Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for Students

Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme (Phase IV for the academic year 2024–25) has launched to distribute 100,000 free laptops to deserving students nationwide. This initiative – part of the broader Digital Youth Hub – aims to bridge the digital divide by providing equal educational opportunities, enhancing digital literacy, and empowering students with modern learning tools. Under this scheme, talented and needy students enrolled in HEC-recognized public-sector universities will receive laptops to support their studies. The program is merit- and need-based, ensuring resources reach students who lack access to personal computers. In 2025, this one-time aid will help thousands of students access online courses, research materials, and virtual classrooms, making the education system more inclusive and future-ready.

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Overview of the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme and Its Objectives

Phase IV (2024–25) of the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme was formally announced in 2025. It commits to distributing 100,000 laptops to high-performing students across Pakistan. The scheme is overseen by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) under the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme. The key objectives are to equip youth with technology for learning, bridge the digital divide, and promote innovation. By providing laptops (and in past phases, mobile broadband devices), the government ensures students from all regions and backgrounds can participate fully in modern education.

Compared to earlier phases, Phase IV puts greater emphasis on transparency and inclusivity. A new online portal (pmyp.gov.pk) and the Digital Youth Hub mobile app have been launched to streamline applications and information. The scheme also introduces dedicated quotas for underrepresented groups (see below). Overall, the 2025 version maintains the program’s core goal – empowering education through technology – while improving access and fairness through modern digital tools and clear guidelines.

What’s New in Phase IV (2024–25)

Phase IV introduces several key updates from previous implementations:

• Increased Technology Access: In past phases, laptops were often older models; in 2025 the machines are upgraded. Official sources confirm the distributed laptops will be Lenovo brand, with a 14-inch display, Intel Core i5 (11th/12th Gen) processor, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Windows 11, and about a 2-hour battery backup. (For comparison, earlier phases often used older Dell models.) This specification boost means students will get reasonably modern devices suitable for their coursework.
• Digital Youth Hub App: Unlike earlier schemes, students can now apply via a dedicated mobile app. The Digital Youth Hub Android and iOS apps allow smartphone registration and application, making the process easier for those without computer access. (Of course, web application via pmyp.gov.pk remains available too.)
• Expanded Quotas: To improve equity, Phase IV sets fixed quotas: 18% of laptops are reserved for students in Balochistan’s universities, and 5% for distance-learning students. Within that 5%, half (2.5%) go to Virtual University students and half to Allama Iqbal Open University students. These dedicated quotas help underserved and remote learners benefit from the scheme. (No rigid quotas were publicly announced in earlier rounds, so this is a new fairness measure.)
• Emphasis on Merit & Transparency: The selection process uses strict academic criteria and transparent merit lists. First-year students must submit their recent exam marks; continuing students need a minimum 2.80 CGPA or 70% marks (for semester systems) and 60% marks for annual systems. Only currently enrolled students qualify – graduates or alumni are excluded. A provisional merit list and a 15-day grievance window (for objections) ensure accountability.
• Eligibility Tightening: As in previous phases, applications from private universities, most colleges, and anyone who has already received a government laptop are disallowed. The 2025 scheme clarifies that only students of HEC-recognized public-sector degree-awarding institutions (universities, not affiliated colleges) are eligible. (Past phases also excluded private and duplicate beneficiaries, but the messaging is now more formalized.)

In summary, Phase IV retains the spirit of giving free laptops to meritorious youth, but now operates through better technology (apps/portal) and clearer rules to ensure the most deserving students are reached.

