The Hidden Cost of Knowledge: Financial Barriers Facing MPhil and PhD Scholars in Pakistan

Objective: This study highlights the systemic challenges faced by MPhil and PhD students in basic and translational sciences in Pakistan, emphasizing the critical need for tuition waivers and scholarships. Methods: A narrative review of institutional policies, national funding structures, and international benchmarks was conducted to assess the state of postgraduate financial support.Results: Many public-sector universities in Pakistan require postgraduate students to pay substantial tuition fees and fund their own research supplies. The lack of structured financial support has led to high attrition rates, delayed program completion, and underutilization of national talent. Comparisons with global models indicate Pakistan lags significantly in supporting its future researchers. Conclusion: To realize its ambition of becoming a research-driven nation, Pakistan must urgently reform its approach to postgraduate education by providing financial support through sustainable, transparent, and merit-based funding mechanisms.