia.
4. Sultan Sharif Ali Islamic University Scholarships (UNISSA)
Coverage: Tuition and living allowances.
Level of Study: Islamic studies, Shariah law, and Arabic language.
Best For: Students interested in Islamic education and research.
Overview of Brunei Scholarships for Pakistani Students
Scholarship Program
Coverage
Level of Study
Deadline (2025)
Brunei Government Scholarship (BDGS)
Full funding + monthly stipend + airfare
Diploma, UG, PG
Jan–Feb
UBD Graduate Scholarship
Tuition + stipend + research allowance
Master’s, PhD
Feb–March
UTB Scholarships
Tuition waiver + monthly stipend
UG, PG
Varies
UNISSA Scholarships
Tuition + housing + book allowance
UG, PG, PhD
Early Spring
Eligibility Criteria for Pakistani Students
Must be a citizen of Pakistan.
Age requirement:
Strong academic background with at least 60–70% grades in previous studies.
Proficiency in English (IELTS/TOEFL required for some programs).
Healthy and medically fit.
Not currently receiving any other government scholarship.
Average Cost of Living in Brunei (for Students)
Most scholarships cover nearly all expenses, but here’s a breakdown for understanding:
Expense Type
Monthly Cost (BND)
Equivalent in PKR (Approx.)
Covered by Scholarships?
Accommodation
250 – 400
50,000 – 80,000
Yes (on-campus)
Food & Meals
200 – 350
40,000 – 70,000
Partially (stipend given)
Transportation
50 – 100
10,000 – 20,000
Sometimes
Books & Supplies
30 – 60
6,000 – 12,000
Yes (book allowance)
Miscellaneous
100 – 200
20,000 – 40,000
Self-funded
Total Estimate
600 – 1,100
120,000 – 220,000 PKR
Mostly covered
Application Process for Pakistani Students
Choose a Program – Decide whether to apply for BDGS, UBD GS, UTB, or UNISSA scholarships.
Prepare Documents:
Academic transcripts and certificates.
Passport copy.
Recommendation letters.
Statement of Purpose (SOP).
Research proposal (for postgraduate).
IELTS/TOEFL (if required).
Apply Online – Submit applications via the Brunei Government portal or university website.
Screening & Interview – Some programs may require an online interview.
Receive Offer Letter – Successful applicants get a scholarship offer.
Apply for Student Visa – Apply at the Brunei High Commission in Islamabad.
Benefits of Scholarships in Brunei for Pakistani Students
100% Free Education: No tuition fees.
Generous Monthly Stipend: Covers food and personal expenses.
Accommodation Support: Free or subsidized on-campus housing.
Cultural Comfort: Islamic environment, Halal food, and cultural familiarity.
Global Recognition: Degrees from Brunei universities are internationally recognized and accepted by HEC Pakistan.
Networking & Career Growth: Opportunity to connect with researchers and organizations across ASEAN.
Tips for Pakistani Applicants
Apply as early as possible—deadlines are strict.
Write a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) showing your future goals.
For postgraduate scholarships, ensure your research proposal aligns with Brunei’s development needs.
Highlight your English proficiency and academic achievements.
Double-check visa requirements before traveling.
FAQs – Scholarships in Brunei for Pakistani Students
1. Are scholarships in Brunei fully funded? Yes, most scholarships such as the Brunei Government Scholarship are fully funded.
2. What is the monthly stipend for Brunei scholarships? On average, BND 500–600 (PKR 250,000 – 300,000) per month is provided.
3. Do I need IELTS for Brunei scholarships? Yes, most universities require proof of English proficiency. Some accept alternative tests or medium-of-instruction certificates.
4. Can I apply for more than one scholarship in Brunei? Yes, students can apply to different programs (e.g., BDGS and UBD GS) simultaneously.
5. Are Brunei scholarships open every year? Yes, BDGS and university-specific scholarships are offered annually.
6. Is Brunei safe for Pakistani students? Absolutely. Brunei is one of the safest and most peaceful countries in Southeast Asia.
7. Do Brunei scholarships cover airfare? Yes, government-funded scholarships provide return air tickets.
Conclusion
Brunei Darussalam is an excellent study destination for Pakistani students in 2025, offering fully funded scholarships, quality education, and a culturally familiar environment. With the Brunei Government Scholarship, UBD Graduate Scholarships, UTB, and UNISSA opportunities, Pakistani students can pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs with minimal financial burden.
Applying early, preparing strong documents, and meeting eligibility criteria will significantly increase your chances of securing a scholarship in Brunei.