Official Eligibility Criteria for Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme

To qualify for a free laptop under the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme 2025, students must meet all the following official criteria:

• Enrollment: The applicant must be currently enrolled (as of the closing date) in a HEC-recognized public sector institution (university or degree-awarding institute). This includes 4-year/5-year bachelor’s, 1.5- or 2-year master’s, and MPhil/MS/PhD (18-year) programs. (Weekend programs are excluded.)
• Academic Performance: Students must have achieved at least 2.80 CGPA (70%) in semester-based programs, or 60% marks in annual exams. CGPA-to-percentage conversion follows HEC rules. First-semester MS/PhD students use their previous degrees’ results; first-year BSc/BS students submit HSSC marks. Essentially, the scheme targets high-achieving students.
• No Prior Laptop: Applicants must not have already received a laptop through any federal or provincial government program. (This avoids double-allocating.)

Additionally, the ineligible list includes:

• Students of private universities or colleges.
• Students in government affiliated colleges (since these are not degree-awarding institutions).
• Any foreign nationals (except those studying at Azad Jammu & Kashmir universities).
• Graduates or students who will finish their programs before distribution (since laptops go only to current students).
• Any applicants who fail to submit documents or withdraw.

These criteria are official and exhaustive. In practice, universities appoint focal persons to verify that candidates meet these rules before forwarding their applications to HEC.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide via the Official Portal

Applying for a laptop is completely free and done online. Eligible students should follow these steps carefully:

1. Prepare Documents: Gather your CNIC (or B-Form), latest academic transcript/marksheet, and any income proof if needed. Also have your university ID card on hand.
2. Visit the Official Portal or App: Go to the PM Youth Programme portal at pmyp.gov.pk. (Alternatively, download the Digital Youth Hub app on Android or iOS and select the Laptop Scheme section.)
3. Register/Login: Create an account with your university email or CNIC. Provide basic details like name, date of birth, and enrollment info (university, program, semester/roll number, etc.). If you already have an account (from past PM youth schemes), simply log in.
4. Fill Application Form: Once logged in, start the PM Laptop Scheme application. Carefully enter all personal and academic information exactly as per your documents. This includes your degree program, current semester, and marks/CGPA.
5. Upload Documents: Scan and upload required documents:
   • Latest academic transcript or marksheet.
   • CNIC or B-Form.
   • Income certificate or other financial need proofs (if the portal asks for it).
   • (Optionally) your university ID card.
6. Review & Submit: Double-check every entry. Ensure names, roll numbers, and degrees match official records. Then submit the application before the deadline (June 1, 2025). Late submissions are not accepted.
7. Confirmation: After submission, you’ll receive an acknowledgment (often via SMS or email). Keep track of any confirmation number or copy of the form for your records.
8. University Verification: Your university’s focal person will verify your details and endorse your application to HEC.
9. Selection Process: HEC will compile merit lists based on CGPA/marks, quotas, and financial need. If selected, you will be notified through the portal, email, or SMS.
10. Laptop Distribution: Selected students attend a distribution ceremony (often on campus). Bring your CNIC and student ID, sign the receipt form, and collect the laptop.

Throughout this process, check the official portal or the PM Youth Programme social media for updates. Since the deadline is June 1, 2025, it’s best to apply early. The official portal to use is the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme site (pmyp.gov.pk); do not trust any unofficial links.

Laptop Specifications for 2025 Distribution

The laptops provided under Phase IV have been upgraded. According to official announcements, all distributed units will be Lenovo ThinkBook series laptops with the following minimum specifications:

• Display: 14-inch screen.
• Processor: Intel Core i5 (11th or 12th Generation).
• Memory: 8 GB RAM (upgradeable).
• Storage: 256 GB SSD (fast solid-state drive).
• Operating System: Windows 11 Home.
• Battery: Approximately 45 Wh (around 2 hours of backup).
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi support (and often bundled with a 6-month mobile internet device in past phases).

These are solid mid-range laptops suitable for research and study. (By contrast, earlier phases used older Dell laptops with 14″ screens and similar specs.) The decision to go with Lenovo and SSD storage improves reliability and speed for students. Each laptop carries PMYP and HEC branding. No choices are offered – every eligible student receives the same model.

