14 May 2009
The scholarships, funded by Cambridge Assessment, will enable students to study at the University without the worry of creating a financial burden for their families. As the programme develops there are expected to be up to 15 undergraduate scholars from Pakistan studying at the University at any one time.
School-leavers from Pakistan who meet the usual admission criteria for University of Cambridge will be invited to apply for the scholarships. They are competitive and conditional on the offer of a college place at Cambridge for October 2010.
The University of Cambridge 800th Anniversary Scholarship Programme was announced in Pakistan in May by Simon Lebus, Chief Executive of Cambridge Assessment, Ann Puntis, Chief Executive of Cambridge International Examinations and William Bickerdike, Regional Manager for the Middle East, North Africa and Pakistan.
Simon Lebus said: "We play an important role in supporting the University's outreach mission and, in doing so, provide opportunities for more and more young people to access the benefits of education."
Cambridge International Examinations qualifications have been available in Pakistan since 1915, and the exam board works closely with schools there. Currently, more than 450 schools throughout Pakistan offer Cambridge O Levels and International A Levels.
Ann Puntis said: "This scholarship will ensure that talented students aiming to study overseas can now look at Cambridge as a viable option.
"Pakistan ranks as one of Cambridge's highest achieving countries in terms of outstanding students. We are proud to partner with schools to nurture the amazing ability of Pakistan's young people."