Success Stories and Impact on Students

The Laptop Scheme has already positively affected many students in Pakistan. For example, at Sindh Agriculture University (SAU), Tandojam, the Vice-Chancellor reported that over 6,000 students at SAU alone have benefited from earlier rounds of the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme. In a recent distribution ceremony, SAU awarded laptops to 11 top students, underscoring that the awards are strictly merit-based. Such success is echoed nationwide: thousands of recipients have used their laptops to improve grades, conduct online research, and pursue scholarships that require computer access.

While individual student testimonials are rare in mainstream media, many participating universities have noted strong enthusiasm. Graduating students who once borrowed computers now have personal devices, enabling them to compete in digital job markets. By empowering students from remote and underprivileged areas, the scheme opens doors for higher study and online opportunities that were previously inaccessible. In short, real-life impact includes better academic performance, improved digital skills, and more equitable education prospects for talented youth across provinces.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Who is eligible for the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme 2025?
A: Only students currently enrolled in HEC-recognized public-sector degree programs qualify. This includes 4- or 5-year BSc/BS, 1.5- or 2-year MSc/MA, and MPhil/MS/PhD programs. Students in private universities or non-degree colleges (including affiliated or intermediate colleges) are ineligible. Applicants must have at least 2.80 CGPA (semester system) or 60% marks (annual system).

Q: Can I apply if I already received a government-provided laptop before?
A: No. If you have previously been awarded a laptop under any federal or provincial scheme, you cannot apply again. The award is one-time per student.

Q: What is the last date to apply?
A: The deadline has been extended to June 1, 2025. No applications are accepted after this date, so apply well in advance.

Q: Is there any application fee?
A: No. Registering and applying is completely free of charge. Beware of scams or unofficial “services” that charge a fee – only apply through the official PMYP portal or app.

Q: How do I apply and where?
A: Apply online via the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme portal at pmyp.gov.pk or through the Digital Youth Hub mobile app (search “Digital Youth Hub” in Google Play or App Store). Register with your CNIC and student details, fill the form, upload documents, and submit before the deadline.

Q: What documents are required?
A: You must upload your latest academic transcript/marksheet, a copy of your CNIC or Form-B, and any proof of income if applicable. A university ID card can also be uploaded (optional). Ensure all information matches your university records.

Q: How will I know if I’m selected?
A: Selection is merit-based. After submission, HEC/HEIs verify applications. Merit lists will be published on the portal. If selected, you will get an SMS or email notification, and your university will inform you of the laptop distribution schedule.

Q: My status says “Asset issued” but I haven’t received my laptop. What do I do?
A: “Asset Issued” means a laptop has been allocated to you. Contact your university’s focal person or the HEC helpdesk for distribution details. Only the student (no proxy) can collect the laptop by showing original CNIC and student ID.

Q: Can students in distance-learning programs apply?
A: Yes, Virtual University and Allama Iqbal Open University students have a reserved quota (2.5% each). They must meet the same academic criteria and register via the portal/app.

Q: Can first-semester students apply?
A: First-semester bachelor’s or master’s students should submit their intermediate/HSSC marks (or previous degree results for MS/MPhil/PhD) as evidence. If they meet the percentage criteria, they are eligible.

Conclusion for Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme

The Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme 2025 is a vital opportunity for talented students from public sector institutions to gain access to essential technology. By providing laptops with modern specifications, the government is investing in the next generation’s education and digital skills. Eligible students should carefully review the criteria, prepare the required documents, and apply early via the official portal or app. This scheme not only delivers devices but also represents hope and equal opportunity – bridging gaps so that no student is left behind due to lack of technology. Act now: check your eligibility, gather your paperwork, and apply to secure your free laptop before the deadline. Good luck!

Sources: Official announcements and reputable news reports have been used throughout (see citations) to provide up-to-date and accurate information on the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme 2025, including portal details, eligibility, and specifications. Always verify any process with the official portal (pmyp.gov.pk) and follow HEC guidelines.